Suggested areas of Beijing to book hotel

Question

Will be travelling to Beijing for the first time and not sure what areas I should consider looking into. We plan to arrive by train from Shanghai.

We will be staying about 4-5 nights and want to be in an area that is accessbile to the metro, dining, shopping and sight seeing. Any suggestions for a nice but affordable hotel would also be appreciated.

Answer

For a first-time visit to Beijing, choosing a convenient and vibrant area can make a big difference. Since you will arrive by train from Shanghai, your entry point is likely Beijing Railway Station or Beijing South Railway Station, so proximity to metro lines is helpful for easy access to the city’s main attractions.

Some recommended areas to consider:

Dongcheng District: This is a central area that includes Wangfujing, the famous shopping street, and is close to major attractions such as the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and the Temple of Heaven. Dongcheng is well-served by multiple metro lines and offers a mix of mid-range hotels, boutique options, and traditional hutong guesthouses.
Xicheng District: Located west of Dongcheng, Xicheng is quieter but still central, with attractions like Beihai Park and the National Centre for the Performing Arts. Good metro access and local dining make this area appealing for visitors who want a less tourist-heavy environment.
Chaoyang District: This is the modern business district with plenty of international hotels, shopping malls, and nightlife. Areas like Sanlitun and CBD are popular with expats. It is slightly farther from historical sites but very well connected by metro.
Haidian District: Home to universities and tech hubs, including Tsinghua and Peking University. While less central, it is convenient if you plan to visit the Summer Palace or the Old Summer Palace, and metro access is available.

For a nice but affordable hotel experience, consider mid-range international chains and local boutique hotels, which often offer better value. A few options include:

Courtyard by Marriott Beijing Central (Dongcheng) – modern, convenient, close to metro and Wangfujing.
Park Plaza Beijing Wangfujing – centrally located with comfortable rooms and easy metro access.
Hotel Cote Cour Beijing – a boutique option in the Dongcheng hutong area, offering a more local experience.
Holiday Inn Express Beijing Temple of Heaven – affordable, clean, and well-located for sightseeing.

Tips:

Choose a hotel near a metro line to make sightseeing easier, as Beijing is very spread out.
If your priority is historical sites, stay in Dongcheng or Xicheng; for modern shopping and nightlife, Chaoyang is ideal.
Booking early is recommended, especially if traveling during peak tourist seasons or national holidays.

Overall, Dongcheng offers the best balance of central location, sightseeing, and convenient transport, while Chaoyang is better if you prefer a more modern vibe and international amenities. Your choice depends on whether you want to focus more on traditional Beijing experiences or a cosmopolitan feel.