Beijing is China's capital and the place where imperial history meets an enormous metropolis. Here you will find the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, the Temple of Heaven, the Summer Palace and, on the outskirts, several sections of the Great Wall. For a couple looking for culture, long walks and good food, it is a first-rate destination. But it is also a city with strict rules, which is why this page is a responsible travel guide. We have not found any lifestyle venue, club or event in Beijing with a verifiable official website, so we recommend none. We include nothing related to sex tourism: it is a different field, with legal risk and the exploitation of people, and BarSwinger does not promote it.
A plan for three days
Day one, the historic axis: the Forbidden City, now a museum that needs advance booking, and the park around it. Day two, the Temple of Heaven in the morning and a walk through the hutongs, the traditional alleys of low houses, with cafés and small shops. Day three, an excursion to the Great Wall. Several sections can be reached from the city, with different crowds and difficulty; choose a restored one if you have no mountain experience and check opening times and conditions on each section's official website. To finish, a gastronomic classic: Peking duck, served in many restaurants at every price.
The Wall, with common sense
The FCDO's official advice (mainland China, updated on 27 August 2026, consulted on 7 November 2026) recommends not hiking alone in isolated areas, including the Great Wall, because of unpredictable weather and the risk of injury; even in a group, it is wise to tell someone your route. Carry water, wear shoes with good grip and stay on the authorised stretches: there are restricted military areas where foreigners can be detained, fined or deported, and the signs are not always clear.
Getting around
Beijing has two main international airports and a very wide metro network, the most reliable way to move around the centre. For long journeys there are high-speed trains. Keep your hotel's address in characters and avoid cars that approach you at the station or airport door; use official ranks or recognised apps.
Entry and registration
According to the FCDO, until 31 December 2026 holders of a British passport can enter visa-free for up to 30 days as tourists. With another passport, ask the Chinese embassy. The passport needs six months' validity and two free pages. You must register your address with the police within 24 hours (your hotel does it for you) and always carry your passport: the police run random checks, especially in periods of heightened security and major events, and do not accept printed copies; failing to show it can mean a fine or detention.
Political sensitivities and photography
Beijing is the country's political capital. The FCDO asks visitors to avoid demonstrations and gatherings, and reminds them that posting or supporting messages critical of the Chinese authorities can be considered illegal and that national security laws are broad: foreigners have been detained without intending to break them, and online activity carried out outside China can fall within their scope. When taking photos, be especially careful with sensitive and military areas. This is not something to joke about with the police.
Law, nightlife and drugs
Tolerance for drugs is zero, including cannabis: according to the FCDO, foreigners can be tested at random, even on entry, and police can raid bars and nightclubs, holding people for several hours and taking samples. If you test positive, you can be prosecuted regardless of where or when you took the drug. In addition, Article 301 of the Chinese Criminal Law punishes gathering people to engage in "licentious activities": according to unofficial translations, organisers and repeat participants can face up to five years in prison, criminal detention or public surveillance. In short, there is no legal or practical basis for group plans in mainland China. Read our guide to the law in China calmly before you travel.
Health and insurance
Tap water, according to the advice, is generally not safe to drink: use bottled water. Healthcare is not free for foreigners and can be very expensive; buy insurance with evacuation and repatriation. Emergencies: police 110, ambulance 120, fire 119. Ask your doctor about recommended vaccines at least eight weeks ahead.
Frequently asked questions
Can I do the Great Wall in a day from Beijing? Yes, there are sections reachable on a day trip. Check how to get there, opening hours and tickets on the official website of the section you choose.
Is it safe to walk at night? The official advice describes serious crime against foreigners as relatively rare, but asks you to look after your belongings and not accept drinks from strangers. Avoid invitations from strangers to tea or massages: it is a well-known scam.
Can I use Google or Instagram? According to the FCDO, Google, Facebook, YouTube and X are blocked; VPNs must be licensed. Download maps and a translator before you leave.
What if I lose my passport? Report it to the police and contact your consulate. Without a valid passport you cannot register or move around normally.
This page is informational and does not replace legal advice. Sources: the FCDO travel advice for mainland China and published translations of the Chinese Criminal Law.
Keep exploring: all destinations, the guide to entry, registration and payments in China and the one on Hong Kong and Macao.
