Overview

Beijing, China's sprawling capital, boasts a history that stretches back three millennia. It is renowned not only for its modern architecture but also for its ancient sites, such as the magnificent Forbidden City complex, the imperial palace during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Nearby, the vast Tiananmen Square is home to Mao Zedong's tomb and the National Museum of China, which showcases an extensive collection of cultural relics.

Airlines Operating Flights from the United Kingdom to Beijing

The following airlines operate flights from the United Kingdom to Beijing on a scheduled basis:

• Qatar Airways
• British Airways
• KLM Airlines
• Air China
• Lufthansa Airlines
• China Southern Airlines

Non-Stop Flights from the UK to Beijing

The only non-stop return flight from the United Kingdom to Beijing is from London Heathrow Airport, offered by Air China. This non-stop flight has a duration of 11 hours and 15 minutes. Additionally, Hainan Airlines provides a one-way non-stop flight from Manchester to Beijing, which takes approximately 10 hours and 40 minutes.

Flight Duration from the United Kingdom to Beijing

The flight durations from various UK airports to Beijing are as follows:

• The shortest flight duration from London Heathrow to Beijing is about 16 hours and 30 minutes via Shanghai.
• The minimum flight duration from Manchester to Beijing is approximately 18 hours and 20 minutes via Doha.
• The flight duration from Birmingham to Beijing is around 18 hours and 45 minutes via Amsterdam and Guangzhou.
• The flight duration from Edinburgh to Beijing is about 18 hours and 10 minutes via Doha.

Economical Months to Travel to Beijing

The cheapest time to visit Beijing is from November to February. As the colder months approach, Beijing wraps itself to protect against the cold, and regular tourists return home. However, adventurous travelers can take this opportunity to visit and find accommodations in Beijing at lower prices. The below-average costs during the winter months provide a window for budget-conscious travelers to explore Beijing affordably.

Leading Global Airport in Beijing

Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) serves the capital city of China. Terminal 3 of the airport is the second busiest in the world, following Terminal 3 of Dubai International Airport, and is the sixth largest building in terms of land area. It is one of the busiest airports globally, located 32 kilometers from the city center. In 2017, the airport served an impressive 98.7 million passengers.

Best Season to Travel to Beijing

The best time to travel to Beijing is between March and October. In spring, the fresh air enhances the experience of the city, and sightseeing during this season has its own charm. By the start of summer, local Chinese tourists begin to flock to the city, and it can get quite warm in July, but it remains pleasant. If crowds deter you, consider visiting Beijing during the shoulder seasons. Conversely, if you are an extrovert, July is a great time to make genuine Chinese contacts and friends. The autumn rains in September help to alleviate the August heat and signal locals to prepare for winter.

Best Five-Star Hotels to Stay in Beijing

Here are some of the best five-star hotels for your stay in Beijing:

• New World Beijing Hotel
• Grand Millennium Beijing
• Shangri-La's China World Hotel
• Hilton Beijing Wangfujin
• Kerry Hotel Beijing