Beijing Transit Tour: Explore the Forbidden City in a Few Hours

#chinatransit If you have a long layover in Beijing, make the most of your time with a visit to the iconic Forbidden City—a must-see imperial palace packed with history and grandeur. With the 72/144-hour visa-free transit policy, it's easy to step out of Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) or Daxing Airport (PKX) for a quick adventure. How to Get There from the Airport From PEK: Take the Airport Express train to Dongzhimen, then transfer to Line 2 to Jianguomen and switch to Line 1 to Tiananmen East (about 1 hour). From PKX: Take the Daxing Airport Express to Caoqiao, transfer to Line 10, then switch to Line 1 at Guomao and head to Tiananmen East (about 1.5 hours). Taxi: Around 40–60 minutes depending on traffic. What to Do Tiananmen Square – Start here for a breathtaking view of the world’s largest public square, framed by the Great Hall of the People and Mao’s Mausoleum. The Forbidden City – Walk through the grand Meridian Gate and explore the halls, courtyards, and imperial gardens of this sprawling 600-year-old palace. Don’t miss the Hall of Supreme Harmony, the intricate Nine-Dragon Screen, and the stunning Palace of Tranquil Longevity. Jingshan Park Viewpoint – If time allows, climb to the top for a panoramic view of the Forbidden City. Tips for a Smooth Transit Tour Book Tickets in Advance – The Forbidden City requires real-name registration and only sells tickets online. Travel Light – Large bags aren’t allowed inside, so store luggage at the airport if needed. Allow Time for Security Checks – Returning to the airport may take longer than expected, so plan to head back at least 3 hours before your next flight. This quick Beijing stopover lets you experience one of China’s greatest treasures without missing your flight!