Where to stay in Beijing – 5 Amazing stays for every kind of traveller

Let me say this upfront—Beijing can be a bit of a wild ride when you first arrive. It’s massive, intense, and full of magic. The first time we landed, I remember feeling totally overwhelmed but also really excited. We were jet-lagged, a little lost, and had zero Mandarin between us, but we still managed to find an amazing little hotel tucked down a quiet hutong lane. That first trip taught me that where you stay in Beijing makes a huge difference—it can shape your entire experience.

So, whether it’s your first time or your fifth, these are five of the best places to stay in Beijing that tick the boxes for comfort, location, and experience. I’ve included something for every style of traveller (and budget), with helpful tips along the way so you can spend less time researching and more time slurping down hand-pulled noodles.

Planning your trip?
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Hotels, I use Agoda
Insurance: Cover-More
Rentals: Discover Cars
RVs: Motorhome Republic
Transfers: Welcome Pickups
SIM Cards: Simify

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1. Budget favourite: Peking Station Hostel

Best for: Solo travellers, budget couples, and backpackers
Neighbourhood: Dongcheng

This is the spot if you want something affordable without giving up charm. Peking Station has a really cosy, vintage-travel vibe—think exposed brick, old suitcases as tables, and chilled-out common spaces. It’s close to the metro, a quick ride from the Forbidden City, and there’s a brilliant dumpling joint just around the corner (trust me—order the pork and chive).

What I loved most? The people. It’s got that old-school hostel magic where you actually talk to people, swap stories, and maybe even find a Great Wall hiking buddy.

Book it if: You’re keen to save cash but don’t want to sacrifice style or social vibes.

Pro tip: Dongcheng is great for first-timers—it’s close to the must-sees, with a bit of old-Beijing charm.

Book Peking Station Hostel here

2. Mid-range magic: Beijing Double Happiness Courtyard Hotel

Best for: Couples, small groups, and cultural travellers
Neighbourhood: Central Beijing (near Zhangzizhong Road metro)

If you’re after something with serious local flavour and you’ve got a little more budget to play with, this place is a winner. The Double Happiness Courtyard Hotel is tucked inside a traditional hutong and has a beautiful, relaxed vibe. The rooms are decorated in traditional Chinese style—think carved wood, lanterns, and comfy beds that make you want to sleep in.

It feels like a step back in time, but with Wi-Fi and air con. Plus, it’s super close to the subway, so you can get pretty much anywhere fast.

Book it if: You want to experience local culture, sleep well, and not blow your budget.

Bonus: The breakfast is underrated—grab it before you go out adventuring.

Book Beijing Double Happiness Courtyard Hotel here

3. Luxury stay: The Peninsula Beijing

Best for: Luxe lovers, honeymooners, and content creators
Neighbourhood: Wangfujing

Let’s be real—if you’re going big, go big. The Peninsula is where old-world elegance meets modern luxury. The suites are enormous (like, apartment-sized), the spa is incredible, and the location couldn’t be better. You’re close to Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and Wangfujing’s shopping streets.

But what really sets this place apart is the service. You’ll feel like royalty from the second you walk in. It’s the kind of hotel where they somehow know your name before you’ve even said it.

Book it if: You’re celebrating something special, want maximum comfort, or love high-end hotels with substance.

Worth it just for: The incredible in-room soaking tubs with skyline views. Heaven after a day walking the Wall.

Book The Peninsula Beijing here

4. For the adventurous: The Orchid Hotel

Best for: Cool couples, creatives, and offbeat travellers
Neighbourhood: Baochao Hutong, Gulou area

The Orchid has this effortlessly cool vibe that makes it a magnet for in-the-know travellers. Set inside a restored courtyard home in one of Beijing’s most fun neighbourhoods, this is where modern boutique meets traditional charm.

You’ll find amazing cafés, craft beer spots, and vintage shops just around the corner. Bonus: The hotel has a rooftop terrace perfect for sunset drinks after a big day exploring. It’s a bit of a hidden gem and books out fast—so jump on it.

Book it if: You want a mix of modern comfort and authentic local flavour.

While you’re here: Walk to Bell & Drum Towers or grab a bite at nearby Mr Shi’s Dumplings.

Book The Orchid Hotel here

5. Return visitor favourite: CHAO Sanlitun Beijing

Best for: Digital nomads, design-lovers, and returning travellers
Neighbourhood: Sanlitun

If you’ve done the tourist trail and want something sleek and international with local flair, CHAO is a brilliant option. The rooms are minimalist but luxurious, the Wi-Fi is strong (digital nomads rejoice), and the whole hotel has a creative, artsy energy.

Sanlitun is a trendy, expat-friendly area full of restaurants, rooftop bars, and international shops—but it’s still got enough grit to feel like Beijing.

Book it if: You want to chill, recharge, and see the city from a different angle.

Reader tip: Check their calendar—they sometimes host art shows, live music, or foodie pop-ups.

Book the CHAO Sanlitun here

Final thoughts and next steps

Where you stay in Beijing really shapes how you experience the city. Whether it’s your first trip or your fifth, one of these spots will help you get the absolute best out of it.

You might also like to read:

• Need to know before you visit
• How to visit the Great Wall
• 21 things to do (and avoid)

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