Senior's Guide to the Perfect Beijing Vacation
Beijing is one of the country’s most dynamic cities. It’s the capital of China and has a deep culture and history. Plus, many international flights land there, so it’s easy to get to from anywhere in the world. Plenty of attractions, like the Forbidden City and Temple of Heaven, are accessible for all mobility types, making Beijing an ideal destination for seniors. Read on to learn why Beijing is a top choice for your next vacation.
The Great Wall in Autumn
Getting to and Around Beijing
Beijing international airport
Beijing Capital International Airport and Beijing Daxing International Airport are the two hubs that service Beijing. Both options are an hour or less from downtown Beijing, and both have plenty of amenities perfect for senior travelers, including:
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- Braille signage in elevators, informational booths, and some boarding areas
- Wheelchair services
- Signage in English and Chinese
- Adaptable toilets with rails
- Dining and lounge areas
Public Transportation in Beijing
There are lots of public transportation options available in Beijing, including buses, metros, and taxi services like DiDi and Zhi Ling Chu Xing, a wheelchair-friendly rideshare option that launched last year.
While public transportation tends to be consistent and cheap, there are some downsides:
- The routes are complex and can be tricky to navigate for newcomers.
- Many locals don’t speak English, so if you don’t have basic Chinese, you might find it difficult to ask questions en route.
- If you’re traveling with large suitcases, getting in and out of metro stations can feel a bit challenging, especially during weekends and public holidays.
- Beijingers use the metro and bus system regularly, so it can get very crowded on weekends and holidays.
We can take care of the logistics on the ground, providing you with reliable transportation and a private travel guide so you can sit back and relax. That way, you won’t have to worry about finding your own path through Beijing, and most of our senior travelers appreciate this white-glove service.
Best Beijing Attractions for Seniors
One of the main reasons people visit Beijing is to immerse themselves in the city’s 3,000-year-old history. From the cobbled, winding streets of the Hutongs to the magnificent Great Wall, there’s a lot there, and it’s all senior-friendly.
The Forbidden City
The scenery of Forbidden City in Beijing
This former imperial palace is a treasure trove of Ming and Qing Dynasty relics, such as jade artifacts and rare paintings. It’s one of the best-preserved glimpses into what royal life was like at the time and is a top attraction in Beijing. As such, we can help secure your tickets in advance so your spot is assured.
We recommend that seniors arrive early, especially in the summer months when the weather is cooler and you’ll have more of the Forbidden City to yourself. If you or someone you’re traveling with has mobility concerns, don’t worry. Guests can rent complimentary manual wheelchairs with a 500 RMB deposit, and there are adaptable bathrooms, shaded areas, and ramps on site.
Temple of Heaven
Temple of Heaven in Beijing
If you’re 60+, you can get into the Temple of Heaven for free. Just show proof of age at the gate. This spot has beautiful, flat grounds with plenty of manicured paths for easy walking and is especially nice during the morning.
If you arrive early enough, you might even find local people practicing Tai Chi. As with the Forbidden City, you can also rent wheelchairs at the Temple of Heaven. They’re free with a 600 RMB deposit.
Great Wall of China
The view of Mutianyu Great Wall
It’s impossible to visit Beijing without seeing the Great Wall of China, and it’s free for seniors 60+ to visit. This massive, fortified wall is over 13,000 miles long and stands as a reminder of China’s resistance and strength.
The Mutianyu or Badaling Great Wall sections are the most senior-accessible. The Mutianyu Great Wall area has cable cars going up and down, and the Badaling area has paved ramp areas. You can also rent wheelchairs on-site. Once on the wall, you can stroll down to other sections, soak up a perfect sunset, and see fantastic views of Beijing.
Beijing Hutongs
Street View of Beijing Hutongs
If you want a taste of true Chinese culture, visit Beijing’s hutongs. You can wander or take a rickshaw through tiny streets full of fascinating architecture, some of which is over a century old. We can even arrange a family visit for you, where you’ll learn about local cuisine, then cook and dine with a local family. It’s an experience you certainly don’t want to miss.
Travel Tips for Seniors
We understand your concerns about traveling, which is why we put together this list of helpful tips for a relaxing vacation. We can answer any specific questions you might have and give you personalized information to make your trip as smooth as possible.
Food and Drink Tips
- Try some Beijing specialties, like congee with pork and noodle soup with hearty vegetables, which are both authentic and easy on the stomach.
- Avoid drinking tap water in Beijing. Instead, stock up on bottled water, or bring a refillable bottle with you and fill it up at one of the many water fountains around the city.
- If you have food allergies or sensitivities, consider learning a few Chinese words to make sure the ingredient is not added to your food.
Paying and Getting Around
- Many vendors, shops, and restaurants use digital payment, so download apps like AliPay and WeChat before visiting.
- Vendors also accept cash, so it’s a good idea to carry some small change with you for purchases.
- If you’re in the mood for adventure, consider exploring Beijing by bicycle. You can rent them for 3 RMB an hour, and they’re a great way to see the city.
- Qianmen and Wangfujing are excellent areas to stay, as the accommodations are modern, and they’re close to amenities like pharmacies and shops.
General Tips for a Fun Vacation
- Visit between September and November when the days are a bit cooler and the crowds are thinner, but avoid the Golden Week (October 1 to 7) national holiday.
- Most attractions in Beijing are quite large, so it’s important to plan your time and itinerary wisely. We can provide wheelchair services throughout the trip and flexible itineraries so you can rest when you’re tired.
- Contact your hotel ahead of time if you need specific accessibility features. We can also arrange this service for you so that everything is to your liking when you arrive.
- Beijing is a historic city with lots of history, so a knowledgeable guide will definitely enhance your trip. We can set this up for you.
Recommended Tour Itinerary
Set Off on Your Beijing Adventure Today
Beijing is at the top of everyone’s vacation list for a reason, it’s a spectacular spot full of wonderful things to do and see. Let us make it happen for you. Contact our website or email us at [email protected] and get started!
