Fly from Cardiff to Beijing with a one stop connection

Everything about Beijing is big and bold. From its population of approximately 21 million, staggering skyscrapers and over 60,000 restaurants, Beijing is a modern powerhouse for China.

Although today Beijing embraces the modern day, it thankfully hasn’t forgotten its past. The city alone is home to six UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including The Forbidden City, and the Great Wall of China unassumingly snakes along the city. If explored, visitors can also be easily whisked to the drama of China’s imperial history as it is still evident in the Chinese capital.

Aside from its unique past, Beijing has made a tremendous impact on the present day. Since the capital hosted the Summer Olympics in 2008 the city has flourished and visitors won’t be able to ignore its vitality. Beijing is big, but it promises to leave an even bigger impression on its visitors.

Hire a bike. Beijing is incredibly flat and as walking around the city isn’t advised, the best way to see the city is by hiring a bike. Bicycle lanes are also divided from the main roads so they are very safe.
Absorb the Great Wall of China. Beijing is a wonderful place to take a minute and observe the Great Wall of China. Even if you don’t have time to visit it properly, take a second and marvel at its beauty.
Stay on track. Beijing is a huge city and it can be overwhelming to try and navigate around its vastness. However, there are ring roads around the city (which are ironically rectangular) and these act as good reference points.
Go to the palaces. The Forbidden City and Summer Palace are unmissable and definitely worth exploring as they are some of the city’s most popular traditional attractions.
Try the cuisine. Beijing has an incredible array of restaurants so it is easy to find delicious cuisine. Food is important to the capital and it is how the locals socialise, so never pass on the opportunity to feast on Peking duck!

Visit the Great Wall, the Badaling side! There are so many different sides, it's too big!

By Natalie Yau