Guide Roam Beijing

Beijing is a sprawling metropolis where ancient history and modernity collide, and you can experience it all without breaking the bank. With its rich cultural heritage, vibrant street food scene, and affordable public transport, the city is a paradise for budget backpackers.

Getting There and Around

Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) is the main entry point, with budget airlines like AirAsia and Scoot offering competitive fares from various Asian cities. A one-way ticket from Kuala Lumpur can cost around 500 MYR ($115), so keep an eye out for promotions. Once you land, the Airport Express Train takes you to Dongzhimen station for 25 CNY ($3.80), where you can transfer to the subway system.

The Beijing subway is a budget traveler’s best friend, providing access to key attractions. A single journey on the subway costs 3 CNY ($0.45). Download the "Beijing Subway" app to navigate the lines easily. Consider getting a Yikatong card for 20 CNY ($3) for easy access to both subway and bus systems, which you can top up as needed. Buses are an even cheaper option, costing only 2 CNY ($0.30) per ride, but be prepared for possible language barriers, so have your destination written in Chinese.

Where to Stay

For budget accommodations, head to the hutong area of Dongcheng, where you'll find a variety of hostels and guesthouses. A popular spot is the Peking Yard Hostel, offering dorm beds from around 60 CNY ($9) per night. It's centrally located near the Forbidden City, making it easy to explore on foot.

If you're looking for something a bit quieter, the 365 Inn in Qianmen is a good choice, with dorm beds from 70 CNY ($10.50). This hostel not only provides a free breakfast but also features a lovely courtyard for relaxation. For a unique experience, consider staying in a traditional courtyard hotel like the Qiankun Huiguan, which offers private rooms starting from 300 CNY ($45), giving you an authentic Beijing experience without the hefty price tag.

What to Eat

No trip to Beijing is complete without indulging in its street food. The Wangfujing Snack Street is a must-visit where you can feast on scorpions on a stick (around 50 CNY or $7.50) or sweet potato pancakes (around 10 CNY or $1.50). Don’t miss the iconic Peking Duck; head to Da Dong for a budget-friendly lunch set that starts at 198 CNY ($30), which includes duck and a side of pancakes.

If you're looking for vegetarian options, the Wudaokou area is filled with affordable eateries. Try the vegetarian dumplings at VegeTastic for around 20 CNY ($3). Additionally, local markets like Sanyuanli provide a diverse range of fruits and snacks. You can grab a refreshing watermelon or mango smoothie for about 10 CNY ($1.50) while experiencing local life. Remember to always carry some cash as many street vendors do not accept cards.

Practical Tips

Beijing can be overwhelming, but with a few handy tips, you can save both time and money during your stay.

• Learn a few basic Mandarin phrases—it can save you a lot of hassle, especially when ordering food or asking for directions.
• Download the Didi Chuxing app for affordable taxi rides; it often costs less than traditional taxis, and you can select English as your app’s language.
• Visit major attractions on weekdays to avoid crowds; the Summer Palace and Temple of Heaven are more enjoyable with fewer tourists.
• Take advantage of free walking tours offered by companies like Sandemans; they usually operate on a tip-based system, allowing you to pay what you can.