Book a trip from Chicago to Beijing with Cathay Pacific , fares from USD1,175

There are multiple transportation options available at Beijing Capital International Airport for reaching the city center, with the most convenient being by taxi. Taxis can get you downtown from the airport in around 35 minutes. Alternatively, the Airport Express Line train departs regularly from Terminal 3 and will transport you into the heart of the city in approximately 20 minutes.

A captivating blend of modern high-rises and ancient history, Beijing has established its reputation as a cultural hub with a plethora of must-visit landmarks.

Begin your trip by visiting the five UNESCO World Heritage sites the Chinese capital is home to - Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven, Ming Tomb, and Grand Canal. We also recommend visiting the Great Wall of China, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. To get there, it is approximately a 2-hour taxi ride from the city center.

For avid shoppers, Beijing has a variety of shopping malls, plazas, and centers to choose from. For a unique shopping experience, explore the Panjiayuan Antiques Market, where you can find one-of-a-kind vintage items that showcase Chinese history and art. If you wish to pick up authentic souvenirs, Qianmen Street is known as Beijing’s retail paradise with its mix of historical charm and modern luxury brands. While you are in the area, be sure to visit the National Centre for the Performing Arts.

The city is also famed for its quaint ‘hutongs’ (residential alleyways), with one of the most popular ones being the Lingjing hutong as it is the widest one in the Chinese capital. While you are here, be sure to explore the small antique markets selling traditional calligraphy sets, ancient scrolls, and a diverse selection of other souvenirs. Miaoying Temple is also worth a visit as its white dagoba pagoda is believed to be the tallest in all of China and was built under the orders of Kublai Khan.

Adventurers looking for a thrill should consider visiting the Shilinxia Glass Viewing Platform in the Shilinxia Scenic Area. Located less than two hours from Beijing, the striking bridge stands 400m above the Jingdong Stone Forest and is the longest glass bridge in the world. Visitors can walk on glass panels for a thrilling experience and enjoy stunning views of the Shilinxia Scenic Area, situated just outside the city.

Cathay Pacific brings the convenience of finding the best hotels to you. Enjoy your stay in Beijing with our accommodation recommendations such as the Park Hyatt Beijing and Waldorf Astoria Beijing. Book your stay today and discover a wondrous world of rewards, including special accommodation, room upgrades, and access to lounge facilities. You will also be able to earn miles when you book a holiday package or a hotel.

For food lovers, Beijing is a must-visit destination with its wide range of delicious flavors. To indulge in the city’s incredibly flavorful cuisine, head to the northeastern neighborhood of Sanlitun, where you can sample local delicacies such as Peking roast duck, stewed pork buns, and sweet and savory Qianlong cabbage. For a taste of street food, head to Wangfujing Snack Street, located next to Wangfujing Street. Here, you can try local favorites like meat kebabs, dumplings, and tanghulu (a candied fruit).

There’s plenty to remember when flying to a new destination. Here is some information that you should know before your flight to Beijing.

• Currency: Chinese yuan (¥, CNY). Find out the current conversion rate.
• Plug: 220V Type A, C and I
• Time zone: GMT+8
• Language: Mandarin