Book a trip from Toronto to Beijing with Cathay Pacific , fares from CAD2,529

Taxis are the most convenient way to get to the city centre as it takes approximately 35 minutes. Alternatively, you can board the Airport Express Line, which departs from Terminal 3 and transports you to central Beijing in around 20 minutes.

Renowned for being one of China’s ancient capitals, Beijing is a lively metropolitan hub brimming with rich culture, intriguing ancient history, and a must-try culinary scene.

To appreciate the beauty of Beijing’s revered past, visit the city’s five UNESCO World Heritage sites, which include the Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven, Ming Tomb, and Grand Canal. Be sure to also explore the expansive Great Wall of China, which is one of the great wonders of the world. You can reach the iconic landmark in approximately 2 hours by taxi from the city centre.

In contrast to its historic past, Beijing is also a high tech, futuristic city adorned with numerous eye-catching, modern buildings. Some of the standout architectural masterpieces include the Capital Museum Building, CCTV Headquarters, and the National Centre for the Performing Arts. Here, you can watch internationally acclaimed opera, ballet, and theatrical performances in a unique setting colloquially called ‘The Giant Egg’.

Foodies will appreciate the district of Sanlutin, which is known for its trendy bars and renowned restaurants. Be sure to try some of the city’s tastiest dishes, such as Peking roasted duck, and jiaozi dumplings. South of the city lies the retail paradise of Qianmen Steet, which is home to a combination of culture, food, shopping, and entertainment. Nearby, you will find many of the city’s top restaurants serving local favourites such as Mongolian hotpot and soybean cake.

Shopping enthusiasts will find everything they need in the streets of Wangfujing, which is home to premium brands, as well as traditional Chinese crafts, trinkets, and souvenirs. Here, you can also find many delicious street food stalls and sample a variety of local delicacies, including ‘chuanr' (lamb kebabs) and ‘tanghulu’ (candied fruits).

Cathay Pacific brings the convenience of finding the best hotels to you. The Peninsula Beijing is a prestigious 5-star hotel situated in the vibrant Wangfujing district, renowned for its upscale shopping and cultural landmarks. This lavish hotel features sophisticated and generously sized accommodations, exquisite dining venues, and flawless hospitality. Another excellent option in the area is the Mandarin Oriental Wangfujing, Beijing, a luxurious 5-star hotel positioned in the heart of the city's iconic shopping street. Guests can expect luxurious rooms and suites, exceptional culinary experiences, and a variety of indulgent spa services to enhance their stay. 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 enthusiasts, Beijing is a haven of flavours, boasting a diverse dining scene that harmoniously blends global cuisines into a tantalizing tapestry of culinary delights. Opera BOMBANA provides travellers with an immersive experience of Italian gastronomy and culture, presenting a modern twist on traditional Italian dishes. Led by renowned chef-owner Umberto Bombana, who has three Michelin stars, the restaurant celebrates Italy's rich culinary traditions while providing warm hospitality. Those seeking a more traditional taste can visit Jindingxuan, a well-known restaurant that has been delighting diners since 1993. It specialises in both northern and southern Chinese cuisine, showcasing the finest traditional culinary techniques. Jindingxuan, with its commitment to green and sustainable practices, provides a one-of-a-kind dining experience that combines exquisite flavours with an environmentally conscious approach. Jindingxuan invites visitors to savour the rich heritage of Chinese gastronomy through their signature dishes and diverse menu.

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