Book a trip from San Francisco to Beijing with Cathay Pacific , fares from USD1,525

Taxis are readily available outside the airport terminal and are the most convenient way to get to downtown Beijing, taking approximately 35 minutes. Alternatively, you can take the Airport Express Line train, which departs from Terminal 3 and will take you to the city center in around 20 minutes.

Steeped in over 1,000 years of history, Beijing is a fascinating city that offers travelers who visit an abundance of unique and memorable experiences.

Beijing is home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites, which date back to the 15th century or earlier. Each of them offers fascinating insights into the country’s ancient history and culture. Be sure to visit The Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven, Ming Tombs, Grand Canal, and the Great Wall of China. The Great Wall is situated on the outskirts of the city and can be reached in approximately 2 hours by taxi.

Nestled amongst Beijing’s many temples and monuments are some of the city’s most futuristic examples of architecture. A few of the most renowned buildings include the Wangjing SOHO, Capital Museum Building, CCTV Headquarters, and the National Centre for the Performing Arts.

Food lovers should venture to the Sanlitun neighborhood as it hosts some of the city’s fine dining options as well as the glitziest bars. Here, you can enjoy popular Beijing dishes like Peking roast duck and sweet and savory Qianlong cabbage. If you are looking to find authentic travel souvenirs, we recommend visiting historical Qianmen Street, which boasts a combination of culture, food, shopping, and entertainment.

Before leaving the city, consider spending a day at Gulou, home to the Drum and Bell Towers. The bell towers were first built in the 13th century, and the Confucius Temple - the second-largest of its kind in all of China. Art enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the National Art Museum of China as its six floors house all kinds of exhibits, from ancient classics to internationally acclaimed masterpieces. Be sure to indulge in the Lijiang-style hotpot or visit one of the many bubble tea outlets located in the area.

Cathay Pacific brings the convenience of finding the best hotels. Conveniently situated near major attractions like the iconic Forbidden City, The Peninsula Beijing is the perfect choice for travelers seeking a luxurious and convenient stay in the heart of the city. Nestled in the vibrant Wangfujing district, this 5-star hotel offers a level of opulence and sophistication that is truly remarkable. From the moment you step inside, you'll be enveloped in the elegant ambiance of the hotel's accommodations. The rooms and suites are designed to provide utmost in comfort and style, catering to the refined tastes of the most discerning guests. Beyond the exceptional accommodations and dining, The Peninsula Beijing also offers a serene retreat for relaxation and rejuvenation. The hotel's spa and wellness facilities provide a haven of tranquility, where you can indulge in pampering treatments and rejuvenate your body and mind. Another five-star option is the Rosewood Beijing located in the bustling Chaoyang District. The hotel greets its guests with contemporary elegance with traditional Chinese elements, creating an immersive and luxurious environment. Throughout your stay, you'll be treated to the impeccable service and attention to detail that Rosewood is renowned for. The hotel's dedicated team ensures that every aspect of your experience is tailored to your preferences, making your stay in Beijing truly unforgettable. The beautifully appointed rooms and suites offer unparalleled comfort, featuring modern amenities and stunning city views that will captivate the senses. 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.

Beijing entices food enthusiasts with its wide selection of restaurants, where culinary traditions from across the world converge to create an exquisite gastronomic experience. For travelers seeking an immersive journey into the world of Italian gastronomy, Opera BOMBANA in Beijing offers an exceptional dining experience. Led by the renowned Three MICHELIN Star Chef Umberto Bombana, this restaurant presents a contemporary interpretation of classic Italian cuisine, showcasing the rich culinary traditions of Italy with a modern flair. The menu at Opera BOMBANA is a testament to Chef Bombana's dedication to showcasing the finest ingredients and traditional techniques. Each dish is meticulously crafted to deliver a harmonious blend of flavors, offering diners a taste of Italy's diverse regional specialties. Complementing the exceptional cuisine is a vast wine cellar and vibrant cocktail program, allowing guests to indulge in the perfect pairing for their meal. For those seeking to taste the local cuisine, Beijing Jindingxuan Restaurant highlights the diversity of both Northern and Southern Chinese flavors and traditional cooking techniques that have been honed over generations. From signature dishes to a wide array of menu options, the restaurant invites guests to embark on a culinary journey through the rich heritage of Chinese gastronomy. What sets Jindingxuan apart from other local restaurants is its commitment to green and sustainable practices, which contributes to the overall dining experience and also reflects the establishment's respect for the land and its resources.

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