Book a trip from Ho Chi Minh City to Beijing with Cathay Pacific , fares from USD348

There are several transportation options available at Beijing Capital International Airport for getting to the city centre, the most convenient being a taxi. Taxis can take you downtown from the airport in about 35 minutes. Alternatively, the Airport Express Line train departs Terminal 3 on a regular basis and takes only 20 minutes to get you to the heart of the city.

From ancient palaces to contemporary marvels, Beijing’s fusion of old and new captivates the imagination, as the city's rich cultural heritage intertwines seamlessly with its modern urban landscape, offering a wealth of iconic landmarks to discover.

Begin your journey at the Forbidden City, a massive palace complex that served as the imperial residence of Chinese emperors for over 500 years. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features traditional Chinese architecture and design. Visitors can explore the vast courtyards, intricate halls, and beautiful gardens, learning about the lives of the emperors and the imperial court. Both the Forbidden City and its Palace Museum contain a wealth of cultural and historical artefacts.

We also recommend visiting the Great Wall of China, which is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. This ancient architectural marvel stretches for thousands of miles, with several sections accessible from Beijing. The most popular sections are Badaling, Mutianyu, and Jinshanling. Visitors can walk along the wall, take in the breathtaking panoramic views, and recognise the historical significance of this iconic structure.

Beijing has a wide range of shopping malls, plazas, and centres to choose from. The Panjiayuan Antiques Market offers a one-of-a-kind shopping experience with vintage items that highlight Chinese history and art. If you want to buy authentic souvenirs, Qianmen Street is known as Beijing's retail paradise, with a mix of historical charm and modern luxury brands. While you're there, stop by the National Centre for the Performing Arts.

The city is also famous for its quaint 'hutongs' (residential alleyways), one of the most popular being the Lingjing hutong, which is the widest in the Chinese capital. While you're here, make sure to visit the small antique markets that sell traditional calligraphy sets, ancient scrolls, and a variety of other souvenirs. Miaoying Temple is also worth a visit because its white dagoba pagoda, believed to be the tallest in China, was built on Kublai Khan's orders.

Cathay Pacific brings the convenience of finding the best hotels to you. Grand Mercure Beijing Central is a four-star hotel in the vibrant Xicheng District, close to popular tourist attractions and shopping areas. The hotel provides comfortable, well-equipped rooms, a variety of dining options, and easy access to public transportation. It's an excellent choice for travellers looking for a comfortable and reasonably priced stay in Beijing. Those looking for a more luxurious stay can consider The Peninsula Beijing, which is located in the bustling Wangfujing district and is known for its high-end shopping and cultural attractions. The hotel offers elegant and spacious rooms, world-class dining, and exceptional service. It's the ideal choice for travellers seeking a luxurious and convenient stay in 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 enthusiasts, Beijing is a haven of flavours, boasting a diverse dining scene that harmoniously blends global cuisines into a tantalising tapestry of culinary delights. Beijing Jindingxuan Restaurant is a well-known establishment that has been satisfying customers 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. For those wanting to try the duck dishes Beijing has to offer, Da Dong Roast Duck is a renowned restaurant that specialises in serving Beijing's famous roast duck. Open since 1985, it is well-known for its innovative approach to traditional Chinese cuisine, which puts a modern spin on classic dishes. Their roast duck is a must-try for its perfectly crispy skin and succulent meat.

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 Types A, C, and I
• Time zone: GMT+8
• Language: Mandarin