Beijing is one of the more expensive cities in China, but it’s still a great bargain for most Western tourists. Hotels are generally of high quality, and the prices can be very appealing, especially for those on package tours. Beijing is not an easy city for tourists who don’t speak any Chinese because almost nothing is built for us. Shanghai is much easier and more enjoyable in that regard.
The attractions in the city are also very reasonably priced, though scammers and hucksters are common, so it’s wise to do some research and keep your wits about you. Transportation is also very cheap, with the buses and subways being especially good bargains.
| Rating | Price(USD) |
|---|---|
 | 13.00 - 36.00 |
| 18.00 - 98.00 |
| 29.00 - 150.00 |
| 50.00 - 172.00 |
| 69.00 - 299.00 |
| Type | Price(USD) |
|---|---|
| Hostel Bed | 6.00 - 22.00 |
| Location | Description | Type | Price(USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Great Wall (Badaling or Juyongguan) | These two sections of the Wall are closest to Beijing, and are often part of bus tours. Prices are a bit lower in the colder months. | adults | 14.71 |
| Forbidden City | This huge complex is the other must-see attraction in Beijing and one that is very popular. Low season rates are lower. | adults | 8.40 |
| Tiananmen Gate | Between the (free) Tian'anmen Square and the Forbidden City you can see inside this famous gate. A visit here takes about half an hour. | adults | 2.10 |
| Food Type | Description | Price(USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Budget breakfast | Chinese-style breakfasts, including noodles, can be very cheap. Western breakfasts will cost much more. | 1.54 - 4.20 |
| Budget lunch | Going to the places where the locals eat will get you great bargains and authentic meals. | 2.38 - 4.90 |
| Budget dinner | As always, bargains are available, but fancier places will charge a lot more. | 3.92 - 7.00 |
| Beer (.33l can) | Beer is much cheaper in restaurants than in bars. | 1.54 - 3.50 |
| Cocktails (glass) | Mixed drinks are available all over at a wide range of prices. | 4.20 - 7.00 |
| Beer (bottle, retail) | 0.56 - 0.84 |
| Type | Price(USD) |
|---|---|
| Taxi from airport to city center | 9.80 - 16.81 |
| Airport express train to city center | 3.50 |
| Shuttle bus from airport to city center | 2.24 |
| 3km taxi ride in Beijing | 1.96 - 2.80 |
| Subway ride in Beijing | 0.42 - 1.26 |
| Bus ride in Beijing | 0.28 |