The Peninsula Beijing

The Peninsula Beijing is our splurge pick and the most polished address in the old centre. It stands on Jinyu Hutong in Dongcheng, a four-minute walk from Wangfujing, Beijing’s main shopping street, and under a kilometre from the east side of the Forbidden City, so the palace, Jingshan Park and the hutongs of the old city are all within walking distance or a short taxi ride. After a restyling, the hotel offers what it describes as the most spacious all-suite accommodation in central Beijing, with suites starting at around 60 square metres and blending Chinese craftsmanship with modern technology. Facilities match the price: an indoor pool with loungers, a full-service spa with twelve treatment rooms, a gym and three restaurants. Service is the Peninsula’s calling card, and booking direct gives access to Peninsula Time, its flexible check-in and check-out programme, which is a real help after a long-haul flight. Expedia guests rate it exceptional, at 9.6 from 450 reviews.

Location and getting around: the hotel is at 8 Jinyu Hutong, between Wangfujing and Dongdan. Dengshikou metro station, on Line 5, is about a four-minute walk away, and Wangfujing station on Line 1 is close by for direct trains to Tiananmen and the Forbidden City. The palace’s East Flower Gate and the walk north to Jingshan Park are within easy reach on foot, and taxis are plentiful on the main roads.

Rooms: every room is a suite, from about 60 square metres up to vast top-floor suites, with separate living areas that make them excellent for families and longer stays.

Who it suits: couples on a special trip, families who need space, and anyone who wants calm, reliable luxury a short walk from the Forbidden City.

Good to know: breakfast is a buffet served from 6:30 to 10:30, charged separately unless your rate includes it, and children five and under eat free. There is no on-site parking; nearby parking is expensive, so use taxis or a hotel car. Check-in is from 14:00, or earlier with Peninsula Time when booked direct.