The Best Luxury Hotels in Beijing

This summer, WildChina hosted our annual leisure team travel week in Beijing. The week was filled with WildChina’s favorite experiences in the capital, as well as surveys of the best luxury hotels in Beijing.

After visiting six of Beijing’s top hotels, I found that their distinctive features, from innovative amenities to whimsical touches, deepened my appreciation for the city’s exceptional hospitality. So, for anyone seeking the best place to stay in Beijing, here is my list of standout hotels and what makes each one exceptional.

The serene riverside garden of Bvlgari Hotel Beijing

Our first stop was the Bvlgari Hotel Beijing, where the WildChina team enjoyed a taiji session in the hotel’s exquisitely manicured garden. The sounds of the Liangma River flowing gently nearby and leaves rustling in the breeze made it hard to believe we were in the heart of the bustling capital.

Upon arrival, I was struck by the hotel’s sophistication and opulence, true to Bvlgari’s legacy. Archival jewelry sketches displayed throughout the hotel provided a dazzling glimpse into the brand’s glamorous history and its commitment to craftsmanship.

Warm hues and rich textures in a Bvlgari Hotel Beijing suite, photo by Gabrielle Keepfer

The guest rooms are a masterpiece of modern Italian design. Shimmering Murano glass chandeliers and soaring ceilings enhance the sense of boundless openness, while floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with light and connect you to the vast city beyond. Despite this openness, I felt enveloped in warmth and comfort, with rich wood paneling and sumptuous carpets adding to the coziness. The marble bathrooms, with their deep soaking tubs, exemplify the brand’s signature Rome-inspired style.

The entrance to Mandarin Oriental Qianmen, nestled within Beijing’s historic hutongs

Pedaling through the winding hutongs of Beijing’s Dongcheng District, we heard the clatter of cobblestones beneath our wheels and smelled the tantalizing aroma of home-cooked meals wafting down narrow streets. After navigating this historic labyrinth, we arrived at the newly opened Mandarin Oriental Qianmen, whose modest and unassuming entrance belies the magic waiting inside.

The moment I stepped through the doors, I was captivated by the sight of two ancient maple trees standing sentinel at the entrance. Here, guests are treated to the rare experience of residing in private courtyards, where historic elegance is beautifully integrated with contemporary and spacious design.

The Executive Courtyard, marrying traditional architecture with modern design

Our team’s evening began at the hotel’s speakeasy bar, the only one of its kind in the hutong. We indulged in inventive bar snacks, such as Peking duck “cigars,” while perusing a menu of expertly crafted cocktails. The bar’s intimate atmosphere provided a perfect retreat, allowing us to unwind and appreciate the storied ambiance that surrounds the hotel.

The Peninsula’s magnificent foyer, centered around a sweeping marble staircase

Stepping into The Peninsula Beijing, I was awed by its palatial scale, making our large group feel small amidst the grandeur. The impressive array of antique furnishings and contemporary art enriches its regal atmosphere, giving the hotel the feel of a grand art gallery. Ivory walls and creamy marble floors provide a polished backdrop, accentuating the sleek, backlit staircase that ascends gracefully to the guest suites.

Guests can enjoy a private cinema experience in the Beijing Suite

Among the hotel’s suites, the Beijing Suite stands out as the highlight of my tour. The private cinema room, with its deep, plush seating, can transform an ordinary film night into a memorable experience. The suite’s serene palette of pearl white and gray, combined with high-tech amenities like customizable lighting and temperature controls, creates an environment of timeless elegance and supreme comfort.

The angular exterior of The PuXuan Hotel and Spa, showcasing a distinctive design by Ole Scheeren

As I approached the PuXuan Hotel and Spa, I was drawn to its striking slate-gray and reflective facade, a bold architectural statement by Ole Scheeren. Known for his sharp designs, like Beijing’s iconic CCTV Headquarters, Scheeren’s vision is realized again here. The hotel’s bold exterior contrasts sharply with the traditional surroundings, and I could not help but admire how it embodied the spirit of contemporary Beijing.

Inside, the hotel’s inward-facing courtyards evoke the feel of Beijing’s traditional siheyuan, providing an idyllic retreat in the midst of the city. From the rooms and outdoor terraces, I took in sweeping views of hutong rooftops and the historic pavilion atop Beijing’s beloved Jingshan Park.

The Grand Deluxe Room offers stunning views of Jingshan Park

The interior of the PuXuan Hotel and Spa features a collection of modern art that complements the building’s architectural style. Bronze sculptures contrast with the more classical elements and the rotating display of local artworks add an extra layer of intrigue, merging timeless and innovative Chinese motifs in a way that feels both fresh and deeply connected to the city’s heritage.

The indoor pool at Rosewood Beijing, surrounded by lush greenery and sheltered beneath a glass roof

During our stay at Rosewood Beijing, I was impressed by its outstanding commitment to health and fitness. The versatile pool area caters to both invigorating lap swimming and leisurely relaxation, while the tranquil yoga studio offers an ideal setting for mindfulness and stretching exercises. The fitness studio, equipped with cutting-edge machines, provides a comprehensive range of workout options and even includes a dog treadmill, perfect for pet owners who wish to keep their furry companions active. The juice bar, with its selection of healthy beverages, further enhances the wellness experience. These thoughtful amenities set Rosewood Beijing apart, catering not only to the well-being of its guests but also to their pets.

Our team also had the pleasure of dining at Red Bowl, Rosewood’s hot pot restaurant renowned for its bold Sichuan flavors and lively ambiance. The stylish decor and signature red bowls add vibrant touches that make this dining experience a highlight.

The entrance to the Rosewood’s hot pot restaurant, Red Bowl, photo by Gabrielle Keepfer

The residential-style rooms are tastefully curated with natural finishes and textural overlays, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Pre-mixed Negroni cocktails and a selection of in-house spirits add a sophisticated touch, further elevating the lavish apartment living and attention to detail on which Rosewood Beijing prides itself.

Guests can take in views of the Forbidden City at sunset, photo by Gabrielle Keepfer

The team’s final evening in Beijing was spent at the Mandarin Oriental Wangfujing, ideally located along the lively Wangfujing shopping street. The hotel’s spa, recognized by Forbes as one of the finest in the world, offers a range of enticing and intriguing treatments. Among these is the knife massage, a therapy rooted in ancient Chinese practices that involves the precise use of blunt knives to stimulate circulation, release tension, and promote deep relaxation.

The rooms and terraces are exquisite vantage points to soak in the city’s historic beauty, with unparalleled views of the Forbidden City. It was especially breathtaking at sunset, when the golden light bathes the palaces in a golden glow and dragonflies dart in the fading light.

The Premier Suite features a four-poster bed adorned with plush, soft textiles

The MO bar, with its secret menu, added an element of surprise to our visit. Discovering the hidden cocktail creations felt like being part of an exclusive club. The luxurious four-poster beds in the rooms promised absolute comfort, and I longed to rest in one after an energetic week of exploring Beijing’s best hotels.

By Gabrielle Keepfer, Marketing Specialist at WildChina

Interested in staying at one of these hotels? Get in touch with our team to start planning!