Beijing: for free!

Well... not entirely because you still have to get to China first but once you're there, Beijing serves up limitless possibilities for free outings and sightseeing. That's the great thing about big cities, there is always something going on and many of the famous landmarks at free to visit. If you take advantage of these five free spots, you can splurge on others.

Ritan Park

For a quiet morning, pack a snack and head to Ritan Park to watch the locals enjoying the city's daily life. You'll find groups doing everything from Tai Chi to playing Mah-Jongg on a park bench. There's even an outdoor climbing wall if you're up for it. The park itself dates back to 1530 and has become a vital green lung in this city plagued by air pollution.

Wangfujing

This is Beijing's busiest shopping area and while the actually shopping costs money (and a lot of it), the sightseeing nearby is totally and completely free. Duck into the tiny side streets to try some fried scorpion or silk worms. Don't miss St. Josheph's Cathedral, a 17th century church that has somehow survived centuries of rebellions and earthquakes.

Tiananmen Square

It's possibly unthinkable to visit Beijing without visiting this place. Not only is it the city's most famous landmarks, it's also a great spot to people watch. Thousands upon thousands of tourists visit every day. If you are there at sunrise or sunset, you can catch the guards raising and lowering the flag. Just watch out for scammers.

Houhai Lake

Head north of the Forbidden City and you'll run into Houhai Lake, the perfect place to cool off on a hot summer's day. Bring your swim suit and dive in or just take a stroll around the lake's shore. If you're up for more fun, rent a bike for the afternoon!

798 Art District

For edgy and urban cultural life, head to Beijing's 798 Art District in the north-eastern part of the city. It's a small neighbourhood chock-full of art galleries, independent coffee shops, quaint fashion and art boutiques... pretty much it's the centre of contemporary Chinese culture.

Have you been to Beijing before? What other Chinese cities are on your travel wishlist?

Images: zilpho, super dolly, zarrinmaani / flickr cc.