Stepping into the Forbidden City is like flipping open a real-life history book, with golden rooftops, royal chambers, and centuries-old secrets waiting around every red lacquered corner.

If you're a culture buff, a curious traveller, or simply love dramatic architecture, this guide will help you make the most of your visit to Beijing’s most legendary landmark.

Buy Tickets to Explore Forbidden City

Welcome to the largest ancient palace complex in the world! The Forbidden City, now known as the Palace Museum, was the home of 24 emperors from the Ming and Qing dynasties. For over 500 years, this walled wonder was off-limits to ordinary people, hence the name “forbidden.” Today, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of China’s most iconic cultural treasures.

Expect sprawling courtyards, golden roofs, and over 980 buildings filled with intricate carvings, sacred halls, and priceless artefacts. It’s not just a museum; it’s a time machine to imperial China.

So, are you ready to walk where emperors once ruled?

This place is massive, like, really massive, so you’ll want to hit the highlights first. Here’s a cheat sheet for what not to miss:

This is the grand front door of the Forbidden City, and what a first impression it makes! Towering and majestic, the Meridian Gate sets the tone for the royal experience ahead. Once reserved for emperors and special occasions, it’s now your gateway to centuries of Chinese imperial history. Snap a photo here before stepping into a whole new world behind its mighty arches.

As the biggest and most celebrated building in the Forbidden City, this hall is pure drama in architecture. It was the setting for coronations, royal weddings, and grand ceremonies. The structure itself is jaw-dropping, with golden roof tiles, carved dragons, and a commanding throne that once held the weight of dynastic power. Get ready to feel tiny, but inspired!

Tucked deeper within the complex, this palace was the emperor’s personal residence. After all the grandeur of the outer halls, this space feels surprisingly down-to-earth, by royal standards, of course. It’s a fascinating peek into how emperors lived when the official ceremonies were over.

You’ll find this hidden gem right at the end of the central axis, a refreshing contrast to the palace’s imposing halls. The Imperial Garden is lush, quiet, and beautifully designed with ancient cypress trees, rockeries, and delicate pavilions. It’s the perfect spot to catch your breath and imagine the royals taking their afternoon strolls.

For those who love a bit of sparkle and ingenuity, these galleries are a must. The Treasure Gallery holds intricate jewellery, rare jade carvings, and royal relics, while the Clock Exhibition Hall is a mesmerising collection of ornate, antique timepieces from around the world. It’s like walking through a gallery of imperial bling and mechanical marvels.

Don’t try to see everything in one go. Focus on these iconic spots, take your time, and enjoy the atmosphere. It’s all part of the royal experience. If you're an independent explorer, self-guided audio tours and mobile apps are fantastic for pacing yourself. But if you're travelling with family or want a deeper dive into palace stories, a guided tour (easily booked on Traveloka) will turn your visit into a rich narrative of emperors, empresses, and royal rituals.

Calling all photo lovers, this place is a visual dream. Whether you're in full DSLR mode or just using your phone, these are the can't-miss spots to capture:

Just across the street, Jingshan Park offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the Forbidden City’s golden rooftops stretching endlessly into the horizon. Come at sunrise or sunset when the warm glow bathes the tiles in light, making your photos pop with rich colour and soft shadows. It's the perfect wide shot for showing off the city's imperial scale.

Step into the main courtyards and you’ll be surrounded by rows of deep red columns, detailed dragon motifs, and symmetrical lines that feel straight out of a storybook. These elements create strong visual depth, making your photos both striking and timeless. Use the leading lines to your advantage for an ultra-clean frame.

Look out for the elegant white bridges crossing serene canals, often reflected perfectly on a clear day. Pair that with the imposing red doors, usually framed by golden studs and intricate carvings, and you’ve got a classic Forbidden City shot that balances beauty and history. These spots work especially well for portraits or dramatic outfit shots.

Bring a wide-angle lens or a mini tripod if you can. Early mornings give you the best light (and fewer tourists in your background!).

During peak season (1 April to 31 October), entry tickets cost CNY 60 (approximately RM32). In the off-peak season (1 November to 31 March), the price drops to CNY 40 (around RM21). Yes, you can buy tickets on the spot at the official entrance, but it’s risky. Only 40,000 tickets are released daily, and they often sell out early, especially on weekends and public holidays.

The easiest way to secure your spot? Use Traveloka to book your admission online. It’s quick, reliable, and saves you from fumbling with ticket machines. And remember to bring your passport, you’ll need it for entry verification at the gate.

You’ll find the Forbidden City right in the heart of Dongcheng District, at the centre of Beijing. Getting there is super easy with several transport options:

This isn’t a quick stroll, it’s a full-on palace trek. Be prepared:

There are limited shade areas, so pack smart!

Want to dodge the crowds and enjoy the palace in peace? Plan wisely:

Worked up an appetite after all that royal roaming? Here are a few nearby halal spots to fuel up:

Maximise your Forbidden City visit by pairing it with these nearby gems:

Tip: This combo makes a great one-day itinerary, culture, photos, and history all wrapped up in one perfect Beijing day.

Best Hotels to Stay Near Forbidden City

From palatial walkways to hidden alleys, Beijing is a city that balances history with modern energy, and the Forbidden City is its shining jewel. With Traveloka, planning your palace visit is royally easy. Book your flight tickets, guided tours, hotels, and all in one smooth experience.

Turn your Beijing trip into a story worth telling, explore the Forbidden City and beyond with Traveloka, your all-in-one travel buddy.