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Close to the lakes, this is the oldest of Beijing’s traditional hotels, with the largest and most elaborate courtyards, plus rockeries and covered pathways.

Excellent, modern three-star on a narrow lane just a few minutes’ walk from Wangfujing. All rooms have laptop portals, and satellite TV, and represent good value for money.

Good value and very convenient for those with early morning trains from Beijing Zhan. Twin rooms and dorms are relatively new and clean, and there are cooking facilities and a 24-hour shop.

A recent refurb has transformed the Hilton into a stylish hotel with large rooms sporting designer flourishes and huge bathrooms. Good value option close to the embassies, shopping, and nightlife centers of Nuren Jie and Sanlitun.

Beijing’s oldest hotel reopened in summer 2006 after a massive refit as part of the famed Raffles group. Excellent location at the bottom of Wangfujing, a short walk from Tian’an Men Square.

The most luxurious hotel in Beijing, and often the choice of visiting heads of state. It’s in the heart of the Central Business District (CBD), above a swish shopping mall and it has arguably the best restaurant in town in Aria.

Sound mid-range option within walking distance of Sanlitun’s bars, restaurants, and shops. Rooms are clean and comfortable enough, if a little dated. Staff speak some English.

Rooms are tastefully decorated, with desks, comfortable sofas, and plush new duvets. It caters more for business people on lengthy stays, so service can be found wanting.

Eleven modern villas by 11 Asian architects dot a green valley within sight of the Great Wall. Facilities include DVD players, an indoor pool, and a private cinema. Managed by Kempinski.

Comfortable rooms with tasteful decoration give onto a nine-story atrium. Reasonable value, and within walking distance of Wangfujing and the Forbidden City.