Undoubtedly one of the world’s top tourism destinations — and officially one of the New Seven Wonders of the World — the Great Wall stretches for thousands of kilometres across northern China. From Beijing, the easiest section to reach is Badaling, about 70 km from the city. It’s well restored and has a cable car, but it also draws the biggest crowds. Mutianyu is another popular choice with fewer tour groups if you go early. For a wilder feel, head to Simatai or Jinshanling, where much of the wall is original and the hikes are longer. Huanghuacheng is partly submerged by a reservoir, so you get the unusual sight of watchtowers half surrounded by water.

The 50-hectare-plus Vrijbroek Park is situated on the outskirts of the city. It is the ideal place to walk, kick a football around or read. A visit to the magnificent rose garden is highly recommended, even if only for the seductive scent of the more than 100 different species of rose! In 2003 the World Federation of Rose Societies granted it the 'Award of Garden Excellence'. A great effort has been made to make visits informative, so for example you will find name-plates all over the garden as well as brochures of walks.

Munich is the capital of beer: with seven breweries, the world-famous Hofbräuhaus and the Oktoberfest. Delve into the rich history of beer, from its origins during the great migration to its role in monasteries, brewing techniques, and the enactment of the 'purity law' of 1516. The museum also shows the interior of a traditional middle-class Munich home. The Oktoberfest also has a long history, beginning as a national holiday to celebrate the wedding of Ludwig I with Princess Theresa von Sachsen-Hildburghausen. Over time, it has now become the largest folk festival in the world.

For panoramic views of the city, look no further than Elizabeth Fort. Built in the 17th century, the fort endured revolts, sieges, and civic unrest — it was even converted into a prison in 1835. This fortress is steeped in local history, and a portion of it is open for public tours.