Olofsfors Ironworks is one of Sweden's most authentic and well-preserved ironworks environments. The foundry, forges, the manor house and residential buildings are in excellent condition and open for tours year-round. In the summer, the area is open daily, and several artists and craftsmen are at place in their workshops. The manor house now serves as a restaurant, and the old school building houses a café and shop.

Built in the mid-18th century for the Qing emperors as a retreat from the heat of the Forbidden City, the Summer Palace is a vast imperial garden centred on Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill, both man-made. The lake was modelled on Hangzhou’s West Lake, with islands, bridges, and long covered walkways. Scattered around are pavilions, temples, and a recreated riverside street designed to look like a traditional market town. Later restored under Empress Dowager Cixi, it became her favoured residence. Today, it’s worth visiting not just for the palaces themselves, but for the long lakeside walks, shaded courtyards, and the sense of space that feels very different from central Beijing.

Just behind the Forbidden City, Beihai Park is one of Beijing’s oldest and best-preserved imperial gardens. It’s quieter than some of the larger tourist spots, with lakes, pavilions, and tree-lined paths perfect for a stroll — the central White Dagoba on Qionghua Island is a highlight here.

Marbles Kids Museum encourages children to learn through play and interactive exhibits, fostering curiosity and creativity. The museum also features a 3D-capable IMAX cinema showing educational documentaries and films.