1. Figuiring out Beijing's bus network can prove to be quite difficult. And while the underground is convenient, there are still many places without stops. Because of this, before you set off sightseeing for the day, invest around Y70 in renting a bicycle for the day as there is no doubt you will get your money's worth. On top of that, you'll fit in with the locals!

2. Dotted all over the Chinese capital are a host of art galleries which impose no admission charge. These include the Red Gate Gallery which houses modern art, the Beijing East Gallery and the Wa Fung Art Gallery which also have contemporary Chinese paintings, and Kuaixue Hall where the paintings decking the gallery's numerous walls reflect life in Beijing.

3. While entrance to them isn't entirely free, tickets for Beijing's temples won't break the bank by any means. The best-known is Lama Temple where you will always encounter worshippers burning incense. Others include Dongyue Temple which dates back to the 14th century, and the Dazhong Temple which houses a bell that weighs over 45 tonnes.

4. As this is the capital of China, things can get pretty hectic in Beijing no matter what part of town you are in. When it begins to get a bit much for you, take refuge in the city's parks. Jingshan Park and Dongdan Park are the two most central. Get to them early and you might see locals practising tai chi.

5. Just like the city's temples, Beijing's museums aren't free (this will happen in 2009) but the admission charges are low. One of the most impressive is the National History Museum and the National Museum of China, which is conveniently located on Tiananmen Square.