The hype
Travelers love the massive rooms and subway proximity but consistently grumble about the aging carpets and 'cold' service.
Grand Millennium Beijing
$130-180/ night
Book this if You're a business traveler who needs to be glued to the CBD and wants a lap pool that actually allows for laps.
Why People Love It
- Direct pedestrian bridge access to Fortune Mall and office towers
- Massive 25-meter indoor lap pool that isn't just for splashing
- Floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the iconic CCTV 'Big Pants' tower
Quick Take: A solid, slightly aging business titan that delivers on location and fitness but stumbles on temperature control and strict smoke-free enforcement.
Reviewed by @Travelwithtea_: I stayed here during a busy week in Beijing and it was exactly the sanctuary I needed. The room is spacious and that leather desk is a productivity dream. My favorite part was the traditional tea set—brewing a cup by the window was the perfect way to decompress.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
You might need to change rooms to find one that doesn't smell like stale smoke.
- You need to be at the CCTV headquarters or Fortune Plaza for work
- You prioritize a serious gym and pool over trendy decor
- You want easy subway access (Jintaixizhao Station is 3 mins away)
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8
- Housekeeping: Generally reliable daily service, though 'dust in corners' is a common minor gripe.
- Bathroom hygiene: Bathrooms are spacious and usually spotless, but check the grout in the shower immediately.
- Maintenance: Showing age. Scuffed furniture and worn carpets are noticeable in non-renovated rooms.
- Linens & towels: Standard 5-star quality—crisp and clean, though towels can feel a bit thin.
- Odors & scents: The biggest risk factor. Request a 'deep clean' or ionizer if you detect smoke.
Sleepability™
6.5MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Hallway foot traffic and voices
- Neighboring room plumbing
- AC fan rattle in older rooms
Before you book
Good to know
- A deposit is required at check-in (credit card or cash)
- The hotel is connected to Fortune Mall via an indoor walkway—clutch for winter dining
- VPNs on hotel Wi-Fi are hit-or-miss; bring your own roaming data solution
What to pack
- Universal travel adapter (plugs are mostly Type I/A/C)
- Personal portable fan (in case the room is overheated in winter)
- Swim cap (mandatory for the pool)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Grand Millennium Suite (209 sqm) for entertaining
- Club Rooms on high floors for the best CCTV tower views
Rooms to avoid
- Rooms near the elevator banks (noise bleed)
- Low floors facing the street (traffic hum)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am a light sleeper and sensitive to smoke. Please assign a high-floor room away from the elevators that has been recently deep-cleaned. If available, a room with a view of the CCTV tower would be appreciated.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the pool actually swimmable?
Yes, it's a highlight—25 meters, heated, and great for laps, though you must wear a swim cap.
Can I get food delivery to my room?
Likely no. Robots or staff might bring it up, but often guests are asked to retrieve orders from lockers or the lobby.
Is it close to the subway?
Extremely. Jintaixizhao Station (Line 10) is a 3-5 minute walk.
Does the hotel smell like smoke?
It's a gamble. While officially non-smoking, residual smoke smells in carpets and hallways are a frequent complaint.
How is the breakfast?
Extensive buffet with both Western and Chinese options (noodle station is good), but it costs ~CNY 228 ($32) if not included.
Do they speak English?
Front desk and concierge yes, but housekeeping and restaurant staff may struggle. Have a translation app ready.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Use the pedestrian bridge on the 2nd floor to access Fortune Mall without stepping outside.
- ✨
The 'Tibetan Yogurt' shop (A Qiu La Ga) in the connected mall is a must-try local cult favorite.
- ✨
Ask for a room ending in '01' or '09' for potentially better corner layouts (subject to availability).
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'external parcel locker' system for food deliveries is a hassle nobody mentions until you're hungry at 10pm.
💡The AC in winter is often set to 'heat only' by the building management, meaning you can't cool your room down without opening a window.
💡There is a 'foot bath' amenity listed in some spa packages that is surprisingly relaxing after a day of walking.
💡The lobby bar can feel like a ghost town in the evenings—great for quiet work, bad for vibes.
💡You might spot acrobats from the nearby Chaoyang Theater grabbing a quick meal in the mall.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Grand Millennium Beijing is located and what's nearby.