Beijing vs London - City Size Comparison

Is Beijing Bigger Than London?

In terms of area, Beijing is 10.4x the size of London. Beijing spans 16,411 km² (6,336 mi²) while London covers 1,572 km² (607 mi²) — a difference of 14,839 km². You could fit London inside Beijing approximately 10 times.

About Beijing

China's capital and political center. Known as "The Northern Capital", Beijing covers 16,411 km² with a population of 21.5 million. The city was founded around 1045 BC. Beijing is known for The Forbidden City, Great Wall of China, Temple of Heaven, among other attractions. The city's main transit system is the Beijing Subway.

Beijing's administrative area of 16,411 km² makes it larger than many small countries

About London

Capital of England and the United Kingdom. Nicknamed "The Big Smoke", London has an area of 1,572 km² and is home to 9.0 million people. The city dates back to 43. Visitors come for Big Ben, Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and much more. Getting around is easy with the London Underground.

London was the first city to have an underground railway, opening in 1863

Metropolitan Area Comparison

Looking beyond city limits, the Beijing metropolitan area covers 16,411 km², which is 2.0x larger than greater London at 8,382 km². The Beijing metro area is also more populous, with 21.5 million people compared to 14.3 million.

Population Density

Beijing has a population density of 1,313 people per km² — a relatively spread-out city. London, with 5,712 people per km², is a densely populated city. London is dramatically more crowded, with 4.4x the population density.

Climate & Time Zone

Beijing has a humid continental climate while London experiences oceanic conditions. When it's noon in Beijing, it's 4:00 AM in London — a 8-hour time difference.