Beijing Highlights-Private Beijing Bike Tour

Beijing , China

Beijing Highlights-Private Beijing Bike Tour

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(21 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

Experience the enchanting glow of Beijing at day or night with a private bike tour of this stunning city. Your knowledgeable guide will lead you through the winding streets of Beijing, sharing interesting stories and facts at every stop. Witness the sparkling city skyline as you cycle through iconic Tiananmen Square and the majestic Forbidden City.

Take in the serene atmosphere and greenery of Shichahai Lake and Jingshan Park, and pedal through Nanluoguxiang Alley to discover trendy shops and bistros nestled within Beijing's ancient alleys. Don't miss the chance to explore Beijing's mesmerizing sights and sounds after dark on this unforgettable bike tour.

Available options

Beijing Private Bike Tour

What's included

Bike rental

Professional English-speaking guide

Bottled mineral water

Sightseeing and photo stops at sites listed in itinerary

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Begin your bike tour at the historic Drum Tower, an architectural marvel that has stood tall for centuries. Marvel at its intricate design and learn about its significance in Beijing's history.

Originally called the Tower of Orderly Administration (Qizhenglou), the Drum Tower was constructed in 1272 during Kublai Khan's reign, marking the center of the Yuan capital, Dadu. Rebuilt in 1420 during the Ming dynasty under the Yongle Emperor and extensively renovated in 1800 by the Qing dynasty's Jiaqing Emperor, this landmark offers a unique glimpse into Beijing's rich cultural heritage.

Stop 2

Ride through the iconic Tiananmen Square, one of the largest public squares in the world. Admire the illuminated grandeur of the square and its significant landmarks, including the Monument to the People's Heroes and the National Museum of China. Experience the cultural and historical significance of this renowned site in Beijing.

Stop 3

Continue your journey to the majestic Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Glide past the imposing red walls and ornate gates, experiencing the mystical allure of this ancient imperial palace complex after dark.

Located in the heart of Beijing, the Forbidden City is a grand palace complex that served as the Chinese imperial palace from the Ming to the Qing dynasties, spanning from 1420 to 1912. Now housing the Palace Museum, it was the residence of emperors and their families and the political and ceremonial center of the Chinese government for nearly 500 years.

Stop 4

Pedal onwards to Jingshan Park, located just north of the Forbidden City.

Jingshan Park is a picturesque 23-hectare (57-acre) imperial park in the Imperial City area of Beijing. The park's central feature is an artificial hill called Jingshan, offering panoramic views of the city. Originally a private imperial garden connected to the Forbidden City, it opened to the public in 1928 and was officially established as a park in 1949. Managed by both Xicheng and Dongcheng districts, Jingshan Park is a Key State Park in the heart of downtown Beijing.

Ride through the charming lanes towards Shichahai Lake Park, a picturesque area surrounded by traditional courtyard homes and quaint teahouses. Take a moment to enjoy the serene ambiance of the lake and its beautifully lit surroundings.

The name "Shichahai" means "the lake of ten temples," referring to the ten famous Taoist and Buddhist temples around the lakes, along with several royal mansions and gardens. Among the most well-known landmarks are the Prince Gong Mansion and the Prince Chun Mansion.

Covering 147 hectares, Shichahai was once the bustling commercial hub of Beijing and is now a popular tourist destination. The area features tall trees lining the lake borders and offers boating in the summer and ice-skating in the winter. Located near the north gate of Beihai Park, Shichahai Lake Park is a must-see scenic spot in Beijing.

Stop 6

Navigate your way to Wangfujing Street, a bustling commercial hub renowned for its vibrant night market and shopping district. Indulge in local street food delicacies and soak up the lively atmosphere of this famous area.

Wangfujing is a well-known shopping street in the Dongcheng District of Beijing. Mostly pedestrianized, it has been a center of commercial activity since the middle of the Ming Dynasty. During the Qing Dynasty, ten aristocratic estates and a princess residence were constructed here. The street was named Wangfujing after a well full of sweet water was discovered in the area.

Wangfujing is also famous for its snack street, offering a wide variety of exotic foods to visitors, making it a must-see destination for food lovers and shoppers alike.

From here, we will ride back to the Drum Tower, the tour will be finished then.

What's not included

Gratuities to tour guide(recommended)

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ZH-CN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

15 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 3.8

6 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Distance of bike ride is approximately 9 miles (15 km) on moderately flat ground; comfortable clothing and shoes is recommended

Minimum age is 12 years

Your insurance must cover all the potential risks and damages for the bike tour

Meeting point

China, Beijing, Dongcheng, Andingmen, Zhonglouwan Hu Tong, 临9号

About Beijing

Beijing, the capital of China, is a city of immense historical significance and modern dynamism. It's home to iconic landmarks, ancient palaces, and a vibrant contemporary culture that blends tradition with modernity. The city offers a unique mix of ancient history, cultural treasures, and modern advancements.

Top Attractions

The Great Wall of China

One of the most iconic landmarks in the world, the Great Wall of China stretches over 21,000 kilometers. The most accessible sections near Beijing are Badaling and Mutianyu.

Historical Half day to full day ¥40-80 (depending on the section)

Forbidden City

The Forbidden City, also known as the Palace Museum, was the imperial palace during the Ming and Qing dynasties. It houses an extensive collection of artifacts and offers a glimpse into China's imperial past.

Historical 2-3 hours ¥60 (March-October), ¥40 (November-February)

Temple of Heaven

The Temple of Heaven is a complex of religious buildings where emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties performed annual ceremonies of prayer to heaven for good harvests.

Historical 1-2 hours ¥15 (Temple area), ¥35 (Temple and park)

Summer Palace

The Summer Palace is a vast ensemble of lakes, gardens, and palaces. It served as a retreat for emperors to escape the summer heat and is known for its beautiful landscapes and architecture.

Historical 3-4 hours ¥30 (Park and palace area), ¥60 (Boat ride included)

Hutongs

Hutongs are traditional narrow alleys and residential neighborhoods that offer a glimpse into old Beijing's way of life. Exploring hutongs provides an authentic experience of local culture and history.

Cultural Half day to full day Free to explore, but consider paying for guided tours or Rickshaw rides

798 Art Zone

The 798 Art Zone is a contemporary art district located in a former military factory. It's home to numerous art galleries, studios, and cultural events, making it a hub for Beijing's art scene.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free to explore, but some galleries may charge admission

Must-Try Local Dishes

Peking Duck

A iconic dish of Beijing, Peking Duck is roasted to perfection and served with thin pancakes, hoisin sauce, and scallions. The crispy skin and tender meat make it a must-try for any visitor.

Main Course Contains meat (duck), gluten (pancakes and sauce)

Zhajiangmian (Fried Sauce Noodles)

A popular Beijing street food, Zhajiangmian consists of hand-pulled noodles topped with a rich, savory sauce made from fermented soybean paste and minced pork. It's often served with cucumber and bean sprouts.

Main Course Contains meat (pork), gluten (noodles and sauce)

Jianbing (Savory Crepes)

A popular Beijing street food, Jianbing is a savory crepe made with a batter of wheat and mung bean flour, filled with egg, scallions, and hoisin sauce. It's crispy, delicious, and perfect for a quick breakfast on the go.

Breakfast Contains eggs, gluten (batter and sauce)

Baozi (Steamed Buns)

Baozi are steamed buns filled with various ingredients, such as pork, beef, or vegetables. They are a popular street food and can be found in many markets and food stalls throughout Beijing.

Snack Can be vegetarian or contain meat, depending on the filling; contains gluten (bun)

Popular Activities

Hiking the Great Wall Rock climbing in the Huairou District Mountain biking in the outskirts of Beijing Boat rides on Kunming Lake at the Summer Palace Tea ceremonies at traditional teahouses Gardens and parks at the Temple of Heaven and Beihai Park Exploring the Forbidden City and other imperial palaces Visiting temples and religious sites

Best Time to Visit

September to October, April to May

These months offer the most pleasant weather with clear skies and comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for sightseeing. The city is vibrant with cultural festivals and outdoor activities.

15-25°C (59-77°F) 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Mandarin Chinese
Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas and by younger generations)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Chinese Yuan (CNY)

Time Zone

GMT+8 (China Standard Time)

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in crowded areas and tourist spots

Beijing is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, petty crimes such as pickpocketing and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and tourist spots. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, particularly at night and in less touristy areas.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious when using taxis, and insist on using the meter or agreeing on a price before starting the journey
• Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas and tourist spots
• Be wary of strangers offering services or attractions at inflated prices, and only use licensed and reputable tour guides and operators

Getting there

By air

Beijing Capital International Airport • 32 km (20 miles) northeast of city center
Beijing Daxing International Airport • 46 km (29 miles) south of city center

By train

Beijing Railway Station, Beijing West Railway Station

By bus

Beijing Sihui Bus Station, Beijing Liuliqiao Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The Beijing Subway is efficient, affordable, and widely used. It's the best way to navigate the city, especially during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Didi Chuxing, Tencent Taxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Dongcheng Xicheng Chaoyang Haidian Shijingshan

Day trips

The Great Wall at Mutianyu

70 km (43 miles) northeast of Beijing • Full day

The Great Wall at Mutianyu is a less crowded and more scenic section of the Great Wall, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It's a popular day trip from Beijing for those looking to experience the Great Wall without the large crowds.

The Great Wall at Jinshanling

130 km (81 miles) northeast of Beijing • Full day

The Great Wall at Jinshanling is a remote and less restored section of the Great Wall, offering a more authentic and adventurous experience. It's a popular day trip for those looking to explore the Great Wall's wild and rugged beauty.

The Great Wall at Simatai

120 km (75 miles) northeast of Beijing • Full day

The Great Wall at Simatai is a unique and well-preserved section of the Great Wall, known for its dramatic and picturesque landscape. It's a popular day trip for those looking to experience the Great Wall's beauty and history in a more intimate setting.

Festivals

Chinese New Year (Spring Festival) • January or February (varies by lunar calendar) Lantern Festival • 15th day of the first lunar month (varies by year) Qingming Festival (Tomb-Sweeping Day) • April 4th or 5th (varies by solar calendar)

Pro tips

Use the official Beijing Subway app for route planning and real-time updates
Carry a VPN to access restricted apps and websites, such as Google, Facebook, and Instagram
Learn a few basic Mandarin phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the city's many attractions and neighborhoods
Try local snacks and street food for an authentic and delicious culinary experience