Are you excited to explore Beijing? What makes Beijing so special? Read on to discover which attractions you absolutely shouldn’t miss!
- The Forbidden City
- Tiananmen Square
- Temple of Heaven
- Summer Palace
- The Hutongs
- The Great Wall
- Beijing National Stadium (the Bird’s Nest)
Tip: Explore by bike with a local guide
Hop on a bike and discover all the ins and outs of the Chinese capital with a local guide. Cycle across the vast squares, explore the ancient hutongs, and admire the centuries-old temples. Beijing, or as the Chinese call it, Peking, has it all.
This city is enormous, so a bike is a must to see all the major highlights. The size of Beijing can sometimes be overwhelming, but our experienced guide can help you safely visit all the attractions and not miss a single detail.
During the Baja Bikes tour in Beijing, you’ll hear the stories behind the impressive attractions, making your visit truly special, we assure you!
1. The Forbidden City
The Forbidden City is the heart of old Beijing and is undoubtedly number one on the list! This gigantic palace complex was home to the emperors of China and their court for over 500 years. With 9999 (what?! Yes, really!) rooms filled with artifacts and stunning architecture, it offers a unique glimpse into China’s imperial past.
I rented a bike and cycled through this area, highly recommended. But for the complex itself, you’ll need to proceed on foot. Purchase your tickets online in advance to avoid long waits. You’re certainly not the only one eager to see this impressive place!
2. Tiananmen Square
Your visit to Beijing isn’t complete without a stop at Tiananmen Square, the largest city square in the world, opposite the Forbidden City. Here you’ll find important monuments like the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong and the National Museum of China. The square is easily accessible by bike and offers a unique opportunity to reflect on China’s modern history, although the infamous 1989 protests remain a major taboo within China itself.
3. Temple of Heaven
The Temple of Heaven—surrounded by a beautifully serene park—is located slightly south of the other Beijing attractions and is absolutely worth a visit. Here, the emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties held ceremonies to pray for a good harvest. The stunning architecture and symbolism of the complex are breathtaking!
4. Summer Palace
Besides the Forbidden City, the Summer Palace is my absolute favorite! This is an expansive complex of gardens and palaces, located a bit outside the city center, used by the imperial family to escape the summer heat. It’s a beautiful place to explore by bike, with easy paths and stunning views over Kunming Lake.
5. The Hutongs
Curious about the daily life and culture of the city’s ordinary residents, both past and present? Then you must take a look at Beijing’s traditional hutongs; narrow streets or alleys. During the Baja Bikes tour, you’ll cycle through the hutongs and explore the charming old neighborhoods where time seems to stand still.
Tip: Stop for a cup of traditional Chinese tea or a snack at one of the many small shops. And don’t forget the food. Because Beijing boasts fantastic restaurants!
6. The Great Wall
The world-famous Great Wall of China is an absolute must-see on a trip to Beijing.
Tip: Visit the less crowded section at Mutianyu, which offers stunning views and a more authentic experience. From Beijing, there is good public transport to several sections of the Great Wall, allowing you to visit the less frequented parts as well.
7. Beijing National Stadium (the Bird’s Nest)
The Olympic or National Stadium, where the 2008 Olympic Games were held, is located in the heart of the city. Beijing’s stadium is called the ‘Bird’s Nest’ due to its unique shape resembling an actual bird’s nest, with intricate steel beams and networks forming an impressive whole. This architectural marvel and the surrounding Olympic Park are both definitely worth a visit even when there are no events.
Explore Beijing by bike with Baja Bikes
Beijing is full of surprises, from the majestic Forbidden City to the vibrant, winding hutongs. With the Beijing Highlights Bike Tour, you’ll quickly see the famous spots as well as hidden treasures, guided by local experts. The traffic can be quite busy, but you certainly won’t be the only cyclist. Discover the best-preserved imperial city in the world on two wheels!