Beijing’s bike tours offer a unique way to explore the city’s neighborhoods and landmarks. These tours cater to various interests, from historical sites to local culture.
We love the private tours through the Forbidden City and hutong areas for their personalized experience. Small group tours along the riverside are great for a relaxed ride.
For beer enthusiasts, there’s a craft beer tour, while those interested in Chinese culture can join a Tai Chi-themed tour. E-bike tours along the historic Central Axis are perfect for covering more ground.
Most tours provide refreshments and prioritize safety with small group sizes. These eco-friendly options give visitors an intimate look at Beijing’s heart.
Check out our top picks for Beijing bike tours below.
Top Tours
Private bike tours in Beijing offer a personalized experience, combining bike and metro to visit iconic landmarks like Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City.
Group bike tours provide a small-group setting for a more intimate and educational experience, featuring local insights and stops at breweries or riverside scenery.
E-bike tours along Beijing’s historic central axis offer a seamless and comfortable way to explore the city’s iconic landmarks, with a knowledgeable guide providing cultural context.
Bike tours often include complimentary refreshments, allowing participants to relax and recharge during the tour, enhancing the overall experience.
Bike tours in Beijing are generally not recommended for travelers with certain medical conditions or limited mobility, prioritizing the safety and well-being of participants.
Private Half-Day Beijing Tour: Forbidden City and Houhai Lake Bike Tour
For a comprehensive exploration of Beijing’s iconic landmarks, the Private Half-Day Beijing Tour: Forbidden City and Houhai Lake Bike Tour offers an unparalleled experience. Rated 5.0 based on 7 reviews, this private tour combines bike and metro to visit Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City.
You’ll enjoy a Chinese-style lunch overlooking Shichahai Lake and leisurely bike around Houhai Lake. The tour includes professional guidance, transportation, and all necessary fees, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.
Hotel pickup is provided for hotels within the 3rd ring road, and extra cost applies for hotels outside the city. Participants must be at least 14 years old to ride a bike, and infants must sit on laps.
Passport information is required for Forbidden City entry. With positive feedback on the guides’ knowledge and humor, as well as the local history and food recommendations, this bike tour is an excellent way to explore Beijing’s top attractions.
Read our full review: Private Half-Day Beijing Tour: Forbidden City and Houhai Lake Bike Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Tour-Beijing Night By Bike
Explore Beijing’s iconic landmarks after dark on the Private Tour-Beijing Night By Bike. This 3-hour guided bike tour takes you through Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, Shichahai Lake, and Jingshan Park, all while the city is illuminated by night.
Cycle through the trendy Nanluoguxiang Alley, known for its ancient alleys and modern shops. Your English-speaking guide will share stories about Beijing’s history and contemporary life. Frequent stops allow you to take photos and enjoy local treats.
The tour includes bike rental, bottled water, and hotel pickup/drop-off upon request. Gratuities for the guide are recommended.
With a moderate pace and flat terrain, the 9-mile (15 km) route is suitable for most travelers aged 12 and up. Just remember to wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate. With an overall rating of 4.5 stars, this unique way to experience Beijing at night isn’t to be missed.
Read our full review: Private Tour-Beijing Night By Bike Review
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4-Hour Private Beijing Hutong Bike Tour With Dumpling Lunch
This 4-hour private Beijing Hutong Bike Tour with Dumpling Lunch invites you to discover the charming traditional life in the city’s authentic “hutong” neighborhoods.
Rated 4.9 out of 13 reviews and recommended by 100% of travelers, this tour is operated by Sunflower Tours China. You’ll explore attractions like Nanluoguxiang, Back Lakes, Yandai Xie Street, and the Drum Tower, while learning about the local culture from an excellent English-speaking guide.
The tour includes round-trip private car transfers, a traditional dumpling lunch, and entrance fees to the Drum Tower. You’ll use WeChat to access Mobike bikes for the tour.
While gratuities are recommended, alcoholic drinks can be purchased separately. Keep in mind that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and children must be accompanied by an adult. Moderate biking is involved, so a moderate fitness level is required.
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start of the experience.
Read our full review: 4-Hour Private Beijing Hutong Bike Tour With Dumpling Lunch Review
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Beijing Private Tai Chi Class and Bike Tour at Houhai Lake
Start your Beijing adventure with a private Tai Chi class and bike tour of the picturesque Houhai Lake. This 3-hour experience allows you to learn about Chinese culture and explore the city’s beautiful lakeside scenery.
Your tour begins with a private Tai Chi class led by a professional instructor. Learn the ancient art of Tai Chi and practice its graceful movements.
Then, hop on a bike and explore the shores of Houhai Lake, taking in the vibrant atmosphere and architectural sights. Your guide will provide commentary, ensuring you don’t miss any of the highlights.
The tour includes hotel pickup within the 4th ring road, a one-way private transfer, bottled water, and gratuities. It’s wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it suitable for most travelers.
Children under 14 can join but won’t be allowed to ride bikes. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this experience offers flexibility and convenience for your Beijing visit.
Read our full review: Beijing Private Tai Chi Class and Bike Tour at Houhai Lake Review
Book now: Check availability
Beijing Bike Tour
Embark on an immersive Beijing bicycle tour that takes you through the vibrant hutongs and historic landmarks of the city.
The Beijing Bike Tour is a small group experience, capped at 6 travelers, offering an excellent English-speaking guide to lead the way. For $65, you’ll explore Beijing’s Drum Tower, with entrance fees included, and zip around the city using your own WeChat to scan Mobike bikes.
This tour isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, heart conditions, or other serious medical issues, nor is it wheelchair accessible. A moderate level of physical fitness is required.
Children must be accompanied by an adult. Be sure to notify the tour operator of any dietary restrictions or food allergies prior to booking.
The tour starts at the Beijing Bell and Drum Towers in Dongcheng District and ends at South Luogu Lane in Nan Luo Gu Xiang.
Wear comfortable shoes and follow the guide’s directions to the Drum Tower ticket office, accessible by taxi or subway.
Read our full review: Beijing Bike Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Riverside Cycling With A Native
Enjoy Beijing’s natural beauty on this riverside cycling tour with a local guide.
You’ll enjoy a leisurely 20km ride along the scenic riverside, with stops for pictures and relaxation. The small group size is limited to just 4 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.
During the 4-hour tour, you’ll have the opportunity to reconnect with nature and experience a healthy, phone-free environment.
Along the way, you’ll indulge in local foods and drinks, including a tea break at a charming tea house after the first 10km. The return journey even includes a well-deserved dinner after the ride.
While the cycling may continue in light drizzle if conditions are acceptable, the seasonal variations provide different views throughout the ride.
With an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, this tour is praised for its unique nature, refreshing experience, and educational value, despite minor critiques about the meeting and ending locations.
Read our full review: Riverside Cycling With A Native Review
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Beijing Brewery Bike Tour
Although the tour begins at the Dengshikou subway station, you’ll soon find yourself weaving through the charming hutongs of Dongcheng district on a city bike provided by Meituan.
Led by an excellent English-speaking guide, you’ll stop at 4 local breweries to sample a range of IPAs. Snacks and a hearty dinner are included, and you can purchase additional beers if desired.
With a maximum group size of 15, you’ll enjoy a more intimate experience. The tour ends at the lively Wudaoying Hutong, where you can explore the bars, restaurants, and boutiques.
Keep in mind this tour isn’t suitable for those with back problems, medical conditions, or limited mobility.
But if you’re a beer enthusiast with a moderate fitness level, you’ll appreciate the unique opportunity to discover Beijing’s brewing scene by bike.
Read our full review: Beijing Brewery Bike Tour Review
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Beijing Central Axis E-bike Tour
Gliding through the heart of Beijing, the Beijing Central Axis E-bike Tour takes you on a captivating journey along the city’s historic central spine. Rated 5.0 stars by past participants, this immersive e-bike experience showcases the city’s iconic landmarks, including the renowned Temple of Heaven.
Conveniently meeting at the Temple of Heaven, you’ll be equipped with a bicycle, helmet, and interphone, ensuring a safe and comfortable ride. As you cycle, your English or Spanish-speaking guide will provide insights into the city’s rich history and culture, complemented by refreshing bottled water and local snacks.
At the tour’s conclusion, you’ll enjoy a complimentary coffee or tea at a nearby cafe before returning to the Beijing Municipal Public Security Bureau Dongcheng Branch.
With a maximum of 15 travelers per tour, this intimate experience isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions, but most travelers can participate in this engaging and eco-friendly way to explore Beijing’s central axis.
Read our full review: Beijing Central Axis E-bike Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Common Questions
How Do I Prepare for a Bike Tour in Beijing?
To prepare for a bike tour in Beijing, ensure you’re physically fit, pack essential gear like water and snacks, and familiarize yourself with the route. Wear comfortable clothing and appropriate footwear. Research local traffic rules and etiquette to stay safe during your cycling adventure.
What Safety Precautions Should I Take During a Bike Tour?
Wear a helmet, follow traffic signals, and stay alert. Ride defensively, avoiding busy roads and observing your surroundings. Bring a charged phone in case of emergencies. Pack water and snacks to avoid fatigue. Familiarize yourself with the bike’s features before setting out.
Can I Rent a Bike if I Don’t Bring My Own?
Yes, you can typically rent a bike for a tour if you don’t bring your own. Many bike tour companies provide rental bikes as part of their tour packages. Be sure to check with the specific tour operator about their rental policies and availability.
Are There Any Age or Fitness Requirements for Bike Tours?
Most bike tour companies don’t have strict age or fitness requirements, but you’ll likely enjoy the experience more if you’re reasonably active. Be sure to let the tour operator know your abilities so they can accommodate you.
How Do I Choose the Best Bike Tour for My Interests?
When choosing a bike tour, consider your interests, fitness level, and preferred tour length. Read reviews, compare tour options, and pick one that aligns with your goals and comfort level. Ask about any age or ability requirements upfront.
Sum Up
You’ll find a wide range of bike tours in Beijing to suit your interests, from exploring historic sites like the Forbidden City to discovering the city’s vibrant nightlife and local neighborhoods. Whether you prefer a private guided tour or a self-guided adventure, there’s an option that’ll let you experience the city on two wheels. With so many great choices, you’re sure to find the perfect bike tour to make the most of your time in Beijing.