Beijing’s bike tours cut through the tourist chaos, offering the smartest way to experience both famous sites and back-alley discoveries. These practical excursions combine exercise with culture, typically lasting 3-4 hours with stops at key landmarks. I’m especially fond of the Hutong neighborhood routes, where you’ll pedal through ancient alleyways too narrow for tour buses, and the evening tours that showcase the city’s illuminated monuments without the daytime crowds.
The best tours keep groups small (usually 6-8 riders), provide quality bikes, and include engaging local guides who share genuine insights rather than rehearsed scripts. Standouts include the Beijing By Bike morning tour and the Sunset Temple circuit – both excellent values with included water and helmets.
Let’s look at Beijing’s most worthwhile bike tours.
Key Points
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Hutong Exploration Tours offer a 2-3 hour e-bike or bicycle tour with a focus on street food discovery and culture, rated 5 stars by over 100 travelers.
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Night Tours in Beijing provide a 3-hour private bike tour of illuminated sights like Tiananmen Square and Wangfujing Night Market for a vibrant after-dark experience.
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Riverside and Nature Tours include a 4-hour biking and hiking combo at Huanghuacheng Great Wall, exploring an unrestored Ming dynasty section with stunning views.
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Central Axis and Imperial Tours feature a 3.5-hour pedelec bike tour along Beijing’s central axis, highlighting historical sites and cultural contrasts.
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Group and Family-Friendly Tours offer 2-hour guided experiences visiting Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square, catering to various skill levels and ensuring accessibility.
The Hutong Experience – by Ebike or Bicycle
Nestled within Beijing’s bustling cityscape, the historic hutong neighborhoods offer visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy the city’s rich cultural heritage.
The Hutong Experience by E-bike or Bicycle tour is a fantastic way to explore these charming alleyways. Spanning 2-3 hours, this highly recommended tour takes travelers to iconic landmarks like Ghost Street, Lama Temple, and the Temple of Confucius.
Led by knowledgeable local guides, participants can see the sights at a leisurely pace while learning about the history and traditions of these vibrant communities.
With an impressive 5-star rating from over 100 travelers, this tour provides an authentic, unforgettable glimpse into Beijing’s living heritage.
Read our full review: The Hutong Experience – by Ebike or Bicycle Review
Book now: Check availability
Beijing Highlights-Private Beijing Bike Tour
The Beijing Highlights-Private Beijing Bike Tour provides a captivating way to explore the iconic landmarks of China’s vibrant capital after dark.
Lasting 3 hours, this private bike tour takes you on a journey through Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, Jingshan Park, and the lively Wangfujing Street night market.
Led by an English-speaking guide, you’ll cycle past illuminated sights and savor the unique atmosphere of Beijing at night.
The tour costs $75 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
While reviews praise the enjoyable experience, some note the guide’s moderate English skills and limited problem-solving abilities.
Nonetheless, this bike tour offers a unique perspective on Beijing’s must-see attractions.
Read our full review: Beijing Highlights-Private Beijing Bike Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Riverside Cycling With A Native
Along the serene riverside of Beijing, this 4-hour cycling tour invites travelers to experience the city from a local’s perspective.
Priced from $28.61 per person, the tour is limited to just 4 participants, offering an intimate, personalized experience.
Exploring a 20km route, cyclists will stop for photos and relaxation, while also enjoying a tea house visit midway for local refreshments.
With both English and Chinese-speaking guides, the tour caters to a diverse audience.
Participants can reserve their spot with no upfront payment and benefit from free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Riverside Cycling With A Native Review
Book now: Check availability
4-Hour Private Beijing Hutong Bike Tour With Dumpling Lunch
For those seeking a more immersive cultural experience in Beijing, the 4-Hour Private Beijing Hutong Bike Tour with Dumpling Lunch offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the city’s historic neighborhoods.
This 100% recommended tour allows travelers to discover authentic “hutong” life with an excellent English-speaking guide. Highlights include visits to Nanluoguxiang, Back Lakes, Yandai Xie Street, and the Drum Tower, followed by a delicious dumpling lunch.
With round-trip private transfers, bike rental, and entrance fees included, this tour provides a comfortable and convenient way to experience Beijing’s rich heritage.
Travelers should note the moderate biking involved and the need to book any dietary restrictions in advance.
Read our full review: 4-Hour Private Beijing Hutong Bike Tour With Dumpling Lunch Review
Book now: Check availability
Biking Along the Dragon’S Backbone of Beijing by Pedelec
This 3.5-hour tour offers a unique opportunity to bike along Beijing’s central axis, known as the “Dragon’s Backbone.”
Travelers will explore the city’s iconic landmarks, including Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and Jingshan Hill, while experiencing the contrast between ancient imperial architecture and modern developments.
Covering around 20KM, this pedelec (electric bike) tour showcases historical sites and traditional hutongs.
With flexible booking options, travelers can reserve now and pay later.
The tour includes an English-speaking guide, equipment, and local snacks, providing a well-rounded experience for exploring Beijing’s rich history and culture by bike.
Read our full review: Biking Along the Dragon’S Backbone of Beijing by Pedelec Review
Book now: Check availability
Modern Beijing Discovery – by Ebike or Bicycle
Exploring Beijing’s modern side, this eBike or bicycle tour showcases the city’s contemporary architecture, vibrant street life, and dynamic neighborhoods.
Offered by the highly-rated tour operator Our Beijing, this private tour provides the use of eBikes along with a knowledgeable guide.
At $75 per person, the tour includes drinks, food, and a centrally-located meeting point that’s easily accessible by public transportation.
With a 100% recommendation rate and 5-star reviews, this modern Beijing discovery is a fantastic way to experience the capital’s transformation.
Guests can freely explore, take photos, and learn about the city’s evolution, all while enjoying the convenience and fun of an eBike or bicycle.
Read our full review: Modern Beijing Discovery – by Ebike or Bicycle Review
Book now: Check availability
Imperial Beijing Central Axis Journey – by Ebike or Bicycle
Beijing’s Imperial Central Axis beckons visitors to explore its historic grandeur on an eBike or bicycle tour. This 5-star rated experience takes travelers along the iconic axis, showcasing the city’s imperial legacy.
The tour departs from Parallel Line Coffee, exploring landmarks like Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City. At just $75 per person, it’s an affordable way to discover Beijing’s storied past.
With a 6 PM start time and flexible rescheduling, the tour accommodates various schedules. While not suitable for those with mobility issues, the experience is accessible via public transportation.
With overwhelmingly positive reviews, this Central Axis journey offers an engaging bike-based exploration of Imperial Beijing.
Read our full review: Imperial Beijing Central Axis Journey – by Ebike or Bicycle Review
Book now: Check availability
Beijing Bike Forbidden City Tiananmen Square Group Tour 2 Hours
Departing from the Novotel Beijing Peace Parking Lot, this 2-hour group tour whisks participants through the heart of Beijing’s historic district, offering a seamless exploration of the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square astride comfortable bicycles.
Led by an English-speaking guide, the tour includes bike rentals, entrance tickets, and time for photos at key landmarks.
With a maximum of 10 travelers, the intimate group ensures a personalized experience as you navigate the bustling streets.
Highlights include scenic views from Jingshan Park and engaging interactions with the knowledgeable guide.
Suitable for those with limited time, this tour provides an efficient and enjoyable way to experience Beijing’s must-see sights.
Read our full review: Beijing Bike Forbidden City Tiananmen Square Group Tour 2 Hours Review
Book now: Check availability
All-Inclusive Private Biking and Hiking Tour at Huanghuacheng Great Wall
Travelers seeking an active adventure can embark on an all-inclusive private biking and hiking tour at the Huanghuacheng Great Wall, located just north of Beijing.
This 4-hour tour includes an English-speaking guide, transportation, bike and helmet rental, and a delicious local lunch. Guests will cycle through the countryside for about an hour before hiking along the unrestored Ming dynasty section of the Great Wall, which offers stunning views of forested peaks and Haoming Lake.
With a rating of 4.0 based on positive feedback, this tour provides an immersive and memorable experience of the Great Wall’s natural beauty and historical significance.
Read our full review: All-Inclusive Private Biking and Hiking Tour at Huanghuacheng Great Wall Review
Book now: Check availability
Hutong Street Food Discovery – by Ebike or Bicycle
Embark on an immersive Hutong street food adventure by eBike or bicycle, exploring the charming alleyways of Beijing.
This private tour offers an unparalleled culinary experience, with lunch, dinner, and snacks included. Ride through the historic Hutong neighborhoods, stopping to sample authentic local delicacies.
Sip on bottled water, soda, and even alcoholic beverages as you discover the vibrant food scene. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and infant seats are available.
With free cancellation and flexible rescheduling, this 5-star rated experience is a must-try for food lovers visiting the city.
The meeting point is conveniently located, and a guide is provided to ensure seamless navigation.
Read our full review: Hutong Street Food Discovery – by Ebike or Bicycle Review
Book now: Check availability
Beijing Private Tai Chi Class and Bike Tour at Houhai Lake
The Beijing Private Tai Chi Class and Bike Tour at Houhai Lake offers an immersive cultural experience, blending a serene Tai Chi session with a leisurely bike ride around the picturesque Houhai Lake.
Guests can expect hotel pickup, bottled water, and a professional guide. The 1-hour Tai Chi class and one-way private transfer are included, along with gratuities and hotel drop-off.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, though children under 14 can’t ride bikes.
With a 5.0 overall rating, this tour provides a unique opportunity to explore Beijing’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Read our full review: Beijing Private Tai Chi Class and Bike Tour at Houhai Lake Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Transport My Bike to the Starting Point?
To transport your bike to the starting point, you can use a bike rack attached to your vehicle or have the tour company provide transportation for your bike. This ensures a hassle-free start to your cycling adventure.
Can I Bring My Own Bike on the Tour?
Most bike tour providers allow riders to bring their own bikes. However, it’s best to check with the tour company beforehand to ensure they can accommodate your bike and that it meets their requirements for the tour.
What Should I Wear for the Bike Tours?
When going on a bike tour, it’s best to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. Opt for breathable fabrics, closed-toe shoes, and layers that can be easily added or removed. Bringing a light jacket or rain poncho is also recommended in case of changing conditions.
Are the Bike Tours Suitable for Children?
The bike tours are generally suitable for children, though their suitability will depend on the child’s age, ability, and comfort level. It’s best to check with the tour operator for their age/size requirements and recommendations.
Are There Any Restrictions on the Types of Bikes Allowed?
Most bike tour providers have restrictions on the types of bikes allowed, often limiting participants to standard bikes or electric bikes. They may not permit the use of specialized bicycles or those with child seats or trailers.
The Sum Up
Beijing offers a variety of exciting bike tours that allow visitors to explore the city’s historic hutongs, landmarks, and natural scenery. From electric bike tours through narrow alleyways to guided rides along the Great Wall, there’s something for every cyclist. With knowledgeable local guides, these tours provide an immersive and active way to experience the best of Beijing.