Beijing is a city that’s best experienced on two wheels. Its vast layout, a mix of centuries-old alleys and sleek modern architecture, makes cycling an excellent way to soak in the sights at your own pace. The Old Beijing Hutong Experience really captures the charm of the city’s narrow lanes, offering a private, personalized journey through neighborhoods where history still lives. Riding an e-bike here makes navigating the maze of hutongs easy and fun, with plenty of opportunities to sample street food or try traditional games along the way. If you’re curious about the contrast between old and new, tours like the Modern Beijing Discovery by Bike explore contemporary architecture while giving you a taste of the city’s cutting-edge side.
Whether you prefer the intimacy of a private guided ride or the lively atmosphere of a group tour, Beijing’s bike options cater to all interests and fitness levels. From iconic landmarks like Tiananmen Square to hidden alleyways and lakeside paths, cycling offers an authentic, flexible way to explore. Now, let’s take a look at some of the best bike tours in Beijing to help you find your perfect ride.
1. Old Beijing Hutong Experience – by eBike or bicycle
At number 1, the Old Beijing Hutong Experience shines for its intimate, private approach. This tour uses e-bikes or bicycles, depending on your preference, to guide you through Beijing’s historic hutongs. The English-speaking guide shares insights into local life, highlighting hidden spots most visitors miss. The tour includes sampling street food, playing traditional games, and even options for adventurous activities like swimming in ancient lakes or rooftop viewing—perfect for travelers eager to dive deeper into Beijing’s authentic culture.
This 2-3 hour experience is highly rated, with visitors praising Dominic’s friendly guidance and the bikes’ excellent condition. The private nature ensures a tailored experience, ideal for those wanting personal attention and local tips. The highlight is discovering the “real” Beijing behind the tourist scenes, making it a top choice for immersive cultural exploration.
Bottom Line: If you want a personalized, fast-paced introduction to Beijing’s iconic hutongs with plenty of local flavor, this tour delivers.
2. 4-Hour Private Beijing Hutong Bike Tour with Dumpling Lunch
Number 2 offers an immersive 4-hour private bike tour, combining visits to well-known attractions with lesser-visited lanes. This tour kicks off with door-to-door private transfers, saving you the hassle of navigating busy streets. You’ll cycle through Nanluoguxiang, Back Lakes, and Yandai Xie Street, soaking up the local atmosphere. The highlight is a dumpling lunch at a traditional hutong eatery, followed by a visit to the Drum Tower to watch a lively drum show. The itinerary also includes exploring renovated hutongs near the Grand Canal, giving you a blend of old Beijing charm and modern revitalization.
Guests appreciate the personalized service and the mix of sightseeing and authentic eats. The tour’s value is boosted by the comprehensive experience and local insights, making it perfect for history lovers and foodies alike.
Bottom Line: For a balanced, private day combining classic sights, food, and local culture, this tour offers a full, memorable experience.
3. Modern Beijing Discovery by Bike
Position 3 features the Modern Beijing Discovery by Bike, ideal for those interested in contrasting old and new. This 2.5-hour private ride ventures beyond the historic center to explore CCTV New Mansion, The Place, Parkview Green, and Sanlitun Soho—each showcasing Beijing’s innovation and modern architecture. The use of e-bikes or bicycles makes covering these distances easy, especially when cycling through neighborhoods that blend skyscrapers with green spaces.
This tour is praised for its insightful guide, who shares context about Beijing’s rapid development. It’s a great choice if you want to see the city’s cutting-edge side without long distances or complicated logistics. It’s environmentally friendly too, perfect for eco-conscious travelers wanting a quick yet thorough overview.
Bottom Line: If modern architecture and urban innovation excite you, this ride offers a smart, eco-friendly way to explore Beijing’s sleek side.
4. Old Beijing Hutongs Biking Adventure
Number 4 is the Old Beijing Hutongs Biking Adventure, a group experience for up to four people at $270. This tour emphasizes local life and hidden gems in Beijing’s most traditional neighborhoods. Riding like a local, you’ll encounter street food stalls, discover secret alleyways, and listen to stories about the city’s past. It’s a hands-on, active way to understand Beijing’s cultural fabric and enjoy the lively street scenes.
Since it’s a smaller group, the experience is flexible and personal. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a more adventurous, less touristy perspective. The tour offers a compelling mix of discovery and culture.
Bottom Line: If you’re seeking a lively, authentic experience exploring Beijing’s heart on two wheels, this tour hits the mark.
5. Beijing Bike Forbidden City Tiananmen Square Group Tour 2 Hours
The 2-hour group bike tour provides an efficient way to see Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City from outside. Priced at $59, it’s a budget-friendly option that focuses on key photo spots and the surrounding historic sites. The guide takes you around Wumen Gate and the South Entrance of the Forbidden City, sharing stories and history from outside the palaces. You’ll also stop at Jingshan Park for bird’s-eye views of the Forbidden City, making this a good short introduction.
Though brief, the tour gets high marks for its friendly guides and the convenience of bike travel. It’s best suited for travelers with limited time or those wanting a quick, visual overview of Beijing’s imperial highlights.
Bottom Line: For a quick, affordable outdoor tour of Beijing’s top landmarks, this ride is a solid pick.
6. Beijing Highlights-Private Beijing Bike Tour
Position 6 covers 3 hours of night riding, perfect for those who want to see Beijing illuminated. Starting at the Drum Tower, the tour takes you through Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, Nanluoguxiang, and scenic Jingshan Park. The guide shares engaging stories about Beijing’s history, all while you enjoy the vibrant city lights and cooler evening air. The tour has a 4.5-star rating and is ideal for travelers wanting a more relaxed, atmospheric experience.
It balances sightseeing with storytelling, making it suitable for history buffs and night owls alike. Plus, the illuminated views make for stunning photos.
Bottom Line: If you’re looking to combine cultural exploration with the beauty of Beijing at night, this guided ride fits the bill.
7. Imperial Beijing Central Axis Journey – by eBike or bicycle
Number 7 takes you along Beijing’s Central Axis, a UNESCO-listed route that’s over 800 years old. This 2.5-hour tour guides you through iconic sites such as Ghost Street, Bell and Drum Towers, and even the Forbidden City at night. The tour emphasizes lesser-known stories behind the historic landmarks and the grand Fire God Temple. You’ll also see Qianhai Lake and the National Center for the Performing Arts.
This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts who want a deeper understanding of Beijing’s layout and architecture. The e-bike makes covering the route comfortable, even for casual cyclists.
Bottom Line: If you’re interested in Beijing’s imperial planning and architecture, this journey offers an enriching experience.
8. Beijing City Sightseeing Day Walking Tour by Subway/Bike
Number 8 is a full-day, 6–8 hour private tour combining walking and public transport. It covers Forbidden City, Summer Palace, and other highlights, allowing you to customize your route with your guide. The tour is ideal if you prefer a flexible, immersive experience using Beijing’s efficient subway and bus system. Your guide shares insights about each site, and you get to decide which places matter most to you.
Guests appreciate the logistical ease and personalized approach. It’s suited for active travelers comfortable with walking and public transport.
Bottom Line: For a full, customizable day navigating Beijing’s top attractions efficiently, this tour is a flexible and insightful option.
$109.00 per person
9. Tour UNESCO Beijing Central Axis by Bike
This 4–5 hour ride along the UNESCO-listed Beijing Central Axis gives you a deep dive into 800 years of history. Starting at Yongdingmen Gate, you’ll pass Sanlihe Park, Qianmen, and the Forbidden City, all while learning about their significance in Chinese civilization. The route includes visits to historic watchtowers, vermilion-walled palaces, and hidden hutongs. The guide explains the symbolism behind each site, making it suitable for history enthusiasts.
It’s a comprehensive ride that combines cultural sights with storytelling, making it ideal for travelers craving depth.
Bottom Line: If you want a detailed, history-rich tour along Beijing’s most famous route, this ride offers excellent value.
$168.00 per person
10. Beijing: Biking Tour Along The Central Axis of Beijing
Number 10 offers a 7.8 km ride along the central axis, exploring Tian’anmen Square, the Forbidden City, and ancient hutongs. It’s suited for travelers interested in Feng Shui influences and Beijing’s urban layout. The tour emphasizes exquisite corner turrets and historic gates, offering insights into Beijing’s traditional planning. The route is scenic and includes lakes, bridges, and historic towers, providing a well-rounded, cultural experience.
This shorter ride is perfect for those who want a quick overview of the city’s core.
Bottom Line: For a short, focused ride on Beijing’s central historic spine, this tour covers key sites efficiently.
11. Riverside Cycling with a Native
Position 11 features a leisurely 4-5 hour ride along the Wenyu River, emphasizing relaxation and reconnecting with nature. The tour includes a tea break at a local tea house and a meal at the host’s home, offering a personal, authentic experience. It’s great for those wanting a gentle ride away from busy streets, with plenty of time to pause and enjoy the scenery.
Perfect for casual cyclists and travelers interested in local life and natural beauty, this tour combines cultural exchange with scenic views.
Bottom Line: If a peaceful, nature-focused ride appeals to you, this relaxing riverside tour provides a memorable escape from urban bustle.
$60.00 per person
12. Private Bike Tour: Explore Beijing Highlights & Hidden Gems
This private nighttime tour is tailored to those wanting to see Beijing’s lights and nightlife. Cycling past Tiananmen Square, Nanluoguxiang, Shichahai Lake, and Jingshan Park, your guide shares stories as you enjoy the cooler evening air. The flexible itinerary allows you to focus on your interests, making it a personalized experience.
Guests love the combination of lively street scenes and peaceful parks. It’s a relaxed way to see the city after dark.
Bottom Line: For a personalized, atmospheric night ride, this tour offers a memorable way to experience Beijing’s vibrant nightlife.
$75 per person
13. Beijing Hidden Hutong Bike & Food Tour – Pro Photos Included
Topping off the list, the Hidden Hutong Bike & Food Tour combines cultural exploration with culinary delights and professional photography. Over 4 hours, you’ll pedal through secret alleys, sampling authentic street foods from family-run stalls, and capturing your journey with free professional photos. This tour is perfect for travelers who want a deep dive into Beijing’s culinary scene and its historic streets, all while having moments beautifully documented.
Guests report being delighted by the mix of local storytelling, delicious bites, and the high-quality photos that serve as lasting memories. The intimate setting and flexible schedule make it especially appealing for those who want a personal, memorable experience.
Bottom Line: If you love food, history, and professional photos, this tour offers a comprehensive, fun, and photo-worthy experience in Beijing’s hutongs.
$89 per person
How to Choose the Best Bike Tour in Beijing
Choosing the right bike tour depends on your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend. For a deep culture with local flavor, Old Beijing Hutong Experience offers a quick yet authentic taste. If you’re more into modern architecture and urban contrasts, Modern Beijing Discovery is ideal.
For those with limited time, the Forbidden City tour (Bike Forbidden City Tiananmen Square) delivers a concise overview. If you’d prefer a relaxing, scenic ride with a native, the riverside route (Riverside Cycling with a Native) is perfect.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to ensure availability. Consider your fitness, interests, and whether you want to combine sightseeing with food or cultural storytelling to select the best fit.
Final Thoughts
Beijing’s bike tours offer a fantastic way to experience the city’s vastness and diversity. From historic hutongs to modern skyscrapers, each route provides a different perspective. For a taste of history and local life, the private Old Beijing Hutong Experience is hard to beat. Want a more comprehensive view of the city’s architecture? The Modern Beijing Discovery or UNESCO Central Axis tour will satisfy your curiosity.
For those who prefer relaxed, scenic rides, the riverside or night sightseeing tours are excellent choices. Make sure to book early, especially if you’re visiting during peak season, to secure your spot on these memorable rides. Cycling through Beijing truly unlocks a side of the city that’s impossible to appreciate from a car or bus—so hop on and enjoy the ride.