How to enjoy Beijing’s hottest season like a local — through hidden hutongs, backstreet snacks, and golden-hour bike rides.Summer in Beijing can feel overwhelming — hot, humid, and packed with tourists chasing the same checklist. But for those willing to explore just a little deeper, it’s the best season to experience the city’s vibrant outdoor life: early morning alley walks, shady teahouses, rooftop sunsets, and unexpected creative spaces.
At Our Beijing, we don’t just design bookable experiences — we live here. That means we know how to beat the heat, skip the crowds, and uncover the moments that make summer in Beijing feel unforgettable.
Here’s your local’s guide to outdoor adventures in Beijing for summer 2025 — no tourist traps, just real-life city magic.
There’s no better way to experience Beijing than by bicycle — especially at dawn or dusk. The city’s flat terrain and slow side streets make cycling surprisingly easy, even for beginners. In the summer, early mornings (7–9am) and evenings (after 6pm) are the coolest and most beautiful times to ride.
✨ Join Our Beijing’s Bike Tours to explore hidden alleys, quiet courtyards, and local street food stops with a guide who knows where to go and when to stop for the perfect photo.
Summer evenings are made for walking and eating. Skip the crowded food streets and follow your nose into quieter neighborhoods like Dashilar, Shichahai, or even east of Gulou.
Look for:
🌮 Want to skip the guesswork? Our Foodie Tours take you straight to where locals actually eat — no tourist traps, no chain stores.
Beijing wakes up early in the summer, and so should you. Start the day with something active and grounding — a rooftop yoga session, outdoor calligraphy class, or even a dumpling-making workshop in a breezy courtyard.
🌿 Check out Our Beijing’s Cultural Workshops — many of our local hosts offer small-group experiences with an outdoor element during warmer months.
Summer highs can hit 37°C (99°F), and humidity often makes it feel even hotter. To stay comfortable:
🗺 Our curated Beijing Itineraries are designed with the summer rhythm in mind — from shady hutongs to air-conditioned art spaces, we know where to go and when.
Yes, Beijing has mountains — and they’re closer than you think. Within 60–90 minutes of the city center, you can be surrounded by forested trails, wildflowers, ancient stone paths, and sweeping valley views.
💬 Want help planning a custom day out? Our team at Our Beijing can help connect you with hiking guides or build it into a wider Beijing Itinerary for your trip.
In summer, the difference between a frustrating day and a magical one is simple: follow the local rhythm. That’s what we do at Our Beijing — build experiences that go beyond sightseeing to help you actually feel the city.
🌟 Want a custom experience for your summer trip?
Explore all our curated outdoor and cultural adventures here: