The 8 Best Outdoor Activities in Beijing

Beijing is a city that combines modernity and tradition at every turn. Its ancient temples, imperial palaces and historic parks make it an ideal destination for outdoor exploration. The climate varies greatly depending on the time of year: winters are cold and dry, while summers can be hot and humid, so spring and autumn are the best seasons to explore the city.

If you want to enjoy Beijing at a leisurely pace and get in touch with its culture, here are some great outdoor activities.

You can't talk about outdoor activities in Beijing without mentioning the Great Wall of China. This stone colossus stretches for thousands of kilometres and is one of the greatest symbols of Chinese history. Just a few hours from the city, you can visit sections such as Badaling, Mutianyu or Jinshanling, each with unique landscapes and less crowds than other more touristy areas.

Walking on this ancient structure is an impressive experience, not only for its historical value, but also for the incredible panoramic views it offers. If you enjoy hiking, some sections allow for longer and more adventurous routes through the valleys and mountains.

The heart of Beijing is the Forbidden City, a palace complex that for centuries was reserved only for the emperor and his court. Today, this maze of pavilions, courtyards and gardens is one of China's greatest architectural gems and a must-see for a leisurely stroll.

A guided tour will help you understand the history behind every detail, from the imperial halls to the intricate golden roofs. Also, close to the Forbidden City is Jingshan Park, where you can climb to the top of a hill and get a spectacular panoramic view of the entire complex.

Directly opposite the Forbidden City is Tiananmen Square, the largest square in the world and a place steeped in history. Here you can see monuments such as the Mao Zedong Mausoleum, the Great Hall of the People and the Monument to the People's Heroes, symbols of China's past and present.

Strolling through this square is to feel the magnitude of the country's history and to observe the daily life of Beijing. And if you get up early, you can witness the solemn flag-raising ceremony, a special moment full of symbolism.

Not only is the Temple of Heaven one of Beijing's most impressive structures, it is surrounded by a huge park where locals practice tai chi, play badminton and enjoy the outdoors.

You can join morning activities such as dance classes or meditation exercises, or simply stroll along the tree-lined paths. The harmony between imperial architecture and nature makes it one of the most peaceful places in the city.

The hutongs are the traditional alleys of Beijing, full of old houses, hidden courtyards and small temples. Cycling through them is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the daily life of the city and discover corners that go unnoticed by most tourists.

Areas such as Nanluoguxiang offer a vibrant atmosphere with cafes, craft shops and local restaurants where you can try dumplings or the famous lacquered duck. For a more authentic experience, head to the less touristy hutongs and lose yourself in the narrow streets.

The Summer Palace is an oasis of tranquillity on the outskirts of Beijing. This huge complex of gardens, pavilions and lakes was designed as a retreat for the imperial family during the hot months, and today it is one of the most beautiful places to stroll outdoors.

You can walk the paths along Kunming Lake, cross the famous Seventeen Arches Bridge or climb Longevity Hill for a spectacular panoramic view. If you're looking for a relaxing plan away from the hustle and bustle of the city, this is the perfect place.

Beijing Olympic Park is an interesting stop for lovers of sport and modern architecture. Here you will find the Bird's Nest, the imposing stadium of the 2008 Olympic Games, and the Water Cube, the aquatic centre where multiple records were broken.

The park is a great place to walk, jog or just enjoy the atmosphere. At night, the structures are illuminated and create a stunning visual spectacle, ideal for a stroll after a day of exploring.

There is no better way to end a day in Beijing than with a visit to one of its night markets. Places like Wangfujing or Donghuamen (although the latter has closed, there are other alternatives) are perfect for sampling traditional dishes such as lamb skewers, steamed dumplings or the famous stinky tofu.

In addition to the food, the night markets offer a lively atmosphere, with neon lights, street music and souvenir stalls. It's a sensory experience that combines tastes, smells and sounds, making each stroll an adventure in itself.