Travel Guide for Beijing

Beijing, China’s vibrant capital, is a city where ancient history and modern life blend seamlessly. Located in the north of the country, it boasts iconic sites like the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, and lively hutongs—narrow alleyways lined with shops and street food.

In mid-June, expect warm weather, perfect for exploring parks and outdoor attractions with friends. Enjoy authentic local eats, people-watching at open-air markets, or biking around scenic spots—all budget-friendly ways to soak up Beijing’s rich culture and dynamic energy.

Beijing is easiest to reach by air, with Beijing Capital and Daxing International Airports serving many global cities; booking early can secure affordable rates. Budget travelers arriving from nearby countries might consider international trains from Mongolia or Russia, or long-distance buses from within China, though train tickets should be reserved in advance.

Once in China, bullet trains connect most major cities to Beijing quickly and economically—perfect for friends traveling together. While June weather can bring rain, there are typically no major disruptions around June 13-14, though it’s wise to have flexible travel plans in case of summer storms. Boats aren’t practical for getting to Beijing since it’s inland.

Beijing experiences a continental climate with four distinct seasons: hot, humid summers; cold, dry winters; and short, pleasant spring and autumn periods. Temperatures can swing sharply throughout the year, from below freezing in winter to well over 30°C (86°F) in mid-summer.

From June 13 to June 14, expect warm weather, with daytime highs around 29-32°C (84-90°F) and increased humidity. Occasional showers or thunderstorms may occur, but extreme weather events are unlikely. The air quality can vary, so planning outdoor family activities in the mornings or after rain showers is ideal for comfortable sightseeing.

For budget travelers seeking hotels, the Dongcheng and Xicheng districts are ideal—close to sights like the Forbidden City and Wangfujing. Well-rated options include the 365 Inn Hostel and Beijing Saga Youth Hostel, which offer private rooms at reasonable prices, perfect for groups of friends wanting comfort without extravagance.

Chaoyang is another energetic neighborhood with affordable chain hotels like Jinjiang Inn and ibis, and you’ll find booking deals on websites like Booking.com, Trip.com, and Agoda. June is busy due to local tourism and graduation trips, so book early and consider flexible rates in case plans change. Beijing’s public transit is excellent, so prioritize easy subway access for convenience.

Beijing’s cuisine is famous for dishes like Peking duck, jianbing (savory crepes), zhajiangmian (noodles with soybean paste), and spicy lamb skewers sold at vibrant night markets. Try street stalls in Wangfujing Snack Street or Donghuamen Night Market for authentic, affordable bites, and sip local yanjing beer at a lively hutong bar.

Visit inexpensive places like Mr. Shi’s Dumplings for creative dumplings, or grab noodles at Xianlaoman. Cafés in Gulou hutong neighborhoods offer cozy spots for coffee and tea. Bars like Great Leap Brewing are great for local craft beer.

Tipping isn’t expected, as service charges are often included. Many restaurants cater to vegetarians, but checking ingredient lists is wise. During holidays, reservations are recommended since spots fill up quickly.

Beijing is perfect for budget-friendly, fun-packed group trips. Walk through history at the Forbidden City, then tour Tiananmen Square for iconic sights and people-watching, both with minimal entry fees. Climb the Great Wall at nearby sections like Mutianyu—affordable and scenic—with trails for all fitness levels.

Enjoy local parks, such as the Summer Palace, blending gorgeous lakeside strolls with cultural treasures. Don’t miss Wangfujing Night Market to try street food and soak up Beijing’s vibrant atmosphere. These spots are great for making memories and are enjoyable year-round, especially in June’s warm weather.

Venture beyond Beijing’s famous Forbidden City and discover the abandoned Wonderland Amusement Park, a surreal relic on the city’s edge ideal for photographers and urban explorers. Trek the wild, unrestored sections of the Great Wall at Jiankou, where rugged beauty replaces crowds, but challenging terrain awaits only the adventurous.

Explore the ancient hutongs by sidecar motorcycle with a local guide, slipping through alleyways rarely seen by tourists. For a truly unique evening, catch an underground rock concert at School Bar in the Wudaoying area, immersing yourself in Beijing’s thriving indie music scene.