Beijing in December
Not the best time
December brings bone-chilling cold but rewards hardy travelers with empty attractions and rock-bottom prices. Bundle up and you'll have Beijing's major sites almost to yourself.
Weather
December ushers in Beijing's harsh winter with temperatures plummeting and bitter winds picking up. Snow becomes possible while humidity drops to desert levels. Clear, cold days alternate with gray, overcast ones.
2°C high-8°C low2 rain days
Crowds & Cost
low crowds
~$80/day average
Events & Festivals
- •Christmas celebrations in expat areas
- •New Year countdown events
December Tips
- •Pack serious winter clothing - down jackets and warm boots essential
- •Carry moisturizer and lip balm constantly
- •Take advantage of empty tourist sites and off-season hotel rates
All Months
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-November) offer Beijing at its most pleasant. Temperatures hover in the 60s-70s°F, air quality improves, and the city's parks bloom with cherry blossoms or turn golden with autumn leaves.
Winter brings bone-chilling winds and occasional snow, but also smaller crowds at major sites. The Forbidden City looks magical dusted with white, and hot pot tastes better when it's freezing outside. Just pack serious layers — Beijing winter doesn't mess around.
Summer means sweltering heat, sudden downpours, and thick humidity that makes sightseeing miserable. But the season brings outdoor night markets, rooftop bar weather, and the chance to escape to the cooler mountains surrounding the city. July and August see domestic tourism peak, so book accommodations early.
Beijing Scores
Solo
7/10
Couples
7/10
Families
6/10
Adventure
4/10
Budget
6/10
Luxury
7/10
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