Beijing's best time to visit is autumn — September and October — when the city enjoys its most spectacular weather, with brilliantly clear skies, temperatures settled in an ideal 15–25°C range, and the deciduous trees surrounding the Great Wall turning golden and crimson in one of Asia's finest autumn foliage displays. Spring (April to May) is the second-best season, with warming temperatures and spring blossoms.
Beijing's best time to visit is autumn — September and October — when the city enjoys its most spectacular weather. Skies are brilliantly clear after the summer humidity dissipates, temperatures settle into an ideal 15–25°C range, and the deciduous trees surrounding the Great Wall and the parks of the Summer Palace and Beihai turn golden and crimson in one of Asia's finest autumn foliage displays. October 1st (National Day) begins Golden Week — a week-long holiday when huge numbers of domestic tourists visit Beijing's major sights simultaneously. The first and last days of Golden Week should be avoided if possible; the middle days (October 3–5) are somewhat more manageable.
Spring (April to May) is Beijing's second-best season, with warming temperatures, spring blossoms in the city's parks, and the beginning of outdoor terrace dining. Dust storms from the Gobi Desert can occasionally affect the city in March and April — not a dealbreaker, but worth knowing. Summer (June to August) is hot, humid, and prone to heavy afternoon thunderstorms. The heat can make visits to outdoor sights like the Great Wall and Temple of Heaven uncomfortable in July and August, though evenings in the hutong neighborhoods and rooftop bars are pleasant. The city is also very crowded during the school summer holidays.
Winter (November to February) is Beijing at its harshest — temperatures drop below freezing in December and January, and snow occasionally falls. The Forbidden City and Temple of Heaven in snow are extraordinarily beautiful, and winter crowds are significantly smaller than any other season. The Chinese New Year holiday (late January or February) brings spectacular temple fairs and fireworks — if you don't mind the cold and the crowds returning for the holiday period, late January is one of the most festive times to visit. Pack layers and a warm coat for any winter Beijing visit, as the city's historical sites involve significant outdoor walking time.