China, Asia
Beijing in November
Leaves linger early in the month, then winter sets in. Quiet sights, good hotel rates.
The straight answer
November is a good month to visit Beijing. Leaves linger early in the month, then winter sets in. Quiet sights, good hotel rates.
- Weather
- Cool to cold, highs near 50F (10C), dry
- Crowds
- 2 of 5
- Prices
- 2 of 5
What November is like in Beijing
November is cool to cold, with highs near 50F (10C), and dry. Fall leaves linger early in the month, then winter sets in. The sights are quiet and hotel rates are good. Days are shorter and mornings are cold, but skies are often clear and the air is crisp.
It suits budget travelers and anyone who wants calm sights and doesn't mind cold mornings. Early November is the sweet spot, with leaves still on the trees and comfortable afternoons. If you want warmer weather, go in September or October after the holiday week.
Make the most of November
What is especially good about Beijing this month.
Lingering fall leaves
Early November still has color in the parks. The Summer Palace is lovely.
Quiet Forbidden City
Crowds are low, making it easier to explore the courtyards at your own pace.
Hot pot season
Cold evenings are perfect for Beijing's hot pot and roast duck.
What to pack for November
- A warm coat
- Layers for cold mornings
- Hat and gloves
- Lip balm and moisturizer
Our timing tip
Come in the first half of November for the last of the fall color and good hotel deals.
Book Beijing for November.
Sponsored links to Expedia and Vrbo. We may earn a commission; it never changes a verdict.
- Hotels for November
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in BeijingOpens a hotel search for Beijing in November, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
- Rentals on Vrbo
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in BeijingWhole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
- Tours and tickets
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in BeijingTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Beijing for November. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
Things to do in Beijing
The Forbidden City (Palace Museum)
Tickets are sold online in advance with real-name registration and a daily cap; it is closed most Mondays. Book early for holiday weeks.
Great Wall at Mutianyu or Jinshanling
Mutianyu has a cable car and toboggan; Jinshanling is farther but wilder. Leave early to beat tour buses.
Temple of Heaven
Go in the early morning to see locals practicing tai chi, dancing, and playing cards in the park.
Summer Palace
A vast imperial garden around Kunming Lake. Spring blossoms and fall color are best; winter brings skating on the lake.
Jingshan Park
The short climb gives the classic view straight down over the Forbidden City's golden roofs.
Lama Temple (Yonghegong)
An active Tibetan Buddhist temple with a giant sandalwood Buddha. Busy during Chinese New Year.
Beat the crowds
- Never plan big sights for October 1 to 7, the first days of May, or the week around Chinese New Year. Shift the whole trip a week either way.
- Book Palace Museum tickets the moment they open, and enter at the first time slot through the Meridian Gate. Walk straight to the back courtyards and work forward.
- Skip Badaling, the closest Great Wall section and the most crowded. Mutianyu or Jinshanling on a weekday morning is a very different experience.
- Midweek is noticeably quieter than weekends at every major site because domestic tourism dominates.
Know before you go
- The Palace Museum and many other museums close on Mondays, except during national holidays. Check before you plan the day.
- During the first days of Chinese New Year, many small restaurants and family businesses close; big sights, hotels, and malls stay open.
- Many sites now require advance online booking with passport details, and daily visitor caps can sell out on weekends and holidays.
- Outdoor sites like the Great Wall run shorter hours in winter. Some remote sections close in heavy snow or high wind.
Beijing in November, quick answers
Is November a good time to visit Beijing?
November is a good month to visit Beijing. Leaves linger early in the month, then winter sets in. Quiet sights, good hotel rates.
What is the weather like in Beijing in November?
Cool to cold, highs near 50F (10C), dry.
Is Beijing crowded in November?
November is one of the quieter months in Beijing; most sights can be done without long waits.
Keep planning Beijing.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in November
Before you book.
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