China has an indelible combination of ancient history, futuristic cities, breathtaking landscapes and world-famous cuisine.
This China holiday itinerary is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a flavour of the country’s best sights and food culture from walking the Great Wall to trying authentic Sichuan hotpot.
Beijing – Historic & Iconic Places
Start in Beijing, the ancient capital of China. Explore the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square and the awe-inspiring Great Wall of China. Meander through the traditional Hutong lanes and get a feel for old Beijing life.
Foods to Try
- Peking Duck
- Jianbing (Chinese breakfast crepe)
- Handmade dumplings
Xi'an - Vibrant Ancient China
Xi’an is known for the Terracotta Army and its long Silk Road history. A must is walking or biking along the ancient City Wall. The bustling Muslim Quarter is a paradise for foodies.
Local Foods to Try
- Roujiamo (Chinese burger)
- Hand-pulled noodles
- Yangrou Paomo
Chengdu – Spicy Tastes & Pandas
Chengdu is a relaxed city with spicy food. Visit the Giant Panda Base, have tea in People’s Park and Jinli Ancient Street.
Renowned Cuisine of Chengdu
Shanghai – Contemporary China
Your journey concludes in Shanghai, where high-rises meet traditional gardens. Walk along The Bund, explore Yuyuan Garden, and enjoy panoramic views of the city from Shanghai Tower.
Don’t Miss:
- Xiaolongbao (soup dumplings)
- Riverside nightlife
- Luxury shopping streets
Transportation & Travel Planning
- China’s high-speed bullet train network makes traveling easy, fast and comfortable.
- The rail links between the major cities like Beijing, Xi’an, Chengdu and Shanghai are good.
- Bullet trains are often more convenient and cheaper than internal flights on popular tourist routes.
- Flights are better for very long distances or remote places.
- You can buy train tickets online on official sites of railway companies or on trusted travel apps.
- We recommend buying tickets ahead of time for holidays and peak travel times.
Visa, Budget and Travel Tips
- Check China visa requirements and latest entry rules before planning your trip.
- The best times to visit are the spring (March to May) and the fall (September to November).
- Alipay and WeChat Pay are mobile payment apps used throughout China.
- Bring some cash, as certain smaller stores and local markets may not take international cards.
- A VPN is used by travelers as the internet blocks some apps and websites around the world.
- Translation apps and some basic Mandarin phrases can help in local areas.
FAQs -
How many days is enough for China?
For first timers, a 10-14 day itinerary is best.
How should I travel from city to city?
The high-speed bullet trains in China are the fastest and most comfortable.
Is China expensive for tourists ?
China has everything from budget hostels to luxury hotels – accommodation to suit all pockets.
For assistance:
Use the method that’s easiest for you – call, WhatsApp, or email – and we’ll help you choose the right plan.
