Asia · country guide
China travel guide
2 cities, suggested multi-city routes, transport tips — plus a full planner for every destination.
Photo by Joshua Sortino on Unsplash
China offers a vast and diverse travel experience, from ancient historical sites to hyper-modern metropolises. Its immense scale and rich cultural tapestry provide endless opportunities for exploration. Travelers come to witness millennia of history, unique artistic traditions, and rapidly evolving urban landscapes.
Each city below links to a full planner: a day-by-day itinerary you can tailor to your dates and pace, a realistic budget breakdown, a packing list, day-trip ideas, a local food guide, and the best months to visit. If you're combining several China cities into one trip, the suggested routes group them by region and travel time so you spend less of the trip in transit — and each destination page carries its own accessibility, transport, and neighbourhood detail rather than recycled boilerplate.
Cities in China
2 destinations covered. Tap any to get a full itinerary, packing list, budget, and more.
Key regions
North China Plain
This region is the historical heartland of Chinese civilization, dominated by Beijing. It's home to imperial palaces, ancient city walls, and significant historical landmarks.
Yangtze River Delta
A densely populated and economically vibrant area centered around Shanghai. It showcases China's modern development alongside traditional water towns and rich agricultural landscapes.
Sichuan Basin
Known for its spicy cuisine, giant pandas, and dramatic karst landscapes. This region offers a distinct cultural experience and natural beauty.
Yunnan Province
Located in the southwest, Yunnan is a mosaic of ethnic minority cultures and stunning mountain scenery. It's a gateway to the Himalayas and offers diverse trekking opportunities.
Suggested China routes
Imperial Capitals & Modern Marvels
10 days
Beijing → Shanghai
This route focuses on China's most iconic cities. Explore Beijing's historical grandeur, including the Forbidden City and Great Wall, before experiencing Shanghai's futuristic skyline and bustling financial district.
East Coast Discovery
14 days
Beijing → Shanghai → Xi'an
Trace China's historical and modern development. Begin in Beijing, travel to Xi'an to see the Terracotta Army, and conclude in Shanghai to witness its contemporary dynamism.
Southwest Charm & Cuisine
16 days
Chengdu → Chongqing → Guilin → Kunming
Immerse yourself in the flavors and landscapes of southwestern China. Visit Chengdu for pandas and Sichuan cuisine, cruise the Li River near Guilin, and explore the diverse cultures and scenery of Yunnan.
Getting around
China boasts an extensive and efficient high-speed rail network, connecting major cities with remarkable speed and comfort. Domestic flights are common for longer distances, though airport transfers can add significant time. Rental cars are generally not practical for tourists due to complex licensing, traffic laws, and navigation challenges; relying on public transport and ride-sharing apps is recommended.
Insider tips
- •Book high-speed train tickets in advance, especially during holidays, as popular routes sell out.
- •While major cities increasingly accept international credit cards and mobile payments (like Alipay/WeChat Pay), having some cash is still advisable for smaller vendors or rural areas.
- •Many popular attractions, including the Forbidden City, require pre-booked timed entry tickets; check official websites or apps well in advance.
- •Learn a few basic Mandarin phrases; while English is spoken in tourist hubs, it's less common elsewhere and politeness goes a long way.
- •Consider visiting during shoulder seasons (spring or autumn) to avoid peak summer heat and crowds, and potentially find better prices.
- •Be aware of China's 'Great Firewall' and consider using a VPN if you need access to certain international websites or apps.