China is famous for its historical sights, cultural experiences, and natural wonders. It is full of exotic Eastern charm, offering discovery to Western travelers at every turn.
8 days may seem brief to delve into China's culture, history, and natural wonders. However, we can meticulously tailor your itinerary to meet your interests. This way, you'll discover China your way in a short time.
Gain inspiration for your 8-day China tour with our top 3 itinerary options. Let us help you make the most of your time in this fascinating country.
China's Best Cities to Visit in 8 Days
During the 8 days, you can consider visiting some of China's most famous destinations such as Beijing, Shanghai, Xi'an, Guilin, and Chengdu.
But remember, this is your adventure. If you have other preferred destinations or particular interests, we're more than happy to customize the itinerary to make your China trip uniquely yours.
- Beijing: As the capital of China, the city showcases a unique mix of historical and modern charm.
- Shanghai: The vibrant metropolis of China paints a vivid image of China's rapid development with its ambitious and captivating skyline.
- Xi'an: Xi'an provides a window to ancient and medieval Chinese culture and history.
- Guilin: An idyllic and tranquil retreat, this area boasts rural charm, verdant karst hills, and serene rivers.
- Chengdu: Chengdu is the hometown of giant pandas.
Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family's best-rated service across trusted platforms.
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Beautiful Beijing with Ethan & Mr. Chen
Ethan, our wonderful guide, whose praises we can not sing loudly enough, was compassionate, caring, and overall endearing! His sense of ease and familiarity with each sight, which were unfamiliar wonders to us, provided a sense of peacefulness that facilitated full enjoyment - helped too by his punctuality and attention to detail. more
Feb 2024, apisn2023
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The Highlights and High Life of Beijing with Ethan & Mr. Chen
Ethan, our wonderful tour guide, made our entire trip an absolute joy for us as he was extraordinarily caring, considerate, and generous. Having had the pleasure of taking in the sights of Beijing previously with another lovely guide, Angela, it was spectacular not only to show the family how fantastic the city is but also how high the quality of services provided by China Highlights are. Each day unveiled a new treasure, helpfully detailed by Ethan, and punctuated by delicious and varied local food. Our driver, Mr. Chen, was also a delight, and was equally as key to the overall experience as he was both attentive and almost mystically punctual! more
Feb 2024, Apis
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Great Time in Beijing
Our 4-day experience in Beijing was unforgettable. Our guide, Selinda, opened the doors to the city's millennia-old history and culture with her knowledge, kindness, and courtesy. We discovered magnificent places, tasted delicious food, and stayed in clean hotels, all accompanied by safe and reliable transportation service. We recommend traveling with China Highlights. more
Feb 2024, Nicola B
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3rd time the charm, is being charmed for the 3rd time.
This is my 3rd tour of Beijing in the last 18 months and I think that speaks a little to the quality of service you get with China Highlights. Each time the sites are the same but each tour guide managed to present them in new and wonderful ways. Also some attractions that were undergoing renovations have been completed, so there were new things to see as well.A big thanks to Mr. Michael, our tour this time around. He was very gregarious and knowledgeable about all the sites. more
Feb 2024, Jonathan Mueller
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3rd time the charm, is charmed for the 3rd time
The sites stay the same but each time we have done this tour, the tour guides manage to make it feel like it is the first time you are experiencing it. And, with the constant renovations, this time we were able to see previous areas that were unavailable the last time we came. more
Feb 2024, Jonathan M
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Great trip and experience!
From beginning to end, China Highlights was very courteous, responsive and attentive in planning and executing a great trip!Aspects and execution of the trip was as discussed and was an overall great experience. Our guide, Michael, was very kind and knowledgeable throughout the tour and would address all questions and help us take lots of photos. Would definitely travel with China Highlights again! more
Feb 2024, Karol
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3rd the charm is charmed for the 3rd time
This is my 3rd tour of Beijing in the last 18 months and I think that speaks a little to the quality of service you get with China Highlights. Each time the sites are the same but each tour guide managed to present them in new and wonderful ways. Also some attractions that were undergoing renovations have been completed, so there were new things to see as well.A big thanks to Mr. Michael, our tour this time around. He was very gregarious and knowledgeable about all the sites. more
Feb 2024, jkjmueller
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1 Day in Beijing
Nice views, Not too much people, Jessi (guide ) so friendly and she have a great service & she knows the answer of all your questions more
Feb 2024, Fernando J
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Fabulous day!
Jesse He ,she is a nice tourist guide patience and take good care for us. We had a wonderful time in Beijing,we did the forbidden city and greatwall We love everything ! more
Feb 2024, Charon R
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Private trip in Beijing and Luoyang
We spent 3 days in Beijing with Helen as our guide. We went to TianAnMen, Forbidden City and MuTianYu Great Wall to name a few. Helen took great care of us and is very attentive as I travel with my 60+ years old parents, from asking whether we need restroom breaks to making sure that our lunch were all according to our dietary needs more
Jan 2024, Iriana Iriana
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An excellent day with Linda
Linda (Ling ling)is a great tour guide,provide a lot of knowledge and history of the great wall,and took us to taste very delicious food too,we had a very good time with her!highly recommend her! more
Jan 2024, Angeline Lim
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Great time in Beijing with Bruce
We stayed in Beijing for three days altogether. We went to the summer palace. the Tian'an'men square, the Forbidden City,the Temple of heaven and the Great Wall. Our tour guide Bruce is very friendly and speaks English fluently. He explained every scenic spot to us patiently and humorously. my family are very satisfied with his service. more
Jan 2024, Mayra C
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Bucket List Trip to China
My first stop in China was Beijing. Ethan was my guide there. Daily, they would pick me up and take me to the spots on the itinerary. He helped me plan outside activities like a Chinese acrobat show. He even walked me to my seat in my theater so I could easily find my correct chair. What was most helpful was Ethan waiting with me at the train station and even helping me on to my seat and giving the train attendant my meal order. Very little English was spoken by the train attendant. more
Jan 2024, Megan Sandbothe
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Great Wall at Jinshanling
We went to the Great Wall at Jinshanling which is a very beautiful place which is not that busy. In fact most of the time it felt like we were alone on the wall.The tourguide (Jack) was very knowledgeable and very friendly.A big thumbs up more
Jan 2024, Onno
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Private trip in Beijing and Luoyang
We spent 3 days in Beijing with Helen as our guide. We went to TianAnMen, Forbidden City and MuTianYu Great Wall to name a few. Helen took great care of us and is very attentive as I travel with my 60+ years old parents, from asking whether we need restroom breaks to making sure that our lunch were all according to our dietary needs. We had great 3 days in Beijing.We also visited Luoyang. Our travel advisor arranged a Business class seat for our high speed train to Luoyang. We were picked up at the station by our guide in Luoyang, Lisa. We then visited Dengfeng to see Songyang academy, shaolin temple, Luoyang grottoes. She also took care of us very well and very knowledgeable about the history. more
Jan 2024, lriana lriana
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Beijing 2024
We traveled to Beijing with China Highlights in January 2024. Our tour guide Ethan was organized and knowledgeable which made our trip seamless and very interesting!! He helpfully suggested additional activities if we had time in the evenings and assisted us in booking tickets for them. Visiting the Mutianyu Great wall of China was a big highlight of our time in Beijing! more
Jan 2024, Lydia
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Beijing 2024
We traveled to Beijing with China Highlights in January 2024. Our tour guide Ethan was organized and knowledgeable which made our trip seamless and very interesting!! He helpfully suggested additional activities if we had time in the evenings and assisted us in booking tickets for them. Visiting the Mutianyu Great wall of China was a big highlight of our time in Beijing more
Jan 2024, Explore49612084715
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Beijing
Fantastic couple days in Beijing. Thank you to my guide Mark who eloquently relayed stories about China history and culture. more
Jan 2024, Steve P
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Jack is an excellent guide
Jack is an excellent guide, very patient, punctual, wonderful command of english. I recommend him any day. more
Jan 2024, Brahma
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Great intro to 🇨🇳
Candy was fabulous right from the start. She was knowledgeable, passionate and a lot of fun. Our introduction to China and Beijing was an interesting and memorable one!! more
Jan 2024, Jo66
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1) A Classic 8-Day China Itinerary for First Time Travelers
This is the most selected China itinerary for a first China trip. In 8 days, you would discover China's ancient history, rich culture, and modern development.
Ideal for: first-time visitors to China who want the classic China experience
- Days 1-3: Beijing
- Days 4-5: Xian
- Days 6-8: Shanghai
Beijing's airports have China's largest number of international flights, so it is an ideal first stop for a China tour.
In Beijing, explore the Great Wall by walking on its centuries-old bricks. If you would like to have a more authentic experience of the Wall, take a hike along the unrestored section from Jinshanling to Simatai. Marvel at the lavish lifestyle of medieval emperors at the Forbidden City, and get a glimpse of local life by visiting traditional hutongs.
For a special experience, we recommend that you visit the Great Wall at sunset when all the travelers have left. Enjoy having the Wall to yourself, and take some stunning pictures.
In Xi'an, Discover the awe-inspiring Terracotta Army up close, and make your own terracotta warrior to take home as a memento with a local artisan's guidance.
Stroll atop the City Wall of Xi'an, where the well-preserved architecture and grand wall extent transport you back in time. For an unusual-yet-memorable experience, take a leisurely bike ride on the medieval wall.
In Shanghai, Elevate to the top of the Shanghai Tower — the tallest building in China, the second tallest in the world, and you would have an inspiring view of the city's impressive skyline and a glimpse into China's dynamic future.
Don't miss a visit to the Bund, which showcases a unique blend of architectural styles displaying Shanghai's rich history and diverse influences.
2). China 8-Day Itinerary with History, Culture, and Scenic Splendors
This itinerary highlights China's historical charm, modernity, captivating natural scenery, and serene rural life. For travelers who would like to appreciate natural beauty and traditional Chinese life, this tour itinerary is an unbeatable choice.
Ideal for: travelers who like history, beautiful scenery, and outdoor activities, and those looking for a more relaxed travel experience.
- Days 1-3: Beijing
- Days 4-5: Xian
- Days 6-8: Guilin
In Beijing, Discover the best of Beijing in 3 days. Hike along China's imperial-era defense line — the Great Wall, marvel at the splendor of the ancient imperial palace complex at the Forbidden City (boasting 9,999 rooms), and enjoy a relaxing stroll at a tranquil royal garden — the Summer Palace, just as the more recent emperors did.
Don't forget to visit one of the city's vibrant night markets to fully immerse yourself in the bustling local atmosphere.
In Xi'an: A visit to the Terracotta Warriors in Xi'an is a must for any traveler to China. Marvel at these impressive millennia-old figures up close. To enhance the experience, you might like to make a clay warrior yourself and take it home. Don't miss out on this fascinating activity!
Take a leisurely stroll on the City Wall of Xi'an, and witness the captivating blend of old and new within the cityscape. Remember to take lots of beautiful photos along the way!
In Guilin: Have a few relaxing and enjoyable days in Guilin and Yangshuo. The city and the peaceful surrounding rural areas offer an escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Take a Li River cruise, and enjoy the breathtaking karst mountains, lush greenery, and rural scenery. Enjoy relaxing free time exploring the serene rivers and picturesque lakes within the city.
Recommended tour: Classic Wonders (without Shanghai) — 8-Day Beijing–Xi'an–Guilin Tour
3) Classic China 8-Day Itinerary with Giant Pandas
If you're a fan of giant pandas and have limited time to explore China, this tour itinerary is perfect for you. This 8-day itinerary combines cultural and historical experience, an opportunity to see giant pandas, and a culinary adventure.
Ideal for: Travelers who love giant pandas.
- Days 1-3: Beijing
- Days 4-5: Xian
- Days 6-8: Chengdu
In Beijing, hike the Great Wall of China, delve into the ancient palace complex of the Forbidden City, and stroll through the hutongs to explore old Beijing.
It's highly recommended to visit the Great Wall at sunset when most travelers have left, providing a great opportunity to capture awe-inspiring photos.
In Xi'an, Discover the awe-inspiring Terracotta Army and stroll along Xi'an's City Wall. Venture into the Muslim Quarter and savor local street food.
In Chengdu: Chengdu is the hometown of giant pandas. The cute pandas are definitely the highlight of most Chengdu trips. Witness the adorable pandas as they munch on bamboo, climb trees, lounge on branches, or playfully roll on the ground. Their cuteness would surely melt your heart.
Chengdu's cuisine is a must-try for any visitor to the city. Known as a gourmet's paradise, Chengdu offers an abundance of culinary delights. Stroll through Jinli Old Street and sample the local street food. It would be a truly unforgettable Chinese food experience.
Recommended tour: Land of Pandas (first 8 days) — 8-Day Beijing–Xi'an–Chengdu Tour
Your Ideal 8-Day China Itinerary — Tailor-Made
We are experts at designing tours to meet our client's individual requirements. If your ideal 8-day China trip would require an adjustment from the itineraries above, or if you would like something quite different, simply contact us and we'll create your dream tour.