China, a captivating blend of history and natural beauty, beckons travelers with its incredible destinations.
From ancient wonders to modern marvels, there is no shortage of incredible places to explore in this vast nation.
These 10 cities we've selected are great ideas for your annual family trip, birthday trip, anniversary trip, bucket list trip, or any other big milestone trip.
Here’s a quick guide to help you choose cities based on your travel length:
- For 1 week: Beijing, Xi'an, and Shanghai
- For 2 weeks: Add Zhangjiajie and Guilin
- For 3 weeks: Add Yunnan or Chengdu+Chongqing
- For 4+ weeks: Include Tibet and Xinjiang
1. Beijing: See Imperial China
If I could only pick one city for your first trip to China or the first stop on your China journey, I would definitely choose Beijing.
Not just because it's the capital, but because it offers the best window into China’s rich history, culture, and architectural styles.
From iconic landmarks like the Great Wall, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, to the Summer Palace, Beijing brings the past to life.
Our guests visited the Mutianyu Great Wall.If you're interested in local life, take a hutong walk through residential neighborhoods, local markets, and morning exercise parks.
You can even visit a hutong family to see what a traditional Chinese home looks like, learn about their lifestyle, and take part in cultural experiences like mask painting or paper cutting. See Top Hutongs to Visit in Beijing.
Beijing also has a wide range of food options. For something casual, try the small eateries tucked away in the hutongs that serve authentic Beijing snacks. For a more upscale or unique dining experience, go for a famous Peking duck restaurant or even a royal-style banquet like gong yan.
Recommend having a court banquet (gongyan) experience in BeijingIf Beijing is just one stop on your China itinerary, a 3–4 day stay is usually enough. But if you'd like to base yourself in Beijing and explore more deeply, staying for a week is ideal. Besides exploring the city, you can also take short trips to nearby destinations like Datong or Pingyao.
For first timers to China, see our most recommended 11-Day Beijing–Xi'an–Guilin–Shanghai Tour
2. Shanghai: See Modern China
If you want to see the most modern and international side of China without losing the sense of culture, Shanghai is a must-visit.
To experience the city's dazzling skyline at night, a Huangpu River cruise is one of the best options. As the cruise glides along the river, you’ll see the futuristic skyline on one side and the historic Bund with its century-old buildings on the other. The contrast of lights and architecture is truly breathtaking.
You could take a cruise to enjoy the night views.What sets Shanghai apart from other Chinese cities is its unique colonial history. Take a city walk along the Bund to admire the blend of architectural styles from different eras.
Or stroll through the French Concession, with its leafy streets, hidden villas, and quiet gardens. It is one of the best ways to explore Shanghai’s layered past.
You could visit Tianzifang, located in the French Concession, to see old Shanghai.For families, Shanghai is also a city where kids can have fun and learn at the same time. From the thrills of Disneyland, to the creativity of LEGOLAND, to the awe of the world’s largest planetarium. You can even explore top universities like Fudan or Shanghai Jiao Tong, offering inspiration beyond entertainment.
If Shanghai is just one stop on your trip, 2 days is enough to see the major city highlights and take a short visit to a water town like Zhujiajiao.
But if you’d like a more relaxed and in-depth experience, plan for 5 to 7 days, which allows time to include nearby destinations such as Suzhou, Hangzhou, or even Huangshan (Yellow Mountain). See our 8-Day Shanghai, Hangzhou, Suzhou Family Tour
3. Zhangjiajie: See Scenic China
If you want to see some of China’s most extraordinary natural landscapes, Zhangjiajie is easily one of the top choices.
Its most famous site is the “Avatar Mountains” in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, known for its towering sandstone peaks and mist. It truly feels like stepping into a surreal world.
Zhangjiajie National Forest ParkAnother highlight is Tianmen Mountain, where you can ride the world’s longest cableway, walk up 999 steps to the dramatic Tianmen Cave, and enjoy breathtaking views along the way.
Tianmen MountainZhangjiajie’s longest and highest glass bridge is also a must-visit, located in the Grand Canyon Scenic Area. It enables you to have a thrilling experience that combines heart-pounding adventure with stunning canyon views.
Our guests visited the glass bridge.The best time to visit Zhangjiajie is April to October. However, due to its popularity, long queues, especially at the National Forest Park, can be a challenge.
To avoid the crowds, consider coming in late May, early June, or late September to late October. If you want to save time, you can also pay extra for VIP access to skip the lines.
4. Xi'an: See Historic China
If you’re interested in China’s history and culture, Xi’an is a must-visit. As the capital of 13 ancient dynasties, Xi’an is rich in history. It was the starting point of the Silk Road and a key birthplace of traditional Chinese civilization.
The most iconic attraction is the Terracotta Warriors. If you want a more private and unique experience, we can take you to less crowded museums where you can see the first unearthed warriors, get up close to Qin Dynasty artifacts, and even try your hand at relic restoration.
Xi’an is also gaining popularity with younger travelers thanks to its Hanfu (traditional clothing) experience. Wearing Hanfu and taking photos at places like the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Yongning Gate, or Qujiang Pool feels like stepping back to the Tang Dynasty’s capital.
Our guest is wearing hanfu in the Ancient City WallIn the evening, visit Grand Tang Everbright City to enjoy the lively nightlife inspired by the flourishing Tang era. Here you can see light shows, performances, shopping streets, or climb the ancient city wall for a panoramic night view of the city.
You could plan 2 to 3 days for a Xi’an trip. If you want to add some nature to the trip, consider visiting Mount Hua. Then you will need 4 days in total.
5. Chengdu: See Tasty China
If you’re looking for a city that blends a slower pace of life, rich cultural heritage, and beautiful natural scenery, Chengdu is not to be missed.
The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is a must-visit for panda lovers. To avoid crowds, we recommend arriving around 8 a.m. when the pandas are most active and the park is quieter.
For a more interactive experience, the Dujiangyan Panda Base offers volunteer programs that are perfect for families with kids. See 1-Day Dujiangyan Panda Volunteer Program Tour
Seeing a panda in Dujiangyan Panda BaseChengdu is a city deeply rooted in daily life. At People’s Park, you can experience local leisure culture like sipping a bowl of traditional tea, watching locals play mahjong, or even trying the unique street-side ear cleaning experience.
We can also arrange a guided city walk through historic streets, alleys, and hidden teahouses to help you soak in the charm and everyday rhythm of the city.
If you're a foodie, Chengdu won't disappoint. The city is famous for its spicy hotpot, but you’ll also find a rich variety of local street snacks like skewers (chuan chuan), spicy noodles, tofu pudding, and sticky rice cakes.
Beyond the city, there are many great options for half-day or full-day trips, such as the Leshan Giant Buddha, the stunning Jiuzhaigou Valley, or the ancient Dujiangyan Irrigation System.
JiuzhaigouIf your focus is mainly pandas and city highlights, 2–3 days will be enough. But if you'd like to slow down and explore the surrounding area, 4–5 days would be ideal.
6. Chongqing: See Cyberpunk China
If you’re looking for a city with a layout and vibe completely different from most others in China, Chongqing is a top pick.
It's a city built on hills, where modern urban life meets surreal landscapes. It is a truly “mountain city” full of vibrant street life and a touch of urban magic.
Hop on Metro Line 2, which passes through a residential building, or visit Hongya Cave at night for a glimpse of Chongqing’s iconic cyberpunk-style, multi-layered skyline. It’s a city that feels like a real-life movie set.
Hongya CaveFor breathtaking photos, head to the One Tree Viewing Platform on Nanshan Mountain or E’ling Testbed 2 at night. Both spots offer panoramic views of the city glowing with lights, perfect for capturing Chongqing’s dramatic urban atmosphere.
Plan to spend 2–3 days exploring the city itself. If you’re into natural scenery, add a day trip to Wulong. For cultural highlights, consider a visit to the Dazu Rock Carvings, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Check out our 8-Day Chengdu, Jiuzhaigou, and Chongqing Tour
7. Yunnan: See Diverse China
Yunnan is my favorite destination in China.
It’s a place where I can slow down, forget the noise of work and daily life, and truly feel the wind, the sunshine, and everything nature has to offer.
In Yunnan, you’ll find snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear lakes, terraced fields, ancient towns, and rich ethnic minority cultures. All in one province.
Jade Dragon Snow MountainYou can wander through Lijiang Old Town and take in the charm of the Naxi culture, or enjoy the breeze by Erhai Lake in Dali, watching seagulls dance across the sky.
Wake up before dawn and head to Meili Snow Mountain, where you can witness the stunning moment when the morning sun lights up the peak in golden hues.
Yunnan is a year-round destination. In winter, you can see snowy mountains and still wear a T-shirt under the sun in the south.
Xishuangbanna is warm in winter.In summer, it’s cooler than most parts of China, making it an ideal escape from the heat.
Spring and autumn are the most vibrant seasons in terms of scenery.
My recommendation is to visit from late October to early December, when the skies are clear, crowds are smaller, and the experience at popular attractions is more enjoyable.
If you want to explore Yunnan in a more complete way, I suggest planning at least a one-week trip. See 8-Day Classic Yunnan Tour
8. Tibet: See Spiritual China
Tibet is perhaps one of the most soul-stirring destinations in all of China.
Here, you’ll find not only the breathtaking grandeur of the “Roof of the World,” but also a deep sense of spirituality and peace.
The Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple are Tibet’s most iconic landmarks. Not just because of their striking architecture, but because they allow you to feel the power of faith.
Our guests in the Potala PalaceYou might witness pilgrims prostrating themselves in devotion, hear the soft hum of prayer wheels spinning, and sense a reverence that transcends language.
Wander through the bustling lanes of Barkhor Street, where everyday Tibetan life unfolds before your eyes. It is colorful, lively, and authentic.
Barkhor StreetIf you're drawn to nature, Tibet’s landscapes will leave you in awe: the sacred blue waters of Lake Namtso, the serene beauty of Yamdrok Lake, and the sweeping plateau framed by snow-capped peaks.
For adventurous travelers, a trip to the Everest Base Camp to glimpse the world’s highest mountain is an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experience.
The best time to visit Tibet is from summer to autumn, when the weather is milder and it’s easier to adjust to the high altitude.
Important note: Tibet is usually closed to foreign travelers during February and March each year.
If this is your first time visiting Tibet, we recommend planning at least 7–10 days. Spend the first 4–5 days in Lhasa to acclimate to the altitude before heading to higher regions.
For a more relaxed and lower-altitude experience, Nyingchi is a great option. It offers a mix of Tibetan culture and stunning scenery. March to April is the perfect time to see the region’s famous peach blossoms.
9. Guilin: See Rural China
If you're hoping to experience China’s rural side, Guilin is undoubtedly one of the best choices.
Here, the mountains may not be high, but they are striking; the rivers are shallow, yet incredibly graceful. Villages are scattered between fields and karst hills.
The most classic experience is a Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo, like gliding through a Chinese landscape painting.
Li River CruiseIn Yangshuo, both adults and children can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities:
- Explore a wild limestone cave still largely untouched by tourism
- Go kayaking to cool off in the river
- Cycle through scenic fields and rural trails
Beyond Yangshuo, the Longji Rice Terraces offer another side of rural China. Autumn harvest season is especially stunning, when the golden terraces stretch like waves across the hills.
Longji Rice Terrace in autumn You can also visit Yao and Zhuang ethnic minority villages, where you might learn to cook bamboo rice or taste traditional oil tea.
If you’re planning a trip to Guilin, we recommend avoiding June, which tends to be the rainiest month and may impact your travel plans.
For those who just want to see the highlights of Guilin’s natural beauty, 3–4 days is a good starting point.
But if you’d like to slow down and dive deeper into countryside life, 5–6 days will give you a more enriching and relaxed experience.
10. Xinjiang: See Vast China
What makes Xinjiang truly special is the stunning contrast between its diverse natural landscapes and rich ethnic cultures.
On the same journey, you can pass through grasslands and deserts, snow-capped mountains and deep canyons, turquoise lakes and surreal yardang landforms.
Unlike anywhere else in China, Xinjiang offers a profound sense of vastness and freedom, as if you've stepped far away from the modern world.
Xinjiang is huge. If you want to explore both Northern and Southern Xinjiang, at least two weeks is a reasonable amount of time.
If you're drawn to natural scenery, Northern Xinjiang is ideal. You could go horseback riding across the Nalati Grasslands, hike along the shores of Kanas Lake, and wake up in Hemu Village to watch the morning smoke rise from wooden cabins.
See 8-Day North Xinjiang Tour with Kanas
Nalati GrasslandBest Times to Visit North Xinjiang:
- May–June for wildflowers and snow-covered peaks
- September–October for the golden autumn forests around Kanas
- November–January for Hemu’s magical snow-covered winter
If you're more interested in culture, history, and desert landscapes, focus on Southern Xinjiang. Stroll through the old town of Kashgar, where daily life bursts with music and dance. Explore the Taklamakan Desert. Ride a camel through the poplar forests (Populus euphratica).
Check out our 12-Day South Xinjiang Adventure Tour
Kashgar Old TownBest Time for South Xinjiang: Late October to early November, when the poplar forests are at their most beautiful and the weather is pleasantly cool