China Itinerary: 12 Travel Itineraries for 5-17 Days in China

How Many Days in China Is Enough?

Wondering how long to spend in China? Well, it depends on what you’re after!

• For a quick taste, 5-7 days in our China itineraries let you explore iconic cities like Beijing (Great Wall, Forbidden City), Shanghai (the Bund), or Xian (Terracotta Army). Perfect for first-timers!
• Got 8-10 days? Add Chengdu (pandas!), Guilin (karst mountains), or Hangzhou (West Lake) to your China trip itinerary for a richer mix of culture and nature.
• For 11-14 days, dive deeper with Zhangjiajie’s Avatar-like peaks, Huangshan’s mystical landscapes, or Tibet’s spiritual charm. Our China travel itinerary ensures smooth connections via high-speed trains and flights.
• If you’re up for 15+ days, go big! Explore Yunnan’s ethnic diversity, cruise the Yangtze River, or trace the Silk Road in China.

China Itinerary with Beijing, Shanghai or Xian: 5-7 Days

Two Ideas for a 5-6 Days’ China Itinerary: Focus on Two Iconic Cities

So, you’ve got 5-6 days in China? Perfect! For first-timers, we recommend focusing on two iconic cities to make the most of your time. Here are some amazing China itineraries to inspire your adventure:

• Option 1: Beijing + Shanghai (6 days)

Beijing Forbidden City

The Bund in February

Spend 4 days exploring Beijing’s timeless charm. Visit Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and the Great Wall for a deep dive into China’s history. And of course, savor Beijing’s iconic dishes like zhajiangmian and douzhi’er.

Want a taste of modernity? Add 2 days in Shanghai to explore Yu Garden, The Bund, and Shanghai Tower.

Day-by-Day Itinerary Layout:

Days 1-4: Beijing – Tian’anmen Square, Forbidden City, Jingshan Park, Summer Palace, Mutianyu Great Wall, Bird’s Nest & Water Cube

Days 5-6: Shanghai – Shanghai Tower, Yu Garden & Bazaar, Nanjing Road & The Bund

Recommended Tours:

6 Days Beijing Shanghai Small Group Tour

• Option 2: Beijing + Xi’an (6 days)

Beijing Jingshan Park

Xian Terracotta Warriors

Start with 4 days in Beijing to admire the Forbidden City, and hike the Mutianyu Great Wall. Then visit Tian’anmen Square, Summer Palace, Bird’s Nest and Water Cube.

After that, hop on a 4-hour high-speed train to Xian to see the Terracotta Army, bike the ancient city walls, and explore Big Wild Goose Pagoda and the vibrant Muslim Quarter.

It’s a compact yet unforgettable China trip itinerary! Here’s the Day-by-Day Itinerary Plan:

Days 1-4: Beijing – Forbidden City, Mutianyu Great Wall, Tian’anmen Square, Summer Palace, Bird’s Nest and Water Cube

Days 5-6: Xian – Terracotta Warriors, Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, Ancient Wall, Muslim Quarter, Shaanxi History Museum

Recommended Tours:

6 Days Beijing Xian Highlights Tour by High Speed Train

7-Day Classic China Itinerary: Beijing, Xi’an & Shanghai – A Journey Through Time

With just one more day, you can experience the best of China in a short time! This classic 7-day China travel itinerary combines Beijing, Xian, and Shanghai – three iconic cities that showcase China’s past and future. It’s the ultimate trip for first-timers!

Beijing Mutianyu Great Wall

Xian Ancient City Wall

Here’s how to spend one week in China:

Day 1-3: Beijing

Start your adventure in Beijing, where history comes alive. Explore the Forbidden City, marvel at the Mutianyu Great Wall, and wander through the Summer Palace. Don’t miss charming Old hutongs and taste Beijing’s famous Peking Duck.

Day 4-5: Xi’an

Next, fly to Xian, the ancient capital of China. Stand in awe of the Terracotta Warriors, bike along the Ancient City Wall, and immerse yourself in the lively Muslim Quarter. Visit the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda and the Shaanxi History Museum to dive deeper into China’s rich heritage.

Day 6-7: Shanghai

End your journey in Shanghai, a city where tradition meets innovation. Stroll along The Bund, explore the tranquil Yu Garden, and shop on Nanjing Road. For a bird’s-eye view, head up the Shanghai Tower, and don’t forget to visit the serene Jade Buddha Temple.

China Itinerary with Guilin, Chengdu or Hangzhou: 8-10 Days

If you have 8-10 days in China, go beyond the classic Beijing-Shanghai-Xian route and add Guilin, Chengdu, or Hangzhou to your China travel itinerary for a richer experience. Here are three amazing China travel ideas:

10 Days in China: Add Guilin Landscapes to Your Itinerary

Add Guilin to your trip for breathtaking landscapes! This 10-day China travel itinerary combines Shanghai’s modernity, Guilin’s breathtaking landscapes, Xian’s ancient wonders, and Beijing’s imperial grandeur.

Picturesque Guilin in Autumn

Cycling through Yangshuo Countryside

Here’s how to spend your 10 days in China:

Day 1-3: Shanghai

Start in Shanghai for 3 days of modernity. Here you can explore Yu Garden, The Bund, and Nanjing Road. Visit the Shanghai Tower for panoramic views and the Jade Buddha Temple for serenity.

Day 4-5: Guilin

Then fly to Guilin for 2 days of serene beauty and karst landscapes.

Take your time to cruise the Li River, cycle through Yangshuo’s countryside, wander around the West Street for local dishes, and don’t forget to visit Elephant Trunk Hill, a natural wonder that resembles a giant elephant sipping water from the Li River with its iconic trunk‌.

Day 6-7: Xi’an

Next, head to Xian for ancient wonders in China. Discover the Terracotta Warriors, bike the Ancient City Wall, and explore the Muslim Quarter.

Day 8-10: Beijing

Finally, take a high-speed train to Beijing. Tour the Forbidden City, hike the Mutianyu Great Wall, and wander through hutongs.

Recommended Tours:

10 Days Shanghai Guilin Xian Beijing Iconic China Tour

10 Days China Itinerary with Chengdu – Pandas & Spice

Love pandas? Add Chengdu to your adventure! This 10-day China travel itinerary is perfect for you—packed with family-friendly activities, cultural highlights, and memorable moments.

Cute Giant Panda

Tea Culture in Chengdu Renmin Park

Here’s how to plan your 10 days’ itinerary in China:

Day 1-3: Shanghai

Visit the Shanghai Museum to dive into Chinese history. Stroll through the classical Yu Garden and shop along Nanjing Road. Admire the skyline from The Bund and take in panoramic views from the Shanghai Tower. Unwind at the serene Jade Buddha Temple.

Day 4-5: Chengdu

Touch down in Chengdu, where laid-back vibes and incredible flavors await!

Start your day at the Chengdu Panda Base, where you’ll get up close with adorable giant pandas and playful red pandas. Next, stroll through Jinli Old Street, a lively hub of street food, teahouses, and traditional crafts!

For a true Chengdu experience, slow down like a local at Renmin Park—sip jasmine tea in a teahouse or even try an ear-cleaning service! Finally, find a moment of tranquility at Wenshu Monastery, an ancient Buddhist relic.

Day 6-7: Xi’an

Take a train to Xian and marvel at the Terracotta Warriors, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Bike along the Ancient City Wall and explore the bustling Muslim Quarter. Visit the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda and learn about Xi’an’s history at the Shaanxi History Museum.

Day 8-10: Beijing

Take a high-speed train to Beijing and tour the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square. Hike the Mutianyu Great Wall and explore the Summer Palace.

End your trip with a visit to the Temple of Heaven and modern landmarks like the Bird’s Nest and Water Cube.

Recommended Tours:

10 Days Shanghai Chengdu Xian Beijing Tour with Classic China & Pandas

10 Days China Itinerary with Hangzhou – A Taste of Jiangnan

Hangzhou, known as "Heaven on Earth"‌, rocks its UNESCO gem - misty West Lake vibes‌ and Alibaba's tech hustle‌. This 10-day China travel itinerary adds Hangzhou to the classic Beijing-Shanghai-Xian route for a mix of culture, history, and nature.

West Lake

Qinghefang Street

How to spend your 10 days in China?

Day 1-3: Shanghai

Start in Shanghai for 3 days of modern exploration. Visit the Shanghai Museum and stroll through the classical Yu Garden. Walk along The Bund and shop on Nanjing Road. Admire panoramic views from the Shanghai Tower and relax at the Jade Buddha Temple.

Day 4-5: Hangzhou

Hop on a quick 1-hour train ride to Hangzhou, a city that feels like a living Chinese painting.

Boat on West Lake for stunning postcard-perfect scenery. Step into history at Lingyin Temple, home to towering Buddha statues and hidden grotto carvings. Then, climb the Six Harmonies Pagoda for sweeping views of the mighty Qiantang River.

Immerse yourself in the China Tea Museum. End your day wandering Hefang Street, a lively mix of traditional shops, street snacks, and local artisans.

Day 6-7: Xi’an

Fly to Xian. Marvel at the Terracotta Warriors and bike the Ancient City Wall. Visit the Shaanxi History Museum and enjoy local snacks in the Muslim Quarter.

Day 8-10: Beijing

Take a high-speed train to Beijing. Tour the Forbidden City and hike the Mutianyu Great Wall. Explore the Summer Palace and Temple of Heaven, and admire modern landmarks like the Bird’s Nest and Water Cube.

Recommended Tours:

10 Days Shanghai Xian Beijing Top China Tour with Hangzhou West Lake & Water Town

China Itinerary with Zhangjiajie, Huangshan, or Tibet: 11-14 Days

With 11-14 days in China, why stop at the classics? Venture beyond Beijing, Xi’an, and Shanghai for deeper adventures.

Zhangjiajie’s Avatar-like peaks, Huangshan’s misty summits, and Tibet’s spiritual wonders add breathtaking landscapes and deep culture. Which adventure calls to you?

11 Days China Itinerary with Zhangjiajie

Zhangjiajie Autumn

Huangshizhai Village, Zhangjiajie

Zhangjiajie’s towering sandstone pillars and misty landscapes captivate nature lovers. This 11-day trip spans Shanghai’s modern charm, Zhangjiajie’s wonders, and the rich heritage of Xian and Beijing.

Check the day-by-day itinerary plan for 11 days in China:

Days 1-3: Shanghai

Explore Shanghai Museum, Yu Garden, and The Bund. Enjoy city views from Shanghai Tower and stroll Nanjing Road before flying to Zhangjiajie.

Days 4-6: Zhangjiajie

In Zhangjiajie, adventure awaits!

Ride the Tianmen Mountain Cableway, one of the world's longest cable cars. Dare to cross the Glass Skywalk, a thrilling cliffside path with heart-stopping drops, before marveling at the iconic Tianmen Cave, a natural rock arch known as the "Heaven’s Gate."

Step into the cinematic world of Wulingyuan Scenic Area, home to Avatar Hallelujah Mountain and the stunning peaks of Tianzi Mountain. For the ultimate rush, walk across the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge, the world’s highest and longest glass-bottom bridge!

Then, fly to Xian for the next chapter of your journey.

Days 7-8: Xi’an

On day 7, marvel at the Terracotta Warriors, cycle Ancient City Wall, and taste local food in Muslim Quarter. The last day in Xian, visit Big Wild Goose Pagoda before taking a high-speed train to Beijing.

Days 9-11: Beijing

Explore the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and hike the Mutianyu Great Wall. Visit Summer Palace and Beijing’s hutongs before departure.

Recommended Tours:

11 Days China Scenic & Cultural Tour in Group (Shanghai Zhangjiajie Xian Beijing)

11 Days China Itinerary with Huangshan

‌Huangshan’s sea of clouds, pine-covered peaks, and ancient villages offer a stunning natural escape. This 11 days China trip itinerary connects Shanghai, Huangshan, Xian, and Beijing, blending nature and heritage.

Sunset in Yellow Mountain

Yellow Mountain

Day-by-Day Plan:

Days 1-3: Shanghai

Start your journey in Shanghai. Visit Shanghai Museum, Yuyuan Garden, and The Bund. Discover Shanghai Tower and Jade Buddha Temple before taking a train to Huangshan.

Days 4-6: Huangshan

Arrive in Huangshan and stroll through Tunxi Old Street, where centuries-old shops sell local tea, ink, and souvenirs.

Then, climb the Huangshan Mountain, where towering peaks pierce through the mist. Watch a magical sunrise over the sea of clouds and hike through the stunning landscapes of West Sea Grand Canyon.

After soaking in Huangshan’s breathtaking beauty, take a train to Xian, where history comes alive!

Days 7-8: Xi’an

On Day 7, see the Terracotta Army, cycle the Ancient City Wall, and enjoy Muslim Quarter. Next, visit Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, then take a train to Beijing.

Days 9-11: Beijing

In Beijing, tour the Forbidden City, hike the Mutianyu Great Wall, and relax at Summer Palace. Explore hutongs before departure.

Recommended Tours:

11 Days Shanghai Huangshan Xian Beijing China Bullet Train Tour

13 Days China Itinerary with Tibet Adventure to EBC

‌Tibet’s landscapes, sacred sites, and Himalayan vistas create a life-in-time journey. This itinerary covers Shanghai, Tibet (Lhasa & Everest Base Camp), Xian, and Beijing.

Lhasa Potala Palace

Mount Everest Base Camp

Check the day-by-day itinerary layout:

Days 1-2: Shanghai

Spend your first two days in Shanghai. Visit Shanghai Museum, Yu Garden, The Bund, and Nanjing Road before flying to Tibet.

Days 3-8: Tibet

Upon arrival, rest and acclimate at your hotel in Lhasa.

Take your time to explore Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple & Barkhor Street. Explore Yamdrok Lake and Karo La Glacier. Visit Shigatse’s Tashilhunpo Monastery, then reach Everest Base Camp. Witness Everest from Rongbuk Monastery, then fly to Xian.

Days 9-10: Xi’an

In Xian, tour the Terracotta Warriors, cycle the Ancient City Wall, and visit Shaanxi History Museum, then take a train to Beijing.

Days 11-13: Beijing

In Beijing, see the Forbidden City, hike Mutianyu Great Wall, and visit Summer Palace before departure.

Recommended Tours:

13 Days Shanghai Tibet Xian Beijing Tour

China Itinerary with Yunnan or Yangtze River Cruise: 15+ Days of Exploration

Planning 11-14 days in China? Break free from the usual route—there’s so much more beyond Beijing, Xi’an, and Shanghai!

Add Yunnan’s breathtaking landscapes or embark on a Yangtze River Cruise for a deeper dive into China’s culture and natural beauty.

15-Day Panoramic China Travel Itinerary: Giant Pandas, Lhasa, & Guilin

Start with the 15-day panoramic tour to see the best of China.

From Shanghai’s futuristic skyline to Guilin’s poetic landscapes, from panda encounters in Chengdu to Tibet’s sacred temples, this 15 days China itinerary takes you across China’s vast and diverse heritage.

Lhasa Jokhang Temple

Chengdu Taikoo Li

Itinerary Overview:

Days 1-2: Shanghai – The Bund, Yu Garden, Shanghai Tower, Nanjing Road, Jade Buddha Temple.

Days 3-4: Guilin – Li River cruise, Yangshuo countryside, West Street.

Days 5-6: Chengdu – Panda Base, Wenshu Monastery, Renmin Park, Jinli Old Street.

Days 7-9: Tibet – Potala Palace, Barkhor Street, Jokhang Temple.

Days 10-12: Xi’an – Terracotta Warriors, Ancient City Wall, Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, Muslim Quarter.

Days 13-15: Beijing – Forbidden City, Mutianyu Great Wall, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace.

Recommended Tours:

15 Days China Panorama Tour with Panda, Tibet & Beautiful Guilin

16-Day China Itinerary with Yunnan: Kunming, Shangri-La, Lijiang

Yunnan, a land of eternal spring, blends stunning landscapes with diverse cultures. From Kunming’s karst formations of Stone Forest to Tibetan monasteries in Shangri-La, this 16-day China itinerary with Yunnan offers a fusion of nature, history, and local traditions.

Sifang Street, the center of Lijiang Old Town

Yunnan Songzanlin Monastery

Itinerary Overview:

Days 1-3: Shanghai – The Bund, Yu Garden, Jade Buddha Temple.

Day 4: Kunming

In Kunming, wander through the surreal Stone Forest, where towering limestone formations create a labyrinth of rock spires and caves. Then visit Yuantong Temple, a tranquil oasis with a stunning golden Buddha and ancient halls reflecting in the lotus-filled pond.

Day 5: Shangri-La

Step into a Tibetan wonderland at Songzanlin Monastery, Yunnan’s largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery. Then, escape into nature at Pudacuo National Park, where alpine meadows, pristine lakes, and grazing yaks create an untouched paradise.

Days 6-7: Lijiang

Marvel at the dramatic canyons of Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the world’s deepest gorges, where the Jinsha River roars between towering cliffs. Stroll around Black Dragon Pool, a serene park with postcard views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.

Finally, explore the charming Lijiang Old Town, a UNESCO-listed maze of cobbled streets, wooden houses, and lively markets.

Days 8-11: Chengdu – Panda Base, Leshan Giant Buddha, Mount Emei.

Days 12-13: Xi’an – Terracotta Warriors, Ancient Wall, Shaanxi History Museum.

Days 14-16: Beijing – Forbidden City, Mutianyu Great Wall, Summer Palace, Tian’anmen Square.

Recommended Tours:

16 Days Shanghai Chengdu Xian Beijing Beautiful China Tour with Yunnan

17-Day China Itinerary with Yangtze River Cruise

Combine China’s historical treasures with the serene beauty of the Yangtze River! From Shanghai’s cosmopolitan charm to a scenic cruise through the Three Gorges, this 17 days China itinerary offers a blend of cultural immersion and natural splendor.

Yangtze Gold 7

Party on Yangtze River Cruise

Here’s the itinerary overview:

Days 1-3: Shanghai – Wander along The Bund, get lost in the classical beauty of Yu Garden, and admire the Jade Buddha Temple’s peaceful aura.

Days 4-6: Yangtze River Cruise (Yichang to Chongqing)

The cruise embarks in Yichang and sails into the heart of the Three Gorges. First stop is the Three Gorges Dam, an engineering marvel shaping China’s future!

Then glide through the Xiling Gorge’s dramatic cliffs before stepping into a wooden sampan to explore the untouched Shennong Stream. Pass through the ethereal Wu Gorge, where mist dances over lush peaks, then enter Qutang Gorge, the narrowest and most spectacular of them all.

Then explore the ancient White Emperor City, a legendary site perched on a cliff. Finally, we arrive in Chongqing.

Day 7: Chongqing – Experience history at the Three Gorges Museum, then stroll through the lively Ciqikou Old Town, a maze of teahouses and street snacks.

Days 8-9: Chengdu – Meet giant pandas up close, then spice up your trip with a fiery Sichuan hotpot experience.

Days 10-12: Tibet – Marvel at the Potala Palace’s golden rooftops, join local pilgrims at Jokhang Temple, and witness debating monks at Sera Monastery.

Days 13-14: Xian – Stand before the Terracotta Warriors, bike along the Ancient City Wall, and taste Xi’an’s famous street food in the Muslim Quarter.

Days 15-17: Beijing – Walk through imperial history in the Forbidden City, hike the scenic Mutianyu Great Wall, and experience the harmony of the Temple of Heaven.

Recommended Tours:

17 Days China Highlights Tour with Holy Tibet Discovery & Chengdu Pandas

Visa-Free Travel to China – Explore with Ease!

Great news for travelers! China now offers a visa-free entry policy for 38+9 countries until December 31, 2025. Check the Visa-free policy if your country is on the list!

• 38 Countries Visa-Free – If you're from France, Germany, Italy, Malaysia, Switzerland, or 33 other countries, you can visit China visa-free for up to 30 days for tourism, business, family visits, or transit.
• New 9-Country Trial – Since November 30, 2024, citizens of Japan, Romania, Bulgaria, Croatia, and more also enjoy the 30-day visa-free stay.

If you're eligible, your China travel itinerary just got easier! No visa hassle—just pack your bags and explore. From the Great Wall to panda encounters, from bustling cities to hidden gems, your dream China tour awaits!

Let Asia Odyssey Travel take care of the details. Private guides, exclusive experiences, seamless transfers, and handpicked accommodations—we craft the perfect itinerary in China for you.

Asia Odyssey Travel: Your China Itinerary Expert

Your adventure in China deserves expert planning, and that’s where Asia Odyssey Travel comes in.

Whether you seek a seamless itinerary in China, stress-free transportation, or knowledgeable local guides, our tailor-made China itineraries ensure a smooth, immersive experience.

Skip the hassle and dive straight into exploration—our carefully crafted China travel ideas guarantee an amazing journey. Let us handle the details while you enjoy the magic of China.

Ready to plan your dream China trip itinerary? Contact us today and let’s make it happen!

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Itinerary Ideas for Different China Destinations