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China Itinerary 10 Days: 5 Best Itinerary Ideas for First-timer

Written by Celine Schneider|Updated: 2025-03-14

China is an amazing country that draws millions of visitors each year. With its ancient temples, modern cities, delicious food, and rich culture, China offers something for every traveler.

For many visitors, China's 10-day visa-free policy makes it even easier to explore this incredible destination, and we have 5 itinerary ideas to plan your 10-day trip.

Most first-time visitors want to see Beijing, Xi'an, and Shanghai. These cities are home to famous sites like the Great Wall, Terracotta Warriors, and The Bund. With 10 days, you can visit these main cities and add one more stop (like Guilin, Chengdu...) to your journey.

But maybe you want something different? Don't worry - we have four other trip plans for you. These include family trips with pandas, adventure tours in the mountains, cultural visits to Hong Kong and Yunnan, and historic journeys along the Silk Road.

China is a big country, and you can't see it all in one trip. Take your time to enjoy the chinese food, walk around the cities, and experience local life. These five trip plans will help you make the most of your 10 days in China.

Visa-free Travel to China:

Starting December 2024, transit travelers from 54 countries can stay for up to 10 days without a visa. Better yet, visitors from France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and several Asian countries enjoy 30-day visa-free stays through 2025.

US, UK, and Canadian passport holders can visit for 6 days visa-free. Learn more details about How to Visit China Without a Visa in 2025>>

Content Preview

  • triangle#1: China 10 Days Classic Itinerary (Ideal for First Timers)
  • triangle#2: China Itinerary 10 Days - Beijing, Xi'an, Chengdu, Shanghai (for Family)
  • triangle#3: 10 Days in China: Itinerary for Adventure
  • triangle#4: 10 Days in Hong Kong and Yunnan (for Culture & Nature Lovers)
  • triangle#5: China Itinerary 10 Days - Silk Road from Xi'an to Kashgar (Ideal for History Lovers)
  • triangleHow Much Dose It Cost for 10 Days in China
  • triangleLet Asia Odyssey Travel Plan Your Perfect-Length China Tour

Top 6 China 10 Days Itineraries & Tours

#1: China 10 Days Classic Itinerary (Ideal for First Timers)

China 10 Days Classic Itinerary Map
China 10 Days Classic Itinerary Map

Planning your first 10 days in China? You've got to start with Beijing, Xi'an, and Shanghai - everyone does, and honestly, it makes sense. These cities are basically everything you think of when you picture China. Like all those photos you've probably saved on your phone while planning this trip.

Then add Guilin to the mix. After all those busy cities, you'll need a breather. Just hop on a boat down the Li River to Yangshuo, check out those crazy-looking mountains (they're even better in real life), and maybe grab a bike or bamboo raft to explore the countryside.

Below is an overview of this itinerary.

Day Cities Highlight Overnight
1 Beijing Arrival Beijing
2 Beijing Tian'anmen Square, Forbidden City, Jingshan Park, Summer Palace Beijing
3 Beijing Mutianyu Great Wall, Glimpse of Bird's Nest & Water Cube Beijing
4 Xi'an High Speed Train Ride to Xi'an Xi'an
5 Xi'an Terracotta Warriors, Ancient Wall, Bell Tower Xi'an
6 Xi'an Giant Wild Goose Pagoda and Muslim Quarter Guilin
7 Guilin Li River Cruise, Yangshuo Countryside, West Street Guilin
8 Guilin Elephant Trunk Hill, Reed Flute Cave Shanghai
9 Shanghai Shanghai Tower, Yu Garden, The Bund Shanghai
10 Shanghai Departure /

Day 1-3: Beijing

Beijing Jingshan Park
Beijing Jingshan Park
Beijing Summer Palace
Beijing Summer Palace

Highlights:

  • Forbidden City: The world's largest palace complex - 600 years of imperial power, 9,999 rooms of Ming and Qing history, and incredible architecture that shows just how mighty ancient China was
  • Summer Palace: An incredible imperial garden with the world's longest painted corridor, massive lake, and ornate temples - it's basically a perfect Chinese painting come to life
  • Mutianyu Great Wall: One of the best-preserved sections of the Great Wall, built in the 1300s and stretching dramatically across mountain ridges. Epic views and way less crowded than other sections

For Beijing, China's capital both past and present, two days just isn't enough. We really suggest taking at least 3 days (including your arrival day). Sure, you can't see everything in 3 days, but you should definitely cover the must-sees like the Forbidden City, Summer Palace, and Great Wall.

Group all the city sites together in one day - you'll hit Tiananmen Square, walk through the massive Forbidden City, get the best views from Jingshan Park, and end your day at the beautiful Summer Palace.

The Great Wall needs a whole day by itself - it's worth it. If you're picking which section of the Wall to visit near Beijing, go with Mutianyu Great Wall. It's not super crowded, has good tourist facilities, and the scenery is fantastic.

Related Article:How to Plan a Beijing Tour (Itineraries & Travel Length)

Day 4-6: Xi'an

Visit Terracotta Warriors and Have Fun with AOT
Visit Terracotta Warriors and Have Fun with AOT
Enjoy Cycling Experience on Xian Ancient City Wall
Enjoy Cycling Experience on Xian Ancient City Wall

Main Attractions:

  • Terracotta Warriors: 8,000 clay soldiers, all life-sized, all with different faces. They've been guarding China's first emperor for over 2,000 years.
  • Ancient City Wall: You can bike or walk on top of a massive wall that goes around the whole city. Rent a bike up there - it takes about 2-3 hours to cycle the whole wall.
  • Giant Wild Goose Pagoda: It's a huge Buddhist tower from 1,300 years ago that actually leans a bit! The squares around it are great for people-watching, and at night they have a really nice water and music show.

Take the high-speed train to Xi'an on Day 4. It takes about 4-5 hours and is one of the fastest trains in the world, reaching speeds up to 360km/h. Here's a good tip: in China, high-speed trains are best for trips under 4-5 hours. For longer distances, flying is better.

Day 5 is for Xi'an's highlights. Don't miss the Terracotta Warriors - they're amazing up close, and each warrior has a unique face. The Ancient City Wall is fantastic - rent a bike and ride around it, that's the best way to see it.

The Bell Tower sits in the city center and looks beautiful at sunset. This area is also one of Xi'an's main hotel districts, within walking distance to major attractions.

On Day 6, visit the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, one of Xi'an's most famous landmarks. Explore the bustling Muslim Quarter - it's perfect for lunch. Then fly to Guilin, which takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes. You'll arrive at Guilin Liangjiang International Airport, about 18km from downtown. It takes 30-40 minutes to reach the city center.

Related Article:How to Plan A Xian Tour | Useful Xian Planning Guide

Day 7-8: Guilin

Guests relaxing on bamboo rafts in Yulong River
Guests relaxing on bamboo rafts in Yulong River
Our guests enjoying Yangshuo's countryside
Our guests enjoying Yangshuo's countryside

Highlights:

  • Li River Cruise: China's prettiest river views. For 4.5 hours, you cruise past tall rock peaks that rise from clear water. Just like a real Chinese painting.
  • Yangshuo: Perfect for a quiet country trip. You can climb rocks, ride bikes past rice fields, or float on bamboo rafts down Yulong River. At night, West Street has great food and a fun vibe.
  • Reed Flute Cave: A huge old cave, over 240 million years old. Colored lights shine on rock shapes inside. You'll see rocks that look like trees and animals.
  • Elephant Trunk Hill: Guilin's top sight. This 55-meter rock looks just like an elephant drinking from the river. Between its trunk and body, there's a cave called Water Moon Cave.

2 days is a bit rushed for Guilin, so focus on what's really worth your time - the Li River cruise. This is why people come here. When the cruise ends, you'll be in Yangshuo, which is actually better than Guilin city. The views are more stunning and the town is more fun. That's why Day 7 is all about the Li River cruise and Yangshuo, with an overnight stay there.

Day 8 is mainly for travel and seeing some city sites in Guilin (Reed Flute Cave and Elephant Trunk Hill). This keeps your journey interesting rather than just being a travel day. This timing works well for your Shanghai flight too. It's about 2-2.5 hours in the air, and most flights arrive at Pudong International Airport.

How to Plan A Guilin Tour | Useful Guilin Planning Guide

Top 10 Guilin Tourist Attractions - Things to Do & Places to Visit

Day 9-10: Shanghai

Explore Modern Shanghai in Small Group with AOT
Explore Modern Shanghai in Small Group with AOT
Yu Garden, Shanghai
Yu Garden, Shanghai

Highlights:

  • The Bund: Shanghai's most famous view - old European buildings on one side, super tall skyscrapers on the other. Best seen at night when all the lights are on.
  • Yu Garden: A perfect old Chinese garden in the middle of the city. It's over 400 years old, with dragon walls, rock gardens, and old tea houses.
  • Shanghai Tower: The world's second-tallest building. The view from the 118th floor is amazing - you can see the whole city spread out below.
  • Nanjing Road: The city's main shopping street. It's always busy, with everything from old Chinese shops to modern malls.

After visiting China's ancient capitals (Beijing and Xi'an) and natural beauty (Guilin), Shanghai shows you modern China. One full day is enough for the main sites because they're all downtown. You can easily walk or take short subway rides between them.

Day 9 keeps you focused on city sights, following a natural path through Shanghai - start at Yu Garden in the morning (fewer crowds), then move to Nanjing Road, and end at The Bund. Save The Bund and Shanghai Tower for late afternoon - they're special when lit up at night.

Day 10 is your departure day. Shanghai is China's most modern and international city, with great airports and reliable transport. This makes leaving easier, especially for international flights.

Related Article:How to Plan a Trip to Shanghai 2025: Shanghai Planning for First Timers

#2: China Itinerary 10 Days - Beijing, Xi'an, Chengdu, Shanghai (for Family)

China 10 days family Itinerary Map
China 10 days family Itinerary Map

Planning a family trip to China? The Beijing-Xi'an-Shanghai combo is the classic China route for a reason. These three cities are essential for any first-time family trip to China - they cover the country's past, present, and future in one trip.

Adding Chengdu is a smart move for families. It's not just about the pandas (though they're a huge hit with kids). Chengdu adds a cultural and relaxed vibe to the trip, with its tea houses, spicy food, and Jinli Old Street. It's a refreshing break between the history of Xi'an and the modernity of Shanghai, giving everyone a chance to unwind and enjoy.

Here is a quick overview for this itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Beijing

Day 2: Beijing City Tour (Tian'anmen Square, Forbidden City, Jingshan Park, Summer Palace)

Day 3: Beijing Great Wall Tour (Mutianyu Great Wall, Glimpse of Bird's Nest & Water Cube)

Day 4: Beijing to Xi'an High Speed Train Ride

Day 5: Xian City Tour (Terracotta Warriors, Ancient City Wall, Bell Tower)

Day 6: Xian Tour (Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, Muslim Quarter)

Day 7: Chengdu Classic Tour (Chengdu Panda Base, Sanxingdui Museum, Jinli Old Street)

Day 8: Chengdu to Shanghai by Flight

Day 9: Shanghai City Tour (Shanghai Tower, Yu Garden & Bazaar, Nanjing Road & The Bund)

Day 10: Departure from Shanghai

Day 1-3: Beijing

Visit Mutianyu Great Wall in Small Group with AOT
Visit Mutianyu Great Wall in Small Group with AOT
Mount Hua Hiking Experience with AOT
Mount Hua Hiking Experience with AOT

Main Attractions: Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Mutianyu Great Wall

Start your China trip in Beijing. Rest up when you arrive, then dive into the big sites. The massive Forbidden City and beautiful Summer Palace show you imperial China at its best. For the Great Wall, head to Mutianyu - it's less crowded, with stunning views and an easy cable car ride up.

Related Article:Top 10 Beijing Tourist Attractions | Best Places to Visit in Beijing

Day 4-6: Xi'an

Highlights: Terracotta Warriors, Ancient City Wall, Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, Muslim Quarter

Fast train from Beijing - just 4-5 hours and you're in China's ancient capital. You'll see the famous Terracotta Warriors (each one is different - really!), bike on the City Wall (best way to see Xi'an), and eat amazing food in the Muslim Quarter. It's perfect for two days - ancient wonders plus real local life.

Related Article:Xian Itineraries | How to Spend 1 Day, 2 Days, 3 Days, 4 Days in Xian

Day 7-8: Chengdu

Sanxingdui Bronze Head
Sanxingdui Bronze Head
Tea Culture in Chengdu Renmin Park
Tea Culture in Chengdu Renmin Park

Highlights:

  • Chengdu Panda Base: The top place to see giant pandas in the world. Over 100 pandas live here in big bamboo gardens. Come in the morning to see them at their most active - eating, playing, and climbing trees. You can even see baby pandas in the nursery. This is way better than any zoo.
  • Sanxingdui Museum: A 3,000-year-old lost city! You'll see huge bronze masks and gold items.
  • Jinli Old Street: A 2,000-year-old market street that still feels alive today.

After all the history in Beijing and Xi'an, you need something different. That's why Chengdu is perfect right now. It's a relaxed city with three amazing things: cute pandas (the kids will love this!), the cool new finds at Sanxingdui (they just dug up some crazy-looking gold masks), and real local life.

One day is just right here - you can see the pandas in the morning, check out Sanxingdui, and end with some great food at Jinli Street. Then hop on a quick flight to Shanghai on day 8. It's a nice break for the family.

Related Article:How to Plan A Chengdu Tour | Useful Chengdu Planning Guide

Day 9-10: Shanghai

Main Attractions: Shanghai Tower, Yu Garden & Bazaar, Nanjing Road & The Bund

Perfect ending to your China trip. Shanghai shows you the future after seeing all that history. Hits the must-sees: Yu Garden in the morning, then The Bund at sunset (trust me, the view is amazing when the lights come on). Take the elevator up Shanghai Tower - you can see the whole city from up there.

Related Article:15 Best Things to Do in Shanghai, Top, Unusual & Things to Do in Shanghai

#3: 10 Days in China: Itinerary for Adventure

10 Days China Adventure itinerary Map
10 Days China Adventure itinerary Map

This itinerary is perfect for adventurous travelers who want to go beyond the usual tourist spots. This route is unlike any other China trip. it's about adventure, culture, and nature at their most awe-inspiring.

The logical flow of the trip—starting in Chengdu, moving to Lhasa, and culminating at Everest—makes it manageable and rewarding.

Day 1: Arrival in Chengdu

Day 2: Chengdu Classic Tour (Chengdu Panda Base, Jinli Old Street)

Day 3: Chengdu to Lhasa by Flight

Day 4: Lhasa City Tour (Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street)

Day 5: Lhasa Surrounding Tour (Dadong Village, Sera Monastery)

Day 6: Lhasa - Gyantse - Shigatse (Yamdrok Lake, Karola Glacier)

Day 7: Shigatse - Everest Base Camp (Mount Everest, Rongbuk Monastery)

Day 8: Mt. Everest - Shigatse (Tashilumpo Monastery)

Day 9: Shigatse to Lhasa

Day 10: Lhasa Departure

Day 1-2: Chengdu

Highlights: Chengdu Panda Base, Wenshu Monastery, People's Park, and Jinli Old Street

Start your trip in Chengdu with a relaxed pace to save energy for later adventures. On Day 2, visit the Chengdu Panda Base in the morning when pandas are most active. Then explore Wenshu Monastery, People's Park, and Jinli Old Street.

Related Article:Top 15 Things to Do in Chengdu - Chengdu Attractions & Places to Visit

Day 3-5: Lhasa

Jokhang Monastery, Lhasa
Jokhang Monastery, Lhasa
Lhasa Sera Monastery
Lhasa Sera Monastery

Main Attractions:

  • Potala Palace: The symbol of Tibet, this massive palace was the Dalai Lama's winter home. With over 1,000 rooms, golden roofs, and epic views, it's a must-see.
  • Jokhang Temple: The spiritual heart of Tibet, where pilgrims pray and prostrate. Over 1,300 years old.
  • Barkhor Street: A lively hub around Jokhang Temple, packed with pilgrims, shops, and local life. It's the best spot to feel Lhasa's authentic vibe.
  • Sera Monastery: Famous for its monk debates—monks argue Buddhist philosophy with hand gestures and claps.

It starts with a smooth transition from Chengdu to Lhasa by flight, giving you time to adjust to the altitude without rushing.

On day 4 in Lhasa focuses on iconic landmarks like the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple, which are must-sees for understanding Tibetan culture and history.

On day 5 takes you outside the city to experience rural life at Dadong Village and the unique monk debates at Sera Monastery—adding depth and variety to your trip.

How to Visit Lhasa: How to Plan Lhasa Tour

What to Do in Lhasa? Unlock 15 Lhasa Attractions (2025)

Day 6-7: Everest Base Camp

Gyawu La Pass in Tibet
Gyawu La Pass in Tibet
Tibet Yamdrok Lake
Tibet Yamdrok Lake

Highlights:

  • Yamdrok Lake: A turquoise gem surrounded by snow-capped mountains. It's one of Tibet's most sacred lakes, and the views are absolutely stunning.
  • Karola Glacier: A massive glacier right by the road—you can almost touch it.
  • Gawula Pass: The best viewpoint to see Mount Everest from a distance. On a clear day, the view of the world's highest peak is unforgettable.
  • Everest Base Camp: The ultimate destination. Standing at the foot of Mount Everest is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Rongbuk Monastery: The highest monastery in the world, with Everest as its backdrop.

It's a long but amazing drive from Lhasa - about 680km. Break up the trip with a night in Shigatse. On the way, you'll see the stunning Yamdrok Lake and Karola Glacier right by the road.

On day 7, head to Everest Base Camp. You'll get close to the world's highest peak and visit Rongbuk Monastery. The views are absolutely incredible!

Related Article:How to Plan a Trip to Tibet Everest Base Camp: 8 Easy Steps (2025 Guide)

Day 8-10: EBC to Lhasa via Shigatse

Tashilhunpo Monastery in Shigatse Tibet
Tashilhunpo Monastery in Shigatse Tibet
Tashilhunpo Monastery in Shigatse Tibet
Tashilhunpo Monastery in Shigatse Tibet

  • Tashilumpo Monastery: The seat of the Panchen Lama and one of Tibet's most important monasteries. It's huge, with golden roofs, massive statues, and ancient murals.

After the high-altitude adventure at Everest Base Camp, stopping in Shigatse gives you a chance to rest and recharge while exploring the impressive Tashilumpo Monastery.

The drive back to Lhasa on Day 9 is relaxed, allowing you to soak in the stunning Tibetan landscape one last time. By Day 10, you're back in Lhasa, ready for a smooth departure.

#4: 10 Days in Hong Kong and Yunnan (for Culture & Nature Lovers)

10 Days China itinerary Map
10 Days China itinerary Map

This itinerary is perfect for travelers who want the best of both worlds. It's ideal for culture enthusiasts who want to explore ethnic traditions, nature lovers who crave stunning landscapes, and adventurers who enjoy a mix of urban and rural experiences.

Starting in Hong Kong gives you a taste of modern Asia with its skyline, markets, and vibrant culture.

Then, the journey shifts to Yunnan, one of China's most diverse and stunning regions, known for its ethnic cultures, ancient towns, and breathtaking landscapes.

Day 1: Arrival in Hong Kong

Day 2: Hong Kong Half-day Tour (Victoria Peak, Aberdeen Fishing Village & Stanley Market)

Day 3: Hong Kong to Kunming by High Speed Train

Day 4: Kunming Classic Tour (Stone Forest, Yuantong Temple)

Day 5: Kunming to Dali (Three Pagodas, Erhai Lake, Dali Old Town)

Day 6: Dali to Lijiang (Xizhou Ancient Town, Zhoucheng, Lijiang Ancient Town)

Day 7: Lijiang Classic Tour (Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Baisha Ancient Town)

Day 8: Lijiang to Shangri-La (First Bend of Yangtze River, Tiger Leaping Gorge)

Day 9: Shangri-La (Ganden Sumtseling Monastery, Potatso National Park)

Day 10: Shangri-La Departure

Day 1-2: Hong Kong

Stanley Market, Hong Kong
Stanley Market, Hong Kong
Aberdeen Fishing Village
Aberdeen Fishing Village

Highlights:

  • Victoria Peak: The best view of Hong Kong's skyline. Take the tram up, and you'll see the city, harbor, and mountains all at once.
  • Aberdeen Fishing Village: A glimpse of old Hong Kong. See traditional fishing boats and floating restaurants.
  • Stanley Market: A lively spot for shopping and eating. Think souvenirs, local crafts, and street food. It's relaxed and fun, right by the waterfront.

Hong Kong is familiar yet exciting—it's easy to navigate, English-friendly, and packed with iconic sights. The day tour on Day 2 is efficient, hitting the highlights (Victoria Peak, Aberdeen, Stanley Market) without overwhelming you.

Hong Kong Itineraries | How to Spend half Day, 1 Day, 2/4/5 Days in Hong Kong

Things to Do in Hong Kong | 16 Best, Fun, Relaxing Things to Do in Hong Kong

Day 3-4: Kunming

Stone Forest, a National Geological Park
Stone Forest, a National Geological Park
Symmetrical Architecture, Yuantong Temple
Symmetrical Architecture, Yuantong Temple

Highlights:

  • Stone Forest: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of China's most unique natural wonders. Picture hundreds of towering limestone pillars shaped like a forest.
  • Yuantong Temple: One of China's oldest and most beautiful Buddhist temples, dating back over 1,200 years.

You'll need 2 days to travel from Hong Kong to Kunming and explore the city.

Day 3 is for the high-speed train or flight from Hong Kong to Kunming.

Day 4 is for exploring Kunming. Visit the Stone Forest, a unique natural wonder, and Yuantong Temple, one of China's oldest Buddhist temples.

17 Things to Do in Kunming | Kunming Attractions & Places to Visit

How to Plan a Kunming Tour, Ultimate Kunming Trip Guide 2025

Day 5-7: Dali & Lijiang

Erhai Lake Cycling Trail
Erhai Lake Cycling Trail
Black Dragon Pool Park Autumn View
Black Dragon Pool Park Autumn View

Highlights:

  • Erhai Lake: It's perfect for a peaceful boat ride or cycling along the shore.
  • Dali Old Town: A charming ancient town with cobblestone streets, traditional Bai architecture, and a laid-back vibe.
  • Lijiang Ancient Town: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with winding canals, stone bridges, and Naxi culture.
  • Jade Dragon Snow Mountain: A stunning mountain range with snow-capped peaks. Take a cable car up for breathtaking views and visit Blue Moon Valley for its turquoise waters.

Dali and Lijiang are Yunnan's most iconic destinations, connected by high-speed train in just 1.5-2.5 hours. If you're short on time, spend about 1.5 days in each place.

Start in Dali with the Three Pagodas, Erhai Lake, and Dali Old Town to experience Bai ethnic culture. Then, travel to Lijiang, stopping at Xizhou and Zhoucheng for traditional village life.

In Lijiang, explore the ancient town, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, and Baisha Ancient Town.

How to Plan a Trip to Lijiang Yunnan (2025)?

How to Plan a Trip to Dali, Yunnan (2025/2026)

Day 8-10: Shangri-La

Paradise on Earth - Shangri-La
Paradise on Earth - Shangri-La
Stunning natural beauty of Pudacuo National Park
Stunning natural beauty of Pudacuo National Park

Main Attractions: Tiger Leaping Gorge, Ganden Sumtseling Monastery, Potatso National Park

3 days is enough to explore Shangri-La's key highlights without feeling rushed. It balances travel time (with scenic stops like First Bend of Yangtze River and Tiger Leaping Gorge) and exploration time (with Ganden Sumtseling Monastery and Potatso National Park).

Take a day trip journey from Lijiang to Shangri-La includes two iconic natural sites—the First Bend of Yangtze River and Tiger Leaping Gorge.

On day 9 explore Shangri-la, Ganden Sumtseling Monastery is a spiritual highlight, offering a deep dive into Tibetan Buddhism. Potatso National Park is a natural gem, with its pristine lakes, forests, and wildlife, giving you a chance to connect with nature.

Related Article:How to Plan a Trip to Shangri-La Yunnan? (10 Easy Steps)

#5: China Itinerary 10 Days - Silk Road from Xi'an to Kashgar (Ideal for History Lovers)

10 Days China Silk Road itinerary Map
10 Days China Silk Road itinerary Map

This 10-day Silk Road itinerary from Xi'an to Kashgar is a top recommendation for travelers seeking less-crowded, culturally rich destinations. It covers the entire Silk Road, offering a unique journey through history, culture, and stunning landscapes of China's west.

From the Terracotta Warriors in Xi'an to the Mogao Caves in Dunhuang, the Jiaohe Ruins in Turpan, and the Pamir Plateau near Kashgar, this trip traces Marco Polo's footsteps and immerses you in Uyghur culture.

Day 1: Xian Arrival

Day 2: Xian Tour (Terracotta Warriors, Ancient City Wall, Bell & Drum Tower, Muslim Quarter)

Day 3: Xian Tour (Xian Museum, Ancient City Wall, Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, Hanfu Experience, Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City)

Day 4: Xian to Dunhuang by Flight (Mingsha Mountain & Crescent Lake)

Day 5: Dunhuang to Turpan by High Speed Train (Mogao Caves)

Day 6: Turpan to Urumqi (Jiaohe Ancient City Ruins (World Heritage), Karez System, Emin Minaret)

Day 7: Urumqi - Tianchi Lake - Urumqi (Heavenly Lake of Tianshan (World Heritage), Xinjiang Regional Museum)

Day 8: Urumqi to Kashgar by Flight (Kashgar Old City (Id Kah Mosque, Ancient Tea House)

Day 9: Kashgar - Karakul Lake - Kashgar (Pamir Plateau, Baisha Lake, Karakul Lake)

Day 10: Kashgar Departure

Day 1-3: Xi'an

Highlights: Terracotta Warriors, Ancient City Wall, Muslim Quarter, Xian Museum, Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City

Three days is the perfect amount of time to explore Xi'an's key highlights without feeling rushed. Day 1 lets you settle in and explore freely.

Day 2 covers iconic sites like the Terracotta Warriors, Ancient City Wall and Muslim Quarter. Day 3 deepens your experience with the Xi'an Museum, Hanfu try-on, and the vibrant Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City.

Related Article:Things to do in Xian | 17 Best Things to do in Xian, China

Day 4-5: Dunhuang

Cave 57, Mogao Grottoes
Cave 57, Mogao Grottoes
The Crescent Spring at the foot of the Mingsha Mountain
The Crescent Spring at the foot of the Mingsha Mountain

Main Attractions: Mingsha Mountain, Crescent Lake, Mogao Caves

On Day 4, you fly from Xi'an to Dunhuang and visit Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Lake, two iconic natural wonders that showcase the region's stunning desert landscapes.

Day 5 is dedicated to the Mogao Caves, one of China's most important cultural treasures. After exploring the caves, you'll take a high-speed train to Turpan (3.5 h), ensuring a smooth transition to the next destination.

Related Article:Things to Do in Dunhuang: Top 8 Dunhuang Attractions

Day 6: Turpan

Jiaohe Ruins in Turpan, Xinjiang
Jiaohe Ruins in Turpan, Xinjiang
Karez System in Turpan
Karez System in Turpan

Half day is enough to explore Turpan's key highlights, ensuring you don't miss its unique history and culture while keeping the trip well-paced.

You'll visit the Jiaohe Ancient City Ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Karez System, an ancient irrigation marvel, and the Emin Minaret, a stunning example of Islamic architecture.

Afterward, a scenic 3-hour drive takes you to Urumqi.

Related Article:10 Things to Do in Turpan: Tourist Attractions & Places to Visit

Day 7: Urumqi

Capture Urumqi's key highlights in a single day. You'll visit Heavenly Lake of Tianshan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning mountain and lake views, and the Xinjiang Regional Museum, which offers a deep dive into the region's history and culture.

Related Article:Urumqi Attractions | Top 6 Things to Do in Urumqi China

Day 8-10: Kashgar

Kashgar Old City
Kashgar Old City
Kashgar Livestock Market
Kashgar Livestock Market

The last three days in Kashgar wrap up your Silk Road journey with a mix of culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes.

Day 8 introduces you to Kashgar's Old City, including the Id Kah Mosque and Ancient Tea House, and, if timed right, the lively Livestock Market.

Day 9 takes you to the stunning Karakul Lake on the Pamir Plateau, offering unforgettable mountain and lake views.

Day 10 is a smooth departure.

Related Article:Top 9 Things to Do in Kashgar China

How Much Dose It Cost for 10 Days in China

Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar
Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar
Our Customers visit Uygur village in the Tuyoq Valley
Our Customers visit Uygur village in the Tuyoq Valley

Here are estimated costs per person for most destinations in China (western regions like Yunnan tend to be cheaper). All prices are in USD. These are averages - expect higher prices in Shanghai or Beijing city centers, or lower prices in smaller cities during off-peak seasons.

Accommodation (per night):

Budget Hotels/Hostels: $30-60

Mid-Range Hotels: $80-150

Luxury Hotels: $200+

Transportation costs vary across China, with high-speed trains between major cities ranging from $30-100 depending on distance. Local transportation is very affordable - subway and bus rides cost just $1-2, while taxis start at $1.

For meals, you'll find plenty of options to fit your budget. Street food vendors offer delicious local snacks for $2-5, while local restaurants serve full meals for $5-15. Mid-range restaurants typically charge $15-30 per meal, and many hotels include breakfast in their rates.

Related Article:China Trip Cost: How Much is a Trip to China

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