Planning a trip to China can be both exciting and overwhelming due to the vastness of the country and the sheer variety of experiences it offers. From ancient wonders to modern cities, from tranquil landscapes to bustling markets, China is a place where every traveler can find something special. Here’s a customizable China travel itinerary that will allow you to explore some of the country’s best destinations, tailored for 2025-2026.

10-Day China Travel Itinerary

This 10-day itinerary takes you through some of China’s most iconic and diverse destinations. It includes a mix of history, culture, nature, and modernity, with suggestions for customizing the itinerary based on your interests.

Day 1-3: Beijing – The Heart of China

Day 1: Arrival in Beijing

• Morning: Arrive in Beijing, China’s capital, and check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit the Temple of Heaven, where emperors once prayed for good harvests. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning architecture and tranquil gardens.
• Evening: Explore Wangfujing Street, a bustling shopping district. Try local street food like scorpions on a stick and Peking duck at a famous restaurant.

Day 2: The Forbidden City and Great Wall

• Morning: Visit the Forbidden City, the largest ancient palace in the world, and learn about China’s imperial history. It’s a vast complex with palaces, gardens, and artifacts.
• Afternoon: Head to Mutianyu or Badaling for a visit to the Great Wall of China. Both locations offer stunning views and unique experiences, from hiking to taking a cable car.
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional Peking duck dinner at a top restaurant, such as Quanjude or Da Dong.

Day 3: Summer Palace and Hutongs

• Morning: Visit the Summer Palace, an imperial garden with beautiful lakes, pavilions, and walking paths. Take a boat ride on Kunming Lake for a scenic experience.
• Afternoon: Explore the Hutongs (old alleyways) near Shichahai. You can take a rickshaw tour and see Beijing’s traditional courtyard houses.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local hot pot restaurant and explore Beijing’s vibrant nightlife.

Day 4-5: Xi’an – The Ancient Capital

Day 4: Travel to Xi’an

• Morning: Take a high-speed train or flight from Beijing to Xi’an (about 5 hours by train).
• Afternoon: Upon arrival, visit the Ancient City Wall, where you can walk or bike along the perimeter, offering great views of the city.
• Evening: Explore the Muslim Quarter, a bustling area known for its food stalls and unique architecture. Try yangrou paomo (a lamb soup dish) and pita bread soaked in lamb soup.

Day 5: Terracotta Army and Big Wild Goose Pagoda

• Morning: Visit the Terracotta Army, one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of the 20th century. You’ll see thousands of life-sized clay soldiers, horses, and chariots.
• Afternoon: Visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a 7-story Buddhist pagoda and a landmark of Xi’an’s rich history.
• Evening: Enjoy the Tang Dynasty Dinner Show, a cultural performance with traditional music and dance.

Day 6-7: Chengdu – Panda Paradise and Sichuan Cuisine

Day 6: Travel to Chengdu

• Morning: Take a high-speed train or flight from Xi’an to Chengdu (around 3-4 hours by train).
• Afternoon: Visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding to see giant pandas and red pandas in their natural habitat.
• Evening: Try Chengdu’s famous hot pot—a spicy and flavorful dish that’s a must-try in Sichuan province.

Day 7: Wuhou Shrine and Sichuan Opera

• Morning: Visit Wuhou Shrine, dedicated to the famous Three Kingdoms-era statesman Zhou Yu. The surrounding gardens are beautiful, and it’s a great place to learn about Chinese history.
• Afternoon: Explore Jinli Ancient Street, a picturesque street lined with shops selling local handicrafts and snacks.
• Evening: Enjoy a face-changing performance at Sichuan Opera. It’s an incredible and unique experience that highlights traditional Sichuan culture.

Day 8-9: Shanghai – The Modern Metropolis

Day 8: Travel to Shanghai

• Morning: Take a high-speed train or flight to Shanghai (around 3 hours by train).
• Afternoon: Explore The Bund, Shanghai’s iconic waterfront with colonial-era buildings and views of the modern Pudong skyline, including the Shanghai Tower.
• Evening: Visit Nanjing Road, the city’s major shopping street, or take a river cruise along the Huangpu River for stunning views of the skyline at night.

Day 9: Yu Garden and Modern Shanghai

• Morning: Visit Yu Garden, a classical Chinese garden with beautiful ponds, pavilions, and traditional architecture.
• Afternoon: Visit the Shanghai Museum, one of the best in China, with extensive collections of Chinese art, ceramics, and jade.
• Evening: Explore the Xintiandi area, a trendy neighborhood with cafes, boutiques, and restaurants. It’s a great spot for dinner and people-watching.

Day 10: Departure from Shanghai

• Morning: Depending on your flight time, you can visit Shanghai Disneyland for a quick adventure, or simply enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café.
• Afternoon: Head to Shanghai Pudong International Airport for your flight back home.

Customizing Your China Itinerary

This itinerary is flexible, and you can adjust it according to your preferences. If you have more time, you can add Hangzhou for its West Lake, Guilin for its beautiful karst mountains, or Zhangjiajie for the Avatar Mountains. For a more nature-focused trip, consider heading to Tibet for Lhasa and Mount Everest Base Camp.

If you’re traveling with family, a visit to Chengdu for pandas and Shanghai Disneyland would make the trip even more special for younger travelers.

Tips for Your China Travel Itinerary

• Visas: Make sure to check the visa requirements for your country before traveling to China. Most visitors need a tourist visa, which can be easily applied for online or at a Chinese embassy.
• Language: While major tourist destinations have English signage, it’s a good idea to learn a few basic Chinese phrases or use a translation app. Many locals in rural areas may not speak English.
• Weather: China has diverse climates. The best time to visit most regions is during spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) for mild temperatures. Winter can be cold, especially in northern areas like Beijing, while summer is hot and crowded.
• Transportation: China’s high-speed trains are fast, efficient, and affordable. Booking train tickets in advance is recommended, especially for long-distance travel.