Head to the airport with plenty of time for check-in and security — grab a hearty breakfast and pick up any last-minute travel essentials (SIM/eSIM, power adapter, face masks). If you have lounge access, relax there with coffee and a light meal while reviewing your visa/transit documents and the plan for arrival in Beijing (airport transfer options, hotel address in Chinese).
Board your long-haul flight and settle in for the transit leg; use the afternoon to rest, watch a movie or sync your devices with offline maps and key Chinese phrases. If your schedule includes a transit stop, use the layover to stretch, change into comfortable layers and confirm your onward boarding time so you arrive in Beijing refreshed and on schedule.
On arrival in Beijing (likely late evening local time), clear immigration and collect luggage; take an official airport taxi or pre-booked transfer to your hotel in central Dongcheng or Wangfujing, ideal neighbourhoods for first-night convenience. After checking in, enjoy a relaxed stroll around Wangfujing Snack Street if still awake, sampling a few small bites and soaking up the neon atmosphere before an early night to recover from jet lag.
After a restful sleep to shake off jet lag, enjoy breakfast at your hotel or a nearby café in Dongcheng — try congee and youtiao or a Chinese-style omelette. Take a gentle walk to the nearby Wangfujing pedestrian street to get your first feel for Beijing: pop into a tea shop to taste jasmine or pu-erh and browse the stores for a SIM/eSIM top-up or a local map.
Spend the afternoon visiting the nearby Forbidden City outer gates and Tiananmen Square area — even if you don’t enter the palace today, the monumental scale and photo opportunities are perfect for an easy first-day outing; alternatively, stroll through Jingshan Park for panoramic views of the palace complex. If you’d like a cultural stop with less walking, drop into the National Museum’s entrance halls or the capital library café to relax and plan tomorrow’s early start.
As evening falls, head back toward Wangfujing Snack Street to sample local street-food favourites (try dumplings, scallion pancakes or a sweet tanghulu) or book a table at a nearby Sichuan restaurant for a warming mala experience. Finish the night with a slow walk past the lit-up Qianmen and nearby hutongs — a short rickshaw or pedicab tour is a charming way to see atmospheric alleys before turning in early for a big day tomorrow.
Start early with breakfast near your Dongcheng hotel, then walk to Tiananmen Square to take in the vast plaza and the Monument to the People before lines build up. Cross into the Forbidden City (booked tickets recommended) and spend the morning wandering the Meridian Gate, Hall of Supreme Harmony and the palace courtyards — hire an audio guide or join a short guided tour to bring the imperial history to life.
After exiting at the north gate, climb the short path up to Jingshan Park for a panoramic view over the palace roofs — it’s a perfect photo spot and a peaceful contrast to the crowds below. From Jingshan, stroll down through the hutongs toward the nearby Beihai Park for a relaxed lakeside walk or stop at a traditional tea house to sample jasmine or pu-erh and recharge before more exploring.
Return toward Wangfujing for dinner: try a reputable Peking duck restaurant (e.g., Da Dong or Quanjude branch) for a classic Beijing meal, or sample several dishes at a local family-run eatery in the hutongs. Finish the night with a gentle walk along the lantern-lit lanes of Nanluoguxiang or a short visit to Wangfujing Snack Street to taste a few unusual treats, then head back to your hotel to rest for tomorrow’s Great Wall excursion.
Leave early from your Dongcheng or Chaoyang hotel and take a pre-booked private driver or a tourist coach to the Great Wall — Mutianyu is an easier, restored option with cable car access, while Jinshanling suits more adventurous hikers and dramatic, less-restored scenery. Aim to arrive shortly after opening to enjoy cooler air and softer light for photos; ride the cable car or take the chairlift at Mutianyu, or begin a rewarding hike at Jinshanling, pausing at watchtowers to admire the craggy ridgelines.
Continue exploring the wall’s ramparts and hidden viewpoints, stopping for a picnic or a simple lunch at a nearby café; at Mutianyu you can ride the thrilling toboggan down for fun and convenience, whereas at Jinshanling you’ll relish longer ridge-walking and fewer crowds. If time allows, visit a nearby village or the Great Wall Museum to learn about local restoration efforts before your return transfer to Beijing.
Back in the city by early evening, freshen up at your hotel then head to a Chaoyang or Dongcheng restaurant for a relaxed meal — try a northern-style noodle house or a hotpot to rewarm tired legs. Finish with a gentle stroll along the Houhai lakes or a visit to a rooftop bar in Sanlitun for night views and a celebratory drink, reflecting on the day’s vistas before turning in for the next leg of your trip.
Check out of your Beijing hotel early and transfer to Beijing Daxing or Capital Airport for the domestic flight to Zhangjiajie Hehua Airport (direct flights take ~3 hours) — alternatively, if you prefer rail, take the high-speed train to Changsha then a 3-4 hour connecting train or private transfer to Zhangjiajie. Book flights in advance and have your hotel in Wulingyuan arranged for pick-up; keep snacks and water handy and use the flight time to rest and review tomorrow’s park map.
On arrival in Zhangjiajie, take the hotel shuttle or a short taxi into Wulingyuan and check in to a guesthouse or boutique hotel near the park entrances (staying near the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park or Yongding Road keeps you close to shuttle buses). Spend the afternoon orienting yourselves with a walk through Wulingyuan Town, visit the local ticket offices to collect park passes and pick up a simple dinner-to-go, and stroll to the nearby Helong Park viewpoint for an early taste of the sandstone pillars at sunset.
Enjoy a relaxed dinner at a nearby restaurant sampling Hunan specialties—try spicy smoked pork (la zi rou) and rice noodles—then return to your hotel to sort gear for tomorrow’s early park start (comfortable shoes, layered clothing, rain jacket). If you’re not too tired, take a brief evening walk to admire illuminated sections of the town and book any local guides or cable-car times for Yuanjiajie to maximise your first full day in the Avatar Mountains.
Start early and head into Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, taking the shuttle to the Yuanjiajie scenic area where the dramatic sandstone pillars that inspired the movie Avatar rise from mist. Ride the Bailong (Hundred Dragons) Glass Elevator up the cliff for sweeping views, then follow the well-marked boardwalks to the First Bridge and the Hallelujah Mountain viewpoints — bring a light jacket for cooler, misty mornings and plenty of camera memory.
After a short lunch at one of the park canteens or a packed picnic, continue exploring Yuanjiajie by walking the relatively level trails toward the Avatar Hallelujah Mountain and Golden Whip Stream viewpoints; if you’re feeling energetic, take the Tianzi Mountain cable car for different panoramas of the pillar sea. Pause at designated lookout platforms for photos and to watch changing light on the peaks, and consider a local guide for geology and folklore insights that bring the landscape to life.
Return to Wulingyuan village as daylight softens and enjoy Hunan-style dishes at a nearby restaurant — try spicy smoked pork and local rice noodles — then stroll the quiet streets to pick up souvenirs or a tea cake. Back at your hotel, dry and layer your gear for tomorrow, review the park map for the next day’s Tianzi Mountain and Golden Whip Stream route, and relax early after a big day of walking and spectacular scenery.
Set off early from your Wulingyuan hotel and take the park shuttle or a short taxi to the Tianzi Mountain cable car for sweeping, elevated views of the pillar forests — ride up and walk the Ridgeline Walk to the Emperor Watching the Land and Fairy Maid viewpoints for classic panoramic photos. Spend time soaking in the sea of sandstone columns, listening to the wind through pine trees and reading the plaques that explain the area's geology and Tujia folklore.
Descend toward the Golden Whip Stream for a gentler, scenic walk along the crystal-clear creek framed by towering pillars and lush vegetation; follow the well-maintained path that winds past rock formations, caves and small waterfalls, pausing at the Yellow Stone Village and Ten-Mile Gallery viewpoints. Break for a relaxed riverside lunch (pack a picnic or eat at a park canteen) and continue downstream — the route is both restorative and full of close-up photo opportunities of the pillars from below.
Return to Wulingyuan as the light softens and head to a local restaurant to sample more Hunan cuisine — try the spicy smoked pork and a cold beer to warm up after a day of walking. If you have energy, stroll to the Helong Park viewpoint or across Wulingyuan's pedestrian streets to shop for carved stone souvenirs and local tea, then review tomorrow’s plan to visit any missed park sections before turning in early to rest.
Check out early from your Wulingyuan hotel and transfer to Zhangjiajie Hehua Airport for a mid-morning flight to Shanghai (direct ~2.5-3 hours) or, if you prefer rail, depart Zhangjiajie for Changsha high-speed connections to Shanghai (longer overall). Use the flight or train time to rest, swap photos and read up on Shanghai neighbourhoods; on arrival, take the Maglev or metro/taxi to your hotel in Huangpu or the Bund area (staying near Nanjing East Road or The Bund keeps you within easy walking distance of evening sights).
After checking in and freshening up, wander nearby Nanjing Road for an introduction to Shanghai’s energy and stop for xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) at a reputable spot like Nanxiang or Jia Jia for lunch. Walk through the historic pedestrian streets toward People’s Square and stroll sections of the Old Shanghai lanes around the nearby Yuyuan Garden area if time allows, or relax in your hotel to recharge before the evening.
As dusk falls, head to the Bund promenade to watch Shanghai’s skyline light up — walk from the Peace Hotel down past colonial façades and find a riverside spot to photograph Pudong’s towers across the Huangpu River. For dinner, book a table at a riverside restaurant or a rooftop bar in the Bund/Huangpu area for river views and modern Shanghainese cuisine, then enjoy an optional Huangpu River night cruise to see the illuminated skyline from the water.
Start with a leisurely breakfast near People’s Square, then stroll east to the classical Yu Garden (buy tickets in advance) to wander its winding pavilions, rockeries and koi-filled ponds — don’t miss the exquisite Exquisite Jade Rock and the restored Huxinting Teahouse for an authentic tea pause. After exploring the garden, browse the adjoining Yuyuan Old Street for handicrafts, traditional snacks (try a freshly made shengjian or sugar-coated hawthorn) and photogenic alleyways that show a quieter side of historic Shanghai.
Cross into the Old City for a light lunch at a reputable xiaolongbao spot such as Jia Jia or Nanxiang, then head south into the atmospheric French Concession by taxi or metro; wander tree-lined lanes around Sinan Road and Fuxing Park, popping into independent boutiques, cafés and art galleries. Take time to visit Tianzifang or the small Shanghai Propaganda Poster Art Centre for contrasting cultural flavours, and pause for coffee at a courtyard café to enjoy the neighbourhood’s Belle Époque architecture and relaxed vibe.
Return toward Huangpu as daylight softens and have an early dinner of modern Shanghainese cuisine in Xintiandi or on Anfu Road — try a refined crab or braised pork dish paired with local wine or a craft cocktail. Finish the night with a gentle riverside walk along the Bund to see Pudong’s skyline glow, or, for a more intimate end to the day, head back into the French Concession for a low-key bar or live-music venue in Yongkang Road before retiring to your hotel.
Begin the day in Pudong with breakfast at your hotel or a nearby café, then head up Shanghai Tower’s observation deck for sweeping morning views of the Huangpu River and the city’s skyscraper canyon — the world’s second-tallest building gives you a dramatic perspective after your Bund visits. After descending, wander the adjacent Lujiazui plaza to photograph the Shanghai World Financial Center and Jin Mao Tower before making your way to the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center at People’s Square to see the city model and learn about Shanghai’s growth.
After a leisurely lunch at a Lujiazui mall (try Din Tai Fung for excellent xiaolongbao or a contemporary Shanghainese bistro), choose between the modern Shanghai Museum in People’s Square for superb ancient Chinese art or the nearby Power Station of Art for contemporary exhibitions — both offer contrasting cultural experiences. If you prefer shopping, spend the afternoon browsing IFC Mall and Super Brand Mall in Pudong or head back across the river to Nanjing Road for flagship stores and boutique finds, with time for a coffee break at a riverside café along the Bund.
As daylight fades, return to the Bund for sunset and watch Pudong’s towers illuminate; book dinner at a rooftop restaurant or riverside eatery (for example, M on the Bund or a recommended Lujiazui spot) to savour modern Shanghainese cuisine with a view. Finish the night with a relaxed Huangpu River cruise or a walk along the promenade to let the lights and reflections close out your Shanghai chapter before packing for your flight to Seoul the next day.
Fly from Shanghai to Incheon or Gimpo early in the day and clear immigration, then take the Airport Railroad (AREX) or a limousine bus into central Seoul and check in to your hotel in Myeongdong or nearby Jung-gu. After settling, grab a brisk brunch of gimbap or a comforting bowl of seolleongtang at a local café, and pick up a T-money card and an eSIM or local SIM so you’re ready to explore.
Spend the afternoon wandering Myeongdong’s energetic shopping streets — browse K-beauty stores like Olive Young and Innisfree, try freshly made street-food favourites such as tteokbokki and hotteok, and pop into the historic Myeongdong Cathedral for a calm contrast. If you want a short cultural stop, walk 15 minutes to Namsangol Hanok Village or ride the Namsan Cable Car up to N Seoul Tower for panoramic city views and a relaxed introduction to Seoul’s skyline.
As evening falls, enjoy a Korean barbecue dinner at a popular Myeongdong spot (book ahead for a table) or sample a variety of stalls at the Myeongdong Night Market while soaking up neon-lit street energy. Finish the night with a leisurely stroll through the illuminated shopping alleys or return to Namsan Tower for night views and the classic locks-on-the-fence photo before heading back to your hotel to rest for tomorrow’s full day of palaces and hanok villages.
Begin your day with a visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace—arrive early for the changing of the guard ceremony at the main gate, then wander through the throne halls, Gyeonghoeru Pavilion and the National Palace Museum of Korea for context on Joseon dynasty life. Rent hanbok nearby for free palace entry and extra photo opportunities among the palace courtyards and the serene Hyangwonjeong Pond.
Walk uphill into nearby Bukchon Hanok Village to meander the narrow lanes lined with traditional hanok houses; pop into small galleries and craft shops, and relax with a cup of tea at a teahouse like Cha Masineun Tteul while admiring the skyline framed by tiled roofs. From Bukchon, stroll down to Insadong for antiques and art—browse Ssamzigil’s boutiques for souvenirs, try a traditional Korean set lunch at a hanjeongsik restaurant, and visit Jogyesa Temple for a quiet, colourful interlude.
As dusk falls, enjoy a relaxed dinner in Insadong sampling bibimbap or a modern twist on temple cuisine at a nearby restaurant, then take a gentle nighttime walk along the Cheonggyecheon Stream toward Jongno to see the city lights reflected in the water. If you’re up for one more cultural stop, catch a short traditional performance at the Korea House or a nearby small theatre, or return to Myeongdong for late-night shopping and street-food snacks before turning in.
Ease into the day with a relaxed brunch in Hongdae at a trendy café like Cafe Mamas or Tailor Coffee, then wander the backstreets to browse independent boutiques, vintage stores and vinyl shops around Hongik University. Pop into the Hongdae Free Market (weekends) or visit the nearby KT&G Sangsangmadang for quirky designer goods and rotating small exhibitions that capture Seoul’s youthful creative scene.
Decide on a neighbourhood focus: in Hongdae/Mapo explore the art-filled alleyways, street performances and the charming Yeonnam-dong Gyeongui Line Forest Park with its cosy coffee shops and concept stores; alternatively head to Gangnam to shop at the underground COEX Mall and Starfield Library, and stroll through Garosu-gil for chic designer boutiques and cafes. Either route offers a great late-afternoon stop for a casual Korean snack—try a tteokbokki stall in Hongdae or a fusion bingsu café in Gangnam—before freshening up for the evening.
For nightlife, Hongdae delivers lively live-music bars and clubs (catch an indie gig at Rolling Hall or a rooftop bar along Sangsu), while Gangnam offers sleek cocktail lounges and upscale clubs around Cheongdam—book ahead if you want a table. Finish the night with a late Korean BBQ feast in Mapo or a stylish dinner in Gangnam, then cap the evening with a stroll under neon lights or a night-time K-pop karaoke session for quintessential Seoul fun.
Pack and check out at a relaxed pace, keeping passports, boarding passes and any tax-refund receipts to hand; if you have time before leaving Myeongdong or Jung-gu, enjoy a final Korean breakfast—try a comforting bowl of galbitang or a gimbap set at a nearby café—and sip on a takeaway coffee. Arrange your transfer to Incheon (AREX express train or airport limousine bus are reliable) allowing extra time for customs and security, and use the journey to start sorting photos and messages for loved ones back home.
At the airport, complete duty-free shopping and use the lounges or quiet seating to freshen up; have a proper lunch of bibimbap or a noodle dish at one of the terminal restaurants if your flight timing allows. Board with plenty of time, stow your carry-on, settle in for the long-haul, and switch devices to airplane mode while downloading an offline playlist or an episode to relax during the first leg of your flight.
During the flight, rest as much as possible to beat jet lag—enjoy in-flight meals and sip water regularly, and if you have a window seat, watch the fading Korean coastline at takeoff for a last view of the city. Toward the end of the long-haul, use the in-flight entertainment or read to unwind; on arrival in the UK, follow arrivals procedures calmly and collect luggage before continuing home with memories (and a full photo gallery) from your Beijing-Zhangjiajie-Shanghai-Seoul adventure.