Honeymoon Itinerary: 7 Days in China

Thursday, November 16

Arrive in Beijing, the capital city of China, and start your honeymoon by exploring the iconic Tiananmen Square in the morning. Admire the grandeur of the Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in the afternoon. As the evening sets in, take a romantic walk along the Houhai Lake area, known for its picturesque scenery and vibrant nightlife.

• Tiananmen Square: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Forbidden City: Estimated Cost - CNY 60 (approximately $9), Time Spent - 3 hours
• Houhai Lake: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours

Friday, November 17

Embark on a day trip to the Great Wall of China, one of the seven wonders of the world, in the morning. Explore the Mutianyu section, known for its stunning views and fewer crowds. Enjoy a traditional Chinese lunch nearby. In the afternoon, visit the Summer Palace, a tranquil retreat with beautiful gardens and a picturesque lake. End the day with a romantic dinner in Beijing.

• Great Wall of China (Mutianyu): Estimated Cost - CNY 80 (approximately $12), Time Spent - 4 hours
• Summer Palace: Estimated Cost - CNY 30 (approximately $4.50), Time Spent - 3 hours
• Romantic Dinner: Estimated Cost - CNY 400-600 (approximately $60-90), Time Spent - 2 hours

Saturday, November 18

Fly to Xi'an, the ancient capital of China. In the morning, visit the Terracotta Army, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and marvel at the thousands of life-sized sculptures. Enjoy a local lunch with Xi'an's famous dumplings. In the afternoon, explore the historic city walls and take a romantic bike ride along the ramparts. In the evening, indulge in a Tang Dynasty Dinner Show, featuring traditional music, dance, and cuisine.

• Terracotta Army: Estimated Cost - CNY 150 (approximately $23), Time Spent - 4 hours
• City Walls: Estimated Cost - CNY 54 (approximately $8), Time Spent - 2 hours
• Tang Dynasty Dinner Show: Estimated Cost - CNY 300-500 (approximately $45-75), Time Spent - 3 hours

Sunday, November 19

Take a morning flight to Guilin, a city renowned for its stunning natural landscapes. Cruise along the Li River and soak in the breathtaking scenery of karst mountains and picturesque villages. Enjoy a romantic picnic lunch on board. In the afternoon, explore the Reed Flute Cave, filled with mesmerizing stalactites and stalagmites. Watch the sunset from the iconic Elephant Trunk Hill, a symbol of Guilin.

• Li River Cruise: Estimated Cost - CNY 400 (approximately $60), Time Spent - 4 hours
• Reed Flute Cave: Estimated Cost - CNY 90 (approximately $14), Time Spent - 2 hours
• Elephant Trunk Hill: Estimated Cost - CNY 55 (approximately $8), Time Spent - 1 hour

Monday, November 20

Fly to Shanghai, the modern metropolis of China. Start your day with a visit to the Shanghai Museum, showcasing ancient Chinese art and artifacts. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, explore the historical area of Old Shanghai, including the Bund and Yuyuan Garden. End the day with a romantic cruise along the Huangpu River, admiring the cityscape illuminated at night.

• Shanghai Museum: Estimated Cost - CNY 50 (approximately $7.50), Time Spent - 3 hours
• Old Shanghai (Bund and Yuyuan Garden): Estimated Cost - CNY 30 (approximately $4.50), Time Spent - 4 hours
• Huangpu River Cruise: Estimated Cost - CNY 200-300 (approximately $30-45), Time Spent - 2 hours

Tuesday, November 21

Take a morning flight to Chengdu, the hometown of giant pandas. Visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding and witness these adorable creatures up close. Enjoy a traditional Sichuan lunch. In the afternoon, explore the Jinli Ancient Street, known for its traditional architecture, local snacks, and handicrafts. Experience a traditional Sichuan Hot Pot dinner in the evening.

• Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding: Estimated Cost - CNY 58 (approximately $9), Time Spent - 4 hours
• Jinli Ancient Street: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Sichuan Hot Pot Dinner: Estimated Cost - CNY 200-300 (approximately $30-45), Time Spent - 2 hours

Wednesday, November 22

Fly back to Beijing for your departure. If time allows, visit the Temple of Heaven in the morning, a magnificent example of Chinese architecture. Enjoy a farewell lunch at a local restaurant. Spend your afternoon exploring Beijing's vibrant hutongs, traditional alleyways lined with courtyard homes. Depart for the airport in the evening with beautiful memories of your honeymoon in China.

• Temple of Heaven: Estimated Cost - CNY 30 (approximately $4.50), Time Spent - 2 hours
• Hutong Exploration: Estimated Cost - Free (optional rickshaw ride - CNY 40-100 per person), Time Spent - 3 hours
• Farewell Lunch: Estimated Cost - CNY 200-300 (approximately $30-45), Time Spent - 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, consider visiting the picturesque water town of Wuzhen, known for its ancient architecture and canals. Take a boat ride through the narrow waterways and immerse yourselves in the charm of this hidden gem. Another off the beaten path attraction is the Longji Rice Terraces near Guilin. Trek through the terraced fields and witness the stunning landscape. Locals also recommend exploring the vibrant art scene of 798 Art District in Beijing, filled with galleries, cafes, and street art.

Check hotel and flight prices here.