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Discover China: 7-Day Itinerary

Sunday, October 1: Beijing

Start your trip in China's capital city, Beijing. In the morning, visit the iconic Tiananmen Square, the largest public square in the world, and explore the historic Forbidden City, the imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties. In the afternoon, head to the Temple of Heaven, a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its beautiful architecture and serene surroundings. As the evening sets in, take a stroll along the Wangfujing Street, Beijing's famous shopping area, lined with shops, restaurants, and street food stalls.

  • Tiananmen Square: Entrance is free, estimated time: 2-3 hours
  • Forbidden City: Entrance fee: CNY 60 (approximately £6.50), estimated time: 3-4 hours
  • Temple of Heaven: Entrance fee: CNY 35 (approximately £3.80), estimated time: 2-3 hours
  • Wangfujing Street: Free to explore, estimated time: 2-3 hours
Monday, October 2: Great Wall of China

Embark on a day trip to the Great Wall of China, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Spend the morning exploring the Mutianyu section of the wall, known for its stunning views and well-preserved architecture. Take a hike along the wall and immerse yourself in its rich history. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Ming Tombs, the burial site of 13 emperors of the Ming Dynasty. End the day with a traditional Chinese tea ceremony at a local tea house.

  • Mutianyu Great Wall: Entrance fee: CNY 45 (approximately £4.90), estimated time: 4-6 hours
  • Ming Tombs: Entrance fee: CNY 60 (approximately £6.50), estimated time: 2-3 hours
  • Tea House: Tea ceremony cost: CNY 50-100 per person (approximately £5.40-£10.80), estimated time: 1-2 hours
Tuesday, October 3: Shanghai

Take a flight to Shanghai, China's bustling metropolis. Start your day with a visit to the historic Bund, a waterfront promenade featuring colonial-era buildings and stunning views of the Pudong district. In the afternoon, explore the Yu Garden, a classical Chinese garden with beautiful pavilions, rockeries, and ponds. Don't miss the vibrant atmosphere of Nanjing Road, one of the world's busiest shopping streets. In the evening, experience the famous Shanghai acrobatics show for an unforgettable performance.

  • The Bund: Free to visit, estimated time: 2-3 hours
  • Yu Garden: Entrance fee: CNY 40 (approximately £4.30), estimated time: 2-3 hours
  • Nanjing Road: Free to explore, estimated time: 2-3 hours
  • Shanghai Acrobatics Show: Ticket prices vary, estimated time: 2 hours
Wednesday, October 4: Xi'an

Fly to Xi'an, an ancient city known for its Terracotta Army. Start your day by visiting the awe-inspiring Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum, where you can see the life-sized clay soldiers and learn about their historical significance. In the afternoon, explore the Muslim Quarter, a vibrant area filled with markets, street food stalls, and the Great Mosque. Don't forget to try the local specialty, Xi'an's famous "biang biang" noodles. End the day with a visit to the ancient City Wall, offering panoramic views of the city.

  • Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum: Entrance fee: CNY 150 (approximately £16.20), estimated time: 3-4 hours
  • Muslim Quarter: Free to explore, estimated time: 2-3 hours
  • City Wall: Entrance fee: CNY 54 (approximately £5.80), estimated time: 2-3 hours
Thursday, October 5: Guilin

Take a flight to Guilin, a picturesque city famous for its stunning karst landscape. Begin your day by cruising along the Li River, surrounded by limestone peaks and lush greenery. Marvel at the breathtaking scenery and snap some memorable photos. In the afternoon, visit the Reed Flute Cave, a natural limestone cave adorned with colorful stalactites and stalagmites. Enjoy a relaxing walk around the scenic Seven Star Park, known for its beautiful gardens and scenic spots. End the day with a delicious seafood dinner at the night market.

  • Li River Cruise: Cruise cost: CNY 450-550 (approximately £48.60-£59.40), estimated time: 4-5 hours
  • Reed Flute Cave: Entrance fee: CNY 90 (approximately £9.70), estimated time: 2-3 hours
  • Seven Star Park: Entrance fee: CNY 30 (approximately £3.20), estimated time: 2-3 hours
  • Night Market: Cost varies, estimated time: 2-3 hours
Friday, October 6: Chengdu

Fly to Chengdu, the hometown of pandas and Sichuan cuisine. Begin your day by visiting the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, where you can observe these adorable creatures in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, explore the historic Jinli Ancient Street, known for its traditional architecture, local snacks, and handicrafts. Don't miss the chance to try some authentic Sichuan dishes, famous for their bold flavors and spicy kick. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Sichuan opera performance for a cultural experience like no other.

  • Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding: Entrance fee: CNY 58 (approximately £6.30), estimated time: 3-4 hours
  • Jinli Ancient Street: Free to explore, estimated time: 2-3 hours
  • Sichuan Cuisine: Cost varies, estimated time: 1-2 hours
  • Sichuan Opera: Ticket prices vary, estimated time: 2-3 hours
Saturday, October 7: Hong Kong

Fly to Hong Kong, a vibrant city where East meets West. Start your day by exploring Victoria Peak, the highest point on Hong Kong Island, offering panoramic views of the city's skyline. In the afternoon, visit the lively street markets of Mong Kok, where you can shop for fashion, electronics, and local souvenirs. Take a leisurely stroll along the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade, overlooking Victoria Harbour. End your trip with a taste of authentic Cantonese cuisine at a local restaurant.

  • Victoria Peak: Entrance fee: HKD 99 (approximately £9.80), estimated time: 2-3 hours
  • Mong Kok Markets: Free to explore, estimated time: 2-3 hours
  • Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade: Free to visit, estimated time: 1-2 hours
  • Local Restaurant: Cost varies, estimated time: 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring China, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, known for its unique pillar-like rock formations that inspired the "Hallelujah Mountains" in the movie Avatar. Another hidden gem is the ancient water town of Wuzhen, located near Shanghai. Immerse yourself in its traditional charm, take a boat ride along the canals, and wander through the picturesque streets. Locals also love Chengdu's Kuanzhai Alley, a historic neighborhood with beautifully restored traditional houses, teahouses, and local snacks.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.

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