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This itinerary covers 5 days in china, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for china?

Plan your perfect 5 days trip to china. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

Explore the Wonders of China: A 5-Day Journey

Viewed by 79 travelers

Day 1: Beijing Highlights

Beijing, China

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Heritage Room

Begin your day with their famous Peking duck pancakes and homemade soy milk, setting the perfect tone for a day of exploration.

CNY 100, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit Tiananmen Square

Explore the historical significance of Tiananmen Square, the world’s largest public square.

CNY 40, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Forbidden City

Wander through the majestic halls of the Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage site brimming with imperial history.

CNY 60, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Donghuamen Night Market

Enjoy an array of street food, including grilled skewers and dumplings; a food lover’s paradise.

CNY 80, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Walk through the Summer Palace

Stroll through lush gardens and serene lakes at the Summer Palace, a tranquil escape from the city's hustle.

CNY 40, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Quanjude Roast Duck

Indulge in the authentic taste of Peking Duck, a must-try dish while in the capital.

CNY 300, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Beijing

Day 2: Ancient Xi'an

Xi'an, China

8:00AM

Breakfast at Muslim Quarter Café

Enjoy a traditional breakfast of Yangrou Paomo (bread soaked in mutton soup) in the vibrant Muslim Quarter.

CNY 50, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Cycle the Xi'an City Wall

Rent a bike and cycle along the historic 13.7 km city wall, enjoying panoramic views of Xi'an.

CNY 150, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Lao Sun Jia

Savor delicious local specialties at this renowned restaurant known for its dumplings.

CNY 80, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit the Terracotta Army

Marvel at the intricate details of the Terracotta Warriors, one of the greatest archaeological finds of the 20th century.

CNY 150, 3 hours

5:00PM

River Walk & Dinner at Din Tai Fung

Enjoy a serene stroll by the river before feasting on world-famous Xiao Long Bao (soup dumplings).

CNY 200, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Xi'an

Day 3: Panda Paradise

Chengdu, China

8:00AM

Breakfast at Wenshu Monastery

Start your day with a peaceful meal at this beautiful temple, featuring tofu and local snacks.

CNY 60, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding

Get up close to the adorable pandas and learn about conservation efforts at this world-famous facility.

CNY 50, 2.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Dine & Lounge

Taste authentic Sichuan cuisine, including spicy hotpot and mapo tofu, renowned for its bold flavors.

CNY 120, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Jinli Ancient Street

Wander through this charming street lined with shops selling traditional crafts and snacks.

CNY 50, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Saveurs de Coree

Enjoy a fusion of Korean and Sichuan flavors at this trendy restaurant, a delightful culinary experience.

CNY 200, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Chengdu

Day 4: Guilin's Natural Splendor

Guilin, China

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Start your day with a hearty breakfast buffet featuring local and international selections.

CNY 100, 1 hour

9:00AM

Li River Cruise

Take a scenic cruise along the stunning Li River, famous for its breathtaking karst landscapes.

CNY 200, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Giggling Tree

Relish international dishes made with fresh local ingredients in a picturesque garden setting.

CNY 80, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Yangshuo

Discover the beautiful countryside by bike or take a leisurely stroll while soaking in the serene views.

CNY 50, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Zhi Wei Guan

Enjoy a variety of local dishes, including Guilin Rice Noodles, at this popular restaurant.

CNY 120, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Guilin

Day 5: Shanghai Secrets

Shanghai, China

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café de la Plage

Relish a hearty Western-style breakfast with fresh pastries and coffee before your last day of adventure.

CNY 80, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit the Bund

Stroll along this iconic waterfront while admiring the blend of historic and modern architecture.

CNY 0, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Yu Garden

Discover the stunning classical Chinese gardens and tranquil ponds filled with koi.

CNY 40, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Yang's Fry-Dumped & Noodles

Sample the popular fried dumplings and delightful noodles that are a must-try in Shanghai.

CNY 60, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Shanghai Tower

Go to the observation deck for stunning views of the city from China's tallest building.

CNY 180, 2 hours

5:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Hakkasan

End your journey with an exquisite meal featuring modern Cantonese cuisine in a luxurious setting.

CNY 600, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Shanghai

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Itinerary created by Plantrip Team August 26, 2024 AI-assisted, human-reviewed

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Explore the Wonders of China: A 5-Day Journey

Day 1: Beijing Highlights

8:00AM

9:30AM

11:00AM

1:30PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 2: Ancient Xi'an

8:00AM

9:30AM

12:00PM

1:30PM

5:00PM

Day 3: Panda Paradise

8:00AM

9:30AM

12:30PM

2:00PM

5:00PM

Day 4: Guilin's Natural Splendor

8:00AM

9:00AM

1:00PM

2:30PM

6:00PM

Day 5: Shanghai Secrets

8:00AM

9:30AM

10:30AM

12:30PM

2:00PM

5:00PM

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