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13-Day Family Friendly Adventure Itinerary in China: Shanghai, Zhangjiajie, Chongqing, Xi'an, Beijing

Viewed by 491 travelers

Day 1: Explore Shanghai

Shanghai, China

8:00AM

Breakfast at Jiajia Leung Shao

Kickstart your culinary adventure with delicious traditional Chinese breakfast dumplings.
Located in the Huangpu District, easily reachable via subway.
CNY 60, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Yu Garden

Stroll through the beautiful classical garden, taking in the ancient architecture and rock formations.
A short walk from breakfast.
CNY 40, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Din Tai Fung

Relish world-renowned dumplings and hear the delicate sounds of the chef preparing your meal.
Take the subway to Lujiazui Station.
CNY 120, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Shanghai Tower

Experience breathtaking views of the city from the observation deck of China’s tallest building.
A short walk from the restaurant.
CNY 180, 2 hours

3:30PM

Explore The Bund

Walk along the historic waterfront and enjoy stunning views of the skyline.
Take a 10-minute taxi.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Hakkasan

Indulge in modern Cantonese cuisine with family-friendly options and an elegant atmosphere.
Take a short taxi ride.
CNY 700, 2 hours
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Day 2: Discover More of Shanghai

Shanghai, China

8:00AM

Breakfast at Yang's Fry-Dumplings

Try the famous pan-fried dumplings filled with juices and meat.
Near your hotel, easy to walk.
CNY 50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Shanghai Museum

Explore ancient Chinese art and historical artifacts in a world-class setting.
A 15-minute taxi ride.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Xintiandi

Savor a delicious meal at a foodie hub featuring various restaurants and local delicacies.
A short walk from the museum.
CNY 200, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Riding the Maglev Train

Experience the fastest commercial train and marvel at its speed.
Head back to the subway to Longyang Road.
CNY 50, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium

Explore the vast underwater world and see species from all over the planet.
Take a taxi to the aquarium.
CNY 160, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Captain

Enjoy exquisite dishes amongst a quirky maritime themed decor.
Located nearby the aquarium.
CNY 500, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Adventure in Zhangjiajie

Zhangjiajie, China

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before heading to Zhangjiajie National Forest.
Hotel dining area.
CNY 80, 1 hour

9:00AM

Take a flight to Zhangjiajie

Fly to the stunning natural landscapes of Zhangjiajie.
15-minute drive to airport, 1-hour flight.
CNY 750, 2 hours

11:00AM

Check-In to Hotel

Settle into your hotel and prepare for the day's adventure.
Short taxi ride from the airport.
CNY 500, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at The Secret Garden

Enjoy local specialties in a tranquil garden setting.
Located near your hotel.
CNY 150, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Spend your afternoon exploring the stunning rock pillars that inspired Pandora in Avatar.
Take the park shuttle from your hotel.
CNY 250, 4 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Wuling Restaurant

Relish delicious local dishes after a day of adventure.
Walk or taxi from the park.
CNY 180, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Zhangjiajie

Day 4: Explore Zhangjiajie

Zhangjiajie, China

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Savor a nutritious breakfast to fuel your day of exploration.
At the hotel.
CNY 80, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Tianmen Mountain

Ascend to Tianmen Mountain via cable car for stunning panoramic views.
A short taxi ride from your hotel.
CNY 300, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Benoit

Recharge with delicious French-inspired dishes in nature's embrace.
Near the foot of Tianmen Mountain.
CNY 250, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Experience the Glass Skywalk

Dare to walk across this thrilling glass bridge for breathtaking views below.
Part of Tianmen Mountain.
CNY 100, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit Zhijindong Cave

Explore one of the longest caves in the world, rich with stalactites and underground rivers.
Take a taxi from Tianmen Mountain.
CNY 100, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Zhangjiajie Spice Restaurant

Dive into local flavors with spicy dishes your family will enjoy.
Return taxi ride to town.
CNY 150, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Zhangjiajie

Day 5: Cultural Exploration in Chongqing

Chongqing, China

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Fuel up with a variety of breakfast options before your travel.
At the hotel.
CNY 80, 1 hour

9:00AM

Flight to Chongqing

Fly to the vibrant city of Chongqing known for its spicy food.
Taxi to airport.
CNY 700, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Check-in to hotel

Settle into your Chongqing hotel and prepare for a day of discovery.
Taxi from the airport.
CNY 500, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Jiefangbei Snack Street

Dive into street food with a variety of local specialties to choose from.
Short taxi ride to Jiefangbei.
CNY 100, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Hongya Cave

Wander through this wooden structure filled with shops and restaurants along the river.
15-minute walk after lunch.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit the Three Gorges Museum

Learn about the history and culture influenced by the Yangtze River.
Take a taxi from Hongya Cave.
CNY 50, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Shancheng Xiaoguo

Enjoy a traditional hotpot that Chongqing is famous for, perfect for families.
Easy taxi ride back.
CNY 250, 2 hours
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Day 6: Adventure Activities in Chongqing

Chongqing, China

8:00AM

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy breakfast before your adventure begins.
In hotel dining area.
CNY 80, 1 hour

9:00AM

Yangtze River Cruise

Experience scenic views and the rich culture along one of the world's longest rivers.
Taxi to ferry terminal.
CNY 400, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch on the cruise

Enjoy a delightful meal while cruising the Yangtze River.
Included in the cruise.
Included, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Dazu Rock Carvings

Marvel at the ancient carvings that depict a rich Buddhist culture.
Taxi from the ferry terminal.
CNY 150, 2.5 hours

4:00PM

Back to Hotel

Return to your accommodation and refresh.
Taxi back to hotel.
CNY 50, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Hubing Restaurant

Enjoy a relaxing meal featuring local cuisine after a thrilling day.
Take a taxi nearby.
CNY 250, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Chongqing

Day 7: Journey to Xi'an

Xi'an, China

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Enjoy breakfast while reminiscing about your trip to Chongqing.
Same dining area at your hotel.
CNY 80, 1 hour

9:00AM

Flight to Xi'an

Travel to the historical city of Xi'an, once the start of the Silk Road.
Taxi to the airport.
CNY 600, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Check into hotel

Relax for a moment at your hotel in Xi'an.
Taxi from the airport.
CNY 500, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Defachang Restaurant

Taste the traditional Chinese dumplings known for their varied flavors and artistic presentation.
A taxi ride to the restaurant.
CNY 200, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit the Ancient City Wall

Explore this remarkable fortress that has stood for centuries.
Walk or rent bikes to ride around the city wall.
CNY 50, 2 hours

3:30PM

Explore the Muslim Quarter

Wander through vibrant streets filled with delicious snacks and unique souvenirs.
Short walk from the city wall.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Yangrou Paomo

Indulge in a traditional Xi'an bread and lamb soup dish, perfect for colder evenings.
A taxi ride back to the restaurant.
CNY 150, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Xi'an

Day 8: Explore Historical Xi'an

Xi'an, China

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Start your day strong with another hearty breakfast at your hotel.
Hotel dining area.
CNY 80, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Terracotta Army

Marvel at the extraordinary archaeological site, one of the biggest finds in history.
Taxi to the site.
CNY 150, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Snail Noodle Restaurant

Savor local flavors with a bowl of hand-pulled noodle soup.
Take a taxi to the restaurant from the army.
CNY 100, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Shaanxi History Museum

Delve into China’s past with artifacts and exhibitions.
Return taxi ride from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit Big Wild Goose Pagoda

Explore this historic Buddhist pagoda and take stunning photos.
Short taxi from the museum.
CNY 40, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Xi'an Famous Foods

Experience the local flavors with hand-pulled noodles and ingredients straight from the market.
A nearby taxi ride.
CNY 200, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Xi'an

Day 9: Adventure to Beijing

Beijing, China

8:00AM

Breakfast at hotel

Fuel up with breakfast before moving to Beijing.
In hotel dining area.
CNY 80, 1 hour

9:00AM

Flight to Beijing

Fly to the vibrant capital city, known for its rich history.
Taxi to the airport.
CNY 600, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Check-in to hotel

Settle into your Beijing hotel and relax.
Taxi from the airport.
CNY 500, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Peking Duck

Taste the famous Peking Duck at a renowned restaurant.
A taxi ride from your hotel.
CNY 400, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Tiananmen Square

Experience the historic heart of Beijing, one of the largest public squares.
Short walk from your lunch spot.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Forbidden City

Delve into China’s imperial past within the vast complex of palaces.
Walk next to Tiananmen Square.
CNY 60, 2.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Qin Tang Zheng

Dine on traditional Chinese cuisine in an elegant setting after a busy day.
A taxi ride back toward your hotel.
CNY 300, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Beijing

Day 10: Explore Beijing

Beijing, China

8:00AM

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a comforting breakfast at your hotel before the day begins.
In hotel dining area.
CNY 80, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Great Wall of China

Explore one of the world's wonders, with hiking trails and stunning views.
An arranged tour or taxi to the Great Wall.
CNY 300, 5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Wall's Cafe

Recharge with refreshments and light meals at the Great Wall's visitor center.
Located within the Great Wall area.
CNY 150, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit Ming Tombs

Discover the grand necropolis and learn about the history of the Ming rulers.
A short taxi ride back.
CNY 80, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Fu Gourmet

Enjoy sophisticated southern Chinese cuisine for an elegant dining experience.
A taxi ride back to your hotel.
CNY 350, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Beijing

Day 11: Cultural Experiences in Beijing

Beijing, China

8:00AM

Breakfast at hotel

Savor a leisurely breakfast at your hotel before the day's adventures.
In hotel dining area.
CNY 80, 1 hour

9:00AM

Explore Summer Palace

Wander through stunning gardens and historic pavilions by the lake.
Short taxi ride from your hotel.
CNY 60, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit the Temple of Heaven

Explore this architectural masterpiece where emperors once prayed for good harvests.
A quick taxi ride.
CNY 40, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Chaoyang District

Find a vibrant local eatery serving modern Chinese cuisine for lunch.
Taxi to Chaoyang District.
CNY 250, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Panda House at Beijing Zoo

Wholesome delight with adorable giant pandas and other animals!
Another short taxi ride.
CNY 70, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Beihai Park

Take a relaxing walk in one of the oldest imperial gardens in China.
Taxi to Beihai Park.
CNY 20, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Bai Jia Da Yuan

An exquisite dining experience themed around a traditional Beijing courtyard.
Taxi ride back.
CNY 400, 2 hours
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Day 12: Day of Leisure in Beijing

Beijing, China

8:00AM

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel for your last full day.
In hotel dining area.
CNY 80, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit 798 Art District

Explore contemporary art galleries, cafes, and shops at this trendy cultural hub.
Taxi to 798 Art District.
Free, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Cafe 798

Enjoy a light meal surrounded by modern art.
Located within the art district.
CNY 200, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Last-minute shopping at Wangfujing Street

Shop for souvenirs and more during your last moments in Beijing.
Taxi to Wangfujing Street.
Free, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Quanjude Roast Duck

End your culinary journey in Beijing with another succulent roast duck meal.
Taxi from Wangfujing Street.
CNY 350, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Pack & Relax

Spend the evening packing and reflecting on your wonderful trip.
At the hotel.
Free, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Beijing

Day 13: Departure

Beijing, China

8:00AM

Breakfast at hotel

Have a final breakfast at the hotel while recalling memorable moments.
At the hotel.
CNY 80, 1 hour

9:00AM

Check-out and transfer to airport

Head to the airport for your flight back home.
Take a taxi.
CNY 100, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Beijing
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