2-Week China & Nearby Country Itinerary from Auckland

Day 1: Departure from Auckland & Arrival in Kuala Lumpur

Morning: Depart from Auckland Airport on an affordable connecting flight to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, which often offers cheaper flights en route to China.

Afternoon: Arrive in Kuala Lumpur and check into a budget hotel or guesthouse near the city center.

Evening: Explore Jalan Alor Night Market for local street food and sights.

Day 2: Kuala Lumpur Highlights

Morning: Visit the iconic Petronas Twin Towers and take photos from the skybridge.

Afternoon: Explore the cultural diversity of Batu Caves and enjoy local Malaysian cuisine nearby.

Evening: Relax at the KLCC Park while watching the fountain light show.

Day 3: Flight to Beijing, China

Morning: Check out and take a direct budget flight from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing.

Afternoon: Arrive, transit to your accommodation in central Beijing, and rest.

Evening: Take a gentle walk around Wangfujing Street and sample street food delicacies.

Day 4: Beijing Cultural Immersion

Morning: Visit the historic Forbidden City, the former imperial palace.

Afternoon: Walk through Tiananmen Square and explore Jingshan Park for views over the city.

Evening: Enjoy a Peking duck dinner near Qianmen Street.

Day 5: Great Wall Adventure

Morning: Travel to the Mutianyu Great Wall, a less crowded, scenic section.

Afternoon: Hike the wall and enjoy panoramic views; visit local shops around the base.

Evening: Return to Beijing and rest or explore local night markets.

Day 6: Beijing to Xi’an by High-Speed Train

Morning: Board a bullet train to Xi’an, approximately 5-6 hours journey.

Afternoon: Check into your hotel and explore the ancient City Wall.

Evening: Stroll through the vibrant Muslim Quarter and enjoy street food.

Day 7: Terracotta Warriors

Morning: Visit the world-famous Terracotta Army Museum outside Xi’an.

Afternoon: Return to Xi’an and see the Small Wild Goose Pagoda.

Evening: Relax at a café or attend a traditional cultural show if affordable.

Day 8: Flight or Overnight Train to Shanghai

Morning: Fly or take the overnight train to Shanghai.

Afternoon: Arrive and settle into accommodation near the city center.

Evening: Walk along the famous The Bund and enjoy the illuminated city skyline.

Day 9: Shanghai Modern & Historic

Morning: Explore the bustling Nanjing Road shopping street.

Afternoon: Visit the historic Yu Garden and surrounding bazaar.

Evening: Explore Xintiandi for dining and nightlife options.

Day 10: Day Trip to Suzhou

Morning: Take a 30-minute train to Suzhou, known for classical gardens.

Afternoon: Visit Humble Administrator’s Garden and Pingjiang Road historic district.

Evening: Return to Shanghai and rest.

Day 11: Shanghai to Kuala Lumpur

Morning: Check out and fly back to Kuala Lumpur for potential cheaper flight back home.

Afternoon: Rest or visit the Central Market for souvenirs and final exploration.

Evening: Enjoy local dinner then rest before international flight home.

Day 12: Kuala Lumpur to Auckland

Morning: Transfer to the airport for the flight back to Auckland.

Afternoon & Evening: In transit or arrive in Auckland, depending on flights.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Auckland to Kuala Lumpur flight: ~11 hours; approx NZD 400 per person
• Kuala Lumpur 2-night stay + food/transport: ~2 days; approx NZD 150 per person
• Kuala Lumpur to Beijing flight: ~5.5 hours; approx NZD 350 per person
• Beijing accommodation + entrance fees + local transport: ~4 days; approx NZD 300 per person
• Beijing to Xi’an High-Speed Train: ~6 hours; approx NZD 80 per person
• Xi’an accommodation + entrances + food: ~2 days; approx NZD 180 per person
• Xi’an to Shanghai flight/train: ~2 hours flight or 11-13 hrs train; approx NZD 120 per person
• Shanghai + day trip to Suzhou accommodation + transport + entrances: ~3 days; approx NZD 250 per person
• Shanghai to Kuala Lumpur flight: ~5.5 hours; approx NZD 300 per person
• Kuala Lumpur accommodation (1 night) + food: approx NZD 75 per person
• Kuala Lumpur to Auckland flight: ~11 hours; approx NZD 400 per person

Total Estimated Cost: NZD 2,605 per person (Note: Prices vary; booking early and checking package deals on sites like Skyscanner, Expedia, or AirAsia Holidays may reduce this closer to your NZD 1,000-2,000 target.)

Tips

• To reduce trip duration and costs, skip Kuala Lumpur and fly direct Auckland–Beijing roundtrip, spending all 14 days within China.
• To extend the trip, add 1-2 extra days in Kuala Lumpur or consider a short visit to Hong Kong or Taiwan on the return route for diverse experiences.
• Book flights and accommodations well in advance and consider budget airlines plus hostels or guesthouses for affordable stays.
• Utilize China’s efficient high-speed rail network for cost-effective and scenic travel between cities.