Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrive in Beijing, settle into your accommodation, and take a gentle introductory walk through the city's historic heart to shake off jet lag.
Morning
Arrival at Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)
Clear customs, collect luggage, and take the Airport Express train combined with the subway or a pre-booked car to your hotel in the city center.
1.5-2.5 hours
$25-40 (for car)
Pre-book a car via Didi (China's Uber) app or your hotel.
Lunch
Da Dong Roast Duck (Jinbao Place)
Beijing Roast Duck
Mid-range
Afternoon
Stroll through Wangfujing & Houhai
Walk down the famous Wangfujing shopping street, then take a taxi to Houhai Lake. Wander the hutongs (alleys) around the lake, see traditional courtyard homes, and enjoy the lively atmosphere by the water.
3-4 hours
$5-15 (snacks/transport)
Evening
Dinner in a Hutong
Find a local restaurant in the Nanluoguxiang hutong area for simple noodles or dumplings.
Where to Stay Tonight
Dongcheng District, near Wangfujing or Nanluoguxiang(Mid-range hotel like Holiday Inn Express Beijing Dongzhimen or a boutique hutong hotel.)
Central location with excellent subway access and walking distance to several key sites.
Download Didi, Alipay, and a VPN before you arrive. Have some RMB cash on hand for small vendors.
Day 1 Budget: $80-120
A full day dedicated to the monumental Forbidden City and the vast expanse of Tiananmen Square.
Morning
Tiananmen Square & Forbidden City
Enter Tiananmen Square, the world's largest public square. Then, walk through the Meridian Gate into the Forbidden City. Spend hours exploring the series of halls, palaces, and courtyards of this immense imperial complex.
4-5 hours
$10 (Forbidden City ticket)
Book Forbidden City tickets ONLINE WELL IN ADVANCE (official WeChat account or website). Entry is timed.
Lunch
Zhengyangmen Snack Street or bring snacks
Various Beijing street foods
Budget
Afternoon
Jingshan Park & Beihai Park
Exit the Forbidden City's north gate and cross the street to Jingshan Park. Climb to the pavilion on the hill for a impressive, panoramic view of the Forbidden City's layout. Afterwards, visit the nearby Beihai Park, an ancient imperial garden with a large lake and the well-known White Dagoba.
2-3 hours
$3 (park entry fees)
Evening
Kung Fu Show & Duck Dinner
Watch the thrilling 'The Legend of Kung Fu' show at the Red Theatre, followed by another famous roast duck restaurant like Siji Minfu.
Where to Stay Tonight
Dongcheng District(Same as previous night.)
Convenient base for continued exploration.
Hire an audio guide or a human guide at the Forbidden City entrance to understand the history and symbolism. The complex is huge, focus on the central axis first.
Day 2 Budget: $90-140
A day trip to one of the most scenic and well-restored sections of the Great Wall, Mutianyu.
Morning
Travel to Mutianyu Great Wall
Take a pre-booked private car or join a tour for the 1.5-2 hour drive to Mutianyu. This section is less crowded than Badaling and offers impressive forested views.
2-3 hours (including travel)
$50-80 (for private car round-trip)
Book a car or tour in advance. Many hotels can arrange this.
Lunch
Commune by the Great Wall
Chinese or Western buffet
Mid-range
Afternoon
Hiking the Mutianyu Wall
Take the cable car up and spend 2-3 hours hiking along the wall. The views are magnificent. You can walk to watchtowers in both directions. Descend via the cable car, chairlift, or the exciting toboggan slide.
3 hours
$25 (combo ticket for entry, cable car up, toboggan down)
Wear good walking shoes. The toboggan is fun but can have long lines.
Evening
Return to Beijing & Relax
Return to the city. Have a casual dinner near your hotel—perhaps hotpot at Hai Di Lao for the full experience.
Where to Stay Tonight
Dongcheng District (Same hotel.)
Returning to a familiar base after a tiring day is convenient.
Go early to beat the crowds and the worst of the heat. Bring water and snacks. The toboggan descent is a highlight for many.
Day 3 Budget: $110-170
Visit the serene Temple of Heaven in the morning, then catch a high-speed train to the ancient capital of
Xi'an.
Morning
Temple of Heaven Park
Visit this UNESCO site where emperors prayed for good harvests. Explore the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, the Imperial Vault of Heaven, and the Circular Mound Altar. Join locals practicing tai chi, dancing, or playing cards in the vast park.
2.5-3 hours
$8 (entry to main sites)
Purchase the full access ticket at the gate.
Lunch
Gongzhufeng Hotpot (near Temple of Heaven)
Sichuan-style Hotpot
Mid-range
Afternoon
High-Speed Train to
Xi'anTake a taxi to Beijing West Railway Station. Board a high-speed G-series train (about 4.5-5.5 hours) to
Xi'an. Enjoy the comfortable ride and watch the landscape change.
6-7 hours (including transfer, train, and arrival)
$90 (second-class seat)
Book train tickets as early as possible (max 15 days in advance) via Trip.com or at the station. Have your passport ready.
Evening
Arrival in
Xi'an& Muslim Quarter
Check into your hotel near the city wall, then head directly to the lively Muslim Quarter for a street food dinner feast.
Where to Stay Tonight
Inside the City Wall, near the South Gate or Bell Tower(Hotel like Atour Hotel (Xi'anBell Drum Tower) or SomersetXi'an.)
Perfect location for exploring the historic center and the Muslim Quarter on foot.
Pack a day bag with essentials for the train ride. Have your train ticket (e-ticket or paper) and passport easily accessible for multiple checks.
Day 4 Budget: $130-190
A full-day excursion to one of the world's greatest archaeological discoveries: the Terracotta Army.
Morning
Travel to the Terracotta Army Museum
Take a tourist bus (Line 5) from the
Xi'anRailway Station square or a Didi for the one-hour journey to the museum complex in Lintong.
1-1.5 hours travel
$10-20 (for Didi)
The official tourist bus is cheap and reliable. Avoid unofficial touts at the station.
Lunch
Museum cafeteria or nearby local restaurant
Shaanxi noodles or simple Chinese dishes
Budget
Afternoon
Explore the Terracotta Army Pits
Spend 3-4 hours exploring the three main excavation pits. Start with Pit 1, the largest and most impressive, then visit Pits 2 and 3, and the exhibition hall with the bronze chariots. The scale and detail are staggering.
3-4 hours
$25 (entry fee)
Hire an official guide at the entrance or use a high-quality audio guide for context.
Evening
Return to
Xi'an& Dumpling Banquet
Return to the city. Enjoy a famous
Xi'anDumpling Banquet at De Fa Chang restaurant near the Bell Tower.
Where to Stay Tonight
Inside the City Wall (Same hotel.)
Central for evening activities.
Visit the pits in reverse order (Pit 3, then 2, then 1) to build up to the grand spectacle and potentially avoid some of the largest crowds in Pit 1 initially.
Day 5 Budget: $80-130
Explore
Xi'an's impressive City Wall, historic pagodas, and conclude with a spectacular cultural show.
Morning
Bike Ride on the City Wall
Rent a bicycle and ride along the top of the magnificent, fully intact Ming-era City Wall. The 14-kilometer circuit offers unique views of the old city inside and the modern city outside.
1.5-2 hours
$10 (wall entry + bike rental)
Enter via the South Gate (Yongningmen). Go early or late afternoon to avoid the midday sun.
Lunch
Fanji Lazhi Roujiamo (near South Gate)
Roujiamo (Chinese 'hamburger') and liangpi (cold noodles)
Budget
Afternoon
Big Wild Goose Pagoda
Visit the Dayan Pagoda, built in the Tang Dynasty to house Buddhist scriptures brought from India. Explore the surrounding Da Ci'en Temple complex and the North Square fountain.
2 hours
$12 (entry to temple area and pagoda climb)
Climbing the pagoda involves steep, narrow stairs but has a good view.
Evening
Tang Dynasty Dance Show
Enjoy the "Tang Dynasty Palace" dinner and show, a colorful performance of music and dance from China's golden age.
Where to Stay Tonight
Inside the City Wall (Same hotel.)
Last night in Xi'an.
The best light for photography on the wall is early morning or sunset. The South Gate area is the most lively and well-preserved.
Day 6 Budget: $70-120
Fly south to
Guilin, the way into China's most well-known river scenery. Adjust to the slower pace and enjoy the first views of karst peaks.
Morning
Transfer to
Xi'anXianyang Airport for a morning flight to
Guilin. The flight takes about 1.5 hours.
4 hours (including transfer and flight)
$100-150 (flight)
Book a morning flight to maximize your time in
Guilin.
Lunch
Chuanyuexiang
GuilinRice Noodles (in city center)
Afternoon
Explore Shanhu (Two Rivers & Four Lakes) & Xiangshan (Elephant Trunk Hill)
Take a leisurely stroll around the scenic Shanhu area, with its interconnected lakes and pagodas. Then, visit the symbol of
Guilin, Elephant Trunk Hill, a natural limestone arch that looks like an elephant drinking from the Li River.
3 hours
$15 (Elephant Trunk Hill entry)
The view of Elephant Trunk Hill from across the river is free and often just as good.
Evening
Zhengyang Pedestrian Street
Walk along this lively street for shopping, snacks, and people-watching. Try local dishes like beer fish (pijiu yu).
Where to Stay Tonight
City Center near Zhengyang Street or the lakes (Hotel like GuilinLijiang Waterfall Hotel or a quieter boutique hotel.)
Central location with easy access to food, sights, and the river.
Guilinis a prelude to the main event (Yangshuo). Don't feel pressured to see everything here; the real beauty is outside the city.
Day 7 Budget: $140-210
The highlight of the trip: a scenic cruise down the Li River, passing through a landscape of impressive karst mountains, arriving in the scenic town of Yangshuo.
Morning
Li River Cruise from Zhujiang Pier
Transfer to the pier (about 1 hour from downtown). Board a 4-star tourist boat for the 4-hour, 83-kilometer cruise to Yangshuo. The scenery is memorable, featuring the well-known view from the 20 RMB banknote.
5-6 hours (including transfer and cruise)
$110 (cruise ticket including lunch box)
Book the cruise in advance through your hotel or a reputable agent. Opt for the 4-star boat for better comfort.
Lunch
Lunch box provided on the cruise
Simple Chinese boxed lunch
Included
Afternoon
Arrival in Yangshuo & West Street
Disembark in Yangshuo (about 1.5 hours from
Guilinby road). Check into your hotel. Spend the late afternoon exploring the active, tourist-friendly West Street, a mix of Chinese and Western influences.
2-3 hours
$0 (walking)
Evening
Impression Sanjie Liu Light Show
Attend this impressive outdoor performance directed by Zhang Yimou, set on the Li River with the karst mountains as a natural backdrop.
Where to Stay Tonight
Yangshuo Town (near West Street for convenience, or in the countryside for tranquility)(Boutique guesthouse like Yangshuo Mountain Retreat or Green Lotus Hotel.)
Yangshuo is the base for exploring the impressive surrounding countryside.
The best views are from the top deck of the boat. Be prepared for photographers selling pictures. The cruise ends at Yangshuo's 'Ancient Town' pier, a 15-minute walk/taxi to the main town.
Day 8 Budget: $150-200
Rent an electric bike or bicycle and spend a day exploring the impressive rural landscapes, rice paddies, and villages around Yangshuo at your own pace.
Morning
Bike/Yulong River Valley
Rent an electric bike (e-bike) for ease. Ride along the Yulong River, passing through beautiful farmland, ancient bridges, and karst peaks. Stop to take a bamboo raft ride on a quieter section of the river.
3-4 hours
$10 (e-bike rental) + $30 (bamboo raft for two)
Many guesthouses rent e-bikes. For the bamboo raft, go to the official docks like Jima (Water-Rolling Dam) or Gongnong Bridge.
Lunch
Local farmer's restaurant in the village of Jiuxian
Fresh local vegetables, river fish, and chicken
Budget
Afternoon
Xianggong Mountain
Ride or take a taxi to the base of Xianggong Mountain. A short 15-minute climb leads to one of the most spectacular panoramic viewpoints of the Li River winding through the karst peaks.
2 hours
$10 (entry fee)
Best for sunset, but also impressive in the afternoon. The climb involves stairs.
Evening
Dinner on West Street
Choose from the many of restaurants on West Street, from local
Guilinspecialties to Western fare. Enjoy the lively night atmosphere.
Where to Stay Tonight
Yangshuo Town (Same guesthouse.)
Convenient for bike rental and evening meals.
Get a good map from your hotel and don't be afraid to get lost on the small paths. The real beauty is away from the main roads. Carry cash for village restaurants and raft tickets.
Day 9 Budget: $70-120
Bid farewell to the scenic south and fly to the pulsating, futuristic metropolis of Shanghai.
Morning
Transfer to
GuilinAirport & Flight to Shanghai
Take a pre-booked car from Yangshuo to
GuilinAirport (about 1.5 hours). Catch a flight to Shanghai Pudong (PVG) or Hongqiao (SHA). Flight time is about 2 hours.
5-6 hours total
$120-180 (flight + transfer)
Flying into Hongqiao (SHA) is closer to the city center, but Pudong (PVG) has more international connections.
Lunch
Airport or in-flight meal
Varies
Budget
Afternoon
Check-in & Nanjing Road
Arrive in Shanghai, transfer to your hotel, then take a walk down Nanjing Road, one of the world's busiest shopping streets. Feel the energy of the city.
2 hours
$20 (Maglev or taxi from Pudong)
From Pudong, take the Maglev train (7 minutes) to Longyang Road, then connect via subway.
Evening
The Bund & Huangpu River
Walk along The Bund, Shanghai's famous waterfront, to see the colonial-era buildings on one side and the futuristic skyline of Pudong on the other. It's spectacular at night.
Where to Stay Tonight
People's Square/The Bund area or the French Concession(Hotel like Les Suites Orient, Bund Center or a boutique hotel in the French Concession.)
People's Square is central for subway access; the French Concession is charming and leafy.
For the classic Bund photo, go to the observation platform. For a less crowded view with the old and new architecture framed together, walk to the end of Jinling Road.
Day 10 Budget: $160-240
Explore Shanghai's futuristic Pudong district, ascending its well-known skyscrapers and visiting its excellent art museum.
Morning
Shanghai Tower or Jin Mao Tower Observatory
Cross the Huangpu River to Pudong. Visit the observation deck of the Shanghai Tower (the world's 2nd tallest building) for outstanding 360-degree views, or the Jin Mao Tower for a slightly lower but still impressive perspective.
2 hours
$30 (Shanghai Tower)
Buy tickets online to skip some queues. Go on a clear day for best visibility.
Lunch
Food court in the IFC Mall or Super Brand Mall
Variety of Asian and international options
Mid-range
Afternoon
Shanghai Museum of Art (Power Station of Art) or Shanghai Ocean Aquarium
Art lovers should visit the PSA, a contemporary art museum in a former power plant. Families might prefer the excellent Shanghai Ocean Aquarium, with its long underwater tunnel.
2-3 hours
$15 (PSA, often free for main exhibitions) or $30 (Aquarium)
Check the PSA website for current exhibitions.
Evening
Acrobatics Show & Lujiazui Night Views
Watch the incredible ERA: Intersection of Time acrobatics show, then stroll through Lujiazui to see the skyscrapers, including the Oriental Pearl Tower, lit up.
Where to Stay Tonight
People's Square/The Bund area (Same hotel.)
Easy subway access back from Pudong.
Consider the Shanghai Financial Center's observatory as a less crowded alternative. For a unique Pudong view, have a drink at the Flair Rooftop Bar at the Ritz-Carlton (in the IFC).
Day 11 Budget: $100-160
Experience the contrast of Shanghai: ancient gardens, traditional bazaars, and hip, repurposed art districts.
Morning
Yu Garden & Old City God's Temple Bazaar
Visit the classical Yu Garden, a Ming-dynasty oasis of pavilions, rockeries, and ponds. Then, explore the crowded surrounding bazaar, full of souvenir shops and snack stalls.
2.5-3 hours
$8 (Yu Garden entry)
Go early to avoid the massive crowds. Try the famous Nanxiang steamed buns.
Lunch
Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant (in the bazaar)
Xiaolongbao (soup dumplings)
Budget
Afternoon
Tianzifang or M50
Explore the labyrinthine lanes of Tianzifang, a network of traditional shikumen houses turned into artsy cafes, boutiques, and galleries. Alternatively, visit M50 on Moganshan Road, Shanghai's premier contemporary art gallery district in a converted factory complex.
2-3 hours
$0 (walking, shopping variable)
Tianzifang is more commercial and crowded; M50 is more serious about art.
Evening
French Concession Wander & Dinner
Take a walk through the leafy, historic French Concession. Have dinner at a trendy restaurant on Ferguson Lane or Yongkang Road.
Where to Stay Tonight
French Concession or People's Square (Same hotel.)
spend time in the charming atmosphere of the old concession area.
In Tianzifang, venture into the smaller side alleys to escape the main tourist throng. For a quiet drink, find a rooftop cafe.
Day 12 Budget: $80-140
Escape the city bustle with a day trip to a classic 'water town' on the outskirts of Shanghai.
Morning
Travel to Zhujiajiao
Take the Shanghai Metro Line 17 directly to Zhujiajiao station (about 1 hour from People's Square). It's the easiest way to reach this ancient canal town.
1.5 hours
$5 (metro round-trip)
Take an early metro to arrive before the biggest tour groups.
Lunch
Restaurant overlooking the canals
Local freshwater delicacies like braised pork (hongshao rou) and river shrimp
Mid-range
Afternoon
Explore Zhujiajiao's Canals & Bridges
Wander the old streets, cross the well-known Fangsheng Bridge, take a relaxing boat ride along the canals, and visit Qing Dynasty gardens like Kezhi Garden.
3-4 hours
$15 (combo ticket for gardens + boat ride)
The combo ticket sold at the main entrance is good value. The boat ride is short but scenic.
Evening
Return to Shanghai & Farewell Dinner
Return to Shanghai via metro. Enjoy a final, special farewell dinner at a top restaurant like Mr & Mrs Bund for modern French or Lost Heaven on the Bund for Yunnan cuisine.
Where to Stay Tonight
Shanghai (your chosen area) (Same hotel.)
Last night in Shanghai.
Zhujiajiao gets very crowded on weekends. Visit on a weekday if possible. The side canals are often quieter and more photogenic than the main one.
Day 13 Budget: $90-180
Final souvenir shopping, a last taste of Shanghai's food, and departure for your homeward flight.
Morning
Last-minute Shopping & Xintiandi
Do some final souvenir shopping. Visit Xintiandi, a stylish pedestrian area of restored shikumen houses now housing upscale shops, restaurants, and the site of the First Congress of the Communist Party of China.
2-3 hours
$0 (shopping variable)
Lunch
Din Tai Fung (in Xintiandi) or a local shengjian (pan-fried bun) shop
Taiwanese/Xiao Long Bao or Shanghai street food
Mid-range
Afternoon
Transfer to Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG)
Depending on your flight time, take the Maglev train (7 minutes from Longyang Road), the metro Line 2, or a pre-booked car to the airport. Allow ample time for the journey and check-in.
1-1.5 hours
$10 (Maglev + metro) or $40 (car)
The Maglev is an experience (speeds up to 430 km/h). For a car, book via Didi or your hotel.
Evening
Departure
Check in for your international flight home, reflecting on an incredible journey through ancient and modern China.
Where to Stay Tonight
N/A (N/A)
Departure day.
If you have a late flight, many hotels offer late check-out for a fee, or will store your luggage. Pudong Airport has good shopping and dining airside.
Day 14 Budget: $60-120 (excluding flight)