The Dragon's Trail: A Week Through China's Wonders
From Beijing's Imperial Palaces to Shanghai's Modern Skyline
Trip Overview
This carefully crafted seven-day journey takes you through China's most iconic destinations, blending ancient imperial heritage with modern marvels. Begin in Beijing, exploring UNESCO World Heritage Sites including the magnificent Forbidden City and the legendary Great Wall of China. Experience the grandeur of imperial gardens at the Summer Palace before flying to Shanghai, where colonial architecture meets futuristic skyscrapers. This itinerary balances cultural immersion with practical travel times, allowing you to witness China's 5,000-year history while experiencing its rapid modernization. Each day combines must-see landmarks with authentic local experiences, from traditional tea houses to vibrant street markets. The pace allows for thorough exploration without feeling rushed, with built-in flexibility for personal discoveries.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Imperial Beijing Unveiled
Where to Stay Tonight
Dongcheng District (near Forbidden City) (Mid-range hotel in the historic center)
Central location provides easy access to major attractions and authentic neighborhoods while minimizing travel time on your first day
The Great Wall Experience
Where to Stay Tonight
Dongcheng District (Same or similar hotel as Day 1)
Staying in the same area eliminates check-in/check-out hassles and keeps you centrally located for tomorrow's activities
Hidden Beijing Gems
Where to Stay Tonight
The Bund area, Shanghai (Mid-range hotel with river or city views)
Central location on the Huangpu River puts you within walking distance of Shanghai's most iconic sights for the next two days
Shanghai's Colonial Elegance
Where to Stay Tonight
The Bund area, Shanghai (Same or similar hotel as previous night)
Remaining in the same location maximizes exploration time and provides familiarity in this large, bustling city
Modern Shanghai & Hidden Lanes
Where to Stay Tonight
The Bund area, Shanghai (Same hotel as previous nights)
Final night in this location before departure; familiar surroundings make packing and early checkout easier
Water Towns & Traditional Culture
Where to Stay Tonight
Near Shanghai Pudong or Hongqiao Airport (Airport hotel for convenience)
Moving closer to the airport for your departure flight eliminates morning stress and allows for a leisurely final evening in the city
Departure Day Reflections
Where to Stay Tonight
N/A (Departure day)
End of itinerary
Practical Information
Getting Around
Beijing and Shanghai both have excellent metro systems (2-5 RMB per ride); download metro apps and purchase rechargeable transit cards. Taxis are affordable but drivers rarely speak English, so have destinations written in Chinese characters. For the Great Wall and water towns, organized tours or private drivers are most practical. The Beijing-Shanghai flight (2.5 hours) is faster and more convenient than the 5-hour high-speed train. Download Didi (Chinese Uber) for easy ride-hailing, though it requires a Chinese phone number. Walking is often the best way to explore neighborhoods and discover overlooked spots.
Book Ahead
Chinese visa required for most nationalities (apply 1-2 months before travel); Forbidden City tickets (book 1-10 days ahead); Great Wall tours (book 2-3 days ahead); Beijing-Shanghai flights (book 2-4 weeks ahead for best prices); Shanghai acrobatics show tickets; VPN service for accessing Western websites
Packing Essentials
Comfortable walking shoes, power adapter (Type A/C/I plugs), VPN-enabled phone, cash (many places don't accept foreign cards), Chinese phrasebook or translation app, portable charger, layers for varying weather, modest clothing for temples, face masks (common courtesy), toilet paper (not always provided in public restrooms)
Total Budget
$920-1,210 for 7 days (excluding international flights and visa fees)
Customize Your Trip
Budget Version
Stay in hostels ($15-25/night) in less central locations, use only public transportation, eat at local noodle shops and street food stalls ($3-8 per meal), skip organized tours in favor of public buses to the Great Wall, choose free attractions like parks and markets, and book domestic flights well in advance or take overnight trains. Water bottle and supermarket snacks reduce daily costs. Total budget: $60-90 per day.
Luxury Upgrade
Book five-star heritage hotels like properties in historic buildings ($200-400/night), hire private guides and drivers for all excursions, dine at Michelin-starred restaurants showcasing regional Chinese cuisine, arrange private Great Wall sections with gourmet picnics, add helicopter tours over Shanghai, book private boat cruises on the Huangpu River, and upgrade to business class flights. Include spa treatments and exclusive cultural experiences. Total budget: $400-600 per day.
Family-Friendly
Add interactive experiences like dumpling-making classes and kung fu lessons. Choose hotels with family rooms and pools. Visit the Beijing Zoo and Shanghai Science Museum. Take shorter Great Wall sections suitable for children. Use strollers in cities but prepare to carry them on stairs. Bring familiar snacks for picky eaters. Add more rest time between activities. Many restaurants offer simple rice and noodle dishes children enjoy. Public parks provide playgrounds for energy release between sightseeing.
Book Activities for Your Trip
Tours, tickets, and experiences in China