EXPLORE CHINA

Discover one of the world’s most fascinating destinations, where ancient history, modern cities, dramatic landscapes, and incredible food come together.

From the Great Wall and Beijing’s historic landmarks to Shanghai’s skyline, the karst mountains of Guilin, and the vibrant streets of Chengdu, China offers an enormous variety of experiences for every kind of traveler.

Use the guides below to plan your journey, discover places worth visiting, find practical travel tips, and make the most of your time in China.

For the three image cards underneath, you could use headings such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Guilin or Chengdu.

everything you need to know

Planning a trip to China can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first visit. From visas and transportation to payments, internet access, language, and choosing the right destinations, there are a few things worth knowing before you go.

Use the guides below to plan with confidence, avoid common mistakes, and make your trip around China easier from the start.

China Travel Guide for First-Time Visitors
Best Places to Visit in China
How to Pay for Things in China
Internet, VPNs & Apps You Need in China
Where to Stay in Beijing
Where to Stay in Shanghai

More About

China is a huge and incredibly diverse country, so no two trips look exactly the same. Major cities such as Beijing and Shanghai offer a very different experience from places like Guilin, Xi’an, Chengdu, or the rural countryside.

Before you travel, it helps to plan around the season, distances between destinations, local transportation, internet access, and payment methods. China can be very easy to travel around once you understand how the main systems work.

English is not spoken everywhere, especially outside major tourist areas, so translation apps can be extremely useful. It is also worth setting up the apps and services you may need before arriving, including maps, payments, transport, and communication tools.

Take your time when planning your route. China is much larger than many travelers expect, and trying to visit too many places in one trip can quickly become exhausting. A slower itinerary often gives you a much better experience.

List of Cities to visit

China is home to an incredible variety of cities, landscapes, historic sites, and cultural experiences. From famous landmarks and modern skylines to mountain scenery and ancient towns, there is something for almost every type of traveler.

Start with these top destinations to get a feel for the country, then explore more detailed guides as you plan your route.