China Travel Guide for First-Timers: 2-Week Itinerary + Travel Tips
Shanghai, Beijing, Xi’an, Chengdu, and Chongqing
China had been on my travel list for years — mostly because of pandas and the Great Wall — but honestly, the more I researched it, the more I realised how incredibly diverse, modern, and culturally rich this country is.
We actually booked this trip quite spontaneously (similar to our South Africa adventure), using flight points and companion vouchers. We originally looked at Mexico, but the weather in April/May wasn’t ideal for us — so China won. And what a decision that was.
From futuristic skylines to ancient wonders, insane food culture, ultra-modern transport, and surprisingly luxurious hotels at great prices — China completely exceeded expectations.
2-Week China Itinerary (First-Timers Route)
We planned a balanced but efficient route to see as much as possible without rushing too much:
- Shanghai (4 nights)
- Beijing (3 nights)
- Xi’an (2 nights)
- Chengdu (3 nights)
- Chongqing (2 nights)
- Back to Shanghai (1 night)
We skipped Zhangjiajie (Avatar Mountains) intentionally — we wanted to experience it properly next time. And yes… there will definitely be a next time. China is just too big and too fascinating for one trip.
We used bullet trains to travel between cities and one internal flight – from Chongqing to Shanghai. Bullet trains are the easiest way to travel between cities.
Shanghai Travel Guide (Best Things to Do + Tips)
Shanghai was our starting and ending point — and honestly, one of the most exciting cities we’ve ever visited.
We stayed near Nanjing Road, which turned out to be the perfect base. Great for shopping, food, and quick DiDi rides everywhere.
Top Things to Do in Shanghai
- Yuyuan Garden & Old Street
A beautiful mix of classic Chinese architecture, koi ponds, traditional pavilions, and winding alleyways. Yuyuan feels like stepping into old Shanghai — especially in the evening when the lanterns light up and the whole area becomes super atmospheric. Right outside the garden, the Old Street is full of souvenir stalls, local snacks, and tea shops.
- North Bund
A slightly more relaxed alternative to The Bund, and honestly one of my favourite skyline viewpoints in Shanghai. You still get those iconic futuristic skyscrapers across the river, but without the heavy crowds. It’s especially magical at sunset when the city starts to glow. I highly recommend grabbing a Manner coffee with this view!
- Lujiazui skyline
This is the Shanghai you imagine before you arrive — glass towers, ultra-modern architecture, and that “futuristic city” feeling. Standing here, surrounded by the Shanghai Tower, Jin Mao Tower, and the World Financial Center, really shows how impressive and fast-paced the city is.
- Wukang Road & French Concession
One of the most charming areas in Shanghai. Think tree-lined streets, European-style buildings, hidden cafés, and quiet boutique shops. It has a completely different vibe from the rest of the city — slower, softer, and perfect for wandering without a plan.
- Anfu Road & Huaihai Road
These streets are full of trendy cafés, concept stores, and stylish locals. It’s one of the best areas for shopping and people-watching. Everything feels very curated here — from minimalist coffee shops to aesthetic fashion boutiques. You can grab here the viral lamb matcha and the cute teddy-drinks at 13 de marzo cafe.
- Tianzifang / Xintiandi
Tianzifang is a maze of narrow lanes filled with tiny shops, art studios, and street food spots — very creative and slightly chaotic in the best way. Xintiandi is its more polished sibling, with restored shikumen buildings, upscale restaurants, and a more modern feel.
- 1000 Trees (M50 complex area)
One of the most unique architectural spots in Shanghai. The building looks like a futuristic mountain covered in greenery — very surreal. The nearby M50 art district adds a creative edge with galleries, street art, and indie studios.
- HAUS Nowhere
A super aesthetic concept store that feels more like an art installation than a shop. Everything is designed beautifully — from fashion pieces to interiors — and it’s one of those places you visit just for inspiration (and photos).
- Shanghai Disneyland (day trip)
Very easy to reach from the city and extremely well organised. It’s a full-day experience, whether you’re into rides, shows, or just the atmosphere. The park is huge, super clean, and honestly one of the best Disney parks for a stress-free visit.
- Zhujiajiao Ancient Town (day trip)
A peaceful water town just outside Shanghai, often called the “Venice of the East.” You’ll find canals, stone bridges, traditional houses, and boat rides. It’s a really nice contrast to the city — slower, quieter, and very scenic.
Book in advance:
Shopping in Shanghai (Must-Visit Stores)
Shanghai is a dream for shopping lovers. Some favourites:
- Songmont, Basement FG, Subdued
- Tagi, W.Management
- Harmay (iconic beauty store!)
- Miniso, Muva, Wow Colour
Cafés & Drinks You Must Try
Milk tea culture is huge in China — and addictive:
- Chagee
- HeyTea
- Molly Tea
- ChaPanda
Coffee lovers also have plenty of options:
- Luckin Coffee
- Manner Coffee
- M Stand
- Cotti Coffee
Food is extremely regional — try everything city by city.
Beijing Travel Guide (History + Iconic Landmarks)
Beijing is where China’s history really comes alive. Expect huge landmarks, imperial architecture, and a lot of walking.
Must-See Attractions in Beijing
- Great Wall of China (Mutianyu section)
One of the absolute highlights of any trip to China. The Mutianyu section is perfect for first-timers — it’s beautifully restored, less chaotic than other parts, and surrounded by mountain views that honestly feel unreal. You can take a cable car up and either hike or toboggan down, which makes the experience even more fun and memorable.
- Forbidden City
A huge imperial palace complex right in the heart of Beijing and one of the most impressive historical sites I’ve ever visited. It feels endless as you walk through courtyards, gates, and intricate buildings that once housed emperors. It’s busy, but completely worth it for the scale and history alone. I highly recommend a tour guide.
- Tiananmen Square
One of the most symbolic and recognisable places in China. It’s massive, open, and surrounded by important government buildings and historical monuments. Even though it’s often crowded and very controlled, it’s still a powerful place to experience while in Beijing.
- Jingshan Park
Just across from the Forbidden City, this park gives you one of the best panoramic views in the city. After climbing up to the top, you get a perfect overlook of the entire Forbidden City — especially beautiful in the early morning or late afternoon light.
- Temple of Heaven
A peaceful escape from the busy city. This UNESCO-listed complex is where emperors once prayed for good harvests. The architecture is stunning, and the surrounding park is full of locals doing tai chi, dancing, or playing music — it feels very alive but still calming.
- Summer Palace
A beautiful mix of lakes, bridges, temples, and gardens. It’s much more relaxed than central Beijing and feels like a royal retreat. You can easily spend a few hours here walking along the water or just sitting and enjoying the scenery.
- Shichahai Lake area
One of the nicest spots for an evening walk in Beijing. The lakes are surrounded by traditional buildings, bars, and restaurants, creating a really nice mix of old and new. It’s especially pretty at sunset when everything reflects on the water.
- Wudaoying Hutong
A charming hutong street full of cafés, small shops, and local life. It has a slightly more modern, hip vibe compared to other hutongs, but still keeps that traditional Beijing feel. Perfect for wandering, coffee stops, and slow exploring.
Book in advance:
Xi’an Travel Guide (Terracotta Warriors)
Xi’an feels like stepping back in time — especially with its ancient walls and incredible history.
Top Things to Do in Xi’an
- Terracotta Army
One of the most incredible archaeological discoveries in the world and an absolute must-visit in Xi’an. Standing in front of the life-sized warriors is honestly surreal — each face is different, and the scale of the site is much bigger than you expect. It’s one of those places that really stays with you long after you leave.
- Xi’an City Walls
One of the best-preserved city walls in China and a great way to see the city from a different perspective. You can walk or cycle along the top, which gives you a mix of old and new Xi’an views — ancient towers on one side and modern city life on the other. Especially nice during golden hour.
- Bell Tower & Drum Tower
Located right in the city centre, these are two of Xi’an’s most iconic landmarks. They look beautiful lit up at night and sit at the intersection of busy streets, giving you a real sense of how history and modern life blend here. Worth seeing both during the day and after dark.
- Muslim Quarter
A lively maze of food stalls, local shops, and street vendors — this is where Xi’an really comes alive. It’s loud, chaotic, and full of incredible smells. Perfect for trying local snacks, exploring narrow streets, and soaking up the energy of the city.
Must-Try Local Food in Xi’an
- Biangbiang Noodles
Thick, hand-pulled noodles that are famous in the region. They’re usually served with chilli, garlic, and vinegar — simple but incredibly flavourful. Definitely one of the most memorable dishes in Xi’an.
- Liangpi Cold Noodles
A refreshing cold noodle dish that’s especially good if you’re travelling in warmer weather. They’re light, slightly tangy, and usually served with chilli oil and vegetables — perfect for a quick street food snack while exploring.
Book in advance:
Chengdu Travel Guide (Pandas + Food Heaven)
Chengdu was one of our favourite stops — relaxed, green, and full of incredible food.
Things to Do in Chengdu
- Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding
An absolute must-do in Chengdu and one of the main reasons most people visit the city. Seeing giant pandas up close in a natural-style environment is honestly such a special experience. Go early in the morning if you can — that’s when they’re most active (and it’s the cutest chaos).
- Dujiangyan Panda Valley
A great alternative if you want a quieter, more spacious panda experience. It feels less crowded and more relaxed, with beautiful greenery surrounding the enclosures. Perfect if you want a slower-paced visit compared to the main panda base.
- Kuanzhai Alley
A charming mix of old Chengdu architecture and modern cafés, shops, and restaurants. It’s the kind of place where you can wander slowly, grab snacks, and just enjoy the atmosphere. Especially nice in the evening when everything lights up.
- Wuhou Shrine Museum
A cultural and historical highlight dedicated to the Three Kingdoms era. Even if you’re not a history expert, the gardens, temples, and architecture make it a peaceful and interesting place to explore.
- Jinli Street
One of the most atmospheric streets in Chengdu, especially in the evening when the lanterns are lit. It’s full of street food, souvenirs, and traditional-style buildings — very lively, slightly touristy, but still worth visiting for the vibe.
- People’s Park
This is where you see real local life in Chengdu. People come here to drink tea, play mahjong, dance, sing, and relax. It’s such a fun contrast to tourist attractions and gives you a real feel for the city’s slower pace.
- Sichuan Opera
A must-see cultural experience, especially the famous face-changing performance. It’s fast, dramatic, and honestly quite fascinating to watch — a mix of theatre, music, and traditional storytelling.
- Wenshu Monastery
A peaceful Buddhist temple right in the city, offering a quiet escape from Chengdu’s energy. The architecture is beautiful, and the surrounding area has lovely tea houses and vegetarian food spots.
- IFS Mall Panda Sculpture
An iconic rooftop panda climbing the building — one of Chengdu’s most famous photo spots. It’s located in a modern shopping area, so you get a fun contrast between luxury shops and playful public art.
- Tianfu Financial Center
A modern skyline area that shows a completely different side of Chengdu. It’s especially impressive at night when the buildings are lit up, making it a great spot for city views and photography.
Book in advance:
Chongqing Travel Guide (Cyberpunk City Vibes)
Chongqing is one of the most unique cities we’ve ever visited — futuristic, chaotic, vertical, and absolutely fascinating.
What to Do in Chongqing
- Liziba Station
One of the most surreal sights in China — a metro train literally passing straight through a residential building. Definitely worth stopping for a quick photo or video because it’s so unique to Chongqing.
- Hongya Cave
An iconic multi-level complex built into the cliffside, and even more magical at night. The whole area lights up with glowing lanterns and reflections over the river, creating a very “cyberpunk” atmosphere. It’s busy, but the views and vibe are absolutely worth it.
- Yangtze River Cable Car
A short but unforgettable ride across the river with panoramic views of the city. It gives you a completely different perspective of Chongqing’s vertical skyline and is especially beautiful during sunset or at night.
- Arhat Temple
A hidden spiritual escape right in the middle of the city. Despite being surrounded by modern skyscrapers, this temple feels calm and traditional, with intricate statues and peaceful courtyards that contrast beautifully with Chongqing’s chaos.
- Danzishi Old Street
A really interesting blend of restored traditional architecture and modern design. It’s great for wandering, trying local snacks, and enjoying river views. At night, the lighting makes it feel warm and atmospheric.
- Ciqikou Ancient Town
A traditional town that gives you a glimpse into old Chongqing. Expect narrow streets, tea houses, street food, and lots of small shops. It can be busy, but it’s still a great place to experience the city’s history and culture.
- Hotpot dinner experience
Chongqing is famous for its hotpot — and it’s not for the faint-hearted. It’s extremely spicy, bold, and full of flavour, but also one of the most fun food experiences you can have in China. Definitely a must-try while you’re here.
- The Ring Shopping Mall
A futuristic indoor mall that feels more like a botanical garden than a shopping centre. It’s modern, beautifully designed, and a great place to escape the heat while still exploring something visually impressive.
- The Raffles City exploration deck
One of the best viewpoints in Chongqing. From the top, you get sweeping views of the skyline, rivers, and bridges — especially stunning at night when the city lights up. A perfect final stop to really appreciate how dramatic Chongqing’s landscape is.
Book in advance:
Essential Apps for Travelling in China
If you’re visiting China for the first time, these apps are absolutely essential:
Payments & Communication
- Alipay – replaces Apple Pay / Google Pay – most places are cashless = Alipay is essential
- WeChat – messaging, payments, bookings, everything
Transport & Travel
- DiDi – Chinese Uber (cheap and efficient)
- Trip.com – hotels, trains, attractions
Navigation & Translation
- Amap – best alternative to Google Maps (Google Maps does NOT work properly in China)
- Google Translate – essential for menus and communication
My Go-To Travel Hack: Airalo eSIM
I never travel without Airalo eSIM anymore! It’s honestly one of my biggest travel hacks. No more hunting for SIM cards at the airport or stressing about roaming charges — you just download it before your trip and you’re connected as soon as you land.
It works in 200+ countries and makes everything easier — from Google Maps to booking last-minute spots and sharing your travels in real time.
Final Thoughts: Is China Worth Visiting?
Absolutely yes.
China is one of the most dynamic, surprising, and visually diverse countries we’ve ever visited. It blends ancient history with futuristic cities in a way that feels almost surreal at times.
China is very safe, clean, and incredibly efficient for tourists.
We went in expecting a great trip — and left already planning the next one.
If you’re thinking about China as a first-time destination: go. Just don’t try to see everything in one trip… because there will definitely be a second one.
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China travel FAQs
Is China a good destination for first-time visitors?
Yes, China is an amazing destination for first-time visitors, especially if you want a mix of history, modern cities, incredible food, and unique cultural experiences.
How many days do you need for a China trip?
A 2-week China itinerary is ideal for first-time travellers and gives enough time to visit major cities like Shanghai, Beijing, Xi’an, Chengdu, and Chongqing.
What is the best month to visit China?
Spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) are considered the best times to visit China because of mild weather and comfortable sightseeing conditions.
Is it easy to travel around China as a tourist?
Yes, travelling around China is very convenient thanks to the extensive high-speed train network, affordable taxis, and modern booking apps like Trip.com and DiDi.
Which apps should I download before travelling to China?
Essential apps for travelling in China include Alipay, WeChat, Amap, Trip.com, and Google Translate. And remember about eSIM to stay connected.
Is 2 weeks enough for a first trip to China?
Yes, 2 weeks in China is enough for a first trip if you focus on a few key destinations and travel between cities by bullet train or domestic flights.