14-Day China Itinerary: Explore the Best of China in Two Weeks

China, a vast and diverse country, offers a plethora of experiences that span ancient history, modern marvels, and breathtaking landscapes. This 14-day itinerary is designed to give you a comprehensive tour of China’s highlights, from the bustling cities to serene countryside. You’ll visit iconic landmarks, enjoy delicious regional cuisine, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of this fascinating nation. Whether you’re an avid traveler or a first-time visitor, this itinerary will help you make the most of your two weeks in China.

Day 1-3: Beijing
Day 1: Arrive in Beijing, the capital of China. Begin your exploration with a visit to the majestic Forbidden City, an ancient imperial palace that served as the home of Chinese emperors for nearly 500 years. Afterward, head to Tiananmen Square, one of the largest public squares in the world, and explore the nearby Temple of Heaven, an architectural marvel and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Day 2: Start your day with a trip to the Great Wall of China at Badaling, one of the most well-preserved and accessible sections. In the afternoon, visit the Summer Palace, a sprawling garden and palace complex known for its stunning landscapes and historical significance. In the evening, experience a traditional Peking Duck dinner at one of Beijing’s renowned restaurants.

Day 3: Take a morning stroll through the Beihai Park, a beautiful imperial garden with a large lake. Afterward, visit the Lama Temple, a prominent Tibetan Buddhist monastery. Spend your afternoon exploring the vibrant Hutongs, narrow alleys that offer a glimpse into traditional Beijing life. Wrap up your day with a visit to the 798 Art District, an area known for its contemporary art galleries and creative spaces.

Day 4-6: Xi'an
Day 4: Fly to Xi’an, the ancient capital of China and the starting point of the Silk Road. Begin with a visit to the Terracotta Army, an extraordinary collection of sculptures buried with the first Emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang. In the afternoon, explore the Xi’an City Wall, one of the best-preserved ancient city walls in China, and take a bike ride around it.

Day 5: Visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, an important Buddhist site with a rich history. Afterward, explore the Muslim Quarter, a bustling area known for its street food and cultural diversity. Don’t miss trying some local delicacies like Yang Rou Pao Mo (lamb stew with bread).

Day 6: Take a day trip to Huaqing Hot Springs, a historic site with beautiful hot springs and gardens. You can also visit the nearby Mount Huashan, one of China’s Five Great Mountains, known for its stunning natural scenery and challenging hiking trails. Return to Xi’an in the evening.

Day 7-9: Chengdu
Day 7: Fly to Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province. Start your visit with a trip to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, where you can see giant pandas in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, explore the Wuhou Shrine, dedicated to the famous Three Kingdoms era strategist Zhuge Liang, and the nearby Jinli Ancient Street, known for its traditional architecture and local snacks.

Day 8: Take a day trip to the Leshan Giant Buddha, a massive stone statue carved into a cliffside. It’s one of the largest and oldest stone Buddha statues in the world. Afterward, explore the Mount Emei Scenic Area, a UNESCO World Heritage site with beautiful landscapes and ancient temples.

Day 9: Spend your day exploring Chengdu’s Old Town and Kuanzhai Alley, a historic district with traditional Sichuan architecture and local crafts. Enjoy a relaxing evening at a tea house and experience a traditional Sichuan Opera performance, known for its unique face-changing act.

Day 10-12: Guilin and Yangshuo
Day 10: Fly to Guilin, a city renowned for its stunning karst landscapes. Take a boat cruise along the Li River, known for its breathtaking scenery and picturesque views. Disembark in Yangshuo and explore the charming town, known for its vibrant atmosphere and outdoor activities.

Day 11: Spend the day cycling or hiking through the stunning countryside around Yangshuo. Visit the Moon Hill, a natural rock formation with a moon-shaped hole, and enjoy the picturesque views. You can also explore the Yulong River, where you can take a bamboo raft ride.

Day 12: Return to Guilin and visit the Reed Flute Cave, a limestone cave filled with impressive stalactites and stalagmites. In the afternoon, explore the Elephant Trunk Hill, a famous landmark that resembles an elephant drinking water from the river.

Day 13-14: Shanghai
Day 13: Fly to Shanghai, China’s largest city and a global financial hub. Start your exploration with a visit to The Bund, a historic waterfront area with colonial-era buildings and stunning views of the Pudong skyline. Explore the Yuyuan Garden, a classical Chinese garden with beautiful pavilions and ponds.

Day 14: Visit the Shanghai Museum, which houses a vast collection of Chinese art and artifacts. Spend your afternoon exploring the Nanjing Road, a bustling shopping street, and the Shanghai Tower, one of the tallest buildings in the world, for panoramic views of the city. In the evening, enjoy a river cruise along the Huangpu River to see the city’s skyline illuminated at night.

This 14-day itinerary offers a well-rounded experience of China’s cultural, historical, and natural wonders. From the ancient streets of Beijing to the modern skyline of Shanghai, you’ll experience the diverse beauty and rich heritage of this incredible country.