Thinking about exploring China in 2026? This 13-day itinerary blends ancient wonders with modern cities, local cuisine, and practical travel advice. Skip the generic lists—here’s what you really need to know, with daily breakdowns and up-to-date info from Chinese websites.
Before You Go: Quick Tips for 2026
- Avoid peak holidays: Chinese New Year (Feb 17, 2026), Labor Day (May 1), and National Day Golden Week (Oct 1–7) mean crowded trains and sold-out hotels. Plan around these dates for a smoother trip (Live the Language).
- Trains are fast: G-series bullet trains connect all major cities. Book tickets on the official 12306.cn site, 15 days ahead for best seats (Xi’an Jiaotong University).
- Mobile payments: Download WeChat and Alipay. Most places won’t take foreign cards or much cash.
Day 1: Land in Beijing
Arrive at Beijing Capital or Daxing Airport. Check in, then walk through Jingshan Park for killer city views and a sunset photo op. Treat yourself to classic Peking duck—Siji Minfu is a local favorite.
Day 2: Forbidden City & Historic Beijing
Book your Forbidden City ticket in advance (ID required). Wander Tiananmen Square, tour the palace, and stroll through the old hutongs. Try street snacks like jianbing (savory crepe) from a cart.
Day 3: Great Wall Adventure
Take a half-day trip to the Great Wall—Mutianyu is less crowded than Badaling. Bring good shoes! Recover with a peaceful afternoon at the Summer Palace’s lakes and gardens.
Day 4: Bullet Train to Xi’an
Hop on a G-series bullet train to Xi’an (4.5–6 hours, book at 12306.cn). Check into your hotel, then bike the ancient city wall at sunset. Dinner in the Muslim Quarter: try roujiamo (Chinese burger) and yangrou paomo (lamb soup).
Day 5: Terracotta Warriors & Tang History
Take a morning taxi to the Terracotta Warriors—book tickets online. Spend the afternoon at Big Wild Goose Pagoda or Shaanxi History Museum (reserve a spot). Evening: Catch a Tang Dynasty show if you’re up for it.
Day 6: Fast Train to Chengdu
Board a high-speed train to Chengdu (just over 4 hours; reliable and easy)[China Daily]. Settle in, then sip tea and people-watch at People’s Park.
Day 7: Pandas and Sichuan Flavors
Go early to the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base for active pandas (7:30–10am). After lunch, wander Jinli Ancient Street for souvenirs and taste local spicy snacks. Dinner: classic Sichuan hotpot.
Day 8: Chengdu to Shanghai (Fly or Train)
Morning flight to Shanghai (2.5 hours) saves time, but if you love trains, the high-speed route is scenic (11–14 hours). On arrival, stroll the Bund for a jaw-dropping skyline, then dig into xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) at Jia Jia Tang Bao.
Day 9: Old Meets New in Shanghai
Tour Yuyuan Garden, then relax in the French Concession’s leafy cafes. Shop or chill in Xintiandi. Night: Take a Huangpu River cruise for the best city lights.
Day 10: Water Town Escape
Day trip to Zhujiajiao or Tongli—ancient water towns filled with canals, stone bridges, and snack stalls. Back in Shanghai, try red-braised pork or seasonal hairy crab for dinner.
Day 11: High-Speed to Hangzhou
Take the bullet train to Hangzhou (1 hour). Rent a bike and cruise around West Lake. Visit Lingyin Temple, then sip Longjing tea in a local teahouse.
Day 12: Hangzhou’s Green Side
Tour a tea plantation (Meijiawu or Longjing village), or join a tea-picking lesson in spring. Wander Hefang Street for traditional snacks and crafts. Return to Shanghai in the evening, or overnight in Hangzhou for a slower pace.
Day 13: Last Hurrah & Departure
Pick up last-minute gifts or enjoy a quiet morning. Head to Pudong or Hongqiao Airport for your flight out—leave plenty of time for security.
FAQ & Travel Tips
- How to book trains? Use the official 12306.cn site (set up with your passport, English available)[Xi’an Jiaotong University].
- When not to go? Avoid Chinese New Year, Labor Day, and National Day—crowds and price hikes are real (Live the Language).
- Can I use cash? Rarely. Set up WeChat or Alipay before you land.
- What about food? Each city has its own specialties—don’t miss out by playing it safe!
Read More:
China Railway Station Guide: Comprehensive Travel Information
Chinese Architecture: Key Features, Cultural Significance, and Styles
