26 Best Places To Visit In China For A Trip You’ll Never Forget

China has such a deep culture with tons of destinations to explore, but do you know which one is better for your budget or personal taste? If not, let’s get to know a bit about 26 best places to visit in China that Cabin Zero has compiled below. There will be the best time to visit, activities to join, and also some useful tips from past travellers for you to get the most out of your trip there. Whether you’re planning for a 2-week itinerary in China or longer, a history lover or a nature enthusiast, there are destinations made for everyone.

Best Places To Visit In China For First-Time Travellers

Beijing

The skyline of Beijing at night. Photo by Shan - stock.adobe.com

This city includes 14 urban and near-urban districts and 2 rural districts. It is located in North China and borders Hebei and Tianjin provinces. Despite being a bustling, modern city, Beijing retains its ancient, traditional beauty, complete with a proud culture and historic sites. Visitors feel like they are travelling back in time upon seeing the majestic palaces and unique ancient temples. All are typical relics of dynasties thousands of years old.

Xi'an

The ancient starting point of the Silk Road. Photo by 安琦 王 - stock.adobe.com

Xi'an is not only the capital of Shaanxi province but also one of China's most ancient cities. It is the cradle of the Yellow River basin civilisation, with a history of more than 3,100 years, and is also associated with famous historical figures. One of the most impressive attractions in Xi'an is the mausoleum of China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. This location is 50 kilometres (31 miles) east of Xi'an's city centre.

Shanghai

Shanghai's nightlife is as vibrant and colourful as the modern city itself. Photo by moofushi - stock.adobe.com

Shanghai is China's most populous city, and because it is located in the East of the country, it benefits from many natural resources. Everything creates a favourable environment for Shanghai's economic and tourism development. Culture is a blend of Western modernity and Chinese tradition, resulting in a cultural beauty you rarely find elsewhere.

Guilin

The majestic natural scenery of mountains and water in Guilin. Photo by saravut - stock.adobe.com

When it comes to Guilin, it is impossible to overlook the Lijiang River, which winds smoothly like a green silk ribbon. Witnessing the river's beauty, the green mountains, and the water against the mountain silhouette is an eye-opening experience.

Because Nanning and Guilin are both in Guangxi Province, you should also visit this beautiful destination (only a 3-hour train ride away from Guilin). 

Chengdu

Anshun Covered Bridges beautifully lit at night. Photo by Govan - stock.adobe.com

Chengdu, China's capital city, is known not only as one of the most beautiful places in China and as the country's giant panda breeding site, but also as an important trade hub. Visitors will be overwhelmed by the history of more than 4,000 years of development of the Jinsha culture.

From March to April, Chengdu attracts the most visitors, as this is the most beautiful season in the city.

If you have time, you should also visit Zhangjiajie, a beautiful and well-known Chinese province that offers many new experiences. All it takes is a 2-hour drive from Chengdu.

Best Historical And Cultural Places To Visit In China

The Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China is most enjoyable in the morning. Photo by Curioso.Photography on Adobe Stock

The Great Wall of China is located in Beijing and is one of the must-see attractions for anyone visiting China. The best time to visit the Great Wall is during spring and autumn when the weather is mild. 

Because it's a popular tourist attraction, it can get quite crowded. Therefore, if possible, prioritise visiting early in the morning. Absolutely avoid visiting on Chinese holidays.

If you're an experienced hiker, you can try the Jiankou section or the hike between Jinshanling and Simatai.

On the way down, try the Toboggan Ride for an exhilarating twist to your trip. It's quite enjoyable and will save you a lot of walking time. This service is currently available in Mutianyu and Badaling.

The Forbidden City

If you are a fan of Chinese historical dramas, you will surely recognise this massive complex. Photo by rabbit75_fot on Adobe Stock

Located in Beijing, the Forbidden City is one of the best places to visit in China, covering an area of 720,000 square meters and housing over 9,000 rooms used by 24 emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties. The scale is simply unimaginable.

You can use your passport to reserve tickets on the Palace Museum's website (it’s only sold 7 days in advance). And always bring your passport, otherwise you won't be allowed in.

The Museum of Qin Terra-cotta Warriors and Horses

7,000 terracotta soldiers and not one of them is identical to the others. Photo by Sammy on Adobe Stock

This is one of the most historically significant sites in China, featuring over 7,000 unique, handcrafted terracotta statues located in Xi'an. The total area is 16,300 square meters, divided into three main sections.

In addition to the underground army, your ticket also includes access to the nearby Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor; don't miss it.

You can take the 306 or 613 bus from Xi'an Railway Station or a private car to get here; it's only about an hour from Xi'an.

Temple of Heaven

A stunning yet peaceful scenery of the Temple of Heaven. Photo by Matyas Rehak on Adobe Stock

Although called a temple, this is actually a vast 600-hectare park. The complex includes key highlights such as the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, the Circular Mound Altar, and the Echo Wall – the names themselves.

The ideal time to visit is between 7 am and 9 am, when you can watch locals practising, or around 6 pm for the night view.

Take Subway Line 5 to Tiantandongmen (East Gate) for the most direct access.

Longmen Grottoes

There are over 100,000 carved stone statues located in more than 2,300 caves along the Yi River, with the 17-meter-tall Vairocana Buddha statue being the largest. The total time spent carving these statues spanned 400 years, resulting in each one being incredibly detailed.

Because it's backed by mountains and forests and overlooks the Yi River, the ambience is quite peaceful – perfect for escaping the city.

Getting there is also quite simple; if you're already in Beijing or Xi'an, just take the high-speed train to Louyang.

Shanghai Museum

Located in the heart of Shanghai, this world-renowned museum houses over 120,000 relics.

Unlike other museums, the artefacts here are displayed thematically rather than by dynasty and are meticulously preserved. However, many have been moved to the Shanghai Museum East branch in Pudong District, while several galleries in People's Square have closed.

Both branches of the museum are fairly convenient to reach, so you just need to search on Baidu to find the most convenient train route.

Admission is free, but to see the exhibitions, especially the Ancient Egypt exhibition, you need to book tickets a few days in advance (for a fee).

Best Chinese Gardens, Old Towns, And Cultural Walks

Imperial Summer Palace

The Imperial Summer Palace is one of the best places to visit in China. Photo by Stefano Zaccaria on Adobe Stock

This is another famous landmark in Beijing with an impressive history and stunning natural scenery. One of the most popular attractions here is Longevity Hill, along with the vast Kunming Lake – a serene retreat.

A little tip: the "Back Lake" area is a secret spot for those who prefer tranquillity and a more natural setting.

You can take the subway to Beigongmen Station (Line 4), located near the north gate, for convenience.

Yu Garden

Step into a fairytale at Yu Garden. Photo by Richie Chan on Adobe Stock 

Are you ready to travel back in time? If so, Yu Garden is one of the best places in China to do so.

This historic place was built in 1577 and covers an area of 20,000 square meters. Yu Garden boasts over 40 ancient bridges, a koi pond, and 14-meter-tall rockeries.

After you are done with this beautiful Chinese garden, be sure to explore the nearby bustling markets and stuff yourself with soup dumplings at Nanxiang Mantou Dian.

Shanghai's public transportation system is quite convenient, so you can get here simply by taking the Shanghai Metro Line 10.

Zhujiajiao Ancient Town

The perfect destination to enjoy a stark contrast to modern Shanghai. Photo by zhouyilu on Adobe Stock

Zhujiajiao doesn't compete with the Great Wall or the Summer Palace. It doesn't need to. This simple 1,700-year-old water town has a distinct charm of its own. All 36 ancient stone bridges and the houses along the riverbanks are beautifully preserved, with the old Chinese village vibe intact. 

Take Metro Line 17 to Zhujiajiao Station (about 37 minutes from Hongqiao Railway Station), then walk 15 minutes to access this attraction.

Jingshan Park

Jingshan Park is one of the most beautiful places to visit in China. Photo by jung on Adobe Stock

This park is famous for being the best vantage point for viewing the Forbidden City in Beijing and is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. It sits atop Jingshan Hill, 46.7 meters high, originally built to protect the Forbidden City.

The best time to visit is late afternoon for sunset, as the entire Forbidden City glows in the sunlight, creating a majestic scene. Note that this is only at sunset, as the lights are only turned on at night on holidays.

Entrance fees are very cheap, around $1.4, and the location is quite convenient for getting from Beijing.

Most Beautiful Natural Places To Visit In China

Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park

The refreshing green of the national park is truly healing. Photo by Lana Kray on Adobe Stock

This national park boasts numerous attractions and consistently ranks among the top places to visit in China. Here lies the world's longest cable car (7,455m), the 131.5-meter-high Tianmen Cave ("Heaven's Gate"), and thrilling cliff-side glass skywalks at an altitude of over 1,400 meters.

As with other natural attractions, you should wear comfortable walking shoes, bring a light jacket for the summit, and bring snacks/water.

You can easily reach the park by taking bus number 5 or 6 from south of central Zhangjiajie.

Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding

This is one of the most interesting places to visit in China. Photo by Ilias Kouroudis on Adobe Stock

This is home and a sanctuary for over 200 giant pandas, many of them quite famous, like Hua Hua. Although called a conservation area, it's designed to closely resemble the pandas' natural habitat, allowing you to observe their actual daily routines.

If you visit between July and September, you'll see adorable newborns at the Sunshine and Moonlight nurseries. There are also some incredibly cute red pandas.

To get there, you can take Metro Line 3 to Panda Avenue Station and then a shuttle bus to the entrance, or take a taxi/Didi for a 20-40-minute ride from downtown.

Jiuzhaigou Natural Reserve

This scenery deserves its title as one of the most magnificent places to visit in China. Photo by Kittiphan on Adobe Stock

This park, dubbed a fairy tale world and a UNESCO World Heritage site, is located in Sichuan, China. With emerald green waters surrounded by lush greenery (or golden leaves in autumn), it's a paradise on earth and a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

It also boasts China's tallest waterfall, the Norilang Waterfall, and a unique tiered structure, the Pearl Shoal Waterfall.

Most people arrive in Chengdu first, then take a flight or a high-speed train to Jiuzhaigou. The train is convenient and fast, so you won’t be tired.

Mt. Huangshan

A magical scenery of Mt. Huangshan at sunrise. Photo by Jonathan Wilson on Adobe Stock

Mount Huangshan, also known as Yellow Mountain, is located in Anhui Province and is nicknamed the "loveliest mountain in China." It boasts five wonders: spectacular sunrises/sunsets, a "sea of clouds", peculiarly-shaped granite peaks, unique pine trees, and winter snow.

After arriving in Huangshan City (Tunxi), you can take a 1-hour shuttle bus or taxi from the downtown area/train station to Tangkou Town and then take a local shuttle bus to the cable car stations.

Yalong Bay

The scenery at Yalong Bay can easily capture anyone’s heart. Photo by dtatiana on Adobe Stock

There are many water activities you can participate in, such as diving and snorkelling to see colourful coral reefs, or jet skiing and banana boat rides.

There’s also the Yalong Bay Tropical Paradise Forest Park, which offers panoramic views of the entire bay, a glass-bottom bridge, and a fun zipline.

Resorts around Yalong Bay are quite expensive, but the experience is worth it (as hotels often claim the best beach areas). For more affordable options, you can look around the Sanya area. This area also offers local cuisine instead of the Westernised dishes found in the Bay Area.

You can take the high-speed train to Yalong Bay or take a taxi from Sanya Airport; however, it will be more expensive.

Best Cities And Food Destinations In China

Guangzhou

The birthplace of dim sum. Photo by Tiffany - stock.adobe.com

This is dubbed as China's food capital, and it’s easy to see why. You'll be spiled for choices: roast goose with crispy skin, wonton noodles in a light aromatic broth, steamed fish with ginger and scallion, the options are endless. Baohua Road, tucked beside the old pedestrian strip of Shangxiajiu, is where you will find many places locals actually eat.

Beyond the plate, Lingnan-style architecture, the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, and the colonial-era riverbanks of Shamian Island give the city a texture that most visitors don't expect.

Hangzhou

For centuries, West Lake has inspired many poems and folk tales. Photo by THINK b - stock.adobe.com

This Chinese tourist attraction is located 180 kilometres (111 miles) northwest of Shanghai.

There's an old Chinese saying: "Above there is heaven, and below are Suzhou and Hangzhou." West Lake is the reason. Its mirror-still water, willow-lined banks, and pagodas rising through morning mist make it one of those places that actually live up to the reputation.

The food earns its own trip. Hangzhou's Qinghefang Pedestrian Street is a shopper's and foodies' paradise. Walking down the street, you will undoubtedly be drawn to the numerous dishes on display. From the rich, slow-braised Dongpo pork to lighter dishes like West Lake vinegar fish, there are many dishes to explore.

Longjing tea leaves are worth seeking out. The tea originates here, and the plantations on the city's outskirts are easy to reach and good for walking.

Chongqing

A bowl of Chongqing spicy noodles. Photo by Govan - stock.adobe.com

Chongqing is a large city in Southwest China and one of PexChina's four centrally-run and major cities.

It's the birthplace of hotpot, and the version here is not the diluted kind found elsewhere. There’s nothing quite like sharing the beef tallow broth loaded with chillies and Sichuan peppercorns with your friends and family.

Beyond hotpot, Chongqing noodles (xiaomian) and sour-spicy rice noodles are everywhere for very little money. 

Best Family, Shopping, And Entertainment Places In China

Nanjing Lu (Nanjing Road)

One of the most famous shopping streets in Shanghai. Photo by Bill Perry

This 5.5 km-long street is not only a shopping paradise but also a blend of modern, prosperous Shanghai and history, with its 19th-century architecture. It has two sections: East – pedestrian and historic, and West – modern with luxury shops.

Use the metro to get here. Nanjing Road East or People's Square stations offer direct access.

Jinli Pedestrian Street

CNN named this one of the world's 21 most beautiful streets. Photo by zhouyilu - stock.adobe.com

This is a street in Chengdu featuring Qing Dynasty architecture and many local shops.  There are also many traditional activities, such as sugar painting, dough modelling, and paper cutting, but the highlight is the "face-changing" shows. 

Since Jinli Pedestrian Street is near the Wuhou Memorial Temple, you can also add it to your itinerary.

To get here, take the subway to Wuhou Shrine station on Line 10 and use Exit A2. Admission is completely free.

Shanghai Disneyland

It's impossible not to mention Shanghai Disneyland in any China guide. This is the home to the world's largest Disney castle and the high-speed TRON Lightcycle Power Run.

Not only is it a destination for Disney fans, but it also subtly incorporates Chinese culture through a Chinese zodiac-themed garden, making it one of the most worthwhile places to visit in China.

Remember to book your tickets at least one month in advance to secure entry and save 10% through the official website.

The park is easily accessible via the Shanghai Metro Line 11, which connects directly to the resort.

Tips: Most places, like restaurants or shops, accept Visa or Mastercard, but for street stands, it’s best to prepare some cash beforehand or download WeChat/Alipay, the two most widely used online payment methods in China.

Are You Ready for Your Next Trip to China?

Above are 20+ best places to visit in China waiting for you to explore that Cabin Zero has compiled from trusted sources and experts’ advice. All destinations are quite famous, so the crowds can be overwhelming, but we have included tips for you to visit with leisure. Also, as many require walking outdoors, make sure to bring with you a waterproof, compact, and lightweight backpack like the ones from Cabin Zero. 

Let us know your thoughts below and follow our social media to get updates on the latest tips for travellers.

Duyen Pham