If you’re looking to explore China in all its majestic glory, a 2-week China itinerary will give you a perfect blend of rich history, stunning landscapes, and a sh*tload of UNESCO World Heritage Sites!
From the ancient wonders of the Great Wall to the otherworldly landscapes of Zhangjiajie, this itinerary offers a variety of destinations for every traveler.
We not only share our top China recommendations but also provide the best transport options to make the most of your 2-week China itinerary, ensuring you spend less time traveling and more time exploring.
This 14-day China itinerary also offers flexible options to tailor your trip based on your travel preferences and what activities best suit you – trust us, China has something for everyone!
No matter which option you choose, you’re guaranteed an epic China travel experience. After all, having too many choices is always better than not having enough, right?!
If you’d rather skip the planning and enjoy the convenience of a ready-made adventure, treat yourself to this expertly curated 10-day China tour. It covers most of the incredible destinations mentioned in this article – perfect for experiencing the best of China without the stress of organizing it yourself.
Now let’s get into all the best places to see in China.
What about the Visa for China?
Let’s kick off our China travel guide with some great news – well, great for travelers from 38 countries!
Since January 2025, China has introduced a 30-day visa-free policy for the countries featured below:
That’s your first obstacle sorted for your 2-week China itinerary – if you are from any of the countries mentioned above just obtain your visa on arrival in China.
If you’re traveling to China from a country not included in the visa-free list, visit the official website to apply for your China visa online and follow the provided instructions
China Travel Tip: Before you head off on your 2-week China itinerary know this – In China, mobile payment apps like Alipay or WeChat Pay are essential for almost everything – from buying street food to booking transportation. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with all the essential tips to prepare you for your China trip.
China Travel Tip: How to Get Around China
When planning your trip, be sure to book your China train tickets in advance. Many cities are connected by efficient bullet trains, allowing you to reach your destination quickly and have more time to explore.
However, not all locations are connected by bullet trains in China, so it’s important to do your research. If you’re short on time, consider domestic flights to maximize your 2-week China itinerary and make the most out of your trip – don’t worry we’re here to help you achieve just that!
2-Week China Itinerary – An Overview
Take a glance at your ultimate 2-week China itinerary to see all the incredible destinations you’ll be crossing off your bucket list.
Next, we’ll dive into the detailed itinerary, insider tips, transportation options, and alternative places to consider adding.
| China 30 Itinerary Highlights | ||
| Day 1 | Arrive in Beijing and explore the famous Tiananmen Square | Beijing |
| Day 2 | Visit the Great Wall of China. | Beijing |
| Day 3 | Explore Beijing’s top attractions outside of the city. | Beijing |
| Day 4 | Travel from Beijing to Xi’an and Cycle Xi’an City Walls | Xi’an |
| Day 5 | Visit the iconic Terracotta Warriors | Xi’an |
| Optional | Hike Mount Huashan and stay overnight to watch the sunrise and walk the famous Hushan Plank Walk | Huashan |
| Day 6 | Arrival in Chengdu and visit the famous Chengdu pandas | Chengdu |
| Day 7 | Venture on a day trip to the Leshan Giant Buddha | Leshan |
| Optional | Explore China’s megacity of Chongqing for 2 days | Chongqing |
| Day 8 | Arrival in Zhangjiajie City | Zhangjiajie |
| Day 9 | Zhangjiajie National Park Tour – Elevator and Avatar Mountains | Zhangjiajie |
| Day 10 | Zhangjiajie National Park Tour – Golden Whip Walk and Glass Bridge Walk | Zhangjiajie |
| Day 11 | Tianmen Mountain | Zhangjiajie |
| Day 12 | Ancient city of Fenghuang (Old Phoenix Town) | Fenghuang |
| Day 13 | Explore Guilin countryside | Guilin |
| Day 14 | River Li Cruise | Guilin |
| Fly Home from Hong Kong | Hong Kong |
2-Week China Itinerary: Beijing (3 Days)
Start your 14-day China itinerary in Beijing, China’s historic capital. Over the next three days, you’ll explore imperial palaces, stroll through traditional neighborhoods, and stand atop one of the world’s most iconic wonders – the Great Wall of China.
Arrival Day 1: Welcome to Beijing!
On your arrival day in Beijing, ease into your China adventure by exploring the heart of the city at your own pace. After checking into your Beijing hotel, venture into your first authentic Chinatown and immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of just being in China!
In the city center, you’ll find some of Beijing’s top landmarks. Visit Tiananmen Square, one of the world’s largest public squares and a significant landmark in modern Chinese history. Just across from Tiananmen Square lies the Forbidden City, the largest ancient palace complex in the world – not a bad first day in China right?!
Important: Purchase Tiananmen Square tickets online in advance (especially during peak travel seasons) and bring your passport for entry – or just book the top-rated tour below!
Later, make your way to Wangfujing Street, a vibrant shopping and food district. It’s the perfect place to try your first local street snacks – from traditional dumplings to candied fruit or even adventurous bites like scorpions. Welcome to China!
If you’re staying in a Beijing city center hotel (and you still have some energy left!) aim for a night walking tour when the streets come alive but the heat and crowds have started to ease.
Top-rated Beijing City Tour:
- Tian’anmen Square & Forbidden City with Optional Tours – Tick two of the most iconic sights in Beijing off your sightseeing list during this in-depth, guided tour of Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City. You can also choose from exciting activities like a Hutong food walking tour.
Day 2: Great Wall of China
You may have guessed that The Great Wall of China is an absolute must-see and a highlight of any well-planned 2-week China itinerary. As one of the most iconic attractions in China, it showcases the country’s deep history and impressive architectural achievements.
Whether you hike along a rugged section or take a cable car to the top, the sweeping views and ancient atmosphere make for an unforgettable experience. No visit to China is complete without exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- If you are a budget traveler in China you can find out How to get to the Great Wall of China by Public Transportation or if you’d prefer the ease and convenience of a guided tour you can join this top-rated Great Wall of China tour.
Day 3: Temple of Heaven and the Summer Palace
On Day 3 of your 2-week China itinerary discover two of Beijing’s top attractions – we’re talking about visiting two more of Beijing’s UNESCO Heritage Sites! Begin at the Temple of Heaven, famous for its stunning Ming Dynasty architecture and spiritual significance. Explore the huge park where emperors once held ancient ceremonies, and admire the iconic Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests.
In the afternoon, visit the Summer Palace. The Summer Palace is a stunning imperial garden and one of Beijing’s top historic sites. Once a royal retreat for emperors seeking escape from the summer heat, today it offers visitors a peaceful glimpse into China’s royal past. The Summer Palace features scenic views of Kunming Lake, ornate pavilions, and the famous Long Corridor decorated with over 14,000 colorful paintings. Beijing’s Summer Palace offers a peaceful escape from the hustle of the city, providing a chilled ending to your time in China’s Capital.
Top-rated Summer Palace Tours:
- Summer Palace & Temple of Heaven Tickets and Tours – Choose from tour options that include pre-booked admission to top attractions like the Summer Palace and the Temple of Heaven. For a deeper experience, consider upgrading to a half-day or full-day guided tour.
- Mutianyu Great Wall & Summer Palace Day Tour – Consider combining a visit to the Great Wall of China with the iconic Summer Palace on one epic day tour from Beijing. Since this combo frees up some extra time, don’t worry you’ll have plenty of options to fill this day as you continue through your 2-week China itinerary.
Before you head off on your 2-week China itinerary be sure to read which China travel apps to download – trust us, this is very important information when visiting China!
2-Week China Itinerary: Xi’an (2 Days)
It’s time to leave the capital city of Beijing and journey to the ancient city of Xi’an where more incredible China attractions await.
Day 4: Arrive in Xi’an and Explore the Xi’an Wall
Next, catch a high-speed bullet train from Beijing to Xi’an, a city celebrated for its deep historical roots and world-famous attractions. By taking the bullet train, you’ll arrive in Xi’an by lunchtime. The journey takes around 4.5–6 hours – leaving you with plenty of time to explore this amazing city.
After checking in and settling into your Xi’an hotel, head straight to one of the city’s most iconic landmarks: the Xi’an City Wall.
Stretching over 14 kilometers, the Xi’an City Wall is the longest and one of the best-preserved ancient city walls in China. Offering panoramic views of Xi’an city, it’s a fantastic way to get oriented and immerse yourself in Xi’an’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you walk a section or rent a bike to circle the wall, it’s a memorable and scenic introduction to this ancient capital of China.
- Prepare yourself by purchasing a Xi’an City Wall Entry Electronic Ticket: Explore the Xi’an City Wall at your own pace with an electronic ticket and travel guide. Choose a ticket that suits your needs based on your age and enjoy a self-guided tour.
Check out how many China Attractions made it on our list of Best Landmarks in Asia – how many have you visited?
Day 5: Terracotta Warriors & Muslim Quarter
No trip to Xi’an (or China for that matter!) is complete without visiting Xi’an’s Terracotta Army, one of China’s most astonishing archaeological discoveries and a must-see highlight on any 2-week China itinerary.
Discovered in 1974 by local farmers, the Terracotta Warriors and Horses are part of the vast mausoleum of Emperor Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of a unified China. This massive underground army was created over 2,000 years ago to guard the emperor in the afterlife and consists of thousands of life-sized soldiers, horses, and chariots – each one uniquely crafted with individual facial features and armor.
The site is divided into several excavation pits, the largest of which holds over 6,000 figures!! Honestly, seeing the Terracotta Army in person was absolutely awe-inspiring – it easily ranks as one of the best things to do in China.
Terracotta Army Tip: The Terracotta Warriors are located about an hour outside Xi’an, so it’s best visited as part of a half-day Terracotta Warrior Tour. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, and consider visiting early in the day to avoid crowds – don’t expect to ever fully avoid crowds in China!
After returning to the city, explore the vibrant Muslim Quarter in Xi’an, home to one of the largest and most diverse Chinese food markets you’ll ever encounter. This bustling area is a true foodie destination in China, offering a vast selection of local delicacies and traditional snacks. Be sure to try popular dishes like flavorful lamb skewers and roujiamo (Chinese-style burgers) as you wander through the lively streets. The Muslim Quarter is not only a hotspot for things to eat in Xi’an but also a cultural experience – making it one of the best things to do in Xi’an for any traveler.
Top tip for eating at the Muslim Quarter in Xi’an – try the spuds!
Check out how we experienced Xi’an for yourself – grab a cuppa, sit back, and dive into our YouTube China playlist! Watch our videos showcasing all the amazing China attractions coming up on your itinerary – there’s plenty to get excited about!
Optional: Mount Huashan Day Trip
If you have extra time in Xi’an, consider a day trip from Xi’an to Mount Huashan, one of China’s most breathtaking and adventurous hiking destinations.
Famous for its dramatic cliffs, scenic trails, and the adrenaline-pumping Huashan plank walk, this mountain offers an unforgettable experience for thrill-seekers. It’s the perfect addition to your 2-week China itinerary if you’re looking to add a bit more adventure and hiking in China.
If hiking is your thing, check out our 10 best hikes in the world for unique trekking adventures – which ones would you take on?
2-Week China Itinerary: Chengdu (2 Days)
Did someone say pandas? We’ve got you covered! It’s finally time to meet China’s most beloved animals in Chengdu – you’ve waited long enough for this must-do China activity.
Day 6: Arriving in Chengdu – Say Hello to the Pandas!
Catch the high-speed bullet train from Xi’an to Chengdu, which takes as little as 3 to 4.5 hours, depending on the service. Arriving late morning or early afternoon gives you plenty of time to explore one of China’s most laid-back and culturally rich cities. Known for its relaxed vibe, spicy Sichuan cuisine, and tea house culture, Chengdu is a must-visit stop on any 2-week China itinerary.
And of course, Chengdu is most famous for its adorable residents – giant pandas! After checking into your Chengdu hotel, spend the afternoon at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, the best place in China to see pandas up close. This renowned panda sanctuary is one of the top attractions in China and a highlight for travelers of all ages.
- Chengdu Travel Tip: Buy your ticket in advance to the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base in Chengdu. Avoid the risk of tickets selling out with advance tickets that guarantee your admission on your chosen day and time.
Day 7: Leshan Buddha Day Trip
If you’re looking for an unforgettable day trip from Chengdu, don’t miss the chance to visit the Leshan Giant Buddha – one of the most impressive and iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites in China (yes another one!). Located about 2 hours from Chengdu, this awe-inspiring monument stands 71 meters tall, making it the largest stone Buddha in the world.
Carved into the red cliffs overlooking the convergence of three rivers, the Leshan Giant Buddha has stood watch for over 1,200 years. Originally built during the Tang Dynasty, the statue was designed to calm dangerous river currents – and today, it continues as a top tourist destination in China.
You can view the Leshan Buddha from cliffside walkways, descend to its feet for a dramatic perspective, or take a Leshan Buddha river cruise to fully appreciate the scale and serenity of this historic marvel.
A trip to the Leshan Giant Buddha is one of the top things to do in Chengdu and a perfect addition to any 2-week China itinerary, especially for travelers interested in culture, history, and unique landmarks.
Chengdu Travel Tip: If you’re a budget traveler in China planning to travel from Chengdu to Leshan independently, we’ve got all the essential tips and information to help you travel easily and affordably between these two popular China destinations. Alternatively, check out the most popular Leshan Buddha Tours below:
Top-rated Leshan Buddha Tours:
- Full-Day Leshan Buddha Tour from Chengdu Including Transfers and Expert Guides
- Consider a Giant Panda and Leshan Buddha Day Trip – Discover 2 of the most popular UNESCO sites near Chengdu on a full-day tour. See the adorable pandas at the Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding and the world’s largest sitting Buddha statue.
You can find detailed information about the 10 best attractions in China in our in-depth guide.
Optional: Chongqing (2 Days)
If you have more time, consider adding a 2-day trip to Chongqing to your China itinerary. This bustling mega-city – home to over 32 million people!! – offers a unique blend of urban energy and rich history.
Chongqing Tip: Book a hotel in Chongqing with breathtaking views of the city’s stunning skyline – an unforgettable Chongqing attraction in its own right.
Take the Yangtze Cable Car in Chongqing for even more breathtaking views of the city’s sprawling skyline, then head to Hongya Cave for a one-of-a-kind shopping and dining experience.
On day two, embark on a day trip from Chongqing to Wulong Karst, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning natural beauty, including dramatic limestone landscapes and the famous Three Natural Bridges.
This Chongqing addition to your 2-week China itinerary offers the perfect mix of China’s vast urban life and awe-inspiring natural wonders, a truly surreal China experience!
2-Week China Itinerary: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park (4 Days)
You are well into your 2-week China itinerary at this stage and we hope you are still feeling energized and eager to explore more of the best things in China – there are still plenty more out-of-this-world attractions coming up – such as the magnificent Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. Let’s check it out!
Day 8: Arrival in Zhangjiajie City
Unless you’re up for a minimum 7-hour train journey from Chengdu to Zhangjiajie, we recommend booking a direct flight, which takes just 1.5 hours. This option allows you to have a full day to explore Zhangjiajie City and make the most of your 2-week China itinerary.
*As with all your China transport, book this flight in advance to make sure your 2-week China itinerary runs as smoothly as possible.
On day one, check into your Zhangjiajie hotel and explore the city – rest, wander, eat, drink – then prepare for one of the most unique and unforgettable experiences of your 2-week China itinerary the following day.
Zhangjiajie Travel Tip: Wulingyuan is the nearest town to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, just a 5-minute drive from the park entrance, while Zhangjiajie City is about 50 minutes away. If you’re booking a 2-day Zhangjiajie tour, we recommend staying in Zhangjiajie City since the tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off from your accommodation. Additionally, Tianmen Mountain – which you will be visiting on Day 4 – is conveniently located near Zhangjiajie City.
Day 9-11: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park Tour
As part of your 2-Day Zhangjiajie Tour, you will spend two full days exploring Zhangjiajie National Forest Park and its surrounding famous China attractions.
You’ve probably guessed by now that Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is yet another UNESCO World Heritage site – just go ahead and assume that most of the top attractions on your 2-week China itinerary will be UNESCO sites. China really knows how to rack them up!
Day 9: Zhangjiajie National Park – Welcome to Avatar!
After meeting your guide, it’s time to explore Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, starting with the iconic Bailong Elevator, known as the world’s highest outdoor elevator. This impressive lift will take you up to Yuanjiajie, where you can wander among the towering sandstone pillars that inspired the floating mountains in Avatar. You will visit the scenic viewpoint at the “Platform of Forgetfulness”, and cross the famous “Bridge Under Heaven” to fully immerse yourself in Zhangjiajie’s mystical atmosphere.
In the afternoon, hop on an eco-bus to Tianzi Mountain and enjoy a scenic cable car ride down, fully soaking in panoramic views of Zhangjiaije’s National Forest Park’s unique sandstone pillars – what an epic ending to one of the best days on your China itinerary so far!
Day 10: Zhangjiajie National Park – Golden Whip Stream Hike & Grand Canyon
On Day 2 in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, begin early with a leisurely hike along the Golden Whip Stream. This serene trail winds through the heart of the park, tracing a crystal-clear river surrounded by lush forests and soaring sandstone pillars. The peaceful environment and frequent wildlife sightings make it a favorite among nature lovers visiting Zhangjiajie. After your hike, stop for a well-deserved lunch at a local eatery.
In the afternoon, explore the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon, located in the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Scenic Area – 22 kilometers east of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. Here, you’ll experience the famous Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge, known as the world’s longest and highest glass bridge. Stretching 430 meters in length and suspended 300 meters above the canyon floor, the glass bridge offers breathtaking panoramic views of the stunning canyon landscape.
For adrenaline seekers, additional activities include a thrilling zip line across the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon or descending via stairs, followed by a scenic hike through the canyon’s impressive cliffs, lush forests, and clear streams. Visiting the Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge is a must for those looking to add excitement and unforgettable adventure to their 2-week China itinerary.
For those looking to escape the crowds, Zhangjiajie National Forest Park has numerous trails that allow you to explore its serene beauty almost in solitude, offering a more peaceful and immersive experience. Just check out the video below to see for yourself:
Day 11: Tianmen Mountain
Tianmen Mountain, located just a 30-minute drive from Zhangjiajie City, is the most popular attraction in the region and a must-see on any China travel itinerary.
Tianmen Mountain is a spectacular natural attraction known for its dramatic cliffs and breathtaking views. Visitors can take the world’s longest cable car ride, which climbs over 7 kilometers from Zhangjiajie City to the mountain summit, providing the most incredible panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Once at the top, you’ll find the famous Tianmen Cave – a massive natural “heaven’s gate” arch carved into the cliffside.
- You can either take a taxi or book a Full-Day Guided Tour of Tianmen Mountain from Zhangjiajie.
Exploring Zhangjiajie National Forest Park and its surrounding attractions was the best part of our China trip – even if it did rain the entire time. But hey, we are Irish after all so it’s nothing we are not used to!
China Travel Tip – Even with the luck of the Irish, things can still go wrong. World Nomads Travel Insurance is our top choice for travel coverage. With the best transparent fine print in the industry, it’s no wonder they’re ranked number one. Don’t let your adventures turn to mishaps and get a free quote today!
2-Week China Itinerary: Fenghuang Ancient Town (1 Day)
Welcome to the prettiest town in China – we hope you have enough photo storage left on your phone!
Day 12: Fenghuang Ancient Town – China’s Prettiest Town
Your next destination on this amazing 2-week China itinerary is Fenghuang Ancient Town, also known as Phoenix Old Town. You’ll be delighted to hear that you have a handy China travel day today as the train from Zhangjiajie to Fenghuang takes only one hour.
This charming ancient town is famous for its well-preserved traditional wooden stilt houses, winding cobblestone streets, and vibrant lantern-lit alleys. During the day, enjoy a peaceful stroll along the Tuojiang River, taking in the historic architecture and local culture – a peaceful break from China’s bustling cities.
As evening falls, Fenghuang transforms into a magical riverside spectacle. Savor dinner and drinks by the water while watching the town’s glowing lanterns illuminate the night, creating a truly magical atmosphere and a must-see highlight for your China itinerary.
Alongside Fenghuang Ancient Town, check out our list of the most unique towns in the world – have you heard of any of these unusual towns?
2-Week China Itinerary: Beautiful Guilin (2 Days)
Welcome to the last destination of your ultimate 2-week China itinerary! Let’s end on a high shall we?!
Day 13: Explore Guilin’s Breathtaking Karst Landscape
Famous worldwide for its stunning karst landscape, Guilin is one of China’s most iconic natural attractions and an ideal destination to conclude your 2-week China adventure. The region’s dramatic limestone peaks rise sharply from lush, green valleys, creating postcard-perfect scenery that has inspired poets and painters for centuries.
To fully immerse yourself in Guilin’s tranquil beauty, rent a bike and explore the peaceful countryside at your own pace. Pedal through picturesque villages, rice paddies, and winding rural roads framed by towering karst formations – the perfect way to relax and unwind after your busy travels across China.
Day 14: Experience the Legendary Li River Cruise
No visit to Guilin is complete without taking a Li River Cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo, widely regarded as one of the most scenic river cruises in the world. As you drift past jagged limestone peaks, traditional fishing villages, and bamboo groves it will feel like a pinch-me moment and truly a must-do activity in Guilin.
This picture-perfect scenery in Guilin offers the ultimate way to reflect on your China adventures, providing a peaceful and reflective end to your 2-week China itinerary. Also not a bad time to start planning your return for a 30-day China itinerary!
End Your 2-Week China Itinerary in Vibrant Hong Kong
Your 2-week China itinerary officially ends in Hong Kong, a dynamic and vibrant city where East meets West. With its soaring skyscrapers, cultural landmarks, and fantastic shopping, Hong Kong offers the perfect place to pick up any gifts for those at home!
Getting to Hong Kong from Guilin is convenient and efficient. You can take a direct flight from Guilin Liangjiang International Airport to Hong Kong International Airport, which takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. With flight prices ranging from $48, we think this is a pretty good deal!
You can travel by train from Guilin to Shenzhen, which usually takes about 5 to 6 hours depending on the train type (high-speed trains are faster!). From Shenzhen, you cross the border to Hong Kong – this involves going through customs and immigration at one of the border checkpoints (e.g., Lo Wu or Futian). Then you continue by Hong Kong’s MTR (metro) or other transport into the city. This route is longer and more complex but can be a scenic and cost-effective alternative if you are a budget traveler in China.
Hong Kong also serves as an excellent departure point for your international flights home, with a wide range of airlines and competitive ticket prices. This makes it a smart choice for your final stop or even for planning your return trip to China in the future.
Enjoy Your 2-Week China Itinerary
This 2-week China itinerary offers a diverse and exciting selection of China destinations that showcase the country’s beauty and cultural heritage. Whether you’re walking the Great Wall, seeing pandas in Chengdu, or cruising the Li River, each stop on your China itinerary will leave you with unforgettable memories.
We absolutely loved our China travels and truly hope you fall in love with this exceptional country as we did. In fact, we are certain that you will!
Have you visited China? We’d love to hear about your experiences and any tips you have for fellow travelers looking to embark on their own 2-week China itinerary!
If you have any questions please leave us a comment below, and don’t forget to check out our socials for our latest adventures!
Slán go fóil
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