Planning a trip to China for the first time? A well-thought-out 10-day itinerary can help you experience the very best this vast country has to offer. From ancient imperial palaces to futuristic skylines, this guide covers the must-see destinations and practical tips to make your journey seamless.
What Should You Visit in 10 Days in China
Beijing is where every first-time visitor should begin. Spend your first three days exploring the capital’s most iconic landmarks. The Great Wall at Mutianyu is less crowded than Badaling and offers stunning mountain views. The Forbidden City deserves a full day — arrive early to beat the crowds and wander through over 900 rooms of imperial history. For something completely different, visit the 798 Art District, a former industrial complex turned contemporary art hub.
Xi’an comes next on the second leg of your trip. The Terracotta Army is unforgettable — plan for at least two hours here. The Ancient City Wall is perfect for an evening bike ride, and the Muslim Quarter offers some of the most exciting street food in all of China. Try the lamb dumplings and celery pancakes while you explore the narrow alleyways.
How to Balance History and Modernity During Your Trip
Shanghai and Guilin bring a completely different flavor to your itinerary. Shanghai’s Bund skyline is breathtaking at night, and the French Concession neighborhood is ideal for leisurely strolls and café-hopping. Don’t miss the Jade Buddha Temple and Zhujiajiao Water Town for a taste of old Shanghai.
Guilin’s karst landscapes are unlike anywhere else on Earth. A two-day Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo is the highlight of this section. Rent a scooter in Yangshuo and ride through rice paddies and limestone cliffs. The West Street area is lively but worth exploring for sunset views over the Yulong River.
Budget roughly $60 to $100 per day for mid-range accommodation, meals, and transport. Domestic flights between cities save time and money compared to high-speed rail for longer stretches. Book tickets through or Ctrip, and download WeChat and Alipay before arrival for smooth payments throughout your trip.
Tips for Navigating China as a Foreign Traveler
Language barriers are manageable with a few smart preparations. Download the Pleco dictionary app and carry a phrasebook — basic Mandarin phrases go a long way. Most major hotels and tourist sites have English signage, but rural areas depend on translation apps.
A Chinese SIM card or eSIM is essential for navigation and booking. China Unicom and China Mobile offer affordable tourist packages with data and calls. Keep your passport handy at all times, as police checkpoints are common in major cities.
Book the Terracotta Army tickets online in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. Skip-the-line access is available and well worth the small extra cost. For dining, street food stalls and local noodles shops offer the most authentic experiences — and they are consistently the best value.
When Is the Best Time to Visit China for 10 Days
Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) offer the most pleasant weather across all major cities. Summers in Beijing and Xi’an can be sweltering, while winters bring cold and dry conditions. If you are visiting during shoulder season, book accommodations at least three weeks ahead to secure reasonable rates.