Planning a 10-day China trip can feel overwhelming, but with a smart route you’ll see the best of ancient and modern. This itinerary balances famous landmarks, local food, and practical travel tips. Expect a mix of Beijing, Xi’an, and Shanghai – the three classic stops that first-timers love.
Best China travel route for 10 days
Start in Beijing for 3 full days. Visit the Great Wall at Mutianyu section, which is less crowded and well-restored. Spend another morning in the Forbidden City, then explore the hutongs by rickshaw. On day 3, take a quick trip to the Summer Palace. From Beijing, catch an overnight train or 4-hour high-speed train to Xi’an.
Xi’an deserves 2 days. The Terracotta Warriors will take half a day – hire a guide at the site for deeper stories. In the afternoon, bike on the ancient City Wall. Day 2 in Xi’an: visit the Muslim Quarter for lamb paomo and try a dumpling banquet. Then fly or take a 6-hour train to Shanghai.
How to travel between cities in China
High-speed trains are your best friend. They are clean, punctual, and have English signs. Book tickets through the official 12306 app or use a local agent like . For Beijing-Xi’an, a second-class seat costs about ¥550 (toward $80). For Xi’an-Shanghai, similar price and time.
Avoid overnight trains unless you love adventure – but the soft sleeper is comfortable. Domestic flights are cheap but often delayed. Always carry your passport for ticket pickup. Download Didi (China’s Uber) for taxi hailing. Alipay now accepts foreign cards, so set it up before you go.
Where to stay and eat on a 10-day China trip
Budget hotels like Home Inn or Hanting cost ¥200-300 per night. Mid-range options include Holiday Inn Express or local boutique hotels, around ¥500-700. In Beijing, stay near Qianmen or Dongsi. In Xi’an, choose near the Bell Tower. In Shanghai,the People’s Square area is central.
Food is safe and cheap. Avoid raw salads and tap water – stick to bottled water. Try Peking duck in Beijing (Quanjude or Dadong), biangbiang noodles in Xi’an, and xiaolongbao soup dumplings in Shanghai. Street food is fine if it’s freshly cooked. Use your phone’s camera to translate menus.
What to pack and how to avoid common mistakes
Pack light layers. October and April are best months – mild and dry. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a power bank, and a VPN (like Express or Astrill) to access Google and social media. Learn to say “hello” (nǐ hǎo) and “thank you” (xiè xie). Download offline maps and translate apps.
Avoid visiting during Golden Week (Oct 1-7) or Chinese New Year – crowds are insane. Never book guided tours from touts at the Great Wall. Use official ticket booths. Keep small notes of ¥10, ¥20 for snacks and toilets. Most importantly, be patient: China is chaotic but incredibly rewarding.
Which city in China would you most want to explore for two full days, and why? Leave your thought in the comments – and if this plan helped you, give it a like and share with your travel buddies!