Why visit China?
China offers a vast sweep of landscapes, from ancient walled cities and imperial palaces to soaring skylines and dramatic mountains. You can move between centuries in a single day, exploring modern design, historic streets, and riverside towns.
What to expect
Each region of China has its own character, from Beijing and Shanghai in the east to Chengdu and Chongqing in the west, and Guangzhou and Shenzhen in the south. Expect fast-paced cities, quieter water towns, and access to national parks and scenic countryside not far from major hubs.
Plan your trip
You can easily combine several cities in one journey, using China as a base to explore more of East Asia. With strong rail and air links between key hubs, it is simple to plan a route that matches your time, interests, and travel style.
Discover China
Discover China
Top experiences in China
Walk through Beijing's imperial landmarks
Stroll between grand palaces, historic squares, and traditional hutong lanes that reveal the capital's layered past.
Feel the energy of Shanghai's riverfront skyline
Wander along the Bund and look across to the futuristic towers of Pudong glowing after sunset.
Explore the canals and old towns near Hangzhou and Shanghai
Take a day trip to atmospheric water towns with stone bridges, restored houses, and narrow lanes by the water.
Unwind by lakes and tea fields around Hangzhou
Walk beside tranquil lakeshores and nearby tea-growing hills that offer a slower pace within easy reach of the city.
Discover Chengdu's relaxed streets and green spaces
Spend time in leafy parks and pedestrian areas that showcase a slower, sociable side of city life.
See the modern skylines of Shenzhen and Guangzhou
Experience southern China's innovation hubs with striking architecture, spacious boulevards, and riverside views.
Cruise the rivers around Chongqing
Use the city as a base for scenic river journeys framed by steep hills and bright city lights.
Taste regional flavours in every city
From the bold dishes of Sichuan to refined coastal seafood, each stop introduces a new culinary style.
Experience China's way of life
Getting around
High-speed rail connects many major cities in eastern and central China, making multi-city itineraries straightforward. For longer distances, domestic flights link hubs such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, and Chongqing with onward regional centres.
Local life & culture
In Beijing and Shanghai you find wide avenues, cultural venues, and historic neighbourhoods side by side. Southern cities like Guangzhou and Shenzhen feel more tropical and fast-moving, while Chengdu and Chongqing offer a more relaxed, sociable rhythm in everyday life.
Where to unwind
Across China, you can step away from busy streets into lakeside parks, classical gardens, and riverside promenades. Around cities such as Hangzhou, Chengdu, and Chongqing, nearby hills, scenic viewpoints, and walking trails offer an easy escape into nature.
A taste of China
National dishes & specialties
China's food culture changes noticeably from city to city, with the bold flavours of Sichuan around Chengdu and Chongqing contrasting with lighter coastal styles in Xiamen, Shanghai, and Hangzhou. In Beijing and Guangzhou, long culinary traditions shape many well-known dishes.
Casual & modern dining hubs
You will find casual eateries and contemporary restaurants in every major Chinese city, from busy shopping districts in Shenzhen and Guangzhou to side streets in Beijing and Shanghai. Food courts, cafés, and neighbourhood spots make it easy to sample different regional flavours in a single trip.
Signature & scenic dining
For memorable meals, look for restaurants with skyline views in Shanghai and Shenzhen or riverfront settings in Guangzhou and Chongqing. In Hangzhou and Xiamen, lakeside and seaside locations offer relaxed dining experiences that highlight local produce and views.
Retail therapy in China
Malls & lifestyle hubs
China's largest cities feature extensive malls with international labels and local designers, especially in Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou. Many complexes combine shopping with galleries, cinemas, and rooftop spaces.
Markets & local crafts
Traditional markets and shopping streets remain popular, particularly in older districts of Beijing, Chengdu, and Hangzhou. Here you can look for handmade crafts, textiles, and everyday items that reflect local styles and materials.
Evening retail scene
After dark, busy shopping streets in Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou light up with neon and digital displays. Smaller night-time retail areas and pedestrian zones in other cities create a lively atmosphere for a stroll and some late browsing.
Best time to visit China
Peak season: March to May and September to early November bring generally mild conditions across many regions, with average temperatures around 15–25°C (59–77°F). These months are popular for city sightseeing and outdoor excursions.
Shoulder season: Late November to February is cooler in northern and central cities such as Beijing and Chengdu, where temperatures can drop below 10°C (50°F), while southern hubs like Guangzhou and Shenzhen stay milder around 10–18°C (50–64°F). This period suits quieter city breaks.
Low season: June to August can be hot and humid, particularly in Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chongqing, and Shenzhen, where daytime temperatures often reach 28–35°C (82–95°F). Sudden showers are common, but longer daylight hours give you more time to explore.