China brings together ancient dynasties, futuristic skylines, and vast landscapes in one unforgettable journey. You can explore imperial capitals, river towns, and fast-paced tech hubs in a single trip.
Discover China
Discover China
Why visit China?
What to expect
From Beijing and Shanghai to Chengdu and Guangzhou, each city offers a distinct rhythm, architecture, and accent. Expect a blend of historic neighbourhoods, modern design, efficient transport, and pockets of calm in gardens and parks.
Plan your trip
China works well for both first-time explorers and repeat visitors, with strong air, rail, and road links between its regions. Major cities also serve as gateways to nearby provinces and onward travel across East and Southeast Asia.
Top experiences in China
Walk Beijing’s historic heart
Stroll between grand palaces, wide avenues, and traditional hutong alleys to see how China’s capital balances imperial history with contemporary culture.
Soak up Shanghai’s skyline
Stand on the Bund at dusk as the lights of Pudong’s towers reflect across the Huangpu River, then wander into former concessions for art, boutiques, and hidden courtyards.
Cruise the rivers of southern China
Sail along rivers framed by lush hills and limestone peaks, where village life, misty mornings, and terraced fields unfold around each bend.
Explore Chengdu’s relaxed city life
Unwind in leafy streets and old lanes, visit a panda base, and discover a city known as much for its easy-going lifestyle as its spicy cuisine.
Discover lakes and canals around Hangzhou
Circle serene lakes and nearby water towns, where tree-lined causeways, stone bridges, and old houses create a slower, scenic side of China.
Experience fast-growing tech hubs
In cities like Shenzhen and Guangzhou, explore waterfront promenades, creative districts, and design-forward neighbourhoods that showcase China’s innovation.
Venture into the hills around Chongqing
Use Chongqing as a base for misty river valleys, hot springs, and countryside views that contrast with the city’s dense skyline and steep streets.
Relax on the coast near Xiamen
Enjoy seaside promenades, islands, and historic architecture, with easy access to coastal scenery and slower-paced neighbourhoods.
Experience China’s way of life
Getting around
High-speed trains link many major Chinese cities in a matter of hours, complemented by extensive metro systems and taxis within urban areas. For longer distances, domestic flights efficiently connect coastal hubs with inland centres such as Chengdu and Chongqing.
Local life & culture
Daily life is lived in parks, public squares, and neighbourhood streets, from quiet morning exercises to lively evening gatherings. Each region has its own dialect, traditions, and design heritage, reflected in everything from teahouses and opera to modern galleries and creative spaces.
Where to unwind
Find calm in classic gardens, lakeside walkways, and bamboo-filled parks scattered across big cities. Beyond the urban centres, mountains, river valleys, and coastal paths offer fresh air, hiking, and space to slow down between busy sightseeing days.
A taste of China
National dishes & specialties
China’s regional cuisines range from the bold flavours of Sichuan and Chongqing to the lighter styles of coastal cities like Xiamen, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. Signature dishes often reflect local ingredients, seasonal produce, and long-standing culinary techniques.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In cities such as Beijing, Shenzhen, and Hangzhou, you will find everything from small neighbourhood eateries to chic cafés and contemporary bistros. Food streets, shopping districts, and mixed-use developments make it easy to sample a wide variety of dishes in one area.
Signature & scenic dining
Dine in venues with river or skyline views in Shanghai and Guangzhou, or seek out heritage-style houses turned into intimate restaurants. Rooftop terraces, lakeside teahouses, and designer hotel lounges offer memorable backdrops for special meals.
Retail therapy in China
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Shanghai, Beijing, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou are home to multi-level malls mixing international labels, local designers, cinemas, and dining. Newer lifestyle complexes blend workspaces, galleries, and green pockets for a full-day urban experience.
Markets & local crafts
Neighbourhood markets in Chengdu, Hangzhou, and Xiamen showcase textiles, ceramics, tea, and everyday objects. Look for areas where small studios and stalls sit side by side, making it easy to discover handmade pieces and regional designs.
Evening retail scene
After dark, shopping streets in major cities glow with neon signs, window displays, and late-opening stores. Lively districts combine retail, entertainment, and dining so you can browse, pause for a drink, then continue exploring into the evening.
Best time to visit China
Spring shoulder season (March to May) brings mild weather across many regions, with average temperatures around 15–22°C (59–72°F) in major cities, making it pleasant for sightseeing before summer crowds. Summer peak season (June to August) is typically warm to hot, ranging from about 26–32°C (79–90°F) in coastal and southern cities, and is popular for school holidays despite higher humidity. Autumn shoulder season (September to November) offers clear skies and comfortable temperatures of roughly 14–24°C (57–75°F), especially in Beijing, Shanghai, and Hangzhou. Winter low season (December to February) can be cold in the north, with some cities near or below 0°C (32°F), while southern hubs such as Guangzhou and Shenzhen stay milder around 10–18°C (50–64°F).