China is such a wonderful country to visit. The sights, sounds, food and culture are so unique and there are so many places worth adding to your itinerary.
The size of China is immense, and knowing where to go can be difficult if planning a trip to the country for the first time.
Check out my top picks for the best cities to travel in China.
1. Shanghai
Shanghai is the most populous city in China, with over 24 million inhabitants. It is also one of the largest cities in the world. It might sound crowded and busy, which it is, but the city is highly recommended to tourists.
You will get to see a combination of east and west, and a multitude of colonial architecture as well as modern landmark. Stand out places to see include Buddha Temple, Julian garden and the famous Bund.
Taking a cruise on the Huangpu River offers great views of the city and a relaxing break from the bustling city life. The biggest impression which can be taken from the city is simple sense of modernity. There are so many amazing museums and tourist attractions to check out, as well as hundreds of shops, restaurants and entertainment.
2. Hong Kong
Many people say that Hong Kong is the most unique city in the world as it combines British colonial influences and Chinese traditional culture, which sometimes gives it the name Oriental London.
There are so many reasons to travel to Hong Kong, especially for shopaholics and fashion lovers, considering that the city has huge shopping malls and variety of clothing outlets.
Hong Kong is also one of the most important financial and economic centers, not only in China, but around the world.
There are so many tourism activities, from light shows, to beaches and hikes. Visitors who want to see more should not miss a visit to the Lantau island.
For more recommendations check out my Hong Kong travel guide.
3. Beijing
Beijing has been the capital of China for over 700 years, and it is one of the biggest cities in the world with a population of 21.5 million people, making it the second largest in China, behind Shanghai.
Beijing is rich in both, ancient and modern history. The traditional way of life is well preserved in some parts like the old hutongs. The main attraction is definitely the Great Wall of China which is the longest structure in the world at 8851 km.
If you want a challenge you could do a walking tour and take a more difficult path which is much steeper, and allows you to escape all the tourists and have the Wall all to yourself
Also worth visiting the Forbidden City, Summer Palace and the Olympic Stadium and Village which were built in 2008.
View more Beijing travel tips.
4. Chengdu
China is known for large pandas, which are some of the most beautiful and endangered animals on the planet. Pandas can be seen in various zoos around the world, but their homeland is Chengdu.
In Chengdu there are breeding centres for pandas, and visitors can even sign up to volunteer and be closer to these cute animals. The town is over 2000 years old and contains a number of historical places. It is also the center of Szechuan food that is known for its spicy taste.
5. Xi’an
X’ian is a slightly off the beaten track location but is the perfect destination for history lovers and travellers who want to learn more about the past. This ancient city was once the capital of the United China in 221 BC and also later during the reign of the Han and Tang dynasty. A rich history has left its impact on the city.
One of them is the Terracotta Army, a collection of more than 7,000 statues of soldiers and horses made of clay that were found in the tomb of China’s first emperor Qin Shi Huang.
In addition, visitors can enjoy two Buddhist pagodas, archeological sites and a Mosque. The famous Silk Road that runs all the way to Europe, starts from this city.
Other
If you have more time you might want to consider adding these other popular cities to your China itinerary:
• Harbin
• Suzhou
• Hangzhou
• Luoyang
Get more advice and inspiration for where to go on my Asia travel guide.
