Planning a China Trip: Step by Step

Step 1: Visa (Or Not!)

Great news for 2026: 38+ countries now enjoy visa-free entry to China for up to 30 days, including the USA, UK, Australia, Canada, Germany, France, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and Malaysia. Check the latest policy for your country on our visa page.

Step 2: Best Time to Visit

The best months are April-May and September-October with pleasant weather and manageable crowds. Avoid Chinese Golden Week (Oct 1-7) and May Day (May 1-5) unless you enjoy massive crowds.

Step 3: How Long Do You Need?

  • 5-7 days: Beijing + Xi'an (classic first trip)
  • 10 days: Beijing + Xi'an + Shanghai (golden triangle)
  • 13-15 days: Beijing + Xi'an + Chengdu + Shanghai (comprehensive)
  • 2-3 weeks: Add Guilin, Zhangjiajie, or Tibet

Step 4: Budget

Budget $80-$150/day per person for mid-range travel (excluding flights). China is remarkably affordable compared to Western countries.

Step 5: Getting Around

China's high-speed rail network is the world's largest — fast, comfortable, and affordable. Domestic flights connect major cities. The metro system in Beijing and Shanghai is excellent.

Step 6: Communication

Download a VPN before arriving (Google, WhatsApp, Instagram are blocked). Get a local SIM card at the airport. Translation apps like Google Translate (download offline Chinese) are essential.

Step 7: Payments

Set up Alipay or WeChat Pay with your international credit card before arrival. This is now essential — China is nearly cashless.

Ready to Start?

The easiest way to plan your first China trip is with a guided tour. Browse our packages or contact us for a free custom itinerary.