China
6-Day China Itinerary
A free 6-day China itinerary with day-by-day routes, timings and travel tips. 14 hand-picked stops. Featuring Nanluoguxiang, Terracotta Warriors, Muslim…
Built around: food · culture · nightlife · photography
Day 1
Beijing: Historic Streets & Iconic Sights
Culture2 stops882.6 km of travelabout 5 hours
Kick off your adventure in Beijing by exploring the charming Nanluoguxiang neighborhood and then traveling to Xi'an for the legendary Terracotta Warriors.
Nanluoguxiang09:00–10:30
1h 30mBest in the eveningneighborhood
A historic hutong area filled with narrow alleys, trendy shops, and cafes. It’s perfect for a taste of Beijing's traditional meets modern vibe.
Travel tip: Try local snacks like sugar-coated hawthorn and explore side alleys for hidden gems.
882.6 km· 883 min by Train· approx. Train fare: CNY 515 (~$70), Taxi fare: CNY 50 (~$7)· Take the high-speed train from Beijing to Xi’an (4h 30min). From Xi’an North Railway Station, take a taxi (~40 min) to the museum.
Terracotta Warriors15:00–18:00
3hBest in the morninglandmark
This UNESCO World Heritage site showcases thousands of life-sized statues created to guard China's first emperor in the afterlife.
Travel tip: Book a guided tour for detailed insights or rent an audio guide. Arrive early to avoid crowds.
Day 2
Xi'an: Ancient Alleys & Scenic Parks
Culture2 stops1144.2 km of travelabout 5 hours
Explore the vibrant Muslim Quarter of Xi'an before catching a flight to Hangzhou to enjoy the serene beauty of West Lake.
Muslim Quarter09:00–10:30
1h 30mBest in the eveningneighborhood
A bustling area famous for street food, local crafts, and vibrant energy. It’s a foodie haven with dishes like roujiamo and lamb skewers.
Travel tip: Visit during the morning for fewer crowds, and carry cash for street food purchases.
1144.2 km· 137 min by Flight· approx. Flight fare: CNY 600 (~$85), Shuttle fare: CNY 20 (~$3)· Fly from Xi’an Xianyang Airport to Hangzhou Xiaoshan Airport (~2h). Take Airport Shuttle Line 1 to West Lake (~1h).
West Lake15:00–18:00
3hBest in the afternoonpark
An iconic Hangzhou landmark surrounded by gardens, pagodas, and causeways with mirror-like waters perfect for photography.
Travel tip: Rent a bike or take a boat ride to explore more of the lake’s beauty.
Day 3
Shanghai: Waterfront Glamour & Historic Charm
Photography3 stops1220.1 km of travelabout 6 hours
Delight in Shanghai's iconic Bund views and historic architecture after transitioning from Hangzhou by train.
The Bund16:00–17:30
1h 30mBest in the eveningviewpoint
A waterfront promenade featuring colonial architecture on one side and futuristic skyscrapers on the other, perfect for stunning photography.
Travel tip: Visit early morning or late evening for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
1219.2 km· 18288 min by walking
Bell Tower
1h 30mBest in the eveninglandmark
920m· 14 min by walking
Xi'an City Wall
2h 30mBest in the afternoonlandmark
Day 4
Day 4 in China
2 stops1.4 km of travelabout 4 hours
Shanghai Tower
2hBest in the eveninglandmark
1.4 km· 21 min by walking
Yu Garden
2hBest in the morningpark
Day 5
Day 5 in China
2 stops1.1 km of travelabout 5 hours
Forbidden City
3hBest in the morninglandmark
1.1 km· 17 min by walking
Wangfujing Street
2hBest in the eveningmarket
Day 6
Day 6 in China
3 stops2050.4 km of travelabout 6 hours
Temple of Heaven
2hBest in the morningtemple
912.9 km· 13693 min by walking
Big Wild Goose Pagoda
2hBest in the afternoonlandmark
1137.5 km· 17063 min by walking
Lingyin Temple
2hBest in the morningtemple
Where to stay in China
Novotel Beijing Peace
Centrally located near Wangfujing Street and the Forbidden City, perfect for exploring Beijing's cultural and culinary scene.
Check availabilityGrand Mercure Xi'an Renmin Square
Set in a historic complex, this boutique hotel blends old-world charm with modern amenities, ideal for exploring Xi'an landmarks.
Check availabilitySofitel Hangzhou West Lake
Located near West Lake, this hotel offers stunning views and proximity to Hangzhou's cultural attractions.
Check availabilityRadisson Blu Hotel Shanghai New World
Situated near Nanjing Road and The Bund, this hotel offers chic rooms and excellent access to Shanghai's nightlife.
Check availability
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