The large and diverse country, both in landscape and culture, presents a fusion of ancient and ultra-modern cultures in a unique and fancy way through its people, who also happen to be the largest population in the universe. China is enthralling in every way—from the spectacular physical landscape to its diverse culture with a rich history, along with amazing and breathtaking cities. It is home to a range of UNESCO World Heritage Sites as well as hosts one of the greatest wonders of the world—the Great Wall of China that winds 4,163 miles (6,700 km). The country has more magnificent megacities than any other nation around the globe. Due to its vast size, China provides limitless scope for exploration. At a glance, the highlights of this incredible destination include the enchanting hill villages of rural Yunnan, the splendid streets of Beijing, and the throbbing food courts of old Shanghai. The country has so much to offer—the only woe is how you will cover all the incredible places in a single visit. Below is a list that will help you explore the best places to visit in China.
1. Shanghai (from USD 8.25)
Shanghai is one of the largest cities in the world, with a vibrant atmosphere that resembles its rivals—Paris and New York. It lies east of China Sea in the mouth of Yangtze River. Boarding a double-decker bus on this tour will expose you to the gorgeous skyscrapers that dominate the Shanghai skyline, shiny shopping malls, luxurious hotels, and beautiful attractions like People’s Plaza, Oriental Tower, and Jade Buddha Temple. There is a lot to witness and do in this incredible city, and if you leave without touring Shanghai’s promenade, The Bund (known to the locals as Waitan), your visit will be incomplete. The Bund is a wide pedestrian zone along Huangpu Jing River and popular for its European feel, evident in the surrounding English and French buildings that showcase a unique architecture from the past.
Shanghai City Bus Sightseeing Tour - Klook
2. Hangzhou (from USD 56.79)
The beautiful Hangzhou—which the locals refer to as “heavenly Hangzhou”—welcomes you to enjoy its beauty. This is the perfect destination to witness the most spectacular Buddha wall carvings and drawings, as you learn about Buddhism by visiting the iconic Ling Yin Temple. From there you can head to the ancient Grand Canal that dates back more than 2,000 years ago. You will also get a chance to enjoy strolling or biking as you marvel at the famous West Lake. Hangzhou is known for tea production; therefore, you should not miss stopping by Dragon Well Tea Plantation, where you can sip on tea as you take in the beautiful sights of the surrounding nature.
Classic Hangzhou Day Tour - Klook
Duration: 8hrsDuration
3. Guangzhou (from USD 94.65)
The city is blessed with must-see historical and cultural attractions. It presents the distinctive contemporary image of neon-lit China. You will get a chance to appreciate the charm of old Guangzhou, the beautiful architecture of Qi Lou buildings, spectacular skyscrapers that dot the horizon, and the Anglo-style homes in places like Shamian Island, which paints a picture of the rural homes of old England. Apart from these, you can also explore swanky restaurants and cafes, tree-lined avenues, and quirky souvenir shops. If you like history, then this city is the place for you. It boasts museums—like the Mausoleum—that have antique artifacts rich in history, some dating back to more than 2,100 years ago.
Guangzhou One Day Private Transfer to Cultural and Historical Sites - Guangdong, China - Klook
Duration: 8hrsDuration
4. Lhasa (from USD 1580.0)
Have you ever heard of the mysterious Tibet plateau and Tibetan Buddhism? If not, why don’t you take some time off in your vacation and visit the beautiful city of Lhasa to learn more about them? According to the locals, Lhasa means “place of gods,” and here you will get the chance to have a short experience of Tibetan religious and cultural life. Just outside the city lies Tibet, which is a world of natural wonders—from holy sites to the world’s tallest mountain, Mt. Everest. It is also home to one of the most recognizable historic places in China, the glorious Potala Palace, which was built as a fortress and residence for the Dalai Lama. More than 360 years ago, the area was a political and religious center and thus contains highly treasured political, religious, and historical artifacts.
Private 3-Night Lhasa Trip
Duration: 4.0 day
5. Sanya (from USD 64.19)
If you are planning on a long-term tour and wondering in which city to have some good time, worry no more. Sanya is the place for you. It is located along the coastline of the southernmost tip of Hainan Province. Enjoy the mix of bright sunshine and splendid views of the blue waters, or lounge on the sands at Dadonghai Beach. You will certainly have an amazing experience as Sanya is the most well-preserved beach city in China—the locals even call it Oriental Hawaii. From clean beaches and beautiful green vegetation to an abundance of pure air and favorable weather conditions, the region offers the best spot for anyone looking to have a seaside holiday. Apart from that, Nanshan Temple, The End of the Earth, Luhuitou Park, and Nanwan Monkey Island are just but a few of the many attractions awaiting you in Sanya.
Sanya Private Car Charter - Klook
6. Beijing (from USD 563.0)
This is probably the first stop for visitors touring China for the first time. It has been the country’s capital for more than 700 years. Beijing’s history dates back to more than 3,000 years ago, but it remains vibrant to date. The city is home to iconic spots like Forbidden City, Imperial Palace, National Museum of China, and Tiananmen Square—all of which you shouldn’t miss. Forbidden City is the most popular among them as it was home to the ruling family of the time. It was also the administrative center and housed the emperor’s residence. This attraction covers 720,000 square meters (178 acres) and is on the World Heritage List. Be sure to have unique experiences here, which include tasting the famous Peking roast duck and spending evenings watching a Beijing opera or a kung fu show.
3-Day Beijing Sightseeing Private Custom-Made Combo Tour
Duration: 3 days
7. Guilin (from USD 196.99)
The pleasant subtropical climate of Guilin makes it a suitable place to visit at any time of the year. The city is located in the northeastern part of Guangxi. It’s famous for the Osmanthus, which blossoms during autumn, releasing a nice fragrance—hence the name Guilin, which means “forest of Osmanthus.” The area is blessed with a uniquely picturesque landscape. It has attractive tourist spots that you should not miss, like Reed Flute Cave and Elephant Trunk Hill. Cruising through the beautiful River Li, you can marvel at the unique mountainous shapes of this beautiful city. It fires your imagination and encourages you to recommend this place to your friends and family.
3 Day Guilin Highlights and Rice Terraces Private Tour - Klook
Duration: 3 Day(s) Duration
8. Shenzhen (from USD 111.39)
This is the best city to visit when traveling with a group of friends or family. It has nice large malls that are ideal for people fascinated with shopping and other leisurely activities, like watching movies in cinemas. Shenzhen prides itself on being a UNESCO City of Design. You can decide to spend a boozy afternoon at Sea World while enjoying a beer in the chilled gardens or visit the Nanshan Mountain area for spectacular views. You can also enjoy the modern architecture at Futian Central Business District or learn about Shenzhen’s history in a unique way from friendly tour guides who will warmly welcome you to Shenzhen Museum. Other tourist highlights in this beautiful city include Window of the World, Dameisha and Xiaomeisha beaches, and Dafen Oil Painting Village.
Shenzhen and Surrounding Areas Private Car Charter
9. Huangshan (from USD 799.0)
Marvel at picturesque landscapes and peculiarly shaped rocks along with the pines of Yellow Mountains. This city located in the southeastern part of the country presents yet another beautiful site. It is rich both naturally and in history. You will get a chance to learn the old styles of living in quaint feng shui villages, which boast ancient houses and well-preserved rivers. Hongcun Xidi Ancient Village, Tunxi Ancient Street, and Wuyuan are among the most amazing places in Huangshan.
3-Day Private Huangshan Tour: Hongcun Village & Overnight on Mt Huangshan
Duration: 3 days
10. Chengdu (from USD 23.05)
This dynamic city with friendly locals welcomes visitors who have an interest in experiencing China’s beauty. Although Chengdu is popular for the most beautiful animals—like the panda—it has also been a rising tourist destination presenting beautiful and incredible architecture, delicious original Sichuan dishes like the kung pao chicken, Sichuan opera, and rich Chinese history. The city, which dates back to more than 2,000 years ago, has a lot other to offer. Among the places to explore here are Leshan Giant Buddha Statue, Jinli Old Street, and of course Dujinyan Panda Base.
Essence of Chengdu City Private Day Tour - Chengdu, China - Klook
Duration: 10hrsDuration
11. Suzhou (from USD 52.15)
The mix of traditional Chinese gardens, beautiful paintings, and calligraphy gives Suzhou its fame. You will find a myriad of old temples, tranquil gardens, and palaces that make the city a major tourist hub. The place proudly hosts some World Heritage Sites, like the magnificent Grand Canal and numerous traditional gardens. Apart from its romantic waters, the area also offers a unique experience through other top sights. You can visit its cultural symbol in the form of Tiger Hill as well as the beautiful and lively Shantang Street. You can then witness fine pieces of artwork representing the local culture at Tongli and Silk Museum.
Suzhou Highlights Half Day Biking Tour in China
Duration: 3hrs - 4hrsDuration
12. Zhangjiajie (from USD 863.0)
Looking for a place to have a fabulous time, with breathtaking sights and amazing things to do? It’s time to pack and head to Zhangjiajie. Visit Zhangjiajie National Forest, located in the southwest region of Wulingyuan Province, and witness the spectacular lake, beautiful waterfalls, and scary caves. The city boasts strange rocks and peaks due to its location amid Dongting Lake and Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau. The top sights in this magical place include beautiful Suoxi Valley Nature Reserve, Tianzi Mountain Nature Reserve, Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon, and Tianmen Mountain. This is just a fraction of the superb experience that awaits you in Zhangjiajie!
Zhangjiajie Private 4-Day Tour: Enshi Grand Canyon and Tianmen
Duration: 4 days
13. Harbin (from USD 130.0)
The city is located in Heilongjiang Province in the northeasternmost part of the country. It’s an ever-growing city with a diverse culture, incorporating its Jewish and Russian heritage. Harbin is famous for its wonderland of ice; therefore, a visit during winter will ensure you get the most of your holiday. If you want to enjoy nature, then don’t miss the Harbin Ice Festival, held mid-January and February. Other attractions in this amazing city include Sun Island Scenic Area that’s best visited during summer, Siberian Tiger Park, Central Street, Harbin Polar Land, and a lot more.
1-Day Harbin Private Tour
Duration: 7 to 8 hours
14. Nanjing (from USD 135.0)
It is known for being the center of six Chinese dynasties, and it’s considered to be the Father of the Republic of China. It is also one of the four old towns in the country, among Beijing, Xi’an, and Shanghai. The city is famous for housing Dr. Sun Yat-Sen’s Mausoleum, which is a must-see for all travelers. Visiting the city for the first time will give you a basic understanding of modern China. Other places to explore include Zhonghua Gate, Nanjing City Wall, Memorial Hall of Victims (which is there to remember the lives of an estimated 300,000 Chinese killed by the Japanese during World War II), and Yangtze River Bridge, among other treasures hidden in the old city.
Nanjing 4-Hour Private Tour Including Massacre Memorial Hall
Duration: 4 hours
15. Zhuhai
The city sits on the delta of Pearl River in Southeast China, in Guangdong Province. It is truly beautiful, with a lot to offer to its visitors. The top sights in Zhuhai are New Summer Palace (which resembles the summer palace in Beijing, reproducing 18 key halls and scenic places), Zhuhai Meixi Royal Stone Archways, the beautiful Statue of Fishing Girl, and Zhuhai Chimelong International Ocean Tourist Resort. You can also relax and unwind at Zhuhai Hot Spring Resort.
16. Xiamen
The mild weather in this coastal city makes it an ideal place for visitors at any time of the year. It is located on the southern coast of China. There is a lot to explore and do in this beautiful island that many refer to as “the garden city on the sea.” Relish the intriguing scenery and the spectacular architectural designs on Gulangyu Island, explore the cultural relics at South Putuo Temple and Hulishan Fortress, go hiking at the outstanding Mount Wuyi conservation zone, and visit Yongding Earth Buildings to be amazed by the unmatched “mythological village mountain architecture”—as coined by UNESCO. Start preparing your visit to Xiamen because beauty and wonders await you here.
17. Anhui
This fairly large province located in Eastern China sits on Yangtze River, which dissects it geographically into two parts—the north and south. Anhui is a low-profile region with fantastic mountains and well-maintained villages. The province boasts many beautiful natural and artificial structures, like the incredible Mount Huangshan that inspired a school of painting during the 17th and 18th centuries, the holy Mount Jiuhua, the old Xidi and Hongcun villages, and Fengyang Royal Mausoleum of the Ming Dynasty. The area can be cold at times, so the best time to visit is during autumn around September to November and spring from April all the way to May.
18. Qingdao (from USD 285.0)
Located in Shandong Province, this city is one of the cleanest in China, competing with other giant clean cities in the world. It is nestled along the Shandong Peninsula and is famously known as Green City. It is the perfect escape for those looking for a cool and relaxed destination for their holidays. Popular activities here are swimming, hiking at Mount Laoshan, and indulging in gourmet delicacies like fried clams. The mild weather is what makes tourists flock to the city from all over the world, ready to experience its beautiful beaches and incredible mountainous views. The most famous places to visit in the area are Zhanqiao Pier, Bada Guan, and Zhongshan Park, among others. Also, don’t leave without tasting the iconic Tsingtao Beer at Beer Museum.
All-Inclusive Private Day Tour: Qingdao Highlights with Lunch
Duration: 8 hours
19. Fujian
With its rich history, beautiful seaside location, and splendid geological diversity, Fujian is a province located along the coast of Southeast China. It’s the dream of any tourist to spend some nice moments in nature, having a wonderful meal at a luxurious restaurant somewhere on a beach, without making many trips. Apart from the famous scenic views of Mount Wuyi and Mount Taimu, there are a bunch of activities and amazing experiences that you will discover while touring this beautiful place.
20. Xian (from USD 71.35)
When you talk about Xian, then Terracotta Army must cross your mind. Terracotta Army, according to the locals, were the guards of the first emperor’s tomb. Xian is one of the old capital cities of China before the country merged into one. Besides the Terracotta, Xian hosts other important attractions, like Wild Goose Pagoda, Shaanxi Museum of History, the magnificent Ancient City Wall that stretches 8 miles long (12 km), the iconic Bell Tower, Great Mosque, and the Muslim Quarter. For history buffs, this place is yet to be another fantastic experience as you will learn a lot about China—from its ancient days of emperors to the present.
Classic Xi'an One Day Tour - Klook
Duration: 8hrsDuration
21. Gansu
Despite its remoteness, Gansu attracts tourists from all over the globe, who come to marvel at the spectacular beauty and historical interests that the province offers. It is located in Northwest China, sitting in between the Tibetan Plateau and the Huangtu Plateau. Among the tourist highlights here are Dafo Temple (otherwise known as Wofo Temple or Sleeping Buddha Temple), the scenic Yellow River views, Magao Grottoes, Crescent Spring, Rainbow Mountains, Singing Sand Dunes, Dunhuang Yadan National Geologic Park, and Bingling Thousand Buddha Caves. Plan your visit, and go have some nice moments in this province.
22. Guizhou
This place boasts scenic mountain views, fresh clean waters, amazing valley vistas, and mild weather. This beautiful province is located in the eastern part of the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau in Southwest China. It’s an ideal place for any nature enthusiast. From karst caves to forests, canyons to hot springs, the land is abundantly blessed with beautiful natural surroundings that you wouldn’t want to miss when you are in China. Guizhou is a multi-ethnic group area, and due to this diversity, visitors to Guizhou enjoy the authentic and fascinating culture, along with the distinctive local dishes prepared by the various minorities. For a complete visit to Guizhou, don’t miss touring the Chinese Silicon Valley and the world’s largest radio telescope.
23. Hainan
Located in Southern China, this island is the biggest after Taiwan, and it has everything for every traveler. Different people are attracted to different things in nature—serene streams, mysterious caves, tropical rainforest, cool or warm climate, and botanical gardens. The only island in China that has all these is Hainan. Apart from this, the locals are friendly and lively—you will get a presidential welcome at the hotels and restaurants, wherein the staff prepares exquisite food to quench all your cravings. Among the top highlights of this province are Nanshan Temple, Nanwan Monkey Island, and Volcano Park.
24. Chongqing (from USD 180.0)
Most tourists flock to Chongqing because of its amazing mountainous landscape and cultural and heritage attractions. The city boasts the wondrous Dazu Rock Carvings—which is a World Heritage Site—and the natural wonders of the Wulong Karst region. Besides these, the place hosts a special part of Yangtze River—the three gorges that are major tourist attractions. The distribution of the local buildings is intriguing due to the uneven landscape, which creates beautiful formations that are nice for sightseeing. Other attractions include South Hot Springs Park, Ancient Town of Ciqikou, Eiling Park, Zhang Fei Temple, Liberation Stele, White Emperor City, and Chongqing People’s Square.
Full-Day Private Tour of Chongqing Highlights
Duration: 7 to 8 hours
25. Dalian (from USD 73.0)
Discover the most fascinating city in North China—often referred to as “the northern pearl” or “the football city” (due to the locals’ love for football). It was named among the three major tourist cities in China in 2017, alongside Chengdu and Suzhou. Most tourists who flock to this place are from Russia, Japan, and Korea. The city is famous for its beautiful beaches, scenic seaside spots, green squares, and forest parks. There is something for everyone here, whether you are a nature fanatic, a history buff, or a regular visitor looking forward to having some good time in luxurious restaurants and magnificent beaches.
Dalian City Highlight Private Day tour
Duration: 7 hours
26. Lijiang (from USD 196.0)
If you are a history buff, then Lijiang should be on your list of places to visit. Learn about Chinese ancient culture, beliefs, and history in this superb multilingual city located north of Yunnan Province. Not only is the region rich in history, but here you will also find interesting activities like hiking along Tiger Leaping Gorge. You can spend time climbing Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, take a leisurely tour around the pretty Lungu Lake, and wander in the Old Town of Lijiang to see old wooden houses and antique alleys lying against a backdrop of mountains and plateau. Witness Lijiang murals in Baisha Ancient Town, or enjoy a Lijiang Impression Show with the beautiful snow-capped mountains in the background. They say old is gold, and this is evident when you visit this city.
Lijiang City Private Full-Day Tour Including Black Dragon Pool
Duration: 9 hours
27. Yunnan (from USD 434.0)
If you are a nature enthusiast, you should not miss visiting Yunnan while on your trip to China. The city is also known as Colored Clouds in the south. Get to enjoy majestic views that can’t be found in other places. Yunnan is blessed with abundant tourist attractions, including superb natural sceneries, the beautiful Shangri-La City, Dongchuan Red Land, Tiger Limping Gorge, and Yuanyang Terrace. You will find every moment of your visit fascinating and full of amazing surprises. The only problem you should have is how to cover all the wonderful sites in this city in one visit.
7 Days Yunnan Charming Old Town Tour
28. Wuhan (from USD 220.0)
Located in the heart of the famous Yangtze River is the capital city of China’s Hubei Province, Wuhan, termed by the locals as “the riverside city.” This large area has three major towns—Hankou, Hanyang, and Wuchang. It has a wide selection of things to do, like visiting Yellow Crane Tower to see magical pieces of architecture, gazing at the perfect sculptures inside Guiyan Temple, and watching the unmissable Han Show inspired by the Chu-Han Dynasty. Downtown features buildings with magnificent designs to keep your eyes glued high up, not to mention the delicious meals prepared in the restaurants around. Other interesting places to visit are Baotong Temple, Tan Hua Lin Restaurant, and Eat Lake.
Private Amazing Wuhan Half-day Tour in your way
Duration: 5 hours
29. Wuxi (from USD 263.0)
This incredible town located along Tahiu Lake has so much to offer to its visitors. The city was once a famous commercial hub, but due to its proximity to cities like Suzhou, Shanghai, and Hangzhou, it hid from the limelight a little. However, it still remains a tourist destination for its natural scenery and historic sites. For one, it is a great spot to enjoy beautiful views of Taihu Lake. From there, you can travel north to reach Turtle Isle, a notable spot where you’ll appreciate the beauty of nature, indulge in delicious local cuisine, and marvel at Huishan clay figurines. You will also get the chance to travel to Ling Mountain, where you will be amazed by a giant Buddha carving. Your trip will then be complete when you visit Three Kingdoms City.
Wuxi Private Highlight Tour including Yuantouzhu and Jichang Garden
Duration: 7 hours
30. Tianjin (from USD 133.0)
The long nature travels, mountainous sceneries, and buildings in the streets might be a bit monotonous. When this feeling kicks in, the best place to visit is the coast—to relax and unwind away from the hustle and bustle of the city. When in China, especially in areas around Beijing, your next stop should be Tianjin. The fresh air from the sea welcomes you to this large coastal location, which has fascinating sceneries, numerous colonial buildings from the 19th century, historical relics, and a mix of Chinese and Western features—like Eye of Tianjin. You can also marvel at nature on top of the Great Wall of Huangyaguan, visit Eastern Qing Tombs, or stroll around Tianjin Water Park. The city is large and attractive, and your only problem should be where to start when you set foot on Tianjin soil.
Tianjin City Private Walking Day Tour
Duration: 6 hours 30 minutes
China, a magnificent country
When you talk of attractions, travelers have their own favorites. Snow-capped mountains, deep valleys, gorgeous plateaus, tropical environments, wonders like the Great Wall of China, amazing temple carvings, spectacular rivers, diverse cultures, authentic foods, beautiful sandy beaches, and world-class hospitality are just some of the things that take tourists to different places. It is difficult to find all this in one country, but China is exceptional. From city to city, you will experience different wonders. If you are thinking of places to visit, then China should top your list.
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