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Planning a trip to China and wondering what to do once you get there? Don't panic, we'll take you on a tour of the must-sees, hidden gems, and experiences that deserve a "wow" or, at the very least, a "oh yeah, right!" Whether you're a hiking enthusiast, a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking for killer Instagram photos, this guide is for you.
China is big (really big), so there's no point trying to see everything in a week. It's better to focus, take your time... and avoid ending up breathless as if you'd just climbed the Great Wall (spoiler: you'll still end up breathless). Let's go for a tour without unnecessary blah-blah.
Beijing is the capital. And like any self-respecting capital, it throws history at you, temples, palaces, but also concrete, neon lights, and skyscrapers everywhere. It's a bit like the clash between the Ming Dynasty and the 21st century, a kind of life-size Chinese chess where each piece of the past meets a tower of the future. And that's what we love.
It's impossible to miss. This gigantic complex (more than 800 buildings, no less) takes you back to imperial China with its gilded roofs, stone lions, and endless courtyards. Bring sturdy shoes, and especially a battery for your phone. You'll be shooting.
No, you don't have to go to Badaling, the place everyone goes to. Opt for Mutianyu or Jinshanling instead. Fewer people, more nature, and breathtaking views. Bonus: you'll feel like you've earned your selfie.
A classic in Beijing, and not just for architecture lovers. In the mornings, locals come here to practice tai chi, sing, and play cards. The atmosphere is zen and relaxed... and seriously makes you want to take up yoga.
Shanghai is a bit like the New York of Asia. Buildings that brush against the clouds, people always in a hurry, restaurants galore, and an energy that wakes you up better than a strong coffee. But between two honks, the city also hides a real charm.
Stroll along this legendary promenade to admire the old colonial buildings on one side and the futuristic towers of Pudong on the other. A contrast that perfectly sums up Shanghai: straddling two worlds, yet always stylish.
Yes, even in this urban jungle, you can find serenity. Yu Garden is a haven of calm with its zigzag bridges, ponds, pagodas, and Zen rocks. Bonus: right next door, the Yuyuan Bazaar is a great place to stock up on souvenirs.
Because drinking a cocktail while gazing at the city lights from the 80th floor is worth all the talk about Chinese modernity. Enjoy it at sunset to maximize the wow factor.
This is where you'll encounter an army of soldiers who haven't moved in 2,000 years. But Xi'an isn't just that. It's also an ancient city surrounded by ramparts, bustling markets, local cuisine that awakens the taste buds, and even Chinese puzzles that intrigue and fascinate.
This is THE site not to be missed. Imagine thousands of warriors, each one different, lined up as if on parade. Impressive, a little creepy too. But above all, fascinating.
You can rent a bike and tour the old town perched on its walls. It's practical, original, and a great way to digest the local dish (be careful, it's spicy).
Looking for dreamy landscapes? Head south to Guilin and Yangshuo. Here, karst peaks rise from the mist, rivers meander between rice paddies, and sunsets look like they were created for Instagram.
The boat trip between Guilin and Yangshuo is a must. You'll pass strangely shaped mountains, water buffalo in the water, and old-fashioned fishermen. It's like being in a Chinese painting. All without filter.
Once in Yangshuo, rent a bike or electric scooter and explore the countryside. Rice paddies, peaceful villages, hidden cafes... you're in a movie, and you're the hero.
Chengdu is the city of pandas, but also of Sichuan pepper, teahouses, the Chinese hat that protects from the sun during long card games, and a slow-paced way of life. Here, people take their time. To eat, to chat, to play cards. And it's contagious.
Head to the panda research center. You'll see baby pandas (adorable), adults (a bit lazy), and overexcited visitors (you, probably). It's best to go early in the morning, when they're still a bit active.
Watch out, it's hot! The local hotpot is a spicy fondue where everything is dipped in a fiery red broth. Sensitive taste buds should refrain. For everyone else, it's a hair-raising experience.
Soaring rock peaks, bridges suspended between the clouds, forests clinging to the cliffs... Zhangjiajie is a landscape straight out of another world. James Cameron was right: this is where he found inspiration for "Avatar."
Forget the city, here nature rules. Take the trails, the cable cars, and climb to the heights for incredible views. There's even a glass elevator that climbs the cliffside. For the strong-hearted.
A glass suspension bridge, 300 meters above the ground. Walking on it is both terrifying and exhilarating. Perfect if you're a thrill-seeker (or have a bet to honor).
There, the atmosphere changes. Welcome to the roof of the world. Lhasa is a city apart, with its monasteries, its pilgrims, its Chinese marbles rolling around the bustling markets, and a spirituality that touches you even if you're a skeptic.
Perched on a hilltop, this palace is a jewel of Tibetan architecture. Inside, gilded halls, sacred frescoes, relics... and a timeless atmosphere.
Here you will see worshippers circling the temple in prayer, prayer flags fluttering in the wind, and a fervor that puts many things into perspective.
Hong Kong isn't "just" a city. It's an experience. A place where you can go from a fiery rooftop party to a rainforest hike in 20 minutes. A unique blend, like their milk tea.
Take the tram to the top for breathtaking views of the bay, buildings, and surrounding islands. Perfect for sunset (yes, that one again).
Temple Street, Ladies Market… Stalls, smells, light everywhere. You can find everything there, eat everything, and bargain (a lot).
Okay, now that you have your list of places to visit, here are some tips to avoid any hassle:
China is not Brittany. There can be 1,000 kilometers between two cities. Plan ahead and allow time for transportation.
A little "ni hao" or "xie xie" costs nothing, but it always makes an impact. And it can save your meal if the menu is incomprehensible.
WeChat, Didi, Baidu Maps… It's your digital survival kit. Google? Forget it. It's blocked.
It's impossible to sum up China in one sentence (not even in 2,500 words, for that matter). It's a vast, rich, surprising, sometimes confusing, and often magical country. Between futuristic megacities, villages frozen in time, deserts, sacred mountains, dim sums, and hotpots, you'll experience every emotion. And that's what makes this destination so charming. For more ideas on what to do in China, check out this article .
Take your time, open your eyes (and stomach) wide, and let yourself be surprised. Because if you come for the pandas, you'll stay for everything else.