CHINA

Plan your trip to China in 2025 with this complete guide—top destinations, best travel times, budgets, food, festivals, and insider tips.

China is one of the most fascinating travel destinations in Asia and the largest country in the world by population It offers you ancient emperors to AI-driven smart cities and the Great Wall to Shanghai’s skyline, this country offers every kind of traveler an unforgettable experience.

If you’re looking for a luxury vacation, China is the perfect place for a shopping paradise, a private jet, fine dining, 5-star hotels, and unforgettable memories are all there to be enjoyed here. Each destination in China gives you wonderful vibes, yet they all offer high-end comfort and unique adventures.

One of my most memorable travel moments was joining the locals to celebrate Chinese New Year in Beijing — with red lanterns, dragon dances, and firecrackers lighting up the streets.

If you’re planning your first trip to China, I will help you answer any questions you may have. Our discussion will cover travel facts, the best time to visit China, the best destinations, travel costs, and how to prepare for your trip.

Feature	Details
Language	English and Mandarin
Currency	Chinese Yuan (CNY or RMB)
Safety Level	Very High in tourist zones
Internet	Strong, but restricted (VPN needed)
Visa Required?	Yes (L-Visa or Group Visa)

Best Time to Visit China

The best time to visit China depends on what kind of experience you are looking for and which region you’re exploring. Since China is a massive country with different climates, every season offers something unique.

Beijing, Xi’an, North China

Best Time to Visit: Mar–May / Sep–Nov

Famous For: History, palaces, temples

Avg. Local Travel Expense (Per Day): ¥300–¥1,200 ($40–$160)

Shanghai, Hangzhou, East Coast

Best Time to Visit: Mar–May

Famous For: Skylines, water towns, nightlife

Avg. Local Travel Expense (Per Day): ¥350–¥1,400 ($45–$190)

Chengdu, Yunnan, West China

Best Time to Visit: Apr–Jun / Sep–Nov

Famous For: Pandas, mountains, nature

Avg. Local Travel Expense (Per Day): ¥250–¥1,000 ($35–$140)

Guilin, Zhangjiajie, South

Best Time to Visit: Mar–May / Sep–Nov

Famous For: Scenic mountains, rural beauty

Avg. Local Travel Expense (Per Day): ¥300–¥1,100 ($40–$150)

Tibet, Xinjiang

Best Time to Visit: Jun–Sep

Famous For: Spiritual travel, high-altitude adventure

Avg. Local Travel Expense (Per Day): ¥400–¥1,500 ($55–$200)

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Top Destinations in China

Travel Costs in China

How to Prepare for Your Trip to China

Planning your dream trip to China. Here’s your step-by-step guide to preparing smoothly and smartly — with an official website to book flights, hotels, SIM, insurance, activities, and more.

1. Book your air tickets

If you book your flight ticket to China, ensure that you book 2–3 months in advance for the best deals. Let us make your journey easier by giving you the official website link below:

MY PICK

🌐 Luxury Fare Tracker

Track top deals directly on Google

HOT DEALS

💎 Handpicked Jet Offers

Exclusive fares via Kiwi.com

2. Apply for your China Tourist Visa

Start early for tourism or business. You’ll likely need a L-Visa to visit China official website link below:

MY PICK

🌐 Trusted Global Service

Reliable documentation support with VisaHQ

HOT DEALS

💼 Official Embassy Partner

Exclusive Biometric & in-person slots with VFS Global

3. Buy a China-compatible travel SIM or e-SIM

When you’re traveling, it’s hard to find a good data plan, and always avoid international roaming because it may be too expensive. Choose an e-SIM to connect with family and friends.

MY PICK

🌍 Unlimited USA Data Plan

Stream, browse & explore without limits with special offers

HOT DEALS

💸 Affordable Roaming Plans

Budget eSIMs for short or long US stays Nomad always support

4. Book your hotel or Airbnb

In the modern world, it is easier to find the best hotel and Airbnb than ever before. You can book online by clicking the link below:

MY PICK

🏡 Live Like a Local

Unique homes, cabins & lofts across the USA via Airbnb

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💥 Bundle & Save More

Hotels + Flights + Cars = Big discounts on Expedia

5. Buy travel insurance.

It is necessary to take care of yourself and your luggage from any kind of loss, such as covering flight delays, lost baggage, or medical emergencies.

MY PICK

💼 Globetrotter Coverage

trusted plans for every kind of adventure

HOT DEALS

🛡️ Limited-Time Offers

Save big on top-rated global travel insurance providers

6. Book Local Tours, Tickets, and Attractions

Use Get Your Guide, Viator, or Klook to book tickets for local travel to a city like Shanghai and local expenses Download Travel Apps (with VPNs):

MY PICK

🗺️ Smart Travel Experiences

Top-rated rides & expert-led adventures

HOT DEALS

🚗 Easy Local Transport

Safe, reliable rides — no rental hassle

7. Currency Exchange & Forex Card

Carry some cash currency of CNY (RMB) for their local expenses or get a forex card and China is mostly cashless. Use WeChat Pay or Alipay linked to a global card:

MY PICK

💡 Smart Exchange Rates

Low fees, real-time currency value

HOT DEALS

🏦 Premium Travel Cards

Trusted banks, exclusive global perks

Pack your bag with us to China

Check out these must-have essentials for your trip to China. Tap on the images below to explore them on Amazon.

Summer

For boys:

For Girls:

Winters

For boys:

For Girls:

Note: Clicking the product image will take you directly to Amazon to purchase. We may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

😄 Fun Travel Questions You’re Too Shy to Ask About China

1. Can I survive in China with zero Chinese?
Answer:
Sure, but expect to become a master of Google Translate and pantomime! Big cities have English menus, but learning “ni hao” (hello) and “xiexie” (thank you) will make you a total rockstar. 🇨🇳😆

2. Will I actually see people doing Tai Chi in the park?
Answer:
Yes! Early mornings are basically Tai Chi central. Join in if you’re feeling zen—it’s the real deal. 🥋🌳🧘‍♂️

3. Is Chinese food in China different from what I get back home?
Answer:
100%! Forget the “orange chicken” – get ready for mouth-numbing Sichuan peppers, hand-pulled noodles, and enough dumplings to feed an army. 🍜🥟🔥

4. Will I see people spitting in the street?
Answer:
Yeah… it’s a thing. Just roll with it—it’s part of the local color! 🤭

5. Can I just drink tap water like I’m in Europe?
Answer:
Nope! Stick to bottled water or boiled water if you want to keep your stomach happy. 🚰😅

6. Will I become a social media star by accident?
Answer:
Quite possibly! Curious locals might want selfies with you—smile and embrace your 15 minutes of fame. 🤳📸

7. Can I wear shorts to temples and historical sites?
Answer:
Better to keep it respectful—long pants are the way to go if you want to avoid disapproving stares (or getting politely shooed away!). 🩳🛕😉

8. Is using chopsticks mandatory?
Answer:
It’s definitely encouraged! You’ll earn major cool points, but no shame if you need to practice (or ask for a fork in a noodle emergency!). 🥢😂

9. Are Chinese toilets really… different?
Answer:
Yes, squats are common in public bathrooms. Bring tissues and brace yourself—adventure is calling! 🚽🧻😬

10. Will I really see pandas just chilling in the park?
Answer:
Not quite—you’ll have to go to a panda reserve (like in Chengdu) to see those bamboo-chomping fluffballs up close. 🐼❤️