A single trip isn’t enough to explore all the wonders China has to offer, but you can start by planning multiple visits to experience its diverse beauty. For your first trip, consider exploring the most recommended destinations. Here are the Top 10 Best Places to Visit in China in 2024/2025, offering unforgettable experiences that nourish both body and mind. These destinations will immerse you in the essence of China and provide a deeper understanding of its rich culture.
1. Beijing - No. 1 Tourist Destination and Gateway City in China
Type: Culture and History
Highlights: Great Wall, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Hutong, Summer Palace
Recommended Trip Length: 2~4 days
Best Time of Visit: all year around
Recommended to Visit with: Xian, Shanghai, Harbin, Chengde, Datong
Beijing, the vibrant capital of China, stands as a dynamic blend of ancient heritage and modern innovation. As the nation’s political, cultural, and educational center, Beijing is a bustling metropolis with a population of over 20 million. It is a direct-controlled municipality, strategically located near Hebei Province and Tianjin City, and serves as a gateway to China’s past, present, and future.
With a history stretching back over 3,000 years, Beijing has played a pivotal role in shaping Chinese civilization. Its golden era was as the imperial capital during the Yuan, Ming, and Qing Dynasties, a period spanning six centuries that left an indelible mark on the city’s architecture, culture, and traditions. Today, Beijing is a treasure trove of historical wonders, boasting eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These include the majestic Forbidden City, the awe-inspiring Great Wall, the serene Temple of Heaven, the enchanting Summer Palace, the ancient Ming Tombs, the iconic Central Axis, the prehistoric Zhoukoudian site, and the Grand Canal—a marvel of ancient engineering.
Beyond its historical significance, Beijing is a thriving transportation hub and one of the most popular international gateways into China. Its extensive air and rail networks connect seamlessly to every corner of the country, from the cosmopolitan cities of the east to the remote regions of Xinjiang and Tibet in the west. Travelers often begin their Chinese journey in Beijing, drawn by its rich cultural tapestry and its role as a springboard to explore the diverse landscapes and traditions of the nation.
Whether you’re wandering through its ancient hutongs, marveling at its imperial landmarks, or experiencing its vibrant culinary scene, Beijing offers an unparalleled glimpse into the heart and soul of China.
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★★★ Recommended Popular Beijing Tours ★★★
2. Xian - Greatest Ancient China Capital for 13 Dynasties
Type: Culture and History
Highlights: Terracotta Warriors, Ancient Great Wall, Shaanxi History Museum, Mount Huashan (30min’s train ride from Xian)
Recommended Trip Length: 2 days
Best Time of Visit: all year around
Recommended to Visit with: Beijing, Lhasa, Chengdu, Zhangjiajie
Xi’an is often referred to as the true heart of ancient China. Alongside Athens, Rome, and Cairo, it is celebrated as one of the Four Greatest Ancient Capitals in World History. Serving as the capital for 13 dynasties from the 11th century BC to the 10th century AD, Xi’an played a pivotal role in shaping Chinese civilization. In recognition of its profound historical and cultural significance, UNESCO designated Xi’an as a World Historical and Cultural City in 1981.
Xi’an is perhaps best known as the home of the legendary Terracotta Warriors, an archaeological marvel often hailed as the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” As the eastern starting point of the historic Silk Road, Xi’an was a vital hub for economic and cultural exchanges between China and the Western world, leaving an indelible mark on global history. Today, the city captivates visitors with its rich array of historical sites and cultural landmarks, offering an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in ancient Chinese history and traditions.
Xi’an is an ideal destination to visit after exploring Beijing. The cities are well-connected by frequent high-speed bullet trains, making the journey smooth and efficient. The trip takes only about 5 hours, allowing you to transition seamlessly from Beijing’s imperial grandeur to Xi’an’s ancient splendor.
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★★★ Recommended Popular Xian Tours ★★★
3. Shanghai - Contrast of Western and Eastern Cultures
Type: Culture and Urban City
Highlights: The Bund, Yu Garden & Barzaar, Shanghai Museum, Zhujiajiao Water Town, Shanghai Disneyland
Recommended Trip Length: 2 days
Best Time of Visit: all year around
Recommended to Visit with: Beijing, Suzhou, Hangzhou, Yangtze River, Huangshan
Beijing and Xi’an are unparalleled for delving into the rich history of ancient China, but Shanghai offers a completely different perspective—it’s the best place to experience the modern and cosmopolitan face of the country. Known as the “Pearl of the Orient” and the “Paris of the East,” Shanghai is China’s largest and most dynamic metropolis.
Shanghai is a city where Eastern and Western cultures converge in fascinating harmony. After the First Opium War in 1842, the city opened its port to international trade and soon became a hub for Western settlements. This period of colonial influence is still visible today in the architecture and atmosphere of The Bund, where grand European-style buildings line the waterfront. At the same time, Shanghai preserves its traditional Chinese culture, evident in its narrow alleys, the serene Yu Garden, and historic City God Temple. The city offers visitors a unique chance to experience the cultural legacy of both the East and the West in a single destination.
Shanghai is also celebrated for its breathtaking skyline, modern architecture, and vibrant nightlife. Along the banks of the Huangpu River, some of the world’s tallest skyscrapers dominate the view, including the Shanghai Tower, one of the tallest buildings on the planet. To fully appreciate the city’s dazzling nightscape, take a stroll along the Bund, embark on a Huangpu River cruise, or head to the top of the Shanghai Tower for a panoramic view that captures the city’s energy and innovation.
Beyond its urban allure, Shanghai serves as a gateway to other must-visit destinations that can be explored in just a day. Discover the elegant canals and classical gardens of Suzhou, the poetic charm of Hangzhou with its famous West Lake, or the stunning natural beauty of the Yellow Mountain. Shanghai’s strategic location and excellent transportation network make it the perfect base for expanding your journey in China.
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★★★ Recommended Popular Shanghai Tours ★★★
4. Guilin - Most Beautiful Karst Landscape and Countryside in China
Type: Nature, Ethnic Group, Countryside
Highlights: Li River Cruise, Yangshuo Countryside, West Street, Longji Terrace
Recommended Trip Length: 2~4 days
Best Time of Visit: May to November
Recommended to Visit with: Hong Kong, Zhangjiajie, Chengdu
“Guilin’s landscape is the best under heaven” — this well-known Chinese saying perfectly captures the breathtaking beauty of Guilin. Once you set foot in this enchanting region, you’ll understand why it has inspired poets and artists for centuries. Located in Guangxi Province in southern China, Guilin is renowned for its unique and stunning karst landscapes, featuring thousands of verdant limestone peaks rising dramatically from vast plains. The winding Li River, with its clear waters and charming riverside villages, adds to the region’s dreamlike quality, making it a must-visit destination.
The crown jewel of Guilin is Yangshuo, a haven for travelers seeking tranquility and natural beauty. Known for its picturesque countryside, Yangshuo offers a slower pace of life, where you can immerse yourself in serene landscapes and enjoy outdoor activities like bamboo rafting on the Yulong River, cycling through lush fields, or hiking up karst peaks for panoramic views. Many visitors find Yangshuo so captivating that they extend their stay for weeks, simply to soak in its peaceful, idyllic charm.
Beyond its natural beauty, Guilin is also home to a rich tapestry of ethnic cultures. The region is inhabited by a variety of ethnic minority groups, including the Zhuang, Yao, Miao, and Dong peoples. Many of these communities live in remote villages nestled among spectacular terraced rice fields, such as those found in the Longji Rice Terraces (Dragon’s Backbone). Visiting these villages offers not only breathtaking views but also a glimpse into traditional lifestyles, colorful festivals, and unique customs.
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★★★ Recommended Popular Guilin Tours ★★★
5. Zhangjiajie - Surreal Avatar World
Type: National Park, Landscape
Highlights: Zhangjiajie Wulingyuan National Forest Park, Tianmen Mountain, Zhangjiajie Grad Canyon Glasses Bridge
Recommended Trip Length: 2~5 days
Best Time of Visit: April to November
Recommended to Visit with: Xian, Shanghai, Guilin, Chengdu, Yangtze River, Fenghuang Ancient Town
About a decade ago, few people had heard of Zhangjiajie. Today, however, it has risen to international fame as one of China’s most iconic travel destinations, largely thanks to the blockbuster movie Avatar, which introduced the world to its otherworldly landscapes. The stone pillar Nan Tian Yi Zhu served as the inspiration for the film’s floating Hallelujah Mountain on Pandora, instantly capturing global attention.
Zhangjiajie is a breathtaking blend of natural wonders, combining the idyllic beauty of Guilin, the rugged charm of Yellow Mountain, the thrilling heights of Mount Hua, and the grandeur of Mount Tai. It’s often described as “an enlarged potted landscape,” “a miniature fairyland,” and “a natural labyrinth” for its unique blend of tranquility, wildness, mystery, and elegance. Recognizing its unparalleled natural beauty, UNESCO designated Zhangjiajie as a World Heritage Site in 1992.
Zhangjiajie’s top attractions include the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Tianmen Mountain, and the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon. The National Park is a haven for fans of Avatar who want to experience its ethereal scenery in person, featuring highlights like the Golden Whip Stream, Huangshi Village, Yuanjiajie, Yangjiajie, and Tianzi Mountain. Meanwhile, Tianmen Mountain offers thrilling adventures such as the glass skywalk, a cliff-hugging pathway that tests even the bravest visitors. The Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon is equally famous for its Glass Bridge, the world’s highest and longest glass-bottomed bridge, which provides heart-pounding views of the canyon below.
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★★★ Recommended Popular Zhangjiajie Tours ★★★
6. Sichuan - Hometown of Giant Panda and Sichuan Cuisines
Type: Culture, Nature, Giant Panda, Food
Highlights: Panda Base, Jinli Old Street, Dujiangyan Irrigation System, Qingchengshan Mountain, Leshan Giant Buddha, Mount Emei, Jiuzhaigou Valley, Huanglong National Park
Recommended Trip Length: 2~8 days
Best Time of Visit: all year around
Recommended to Visit with: Yunnan, Tibet, Xian, Yangtze River
Sichuan is said to have the richest travel resources in China. With its history, Giant Pandas, local culture, world heritage sites, national parks, snow mountains, grasslands, and ancient towns, Sichuan offers something for everyone. The leisurely and relaxed lifestyle is another highlight, making Sichuan well-deserving of its nickname, the Land of Abundance.
Sichuan is home to five World Heritage Sites, including the famous Jiuzhaigou Valley Scenic Area, Huanglong National Park, Mount Emei and the Leshan Giant Buddha, Mount Qingcheng with the Dujiangyan Irrigation System, and the Sichuan Giant Panda Sanctuaries. These sites are spread across the province, requiring at least a week to fully explore them.
A trip to Sichuan can range from just two days to several weeks. For first-time visitors, the Top 5 Classic Destinations are highly recommended. Chengdu, the capital city, is the best place to see Giant Pandas and savor local delicacies. Dujiangyan and Mount Qingcheng are ideal for a one-day trip from Chengdu to experience history and natural scenery. The Leshan Giant Buddha and Mount Emei are best visited together, as they are located close to each other, requiring about three days. Jiuzhaigou is often regarded as the most beautiful spot in Sichuan. You can reach Jiuzhaigou by high-speed train or air, spend two days there, and then return to Chengdu.
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★★★ Recommended Popular Sichuan Tours ★★★
7. Yunnan - Most Beautiful Karst Landscape and Countryside in China
Type: Culture, Nature, Photography, Ethnic Groups
Highlights: Stone Forest, Dali Erhai Lake, Lijiang Ancient City, Tiger Leaping Gorge, Ganden Sumtseling Monastery, Pudacuo National Park
Recommended Trip Length: 4~11 days
Best Time of Visit: April to November
Recommended to Visit with: Sichuan, Tibet, Zhangjiajie
Yunnan, located in southwestern China, is the most culturally and geographically diverse province in the country, earning it the nickname “Colorful Yunnan.” It is home to 25 ethnic minority groups, offering travelers the chance to explore unique customs and fascinating contrasts. The province boasts a stunning variety of landscapes, from dense jungles in the south and serene rice terraces in the southeast to majestic snow-capped mountains and high plateaus in the north and northwest. Every moment of a journey through Yunnan promises surprises and delight.
Yunnan offers numerous destinations to explore. Kunming, the capital city, known as the “Spring City,” is ideal for a leisurely one or two-day stay. Lijiang, located in northwest Yunnan, is famous for its beautifully preserved Lijiang Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After Lijiang, Shangri-La, just 170 kilometers away, is highly recommended. Here, you can immerse yourself in charming old towns, grand Buddhist monasteries, pristine lakes, and breathtaking natural beauty, all while experiencing the warm hospitality of the Tibetan people. Before heading to Lijiang and Shangri-La, consider a stop in Dali if time permits. Dali is renowned for its stunning Silver Cangshan Mountain and Jade Erhai Lake, as well as cultural gems like Dali Old Town, the Three Pagodas, and Xizhou Ancient Town. These attractions provide a feast for the senses, blending cultural and natural beauty.
For photographers or those seeking truly spectacular sights, Yuanyang is unmissable. This remote area is home to the World Heritage-listed Honghe Hani Rice Terraces. Though it requires several hours of travel, the journey is well worth it. The awe-inspiring terraces, resembling ladders to the heavens, attract travelers and photographers alike. Whether it’s sunset, sunrise, a sea of clouds, Hani folk houses, or tranquil rice paddies with grazing cattle, Yuanyang offers endless inspiration and unforgettable views.
★★★ Recommended Popular Yunnan Tours ★★★
8. Huangshan (Yellow Mountain) - the Most Beautiful Mountain in China
Type: Mountains, Culture, Nature, Photography
Highlights: Yellow Mountain, Hongcun Ancient Village, Xidi Ancient Village
Recommended Trip Length: 3~5 days
Best Time of Visit: April to November
Recommended to Visit with: Shanghai, Hangzhou, Beijing
Huangshan, or the Yellow Mountain, is often considered the most beautiful mountain in China. If you’re seeking a mountain experience unlike the typical green and towering peaks, Huangshan will captivate you. Located in southern Anhui Province, it’s easily accessible via a 3-hour bullet train ride from Shanghai or a 7–8-hour ride from Beijing. Additionally, Huangshan has its own airport, with flights connecting to major cities such as Shanghai, Beijing, Chongqing, Guangzhou, and Chengdu.
A famous Chinese saying goes, “A visit to China’s Five Great Mountains makes other mountains unnecessary, but a visit to Huangshan makes even the Five Great Mountains unnecessary.” This reflects the mountain’s extraordinary beauty. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992, Huangshan is renowned worldwide.
The mountain is celebrated for its Five Wonders: Odd-shaped Pines, Spectacular Rocky Peaks, Sea of Clouds, Hot Springs, and Winter Snow. For a leisurely experience, travelers can take a cable car up and down the mountain, typically requiring two days to explore. For hiking enthusiasts, skipping the cable car and ascending on foot adds a more adventurous touch.
If you have an extra day, don't miss Hongcun and Xidi, two of China’s most picturesque ancient villages. Both are about an hour’s drive from Huangshan and offer a rich cultural and architectural experience to complement your mountain adventure.
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★★★ Recommended Popular Huangshan Tours ★★★
9. Tibet - Holy Land of Snow and Buddhism
Type: Culture, Nature, High Plateau, Religion
Highlights: Lhasa (Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street, Sera Monastery, Namtso Lake); Shigatse (Palcho Monastery, Tashilhunpo Monastery, Mount Everest)
Recommended Trip Length: 4~8 days
Best Time of Visit: April to October
Recommended to Visit with: Beijing, Xian, Chengdu, Kathmandu
Tibet, the holy land, is one of the most sacred and mysterious destinations in China. It offers a diverse and unforgettable experience, from its awe-inspiring plateau landscapes and profound Tibetan Buddhist culture to the warmth and hospitality of its people and the long-standing traditions that define the region. It is often regarded as a once-in-a-lifetime journey for travelers seeking spiritual and natural wonders.
Given Tibet’s vastness, a week or more is ideal to explore its highlights. Start with 2–3 days in Lhasa, the capital, where you can immerse yourself in local culture while acclimatizing to the high altitude. From there, take a day trip to Namtso Lake, considered the most beautiful lake in Tibet. Next, extend your journey to Gyantse and Shigatse to visit rural villages, iconic monasteries, and the breathtaking Tibetan landscape. From Shigatse, it’s just a day’s drive to Mount Everest.
Traveling to Tibet requires a Tibet Entry Permit and other necessary documents, which can be arranged by us for you. You can reach Tibet by flight from Kathmandu or major Chinese cities such as Beijing, Chengdu, Xi’an, Kunming, and Shanghai. Alternatively, consider taking the scenic train to Tibet from cities like Chengdu, Chongqing, Beijing, Lanzhou, Xining, or Xi’an.
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★★★ Recommended Popular Tibet Tours ★★★
10. Xinjiang - Explore Ancient Silk Road
Type: Culture, Nature, Landscape
Highlights: Heaven Lake, Id Kah Mosque, Kashgar Bazaar, Karakul Lake, Kanas Lake
Recommended Trip Length: 4~9 days
Best Time of Visit: May to November
Recommended to Visit with: Xian, Silk Road
Xinjiang is often considered one of China’s best-kept secrets. Unlike the more renowned travel destinations such as Beijing, Xi’an, Chengdu, or Guilin, Xinjiang retains a sense of sacredness and mystery, with fewer crowds and a unique allure. Once an essential stretch of the Ancient Silk Road, Xinjiang today captivates travelers with its magnificent beauty, blending exotic Middle Asian cultures, mouthwatering cuisine, and diverse landscapes ranging from vast deserts and endless prairies to snow-capped mountains and pristine lakes.
As the largest province in China, Xinjiang offers an abundance of destinations to explore. Urumqi, Kashgar, and Turpan are among the most popular. Urumqi, the provincial capital, serves primarily as a gateway to other destinations. Just 120 kilometers from Urumqi lies Tianchi Lake (Heavenly Lake), one of Xinjiang’s most picturesque alpine lakes. Kashgar, situated in the far western corner of Xinjiang, has been a vital cultural and trade hub for over two millennia. Known as the best place to experience Muslim culture, Kashgar features vibrant markets, including the largest bazaar in Asia, which draws more than 100,000 daily visitors. Turpan, located in a unique geographical setting as China’s lowest point and hottest region, surprises visitors with its dramatic contrast of desert landscapes and lush grape valleys. Its resilience and vibrancy create a charm unmatched by other destinations.
For travelers with 10 to 14 days to explore, there are even more spectacular sites to consider, such as the tranquil Kanas Lake, the vast Taklamakan Desert, and the historic city of Hotan. Whether you’re drawn to its cultural richness, awe-inspiring scenery, or a mix of both, Xinjiang promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of China’s Silk Road legacy. Gansu, located near Xinjiang and also plays an significant role in the Silk Road's history, is an ideal destination to explore along with Xinjiang.
★★★ Recommended Popular Xinjiang Tours ★★★
Other Destinations You May Be Interested in
Above list is the Top 10 Most Recommended Destinations in 2025. While China has way too many than the Top 10s. It time allows, or if you are interested, you can also go to explore Ancient Silk Road in Gansu, experience ethnic culture in Guizhou, take a Yangtze River Cruise, enjoy leisure time in a watertown in Suzhou or Hangzhou, go to learn about Chinese Kungfu in Shaolin Temple, etc. Other featured destinations includes Inner Mogolia, Datong, Pingyao, Wudangshan, etc.
During the past years, we have managed to organize thousands trips to different destinations in China for our clients. Our aim is to create ideal itineraries which are tailored to match your individual needs, interests, and budgets and make sure that you are taken care of every step along the way while you are in China. So please make your move and go to discover the REAL China with China Discovery now!
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Travel With China Discover
Since our establishment in 2011, we have crafted tailor-made tours for tens of thousands of travelers, helping them explore the beauty and culture of China with ease. Among our most memorable successes was a 69-day adventure for a couple from Belgium, covering 35 remarkable destinations across China. Even during the challenging pandemic years, we assisted thousands of travelers, particularly expats in China. Some highlights include Simona and Thomas, who explored the Silk Road and deserts of Gansu, as well as scenic destinations like Zhangjiajie and Guilin; French photographer Florian, who captured the remote beauty of Kanas in Xinjiang; and the Jimmie family from the USA, who experienced the charm of Lijiang and Shangri-La.
Looking ahead to 2024/2025, we’re excited to welcome more travelers to discover the wonders of China. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a cultural enthusiast, or simply looking for a family getaway, we’re ready to make your dream trip a reality. The journey of a lifetime starts now — let us guide you every step of the way!
Useful Articles of Top China Destinations
- Beijing Travel Guide
- Xian Travel Guide
- Shanghai Travel Guide
- Guilin Travel Guide
- How to get from Beijing to Xian
- How to get from Xian to Beijing
- Beijing Xian High-speed Trains
- What to see in Beijing & Xian
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Recommended Tours
Top 3 tours chosen by most customers to explore in the best way. Check the detailed itinerary, or tailor your own trip now with us.
8 Days Best of China Tour (Flight/Bullet Train Covered)
Beijing / Xian / Shanghai
10 Days Classic China Tour from Beijing - First Touch of China
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14 Days Essential China & Yangtze River Cruise Tour
Shanghai / Yichang / Yangtze Cruise / Chongqing / Guilin / Yangshuo / Xian / Beijing
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