How many days do I need in China?+
Ten days for three cities at a comfortable pace. Seven for two cities. Fourteen for four, including one day with nothing scheduled.
What is the best itinerary for a first trip?+
Beijing (3 nights) → Xi’an (2) → Shanghai (3), all by high-speed rail. It covers imperial, ancient and modern China with no wasted transit days.
Is 7 days enough for China?+
For two cities, yes. For the classic three-city route, it becomes a station crawl.
What is the best time of year to visit?+
September to mid-October, and late April to May. Both are dry, mild and clear across most of the country.
When should I avoid China?+
Spring Festival (mid-February), Golden Week (1–7 October) and the first week of May. Transport sells out and prices double.
How many cities per week is realistic?+
Two, maximum. Each city transfer costs half a day door to door, even on high-speed rail.
Should I book everything in advance?+
Trains 15 days ahead, hotels as early as you can for holiday periods, and timed attractions 3–7 days ahead. Everything else can be decided on the ground.
Can I add Tibet to a 10-day trip?+
Not sensibly. Tibet requires a permit arranged through a licensed agency, a minimum four-day commitment, and altitude acclimatisation. It is a trip, not an add-on.
Is China good for a family trip?+
Yes — it is safe, cheap, and children are welcomed everywhere. Keep the pace slow, avoid the summer heat, and book a guide for the first two days.
How do I avoid crowds at the main sights?+
Arrive at opening. The Forbidden City at 08:30, Mutianyu on the first cable car, the Terracotta Army at 08:30. The difference between 08:30 and 10:00 is the whole experience.