China, with its ancient history and diverse landscapes, is a must-visit destination for travelers. It offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in Far-Eastern traditions and culture.

Here’s a simple, seven-step guide to planning your first trip to China, drawing from our extensive experience. Since 2008, we’ve been crafting personalized China tours, tailoring over 10,000 journeys for families and couples alike.

1. Choose Where to Go

Based on our expertise and client recommendations, we suggest starting your journey with Beijing, Xi'an, and Shanghai. If time allows, consider adding Guilin and/or Chengdu for an even richer experience.

2. Decide How Many Days to Stay

After a long journey to China, you'll likely want more than just a quick glance at its wonders or snapshots at iconic landmarks.

For a well-rounded introduction, we recommend spending at least a week to explore the highlights of the top three cities: Beijing (3–4 days), Xi'an (2 days), and Shanghai (1–2 days).

If you'd like to see more of China, such as Guilin's breathtaking landscapes or Chengdu's adorable pandas, consider extending your trip by a few days.

Tibet, a dream destination for many, requires an additional 3–5 days to explore its serene beauty.

All our tours are customizable to suit your preferences, schedule, group size, and other needs. Feel free to reach out to us for a personalized plan.

3. Consider When to Travel to China

China’s cultural and historical treasures are worth visiting year-round, as the activities in cities like Beijing, Xi’an, and Shanghai are largely unaffected by the seasons.

Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) are the most pleasant and highly recommended times to visit, offering comfortable temperatures. Fall tends to be drier and slightly warmer compared to spring.

For fewer crowds, better prices, and mild weather, consider traveling in March, early April, or early November.

China is also a great destination during summer, with relatively few rainy days. Rain showers are usually brief and infrequent as the season progresses. While summer temperatures can rise, air conditioning and thoughtful tour arrangements will ensure a comfortable experience.

4. Consider Your Budget

Traveling in China is relatively affordable, with international airfare often being the largest expense. Round-trip economy flights from the US or Europe to China typically range from $1,200 to $3,000, depending on the season and airline.

China's peak travel periods include the first weeks of May and October (the two "Golden Weeks"), the summer holidays, and Christmas/New Year.

The most noticeable price hikes during peak season are for hotels and airfares, which can increase by 50–100%.

For a private tour, the average daily cost per person ranges from $220 to $350. This includes domestic flights or trains, 4- or 5-star accommodations, lunches, entrance fees, private guides, and transportation. Traveling with more people often lowers individual expenses.

If you plan to visit during peak times, it’s best to book at least 2–3 months in advance to secure the best options.

5. We Believe Private and Tailor-Made Is Best

A private tour is an excellent choice for your first trip to China.

Rather than joining a large group tour where time at iconic sites like the Great Wall might be limited to just 20 minutes, a private, tailor-made experience offers much greater flexibility and personalization.

With our private tours, you can shape your itinerary to suit your preferences. Enjoy exclusive and immersive experiences, such as exploring the untouched "wild" sections of the Great Wall or connecting with a local family, all guided by your own knowledgeable guide.

Private transportation and guiding allow us to optimize your time, ensuring you focus on the attractions that matter most to you while avoiding long queues and skipping sights that don't interest you.

6. Check Out Visa Policy

Visa-Free Access to China: If you're from Singapore, Malaysia, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, New Zealand, Australia, Austria, Switzerland, Poland, etc, you can visit China visa-free for 30 days.

If your nationality isn't listed above, you will need to apply for a tourist visa (L visa) to visit China. We recommended that you apply for the visa one or two months before the intended travel date.

7. Getting to/around China

International flights to China have resumed, though not yet at full pre-pandemic frequency. Currently, there are one or two direct flights per week from major cities such as New York to Shanghai, Los Angeles to Beijing, and London to Guangzhou.

For more frequent and cost-effective options, many travelers opt for flights with stopovers.

Beijing and Shanghai are the most popular gateway cities for international arrivals, chosen by the majority of our clients.

Within China, flights and high-speed trains are the fastest and most efficient ways to travel between cities. When you book a private tour with us, we’ll take care of all your transportation arrangements, including seamless intercity travel and worry-free private transfers.