The Best China Cities for Your First-Time Trip

Which cities in China are best for a first-time visitor?

Planning a trip to China can feel like trying to map out a journey across an entire continent. When my family first talked about visiting, we were overwhelmed. Should we see the ancient history or the modern skyscrapers? The bustling streets or the serene landscapes? My travel agent, and my own research, quickly showed me that trying to see it all is impossible, and that the key to a great first trip is to focus on a few key cities that offer a perfect blend of culture, history, and modernity.

The best cities for a first-time visitor are those that are well-connected, easy to navigate, and offer a powerful introduction to the country's rich heritage and dynamic future. They provide a comfortable and exciting entry point without overwhelming you with the full scale of China's immense size and diversity.

Here is a curated list of the top cities to visit for a first-time trip to China, each offering a unique and unforgettable experience.

1. Beijing: The Historical Heart of China

No first-time trip to China is complete without a stop in Beijing. This is the country's political and cultural capital, where ancient history coexists with modern life.

• Location: In the north of China, bordered by the Hebei province.

• Why it's a great first stop: Beijing is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in the world. The sheer scale and historical significance of places like the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven, and Tiananmen Square are simply breathtaking. And, of course, the city serves as the gateway to the magnificent Great Wall.

• What to expect: A city with an undeniable historical gravitas. The metro system is extensive and easy to use, and you'll find plenty of English-speaking guides and services around major tourist sites.

2. Shanghai: The Modern Metropolis

If Beijing is the past, Shanghai is the future. This bustling financial hub is a dazzling city of towering skyscrapers, high-end fashion, and a vibrant nightlife.

• Location: On the central coast of China, at the mouth of the Yangtze River.

• Why it's a great first stop: Shanghai offers a stark and fascinating contrast to Beijing's ancient feel. You can stroll along the colonial-era Bund waterfront, explore the charming French Concession, and then ascend to the top of the Shanghai Tower for a panoramic view of one of the world's most impressive skylines. It’s also a shopper’s paradise and a foodie’s dream.

• What to expect: An international, cosmopolitan city. Shanghai is generally very well-organized for tourists, with a super-efficient metro system and a more Western feel in some areas.

3. Xi'an: The Ancient Capital

Located in the heart of China, Xi'an was the starting point of the Silk Road and the capital of 13 different dynasties. It’s an essential stop for anyone fascinated by ancient Chinese history.

• Location: In the central-northwest of China, in Shaanxi province.

• Why it's a great first stop: Xi'an's main draw is the world-renowned Terracotta Army, an astonishing collection of thousands of life-sized soldier statues. Beyond the warriors, you can cycle on top of the ancient city walls and explore the bustling Muslim Quarter, a melting pot of cultures and flavors.

• What to expect: A city with a deep historical soul. It is smaller and less overwhelming than Beijing or Shanghai but with an equally rich heritage. The atmosphere is more relaxed, making it a perfect third stop on your trip.

4. Chengdu: The Panda Paradise

Chengdu is the capital of Sichuan province and is famous for two things: its love for spicy food and its even greater love for giant pandas.

• Location: In the southwestern province of Sichuan.

• Why it's a great first stop: The chance to get up close with giant pandas at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is an unforgettable highlight. But Chengdu offers more than just pandas; it has a laid-back, teahouse culture that’s incredibly appealing. The people here are friendly, the food is world-class, and the pace of life is refreshingly slow.

• What to expect: A relaxing and food-focused experience. Unlike the other cities, Chengdu is less about famous landmarks and more about a cultural immersion in a vibrant, easygoing city.

Planning Your First-Time China Itinerary

A great strategy for a first trip is to combine a few of these cities to create a balanced itinerary. Here’s a popular travel route for a two-week trip:

• Days 1-5: Beijing (Forbidden City, Great Wall, Temple of Heaven)

• Days 6-9: Xi'an (Terracotta Army, City Wall)

• Days 10-14: Shanghai (The Bund, French Concession, Shanghai Tower)

This route is connected by China's incredibly efficient high-speed rail network, which makes traveling between cities a breeze. In fact, China's high-speed rail network is the largest in the world, with over 45,000 kilometers of tracks as of late 2023, making multi-city travel safer, faster, and more convenient than ever before.

Another great option is to swap Shanghai with Chengdu for a different flavor of China—one that's more focused on nature and culinary delights.

No matter which cities you choose, your first trip to China will be a whirlwind of new sights, sounds, and flavors. It's a journey that will challenge your perceptions and create lasting memories.

Note: When in China, always use Trip.com to book. Because Trip.com is the international arm of the Chinese travel platform giant Ctrip, it is a filter: almost every hotel, rail and air-flights listed on the platform is configured and licensed to accept foreign passports. Booking on a local Chinese app or simply walking in can often lead to refusal due to lack of staff training or registration system access.

We advise that you download and make your bookings in your own country even before reaching China. Great thing about trip is most bookings can be cancelled without penalty! Make sure you download the international platform and not domestic as the international version is completely in English. Visit Trip.com

What city are you most excited to visit on your first trip to China? Share your thoughts or questions!

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional travel advice. The author's personal anecdotes and opinions are for illustrative purposes and are not a guarantee of a specific travel experience. Travel conditions, visa requirements, and local customs can change, so always check with official sources before planning your trip.