Best Places To Visit In China For First-Time Travellers

China is a huge and diverse country, there are so many places to visit. If you are travelling for the first time to China, it can be a bit overwhelming. Don’t stress, I’m going to share with you my top destinations for an unforgettable trip.

This itinerary ticks all the boxes, modern architecture, historic sites, beautiful nature and incredible food. All the destinations are easy to travel to and more convenient if you are just starting your China journey.

Shanghai

The first stop is the modern metropolis of Shanghai, a perfect introduction to the country. Shanghai is the most cosmopolitan city and the easiest to get around if you don’t speak Chinese. Many people speak English in Shanghai so it is a great place to get your bearings and get over that jet lag.

Fun fact: Did you know Shanghai has more coffee shops than any city in the world? We have tested quite a few and they are all pretty good and reasonably priced.

The view of Shanghai's skyline from the Bund

Things to do in Shanghai:

Take a stroll along the bund - to see Shanghai’s iconic skyline.

Visit Yu Garden – This traditional Chinese garden in the heart of the city is not to be missed. They often have special decorations for different times of year and the complex looks incredible at night time when it is all lit up.

Explore the former French Concession – The architecture in this area is an incredible contrast to the modern skyline on the water.

If you are feeling brave then visit the Shanghai tower – the viewing platform on the 118th floor offers panoramic views over the entire city.

Yu Garden at night

What to eat in Shanghai:

Xiaolongbao (Soup Dumplings) – These are a Shanghai favourite, but be careful how you eat these. Make sure you bite a little hole first to let the steam out and then suck out the soup. Otherwise, you might get hot soup all over you and your companions.

Sheng Jian Bao (Pan-fried buns ) – These are typically filled with meat (usually pork or shrimp) and instead of being steamed like the Xiaolongbao they are fried on the bottom giving you a nice crunchy texture. You will also find Jiaozi made in this way on the street too, - they are called ‘potstickers’.

Sheng Jian Bao

Cong You Bing (Scallion Pancakes) - These crispy chewy pancakes are layered with green onions and pan-fried to golden perfection. You will find many hole-in-the-wall food places in Shanghai selling different ‘bings’ (bread) some savoury, some sweet. I recommend you try them all to find your favourite! They are perfect for breakfast and very reasonably priced.

Cong You Ban Mian (Scallion Oil Noodles) – These seem like one of the simplest noodle dishes but don’t let the look confuse you, these are packed full of flavour. A perfect lunchtime go-to. In many places, you will also find Ma Jiang Mian which are sesame paste noodles and they are SO good!

Hairy Crab – If it is the season (around Autumn) make sure you try this delicacy.

Next, take the high-speed train up to China’s capital…

Beijing

No trip to China would be complete without a stopover in the capital. Beijing is the perfect mix of historic and modern. There are so many things to do in Beijing you won’t get bored in this city. Having lived there for over 5 years it is certainly one of my favourite cities to visit.

Things to do in Beijing:

Get lost in the Hutongs – Beijing is famous for its maze-like ‘Hutongs’ which are small alleyways in the centre of the city. Some are more touristic like Nanluoguxiang and Wudoaying and some offer you a glimpse into local Beijing life. You will find something interesting around every corner.

See the big ticket items – The Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, The Great Wall, The Temple of Heaven, and The Summer Palace. All are amazing and should be added to your list!

Top tips: Not all sections of The Great Wall are created equally, research the best one for your ability, time and schedule.

After you visit The Forbidden City head up to the viewing point in Jingshan Park (opposite the exit) to see a birds-eye view of it in all its glory.

View of The Forbidden City from Jingshan Park

Check out some modern architecture – In the CBD area you will find The CCTV Headquarters and the China Zun Tower. Head to Olympic Park to see the Birds Nest Stadium and other iconic Olympic venues. If you have time swing by Galaxy Soho a spaceship-style building built by Zaha Hadid.

798 Art District – This is one of my favourite places to spend the afternoon. There are loads of cool photo opportunities, amazing galleries and street art also loads of shops and restaurants to explore.

What to eat in Beijing:

Jianbing (Chinese crepe or pancake) – This is one of my favourite breakfasts ever! Whilst it doesn’t technically originate from Beijing, I feel like the city has taken it under its wing and you will find people making them all over. It is a crepe with an egg cracked on top, delicious sauce, a dough cracker, green onions and meat if you want it. It is the perfect mix of sweet, savoury, crunchy, soft textures and is the best way to start your day.

Zhajiangmian (Noodles with Soybean Paste) – This dish is worth a try as you don’t find it in many other places in China. This dish uses thick wheat noodles topped with a rich sauce made from fermented soybeans topped with minced pork, and a variety of fresh vegetables like cucumber, radish, and bean sprouts. It’s hearty and simple, I personally feel there are better noodle dishes out there but it does hit the spot (especially if you add some chilli oil on top.)

Lu Rou Huo Shao (Donkey Burgers) – This is a speciality from nearby Hebei province, but it's popular in Beijing and for a good reason. Tender bits of braised donkey meat are usually chopped with crunchy peppers and stuffed into a crispy bun it is a great lunch option.

Tanghulu (Candied Hawthorns) – If you visit Beijing in winter then you will walk past many a street seller offering you Tanghulu. Skewers of hawthorn berries are coated in hardened sugar syrup. Crunchy and sweet on the outside and sour on the inside. You will also find other fruits but the hawthorns are the OG’s.

Peking Duck (Beijing Roast Duck) – I mean, you can’t come to Beijing and not have the most iconic dish - roast duck. Crispy skin and succulent meat served with thin pancakes, sweet bean sauce, cucumbers, and scallions (green onions). Once you have eaten it in Beijing it will never taste as good anywhere else.

If you are feeling brave then take the sleeper train, if you aren’t then opt for the high-speed train to…

Xi’an

Xi’an is a must for any history enthusiast. The ancient capital was the starting point for the Silk Road and once was the largest city in the world. Xi’an isn’t just about history, it is also one of my favourite places for food in China.

Things to do in Xi’an:

Terracotta Warriors: This is the number one thing to do in Xi’an, but be aware that means it does get busy, especially in the main pit. It’s hard to believe that this life-sized army was found underground. Buried beside Emporer Qin Shi Huang to protect him in the afterlife there are warriors, chariots and horses it is a magnificent sight.

Top tips: Try to visit on a weekday and as early as possible to avoid the tour groups. Head to pit 1 first as it is the busiest if it is busy then go to the others and come back later (around lunchtime) as it may have eased off by then.

Cycle on the Ancient Wall: The ancient wall wraps for 13km around the old town. The best way to get around is to cycle although it might take you a couple of hours to do the whole circuit. You can also take a stroll at night time when the gates are illuminated. The south gate is the most beautiful and will also be the busiest.

Explore the Muslim Quarter: This area has so many gems to find, mosques, temples, flea markets and incredible food. This is the place to go for authentic Xi’an food. There is a popular pedestrian street Beiyuanmen which has a popular night market but my advice would be to head down the side streets for more local life.

The Food Ranger has an excellent guide to the local cuisine, we followed some of his recommendations and were not disappointed.

Every Thursday and Sunday morning you will find vendors lining the streets in this area selling an array of goods. This is China’s oldest and largest market. I’ve not seen this in other cities and I loved it.

Visit the Wild Goose Pagoda – A popular landmark in Xi’an built to house ancient Buddhist texts it is a beautiful place to visit. Don’t forget to take a leisurely stroll through the peaceful Da Ci’en Temple complex. It’s a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

What to eat in Xi’an:

Roujiamo (Chinese "Hamburger") – You will find this popular street snack in many places around China. It consists of slow-cooked meat shredded and eaten in a flatbread-type bun. In a lot of places in China, it is eaten with pork inside but in the Muslim quarter, you’ll find it made with beef or lamb.

Biang Biang Mian (hand-pulled noodles) – The loudest noodles in China, not only do you get a delicious dish but you get a show. These noodles are made by slapping them on the table creating a loud ‘Biang’ noise, hence the name. These thick noodles are a delight for a noodle lover. They are served with a spicy, savoury sauce made from chilli oil, vinegar, soy sauce, and garlic, along with vegetables and sometimes meat and eggs. You can also find a veggie version called You Po Mian, which is ‘Oil sprinkled noodles’ and is heavy on the garlic and absolutely incredible!

Liangpi (Cold Skin Noodles) – These are Jack’s (my husband’s) favourite lunchtime noodles. The noodles are made from rice flour and served cold. They are cut up and served with chilli, oil, vinegar and shredded vegetables – the perfect cold lunch in summer.

Suan Tang Shui Jiao (Sour Soup Dumplings) - These dumplings are typically filled with lamb or beef and served in a hot and sour broth made from vinegar, chilli oil, and garlic. I found these thanks to the Food Ranger’s guide and they did not disappoint.

Yangrou Paomo (Pitta Bread Soaked in Lamb Soup) - This is one dish you have to work for in Xi’an. First, you are handed a somewhat stale pitta bread which you have to rip into small pieces and put in your bowl. Then you take it back to the server who pours a hearty herby lamb broth on top. Perfect for the winter months.

Next, hop on the HST train even further west to…

Chengdu

Chengdu is one of my favourite cities in China. Its laid-back vibe and incredible food make it a worthy destination for a first-timer to get a glimpse into Sichuan. Also, you can’t forget the main attraction which is everywhere in Chengdu and that’s pandas!

Things to do in Chengdu:

Visit the Giant Panda Research Centre – You will spot these lovable creatures everywhere in the city but for the real thing you need to head to the Giant Panda Research Centre. Get there early as they are most active in the morning when it is feeding time. The park is pretty big so wear comfortable shoes.

Relax in a Teahouse – After a jam-packed trip, Chengdu is the place to chill. Spend the morning with the locals at a teahouse. There are so many in the city, you will usually find them lining the banks of the canals and rivers, as well as in parks.

People’s Park – Chinese parks just hit differently; there are no rules in parks, and you will find everyone and anyone enjoying these areas. Peoples Park is a great place to check out some Chinese hobbies and there is also a teahouse in the centre so you can sit and people-watch for hours.

Cycle along the river – If it is a nice day then spend the day riding the banks of the river and stopping wherever takes your fancy.

One of the most important things to do in Chengdu is to eat!! Sichuan food is amazing (if you can handle the spice). Chengdu’s food is full of bold flavours and is distinguished by its use of Sichuan Peppercorns which creates a unique tongue-tingling ‘Mala’ sensation. Don’t worry though, you can always ask for the food to be non-spicy or pick lighter dishes which compliment the spicy ones.

What to eat in Chengdu:

Hotpot – Sichuan hotpot can be a real bum burner, so beware. If you haven’t eaten it yet in China then this is the perfect chance to try. Most people make an evening of it by spending a few hours with friends around the hotpot. You can get the hotpot split so there is a spicy and non-spicy side incase you can’t handle the spice.

Malatang/Maocai/Chuan Chuan - If you want a more low-key alternative to hotpot then grab one of these instead. The cold ingredients are on display in a buffet-style fridge where you can pick your own selection of meat or veg. The chef then cooks it in a hot broth and serves it to you. Malatang is more of a soup. Maocai is similar and served with rice. Chuan chuan is left on the skewers so you can pull them straight out of the broth to eat. All are delicious and some of our favourite dishes.

Mapo Tofu – This is one of Sichuan’s most famous dishes and with good reason. The soft tofu is served in a spicy numbing sauce which is rich and hearty.

Tu Tou (Rabbit Head) – If you think you can handle the spice and you like to eat meat then this one is for you. Join the locals of Chengdu by indulging in this delicacy. Rabbit heads are marinated with Sichuan pepper, chillis and spices. I personally found the meat a bit tough from the place we bought it from and it was one of the spiciest things I’ve ever tasted.

Noodles – Most people don’t think of Chengdu as being a noodle city but I found so many different types there to try, it would be rude to just pick one. So look out for, Dan Dan Mian, Tian Shui Mian (sweet water noodles), Pugai Mian (blanket noodles), Hui Guo Rou Mian (twice-cooked pork noodles), Liang Mian (Sichuan cold noodles).

Now it is time to head out of the cities and into nature by getting the HST to…

Guilin (and the surrounding areas)

There are many beautiful nature spots in China but few are as breathtaking and iconic as the Guilin area’s Karst landscapes. It is luscious and green and, due to its popularity with tourists, even the most rural parts are easy to reach by public transport.

As this area is home to multiple ethnic minorities, it offers some great opportunities for cultural learning too.

If you have a few days to explore the Guilin area, then I’d recommend spending some time in the rural Yangshuo county. Definitely pay a visit to the picturesque village of Xingping, too.

Things to do in Guilin:

Climb Laorenshan (Old Man Hill) – This spot offers panoramic views over the city and surrounding areas. There is bit of a clamber over some rocks so wear appropriate clothing and don’t go in the rain.

Shanhu Lake – This spot looks amazing at night when the sun and the moon pagodas are illuminated.

Elephant Trunk Hill – An iconic symbol of Guilin, can you see an elephant drinking water? That’s how it got its name.

Check out a cave – If you are into your stalactites, stalagmites and colourful lighting then you are spoilt for choice in Guilin. You could head to Reed Flute Cave, Silver Cave or Seven Star Park.

Things to do nearby:

Li River Cruise – Get on board in Guilin and cruise down the river to Yangshuo stay here for a few nights to explore the area.

Rent a bike or scooter in Yangshuo – This is the best way to get around and see the countryside. Everywhere you look in this area offers amazing views.

Moon Hill – A great little hike to an amazing viewpoint.

Xingping – Explore this ancient town and visit the 20 Yuan note viewpoint. This is also where the High-Speed train goes from (not Yangshuo) so you could do what we did and explore it in the morning before we headed to our next destination.

Longji Rice Terraces – One of the most magical places to hike in the area. You can get here by local bus, taxi or tour. Make sure you do this from Guilin as it is nearer to the area. You can go for a day trip or spend a couple of days in the area.

If you are wanting to get a taste of local life then I would recommend staying at one of the Laojia guest houses in this area. We haven’t stayed in these ones but we have stayed in two other locations and they are amazing. The hosts don’t usually speak English but the people who run Laojia do and they can help you every step of the way.

What to eat in Guilin:

Guilin Mifen (Guilin Rice Noodles) – Rice noodles are served with various toppings like braised pork, beef, peanuts, pickled vegetables, and green onions. The broth is typically mild, but you can customise it with whatever toppings take your fancy, usually, there is an array of chilis, garlic, pickled vegetables and vinegar.

Yangshuo Pijiu Yu (Yangshuo Beer Fish) - A signature dish from Yangshuo, the fish is cooked with beer, chillis, garlic, ginger, tomatoes, and soy sauce. The beer makes the fish extra tender while adding a deep, complex flavour to the sauce.

Bamboo Rice - This traditional dish from the Zhuang ethnic minority features rice and sometimes pork or chicken stuffed inside bamboo tubes. It is then roasted over an open flame giving it a fragrant and slightly smoky flavour.

Luosifen (Snail Rice Noodle Soup) - A spicy and sour noodle soup which originates from nearby Liuzhou (also in the Guangxi region). It’s made with rice noodles, fermented bamboo shoots, peanuts, pickled vegetables, tofu skin, and a distinctive snail-based broth. It’s very popular in this area and has gone viral on social media many times.

Guilin Chili Sauce - Although not a standalone dish, Guilin’s famous chilli sauce is a must-try condiment. Made from fermented soybeans, chilli peppers, and garlic, it’s spicy and aromatic. The people in this area really care about their condiments so you will often find many things to try that you won’t find in other parts of China

In all of these locations Lost Plate Food Tours either offer food tours or multi-day tours. If I travel to any new city I like to start my exploration with a food tour. It is a great way to learn about the city, find some tasty spots and get your bearings of the area.

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I hope you found this post helpful. If you need a more detailed itinerary then feel free to get in touch, I can help you!