Itinerary for 7 day trip to China

A week in China can be an exhilarating experience, filled with rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. Here’s a fun and solo-friendly itinerary that balances exploration, relaxation, and a bit of adventure. Let’s dive in!

Day 1: Arrival in Beijing

Morning: Arrive in Beijing. After checking into your hotel or hostel, take a moment to freshen up. If you’re feeling jet-lagged, a quick nap might be in order!

Afternoon: Head to and explore the vastness of this iconic site. Don’t forget to snap a selfie with the Chairman Mao portrait! Then, stroll over to the . It’s a massive complex, so take your time wandering through the ancient halls and gardens.

Evening: Treat yourself to a delicious at a local restaurant. You can find many places that cater to solo travelers. After dinner, take a leisurely walk around for some night snacks and shopping.

Day 2: The Great Wall Adventure

Morning: Rise early and take a day trip to the . The Mutianyu section is a great choice for solo travelers as it’s less crowded and offers stunning views. You can hike or take a cable car up.

Afternoon: Spend your time walking along the wall, taking in the breathtaking scenery. Pack a light lunch or grab something from a vendor.

Evening: Return to Beijing and unwind. Consider visiting a local tea house for a traditional tea ceremony. It’s a great way to meet fellow travelers and locals!

Day 3: Culture and History in Beijing

Morning: Visit the , where you can see locals practicing tai chi. It’s a peaceful spot to start your day.

Afternoon: Head to the . Explore the beautiful gardens and take a boat ride on Kunming Lake. It’s a perfect place to relax and soak in the scenery.

Evening: Check out the (traditional alleyways) for dinner. You can join a food tour or just wander around and find a cozy spot to eat. The atmosphere is lively and perfect for solo travelers!

Day 4: Travel to

Morning: Take a high-speed train to (about 5-6 hours). Enjoy the scenic views along the way!

Afternoon: Upon arrival, check into your accommodation and grab a quick bite. Then, head to the . You can rent a bike and ride along the top for a unique view of the city.

Evening: Explore the . It’s bustling with street food vendors and shops. Try some local delicacies like biangbiang noodles or yangrou paomo (bread soaked in mutton soup).

Day 5: Terracotta Warriors

Morning: Take a guided tour to the . It’s a must-see and a great way to learn about the history of this incredible site.

Afternoon: After exploring the warriors, visit the nearby. You can relax in the hot springs or explore the beautiful gardens.

Evening: Return to and enjoy a with dinner. It’s a fantastic cultural experience that showcases traditional music and dance.

Day 6: Travel to

Morning: Take a morning train or flight to (about 3-4 hours). Once you arrive, check into your accommodation.

Afternoon: Visit the . Spend a few hours watching these adorable creatures. It’s a great way to meet other travelers too!

Evening: Head to for dinner. The atmosphere is lively, and you can try local snacks like mapo tofu and spicy hotpot. Don’t forget to grab some souvenirs!

Day 7: Explore and Departure

Morning: Visit the and to learn more about the history of the region.

Afternoon: If time allows, take a stroll in . You can sip on some tea and watch locals engage in various activities. It’s a great way to soak in the local culture.

Evening: Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy a final meal in before heading to the airport. If you have time, consider a Sichuan opera performance to end your trip on a high note!