Cities
Start with the city that fits how you travel.
Some visitors want classic sights, some want food, some want a softer landing. Use these city snapshots to narrow your first China route.
Beijing
History, hutongs, museums, and a classic first China route.
Shanghai
Skylines, design, cafes, easy metro days, and a soft landing.
Chengdu
Pandas, spicy food, tea houses, and slower daily life.
Guangzhou
Cantonese food, warm weather, value, markets, and river nights.
Weekly recommendation
Try Guangzhou first if you travel for food.
A warm, great-value tier-1 city with Cantonese breakfast, old neighborhoods, river walks, markets, and an easier pace than Beijing or Shanghai.
Read the Guangzhou guideCity guides
Go deeper once a city catches your eye.
Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, or Chongqing: Which Chinese City Should You Visit First?
A practical comparison of Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, and Chongqing for first-time visitors choosing their first city in China.
Best Places to Visit in China for First-Time Visitors
A practical first-time guide to choosing where to go in China by travel style, trip length, and first-time difficulty.
Guangzhou Travel Guide for First-Time Visitors
The best-value tier-1 city in China for travelers: world-class Cantonese food at budget prices, slow pace, tropical parks, and one of the easiest Chinese cities for first-time foreign visitors.