10 Best Cities in China You Shouldn't Miss
This guide highlights the top cities in China you shouldn’t miss — whether you want to see the Forbidden City, walk the Great Wall, cruise the Li River, or meet adorable giant pandas. Get ready to discover the best cities in China and plan your perfect trip with our recommended tours!
Last updated: 15.09.2025
Last updated: 15.09.2025
China is a world of contrasts — a country where modern architecture meets traditional Chinese architecture, where densely populated places bustle with life while serene rural areas still preserve centuries-old customs. With a total population of over 1.4 billion, the People’s Republic boasts some of the most world famous destinations and big cities anywhere. If you plan to visit China, here’s your ultimate guide to the top train routes in China, best cities that promise unforgettable adventures, breathtaking sights, and incredible Chinese cuisine.
Beijing – China's Capital and Imperial Past
No trip to China is complete without exploring China’s capital: Beijing. This major city blends ancient Chinese civilization with cutting-edge development. Walk across Tiananmen Square, explore the majestic Forbidden City, and marvel at the imperial palace where emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties ruled.
Take a day trip to the Great Wall, one of the most world famous landmarks. Don’t forget to eat Peking duck — the city’s most iconic dish — or stroll along busy streets like Nanjing Road. As one of the key tier I cities, Beijing reflects the country’s rich history and rapid growth in urban population.
China Awaits! Top Train Routes to Explore
China boasts one of the world’s most sophisticated rail systems, offering travelers a fast and comfortable way to explore the country’s incredible diversity
- Beijing – ShanghaiThis high-speed route ranks among the busiest in mainland China, spanning 1,300 km in less than five hours — ideal for travelers who want to pair a visit to the Great Wall with the dazzling skyline of Shanghai.Book now
- Beijing – Xi’anHop on this route to witness the legendary Terracotta Warriors and stroll along Xi’an’s centuries-old city walls.Book now
- Shanghai – HangzhouJust an hour’s ride takes you to the tranquil beauty of West Lake and the lush tea plantations nearby.Book now
Shanghai – The Largest City in China
Welcome to Shanghai, the largest city in China and one of the most iconic cities in China to explore. With the largest population among Chinese cities, it’s a shining example of modern architecture and cosmopolitan energy.
Climb the Shanghai Tower, shop along Nanjing Road, and discover the charm of the French Concession. Don’t miss the world-class Shanghai Museum before taking a scenic cruise on the Yangtze River or the Grand Canal. This populous city is ideal for those who love busy streets, big cities, and vibrant nightlife.
Climb the Shanghai Tower, shop along Nanjing Road, and discover the charm of the French Concession. Don’t miss the world-class Shanghai Museum before taking a scenic cruise on the Yangtze River or the Grand Canal. This populous city is ideal for those who love busy streets, big cities, and vibrant nightlife.
Xi’an – Home of the Terracotta Army
Known as the imperial capital of several dynasties, Xi’an is a window into ancient Chinese civilization. The highlight here is the terracotta army, one of the most world famous archaeological sites.
You can also explore remnants of the Tang Dynasty, take a day trip to nearby rural villages, and imagine life in this former hub of the Silk Road connecting Central Asia.
As the heart of Guangdong province, Guangzhou is one of the most dynamic tier II cities and a popular destination for business and leisure. This major city is renowned for Chinese cuisine, and no visit is complete without sampling Cantonese dim sum. Marvel at the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall, a fine example of traditional Chinese architecture, or take a boat ride on the Pearl River. This hub of southern China offers both futuristic skylines and access to charming rural areas nearby.
Chengdu – Sichuan’s Capital City and Home of Giant Pandas
Chengdu, Sichuan’s capital city, is one of the most laid-back cities in China. It’s famous for spicy hotpot, but its biggest stars are the adorable giant pandas. Visit the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base, then take a day trip to Leshan’s Giant Buddha or the stunning yellow mountains of nearby regions.
As one of the growing tier II cities, Chengdu offers a perfect balance of busy streets and slower-paced life.
As one of the growing tier II cities, Chengdu offers a perfect balance of busy streets and slower-paced life.
Hangzhou – City of West Lake
If you encounter legal issues, ask to contact your consulate general immediately. Consular assistance can help with:
- Contacting family members
- Replacing travel documents
- Offering information about local laws
| Guilin – Along the Picturesque Li River Guilin is a gem in southern China known for its picturesque Li River scenery and surreal limestone karst peaks. Take a river cruise, visit rural villages, and explore the caves and hills that make this one of the most world famous natural landscapes. |
Shenzhen – A Modern Marvel
Shenzhen is one of the fastest-growing tier I cities and a major link between mainland China and Hong Kong. Once a fishing village, it is now a tech hub with a massive urban population. As one of the leading county level cities-turned-megacities, it shows how far Chinese cities have come.
Hong Kong – Special Administrative Region of China
Hong Kong is a special administrative region under the “one country, two systems” framework. This vibrant metropolis is a world famous financial center and a must-see when you visit China.
Take the tram to Victoria Peak for panoramic views, wander through busy streets full of convenience store snacks, and explore colonial architecture left from British rule.
Hong Kong is a populous city that feels completely different from mainland China, offering a mix of East and West that draws millions of visitors from around the world.
Take the tram to Victoria Peak for panoramic views, wander through busy streets full of convenience store snacks, and explore colonial architecture left from British rule.
Hong Kong is a populous city that feels completely different from mainland China, offering a mix of East and West that draws millions of visitors from around the world.
Macau – Another Special Administrative Region
While technically not among the big cities of China, Macau is a dazzling blend of Portuguese colonial architecture and Chinese culture. Like Hong Kong, it is a special administrative region with its own legal system and currency.
Macau is perfect for a day trip from Hong Kong, offering historic temples, casinos, and a taste of Chinese cuisine with a twist.
Macau is perfect for a day trip from Hong Kong, offering historic temples, casinos, and a taste of Chinese cuisine with a twist.
These 10 destinations represent the diversity of cities in China, from western China to northern China, from tier I cities to charming tier II cities and other cities worth exploring. Whether you crave the ancient allure of the imperial capital, the futuristic energy of the largest city, or the tranquil beauty of the Li River, there’s something here for everyone. Check out recommended tours to China to make the most of your journey. Whether it’s a guided trip to the Great Wall, a cultural experience in Beijing, or a food tour in Shanghai, these recommended tours will help you unlock the best of this extraordinary country.
