China is vast, layered, and endlessly fascinating. From imperial capitals and futuristic skylines to mist-covered mountains and UNESCO landscapes, the range of places to visit in China is extraordinary. Whether you're drawn to ancient history, dramatic scenery, or cutting-edge urban culture, the country offers something for every type of traveler.

Before diving into the journey, it’s smart to prepare digitally. Activating a China eSIM before you land ensures maps, ride apps, and ticket bookings work immediately. Travelers go with a Jetpac among the best eSIM for China options for a reliable setup and smooth connectivity throughout their trip.

This guide ranks the best places to visit in China, combining iconic highlights with immersive experiences across the country's best cities, mountain regions, and cultural hubs.

1. Beijing- Imperial Grandeur & The Great Wall

Beijing is one of the best cities in China and a cornerstone among the places to visit in China. The Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, and Summer Palace showcase dynastic power, while Mutianyu offers one of the best places to go in China for Great Wall views without extreme crowds.

Beijing is also among the popular tourist destinations in China, especially in spring and autumn when the air is clearer.

2. Xi’an- Terracotta Warriors & Silk Road History

Xi’an ranks among the best places to travel in China for history lovers. The Terracotta Army is one of the most famous places to visit in China, offering a glimpse into the Qin dynasty’s military might.

Beyond the warriors, cycling the ancient city wall and exploring the Muslim Quarter make it one of the best places to go in China for cultural immersion.

3. Shanghai- Skyline & Old Meets New

Shanghai is frequently listed among the best cities in China thanks to its striking skyline and vibrant Bund promenade. It remains one of the popular tourist destinations in China for its blend of colonial architecture and futuristic towers.

If you’re searching for modern places to visit in China, Shanghai delivers scale, style, and energy.

4. Chengdu- Pandas & Sichuan Cuisine

Chengdu is among the best places to travel in China for wildlife and food lovers. The Panda Base is one of the most visited places to visit in China, while hotpot culture makes the city unforgettable.

5. Guilin & Yangshuo- Karst Landscapes

The Li River scenery is one of the most photographed places to visit in China. Limestone peaks rising from misty rivers place this region among the most beautiful cities in China and the surrounding rural landscapes.

These river valleys remain among the best places to go in China for scenic relaxation.

6. Zhangjiajie- Avatar Mountains

For dramatic sandstone pillars, Zhangjiajie stands among the best places to travel in China. This UNESCO park is one of the most unique places to visit in China and among the most popular tourist destinations in China for nature photography.

7. Huangshan- Yellow Mountains

Huangshan’s cloud-sea sunrises make it one of the best places to visit in China for hikers and photographers. It consistently ranks among the best places to go in China for mountain scenery.

8. Jiuzhaigou Valley- Alpine Lakes

Jiuzhaigou is one of the most colorful places to visit in China, especially in autumn. Its lakes and waterfalls solidify it as one of the best places to travel in China for natural beauty.

9. Hangzhou- West Lake Serenity

Often counted among the most beautiful cities in China, Hangzhou offers poetic lake views and temple walks. It remains one of the calmer yet best places to visit in China.

10. Suzhou- Classical Gardens

Suzhou’s UNESCO gardens make it one of the most beautiful cities in China. It’s a refined choice among the places to visit in China for architecture and heritage lovers.

11. Guangzhou- Modern Southern Hub

Guangzhou expands your itinerary beyond northern places to visit in China, offering one of the fastest-growing urban skylines. It stands among the best cities in China for food and innovation.

12. Lijiang- Old Town & Yunnan Culture

Lijiang remains one of the quieter places to go in China for cobblestone charm and Naxi culture. It’s frequently listed among the popular tourist destinations in China for its preserved heritage.

13. Mount Emei & Leshan Giant Buddha

This UNESCO pairing ranks among the best places to travel in China from Chengdu. It blends cultural and natural heritage, earning its place among the best places to visit in China.

14. Harbin- Ice & Snow World

Winter travelers consider Harbin one of the best places to visit in China in December and January. The ice sculptures place it among the most spectacular places to go in China in winter.

15. Tibet (Lhasa)- Spiritual Highlands

For those seeking altitude and spiritual depth, Lhasa remains one of the most profound places to visit in China. It is one of the lesser-visited yet deeply meaningful best places to go in China.

Altogether, these destinations represent some of the best places to visit in China for travelers seeking history, culture, and unforgettable landscapes in one journey.

Staying Connected in China

China’s app ecosystem relies heavily on mobile access. Using a China eSIM avoids airport SIM queues and roaming fees. A reliable eSIM for China travel ensures smooth access to transport, translation apps, and booking platforms.

Jetpac stands out as one of the best eSIM for China providers because it offers:

📱 Essential apps stay active even after the main data runs out
Even if you exceed your high-speed limit, core apps like WhatsApp, Google Maps, and Uber remain usable, so you’re never stranded.

📞 Built-in voice call capability
Call hotels, restaurants, or tour operators directly through the app without needing a local SIM card.

🌍 Multi-network auto-switching
Jetpac automatically connects to the strongest available network, improving coverage in cities and rural areas.

⚡ 5G speeds where available
Experience faster data in supported regions, ideal for navigation-heavy travel days.

📡 Unlimited hotspot sharing
Share your connection with a laptop or travel companion without any data restrictions.

💬 24/7 human support via WhatsApp and email
Travel across time zones confidently, knowing support is always available.

💰 Transparent prepaid pricing
No surprise roaming bills with plans up to 70% cheaper than traditional roaming. Top up only when needed.

With a dependable eSIM for China travel, you can navigate even the most remote mountain parks with confidence.

Beyond the landmarks, learning a few fun facts about China, like how high-speed rail connects nearly every major city or how regional cuisines differ dramatically from north to south, can deepen your appreciation for each stop.

Smart Travel Tips

To maximize your experience at these popular tourist destinations in China, avoid public holidays and build your route around major rail hubs.

Read More: Planning to visit multiple cities? Long-distance trains, park tickets, and guided tours can add up quickly. Read our blog 👉 How to Save Money While Traveling Without Sacrificing Fun 

And before departure, learn how to avoid roaming charges to prevent unexpected costs.

FAQs

What are the best places to visit in China for first-time travelers?

Beijing, Xi’an, Shanghai, Guilin, and Chengdu are considered some of the best places to visit in China because they combine iconic history, culture, and accessible transportation.

How many days do you need to explore the major places to visit in China?

For a multi-city itinerary covering several places to visit in China, plan at least 10-14 days. China is geographically large, and travel times between cities can be significant.

What are the best places to go in China for mountain scenery?

Zhangjiajie, Huangshan, Mount Emei, and Jiuzhaigou are among the best places to go in China for dramatic mountain landscapes and UNESCO-listed parks.

Which are the most beautiful cities in China?

Hangzhou, Suzhou, Guilin, and Lijiang consistently rank among the most beautiful cities in China thanks to lakes, gardens, karst mountains, and preserved old towns.

Is it easy to travel between popular tourist destinations in China?

Yes. High-speed rail connects the most popular tourist destinations in China, making intercity travel efficient and comfortable.

Do I really need an eSIM for China travel?

Yes. A China eSIM avoids airport SIM lines and roaming fees. Choosing Jetpac as the best eSIM for China ensures smooth access to maps, translation apps, and digital ticketing across cities.