One region, in depth
Such as Zhangjiajie with Fenghuang, or Beijing alone — the easiest pace.
Theme tours · First time in China
First time in China? Start with a clear route
Not sure where to begin, or worried about paying and speaking the language? We take the usual first-trip worries one by one and plan your first China journey around classic places and an easy pace.
First time in China
First time in China? Start with a clear route
A first trip to China can feel overwhelming: so many cities, visa rules that change, payment habits unlike home, and no Mandarin. Decide how many days you have, pick two or three regions and link them by high-speed rail, and the plan becomes clear.
Our first-timer trips focus on classic destinations with room to breathe: at least two or three nights per city, someone meeting you at every transfer, and a pre-departure note on visas, payments and the apps you will need.
What you may wonder
The three worries every first-timer has
- 01
What about the visa?
Rules have changed a lot recently and depend on your passport and length of stay. When we confirm your trip, we remind you to check the latest official rules.
- 02
How do I pay without WeChat?
Alipay and WeChat Pay both accept international cards; add a credit card and a little cash and you are covered day to day.
- 03
Can I travel without Mandarin?
Big cities and sights have more and more English signs, translation apps work well, and on our tours guides and drivers help you communicate.
A typical day
A first-timer’s day
Breakfast, then off
Your driver waits in the lobby; the day’s plan is already on your phone.
A classic sight in the morning
In before the crowds, with your guide sharing the stories behind it.
A proper local lunch
Home-style dishes, with your guide ordering and explaining the flavors.
An easy afternoon
An old street or a museum, with time for photos and a rest.
Back to the hotel, evening free
Your guide tells you what is worth seeing nearby and how to get a ride.
Where to go
Good places to start a first trip
Beijing
Xi’anThe Great Wall and the Forbidden City — the first stop for most first-timers.
Guide coming soonThe Terracotta Army and a complete ancient city wall: China’s history up close.
View destinationZhangjiajieQuartz-sandstone pillars — a landscape break between cities.
View destinationShanghai
The Bund skyline and a modern city, often the start or end of a trip.
Guide coming soonHow long
How long should a first trip be?
Two or three regions
The most common first trip: Beijing, Xi’an and a landscape destination.
Classic multi-city loop
Four or five cities linked by rail, for travelers with time.
Recommended tours
Tours for this theme
Tours for this theme are being prepared
We are tagging each route with the travelers it suits. Browse all tours for now, or tell us what you need and a specialist will arrange it, free.
Questions
First time in China: frequently asked questions
Do I need a tour for my first trip?
Not necessarily, but having transport, hotels and transfers arranged saves a lot of stress. We run private and small-group trips at your pace.
How far ahead should I plan?
Start one to two months ahead, earlier for peak season and holidays, so trains and hotels are easier to book.
Is it easy to get online and use apps?
Download map, translation and payment apps before you go, and sort out access to the apps you use at home — arrival is much smoother.
Is China safe?
Generally safe for visitors. As anywhere, keep your passport and valuables secure.
Can I combine themes?
Yes — for example a first trip with children; we plan around both.
Create your ideal China trip
Tell us where you want to go, your dates and interests — a specialist designs a private itinerary for you, free of charge.
Start customizing