14-Day China Family Adventure Itinerary

The following is a suggested itinerary for families visiting China for the first time who spend 14 days and 13 nights in China, arriving in Beijing and departing from Shanghai.

Day 1 - Arrive in Beijing

Arrive in Beijing and spend the rest of the day relaxing or exploring the city at your own pace.

Day 2-3 - Beijing Highlights

Spend two full days exploring the Forbidden City, Jingshan Park, and taking a Hutong Rickshaw ride. Visit the Mutianyu Great Wall (cable car up, toboggan down) and the Summer Palace.

Day 4 - Beijing to Chengdu

In the morning, visit the Temple of Heaven and Olympic Park. In the evening, fly to Chengdu. Also consider a day at Universal Studios Beijing.

Day 5-6 - Chengdu & Pandas

Spend two full days in Chengdu visiting the Giant Panda Base, Panda Post Office, and Taikoo Li. Experience local life at a People’s Park teahouse and explore Kuanzhai Alley.

Day 7 - Chengdu to Chongqing

In the morning, travel from Chengdu to Chongqing by high-speed train (1.5-2 hours). Spend the afternoon at Raffles City, Shan Cheng Xiang, and Hongya Cave.

Day 8 - Chongqing to Zhangjiajie

In the morning, travel to Zhangjiajie (2.5 hours). Spend the afternoon at Tianmen Mountain. Alternatively, consider visiting Guilin.

Day 9-10 - Zhangjiajie Nature & Culture

Spend two full days exploring the Grand Canyon Glass Bridge, Furong Town, and the Avatar mountains in the National Forest Park via the Bailong Elevator.

Day 11 - Zhangjiajie to Nantong

Travel from Zhangjiajie to Shanghai, then transfer to Nantong (approx. 5 hours). Check into the Red Panda Hotel and spend the afternoon at the Forest Wildlife Park. If you don not want to stay in Red Panda Hotel, you can also consider Shanghai Disneyland.

Day 12 - Nantong to Shanghai

Enjoy Nantong Ice & Snow World in the morning. Return to Shanghai in the afternoon to visit Lujiazui, the Oriental Pearl Tower, and The Bund.

Day 13 - Shanghai & Water Town

Spend a full day exploring Zhujiajiao Water Town, Yu Garden, and the City God Temple.

Day 14 - Depart from Shanghai

Explore the French Concession with lunch at Xuyan or Warehouse No. 3. Transfer to the airport in the afternoon or evening for your departure.

Below are some sample budgets for the itinerary.