The Ultimate 2-Week China Itinerary

Are you planning a trip to China and wondering which spots are worth it and which ones you’ll regret skipping? With such a massive country, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But don’t worry; we’ve broken it all down so you won’t miss a thing.

From real-life Avatar mountains and panda sanctuaries to sci-fi cityscapes and viral tea cafes, this 2-week China itinerary is packed with photo-worthy moments, cultural gems, and hidden surprises. You’ll get a perfect mix of iconic sights and off-the-beaten-path experiences, stress-free, camera-ready, and memory-worthy.

Hi, we’re Angelia and Chris, full-time travel creators who just wrapped up our time exploring China. We put together the perfect 2-week itinerary to help you plan your own unforgettable adventure!

Overview:

• Chengdu – 2 days
• Chongqing – 3 days
• Wulong – 2 days
• Zhangjiajie – 3 days
• Furong – 1 day
• Shanghai – 3 days

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Day 1: City Strolls, Pandas, & Magical River

Base: Chengdu

Must Do’s: Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, Zhongshuge Bookstore, Dujiangyan Blue Tears

Begin your day in the heart of Chengdu at Chunxi Road. It’s a pedestrian street renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse shopping options. Next to it is the IFS Mall, where you’ll find the iconic giant panda sculpture scaling to the top of the mall, which is super cute to take a photo of.

After getting some lunch and doing some shopping, make your way to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. Home to over 200 giant pandas, this sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to observe these beloved creatures in a habitat that closely resembles their natural environment.

In the afternoon, take a taxi to Dujiangyan, approximately an hour’s drive from Chengdu. Here, you’ll discover the Zhongshuge Bookstore, an architectural marvel featuring mirrored ceilings and spiral bookshelves. It’s truly one of the most stunning bookstores we’ve ever seen.

When it gets dark, head to Nanqiao Bridge or Tianfuyuan Bridge to see the stunning Blue Tears. The blue lights along the river create a glow across the water, and it’s a must-see when you’re in Chengdu.

Day 2: From Park Life to City Lights

Base: Chengdu

Must Do’s: Tower of Life, Chengdu Twin Towers

Begin your day with a stroll down Wangping Street, a pedestrian street with traditional storefronts, snack stalls, and delicious restaurants.

From there, walk over to People’s Park, a peaceful public space where you can sip tea at a classic teahouse, watch locals practice calligraphy with water on the pavement, or relax by the lake and people-watch.

As the sun sets, head to the Chengdu Twin Towers, the city’s tallest buildings, where you can catch a stunning LED light show displayed across the towers. Find a rooftop bar nearby or an elevated viewpoint to watch the skyline light up. 

Afterwards, explore the futuristic Tower of Life at SKP Chengdu Mall, a striking set of colorful structures. It’s the perfect place to take in your final views of Chengdu before the next leg of your trip.

Day 3: Arrival in Chongqing – Skyscrapers, Monorails & River Views

Base: Chongqing

Must Do’s: Liziba Station, Hongyadong

Take a train to Chongqing, a mountain city where futuristic architecture meets riverside charm. Start at Raffles City, a landmark resembling the Marina Bay Sands in Singapore, with a horizontal skyscraper connecting its towers. 

Just outside, Chaotianmen Square offers sweeping views where the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers meet. It’s perfect for your first look at the city’s dramatic skyline.

Continue to Jiefangbei CBD, a lively commercial hub filled with lights, shops, and street buzz. Then stop by Liziba Station, the famous spot where a monorail cuts straight through an apartment building.

Wrap up at the iconic Hongyadong, a cliffside complex with restaurants and shops that glows after dark with lanterns and neon lights; one of Chongqing’s most photogenic spots.

Day 4: Chongqing by Day & Night

Base: Chongqing

Must Do’s: Yangtze River Ropeway, Pipayuan 

Start your morning at Bayi Road Food Street, a local favorite for traditional Chongqing food. They have spicy noodles, fried dough sticks, and dumplings served fresh and fast.

Next, ride the Yangtze River Ropeway, a cable car that spans over the river with sweeping views of the skyline. Expect a long queue of 1-2 hours, so try to come at off-times, on weekdays, or consider visiting the less busy South Station.

Spend the afternoon strolling through Longmenhao Old Street, a peaceful riverside neighborhood with restored buildings and views of the Yangtze. It’s perfect for slowing down after the busy morning and taking in the city’s skyline.

End the day with dinner at Pipayuan, the world’s largest hot pot restaurant that seats over 5,800 guests. Or eat hot pot at a former WW2 bomb shelter, 地下之城火锅 (personally, we liked the food here better!).

Day 5: Viral Cafes & Scenic Escapes

Base: Chongqing

Must Do: 荒野茶摊

Spend your final day in Chongqing exploring its quieter, more scenic side.

Start with a peaceful morning at Hong’ensi Forest Park, a stunning temple on a lush hilltop green space that offers panoramic views of the city and a refreshing break from the urban rush.

In the afternoon, head to 山城步道 (Shancheng Footpath), a lantern-lined walkway that winds along the hillside. It has beautiful views of the Yangtze and glimpses into everyday life in old Chongqing.

Wrap up your day at 荒野茶摊, a viral open-air tea house perched on the mountainside. Visit around sunset or after dark to sip tea under string lights while looking out over the glowing city below.

Day 6: Natural Arches & Canyons in Wulong

Base: Wulong

Must Do’s: Three Natural Bridges, Longshuixia Gap

Board an early train to Wulong Karst National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its towering stone formations and hidden gorges.

Start with the Three Natural Bridges (book on Klook here!), a series of massive limestone arches that rise high above the gorge. The Three Natural Bridges have also been featured in several films.

Then explore Longshuixia Gap, a narrow canyon carved deep into the earth. The steep stairways and misty cliffs make this hike feel like a real-life fantasy scene. Book the tickets with Klook here!

Tickets to both Longshuixia Gap and Three Natural Bridges can be purchased onsite at the Wulong Tourist Center, where you will be shuttled by bus to the attractions. Make sure to bring your passport with you since this will be your ticket! You can also buy the tickets in advance with Klook here!

Day 7: Fairy Meadows & Hidden Caves

Base: Wulong

Must Do’s: Fairy Mountain

Spend your final day in Wulong, soaking in fresh air and wide-open views. Head to Fairy Mountain, a scenic alpine plateau with rolling meadows and pine forests, often compared to Switzerland.

Train service between Wulong and Zhangjiajie is extremely limited, so be sure to book your tickets in advance and plan your day accordingly! If you have time before your departure, consider a visit to Furong Cave, one of China’s largest limestone caves. Inside, you’ll find massive chambers filled with glowing stalactites and colorful rock formations.  

Day 8: Welcome to Avatar World

Base: Zhangjiajie

Must Do’s: Yuanjiajie Scenic Area, Tianzishan Cableway

Arrive in Zhangjiajie and step into the surreal landscapes that inspired the blockbuster movie, Avatar. This region’s towering sandstone peaks and misty cliffs feel like something from another planet. Tickets to Zhangjiajie National Park can be purchased on Klook, and we recommend the “Zhangjiajie Forest Park + Three Cableways and One Elevator (Multi-trip tickets)” ticket. Make sure to bring your passport with you!

Begin with the Tianzishan Cableway, a scenic ascent offering sweeping views of the pillar-filled valley below. Then descend via the Bailong Elevator, the world’s tallest outdoor lift, built into the side of a cliff with glass panels for jaw-dropping views. 

End your day exploring the Yuanjiajie Scenic Area. It’s home to the famous “Avatar Mountains” and dramatic overlooks that look straight out of a sci-fi movie.

Day 9: Lakes, Peaks & Peaceful Trails

Base: Zhangjiajie

Must Do’s: Ten Mile Gallery

Spend the day exploring the quieter corners of Zhangjiajie’s stunning landscape.

Start at Ten Mile Gallery (Shilihualang), a scenic route lined with towering cliffs, ideal for a leisurely walk or a ride on the mini sightseeing train.

Next, make your way to Three Sisters Peak, one of Zhangjiajie’s hidden gems. It’s a quieter alternative to the crowded Avatar Hallelujah Mountains and offers sweeping views of the surrounding peaks with fewer tourists.

In the afternoon, head to Baofeng Lake for a tranquil boat ride through emerald waters, framed by steep cliffs and lush greenery. You’ll drift past caves and waterfalls, with reflections dancing across the surface; a relaxing end to a nature-filled day.

Day 10: Skywalks & Cable Cars

Base: Zhangjiajie

Wrap up your Zhangjiajie adventure with one of its most iconic experiences, Tianmenshan. You can also purchase your tickets beforehand on Klook, and we recommend going with Route A.

Start your day there by riding the world’s longest cable car from the city up to the mountain’s summit, soaring over cliffs, forests, and winding roads along the way. At the top, enjoy the sweeping views before stepping onto the famous glass skywalk, a clear walkway that hugs the edge of the cliff and offers jaw-dropping views down to the valley floor.

Don’t miss the iconic 72 Strange Buildings, officially recognized as the Guinness World Record’s tallest stilted building! Visit after sunset to catch their enchanting light and music performance, which brings this architectural wonder to life. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, and trust us, it’s 1000% worth it. This unforgettable experience is the perfect grand finale to your time in Zhangjiajie before heading to Shanghai.

Day 11: Waterfalls & Travel to the City

Base: Shanghai or Furong

Must Do’s: Furong Ancient Town, Furong Waterfall

On your way to Shanghai,stop at Furong Ancient Town, a stunning cliffside village built directly over a waterfall. Store your luggage at a locker and stroll through narrow lanes filled with stilt houses, red lanterns, and local shops along Wuli Street.

Catch a view of the dramatic Furong Waterfall, which flows through the center of the town. Make sure to stay after sunset when the waterfall is glowing with lights!

After exploring, continue to Shanghai, where the final leg of your China adventure begins.

Day 12: Skyscrapers & Old Shanghai Charm

Base: Shanghai

Kick off your time in Shanghai with a walk along The Bund, where colonial-era buildings face off with the futuristic skyline of Lujiazui across the Huangpu River, one of the city’s most iconic views.

Next, dive into the heart of old Shanghai at Yu Garden & Bazaar, a beautifully preserved Ming-era garden surrounded by lively lanes filled with street food, tea shops, and souvenir stalls.

From there, walk or take a short metro ride to Nanjing Road, one of the world’s busiest shopping streets. Lined with flagship stores, local brands, and historic architecture, it’s a perfect place to shop, snack, and people-watch. Start at Miniso Land, a colorful and immersive experience that blends themed shopping with quirky photo ops, great for both souvenirs and fun content.

In the afternoon, unwind at People’s Park, a peaceful green space in the heart of the city. Take a break by the lotus pond, browse the open-air art displays, or simply enjoy the calm contrast to the nearby urban buzz.

Day 13: A Day of Magic at Shanghai Disneyland

Base: Shanghai

Must Do’s: TRON Lightcycle Power Run, Gardens of Imagination

Spend the day at Shanghai Disneyland (book this in advance on Klook and use ANGKLOOK for 10% off new customers & 3% off existing customers!). It’s where imagination meets cutting-edge design in the most magical way. From the stunning Enchanted Storybook Castle, the largest Disney castle in the world, to exclusive attractions like TRON Lightcycle Power Run and Pirates of the Caribbean: Battle for the Sunken Treasure, this park blends classic Disney charm with uniquely Chinese touches.

Arrive early to make the most of your day, and download the official app to check wait times and reserve rides. In the evening, grab a spot near the castle for the spectacular nighttime show featuring fireworks, lights, and music, a magical way to wrap up your visit.

Day 14: Modern Marvels & Memorable Goodbyes

Base: Shanghai

Must Do: 1000 Trees

Wrap up your China adventure with a day exploring Shanghai’s trendiest streets and most eye-catching architecture.

Start at 1000 Trees, a striking building designed to look like a living mountain. Covered in greenery and filled with shops, cafés, and art installations, it’s both a retail space and an architectural wonder.

Then head to Wukang Road and Anfu Road, two of Shanghai’s most charming streets. Lined with European-style buildings, stylish boutiques, and cozy cafés, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a slow afternoon and reflect on your trip over one last cup of coffee. 

Later, head to the Expo Cultural Park Greenhouse Garden, a modern, peaceful retreat filled with lush tropical plants and elegant design, ideal for a quiet break or a few final photos. From there, make your way to Century Park, Shanghai’s largest urban green space. Whether you choose a tree-lined path, a serene lakefront, or an open lawn, it’s a calming spot to stroll and reflect on the journey.

Wrap up your last day with a sunset and night views at the Oriental Pearl Tower, one of Shanghai’s most iconic landmarks. Head up to the observation deck just before golden hour to catch the city bathed in warm light, with sweeping views over the Bund, Huangpu River, and the glowing skyscrapers of Lujiazui. As the sun dips, watch the skyline come alive with neon lights—it’s a magical contrast of day and night in one unforgettable moment.

Final Thoughts

From cuddly pandas and ancient waterfalls to space-age cities and sky-high glass bridges, this 2-week China itinerary shows you the highlights of this country. Whether you’re chasing cultural treasures, photo ops, or peaceful nature, this itinerary has it all. Hope this itinerary helps, and let us know in the comments what blog you’d like to see next!

– Angelia & Chris