China 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Beijing

Morning (9:00 am - 12:00 pm)

  • Tiananmen Square: Start your day at the iconic Tiananmen Square, one of the largest city squares in the world. Take a stroll around the square and visit the National Museum of China.
  • Forbidden City: Enter the Forbidden City, the imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties for over 500 years. Explore the grand halls, temples, and gardens.

Afternoon (1:00 pm - 5:00 pm)

  • Lunch Break: Try some traditional Beijing cuisine like Peking roast duck or jiaozi (dumplings) at a local restaurant.
  • Temple of Heaven: Visit the Temple of Heaven, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful examples of Ming architecture. Explore the temple’s tranquil gardens and admire the stunning architecture.

Evening (6:00 pm - 9:00 pm)

  • Wangfujing Snack Street: Head to Wangfujing Snack Street, a popular destination for street food and local snacks. Try some traditional Beijing treats like zhajiangmian (noodles with fermented soybean paste) or tanghulu (candied hawthorn).
  • Acrobatic Show: Catch an acrobatic show at the Chaoyang Theatre, featuring death-defying stunts and mesmerizing performances.

Things to Know

  • Dress Code: Dress modestly when visiting temples and historical sites.
  • Language: Mandarin Chinese is the official language, but many locals speak some English. Consider hiring a guide or downloading a translation app.
  • Currency: The Renminbi (RMB) is the local currency. You can exchange currency at airports, banks, or hotels.

Transportation

  • Subway: Beijing has an extensive subway system that’s efficient and affordable. Buy a prepaid card or use mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay.
  • Taxi: Taxis are widely available, but many drivers may not speak English. Consider using a ride-hailing app like Didi Chuxing.

Day 2: Exploring Shanghai

Morning (9:00 am - 12:00 pm)

  • The Bund: Start your day at The Bund, a famous waterfront area with stunning views of the Huangpu River and Pudong skyline. Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade.
  • Shanghai Museum: Visit the Shanghai Museum, which features a collection of Chinese art and artifacts.

Afternoon (1:00 pm - 5:00 pm)

  • Lunch Break: Try some traditional Shanghainese cuisine like xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) or jiaozi (dumplings).
  • French Concession: Explore the charming French Concession, a historic neighborhood with tree-lined streets and colonial architecture. Visit the iconic Shanghai Botanical Garden.

Evening (6:00 pm - 9:00 pm)

  • The Pearl Tower: Take in breathtaking views of the city from the observation deck of The Pearl Tower.
  • Xintiandi: End your day at Xintiandi, a trendy nightlife district with bars, clubs, and live music venues.

Visa Requirements

  • Visa Policy: China has a complex visa policy. Check with your local Chinese embassy or consulate for specific requirements based on your nationality.
  • 72-Hour Visa-Free Transit: Some cities, including Beijing and Shanghai, offer 72-hour visa-free transit policies for certain nationalities.

Other Things to Know

  • Air Quality: China is known for its air pollution. Consider packing a face mask and checking air quality indexes before heading out.
  • Internet Access: Internet access can be limited in China due to government regulations. Consider purchasing a local SIM card or renting a portable Wi-Fi hotspot.

This itinerary provides a taste of China’s rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. However, with so much to see and do, consider extending your trip or planning multiple visits to explore this incredible country further!