10-Day China Itinerary: Beijing & Shanghai - Sights, Classic Eats, Pro Tips

Explore the vast Tiananmen Square, pausing by the Monument to the People’s Heroes and the Great Hall of the People. Arrive early for softer light, fewer crowds, and smooth security checks (passport required).

Step through the Meridian Gate into the Forbidden City and follow your guide past throne halls, marble courtyards, and quiet side palaces. Book a morning slot to avoid the heaviest crowds and wear comfortable shoes for the long walk.

Hike the restored ramparts of the Great Wall at Mutianyu, mixing moderate climbs with sweeping valley views. Take the cable car up to save energy, then walk along a few towers before riding the toboggan down if you like extra fun.

Wander through the Summer Palace’s lakeside paths, painted corridors, and hilltop pavilions for classic imperial views. Go early or late in the day for softer light on Kunming Lake and consider a short boat ride if time allows.

Stroll through the Temple of Heaven park, watching locals practice tai chi and card games before visiting the circular altar and Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests. Arrive in the morning for the liveliest park atmosphere.

Spend the evening at a traditional Peking Opera or acrobatic show, watching elaborate costumes, painted faces, and live music bring classic stories to life. Arrive 20–30 minutes early to find your seat and snap photos before the performance begins.

Explore the Lama Temple’s incense‑filled courtyards, vivid prayer halls, and the towering Maitreya Buddha statue. Dress modestly, move quietly through the halls, and take time to watch local worshippers’ rituals.

Step into the calm courtyards of the Temple of Confucius and Guozijian Street, reading carved steles and wandering under ancient cypress trees. Combine this visit with the nearby Lama Temple for an easy cultural half‑day.

Walk The Bund’s riverside promenade for head‑on views of Pudong’s skyline and historic colonial facades behind you. Come around sunset to watch the lights flicker on, and loop back via a side street to explore a few art‑deco details.

Trace Shanghai’s transformation from small port town to global city through immersive exhibits, scale models, and vintage photos. Plan at least a couple of hours and snap a quick photo of key timelines to revisit later.

Ride the high‑speed elevator to the Shanghai Tower observation deck for sweeping views over the Bund, Pudong, and the Huangpu River. Check visibility before you go and try for late afternoon so you can see the city in daylight and after dark.

Explore Shanghai Museum’s well‑curated galleries of bronzes, ceramics, calligraphy, and minority art. Start on the upper floors and work down to avoid crowds, taking photos of exhibit labels if you want to remember favorite pieces.

Step into Yuyuan Garden’s rockeries, ponds, and pavilions tucked inside the busy Old City. Arrive early to enjoy the winding paths before tour groups, and pair your visit with tea at a nearby teahouse for a quiet break.

Start at People’s Square, then follow Nanjing Road toward the Bund, dipping into malls, bookstores, and local snack shops along the way. Go on foot for the best people‑watching and take breaks in side streets to escape the busiest stretches.

Head up to the Shanghai World Financial Center observation area, often paired with Shanghai Tower for a duo of skyline views. Check combined ticket options and choose a clear day so you can see the full sweep of the Huangpu River.

Dive into hands‑on exhibits at the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum, from interactive physics displays to nature and space galleries. Arrive early, pick two or three sections you care about most, and give yourself time to play with the installations.