Beijing & Changzhou 12-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrival at Beijing Airport

Arrive at Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) and proceed through immigration and customs.

Follow signs for arrivals and baggage claim. Have your visa and passport ready.

Transfer to Hotel

Take a taxi, airport express, or pre-booked private transfer to your hotel in the central business district.

Hotel Check-in & Relax

Check into your accommodation and take some time to freshen up and relax after your journey.

Dinner & Sanlitun Exploration

Enjoy a casual dinner in the vibrant Sanlitun area, known for its international restaurants, bars, and shops.

It's a great spot for people-watching and soaking in the evening atmosphere.

Sanlitun Bar Street and Taikoo Li shopping complex offer a wide range of dining options from local to international cuisine.

Mutianyu Great Wall Private Tour

Embark on a private tour to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall of China, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its beautiful surroundings and fewer crowds.

Hike along the wall or take the cable car/chairlift.

This private tour includes transfers. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring water. The tour typically takes 5-8 hours including travel time.

Dinner in Wangfujing

Explore Wangfujing Street, a famous commercial area, and enjoy dinner.

You can find both traditional and modern Chinese cuisine here, as well as a bustling night market.

Try the famous street food at Wangfujing Snack Street if you're adventurous. Be aware that some of the more exotic options are geared towards tourists.

Tiananmen Square & Forbidden City

Start your day by visiting Tiananmen Square, one of the largest public squares in the world.

Afterwards, enter the magnificent Forbidden City, the former imperial palace, and explore its vast courtyards and halls.

Book Forbidden City tickets online well in advance as they are limited. Bring your passport. Entry to Tiananmen Square requires security checks.

Lunch

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant near the Forbidden City or Dongcheng area.

Temple of Heaven Park

Visit the Temple of Heaven, a sprawling complex where emperors performed annual rituals to pray for good harvests.

Witness locals practicing tai chi, calligraphy, and other activities in the park.

It's a beautiful complex for photography and cultural observation. Purchase a 'through ticket' to access all main buildings.

Peking Duck Dinner

Indulge in an authentic Peking duck dinner, one of Beijing's most famous culinary specialties.

Reservations are recommended, especially for popular establishments. Expect a full ceremonial presentation of the duck.

Breakfast & Hotel Checkout

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel and check out.

High-Speed Train to Changzhou

Travel by high-speed train from Beijing South Railway Station to Changzhou North Railway Station.

This journey offers a comfortable way to see the Chinese countryside.

Arrival & Hotel Check-in Changzhou

Upon arrival at Changzhou North Railway Station, transfer to your hotel and check in.

Explore Hongmei Park

Visit Hongmei Park, one of Changzhou's oldest and largest parks, featuring beautiful gardens, historical relics, and the Hongmei Pavilion.

It's a peaceful place for a leisurely stroll.

Enjoy the traditional Chinese landscape architecture and serene atmosphere.

Local Dinner in Changzhou

Savor local Changzhou cuisine at a recommended restaurant.

The city is known for its sweet and savory dishes.

China Dinosaur Park

Spend the day at China Dinosaur Park, a unique theme park combining entertainment rides with natural science education, featuring dinosaur exhibits and thrilling attractions.

A fun day out for all ages. Check showtimes and ride schedules upon arrival. Alternatively, for a more cultural experience, you could visit Tianning Temple.

Tianning Temple Visit (Alternative)

If you prefer a cultural experience, visit Tianning Temple, one of the largest Zen Buddhist temples in China, famous for its grand pagoda.

The Tianning Pagoda offers panoramic views of the city. (Note: Choose between Dinosaur Park or Tianning Temple.)

Leisure & Dinner

Enjoy a relaxed evening, perhaps some souvenir shopping or a final local dinner in Changzhou.

Travel to Shanghai by Train

Board a high-speed train from Changzhou to Shanghai, enjoying the scenic journey.

High-speed rail in China is efficient and comfortable.

Lunch near Station

Grab a quick and tasty lunch near your arrival train station in Shanghai before heading to your hotel.

Hotel Check-in & Settle In

Check into your hotel in Shanghai and take some time to settle in and refresh after your journey.

Explore Former French Concession

Wander through the tree-lined streets of the Former French Concession, admiring the charming historic architecture, boutique shops, and inviting cafes. It's a beautiful area for a leisurely stroll.

Discover hidden gems and enjoy the unique blend of French and Chinese culture.

Dinner in French Concession

Enjoy a delightful dinner at one of the many charming restaurants offering a mix of local and international cuisine in the French Concession.

Shanghai Breakfast Walking Tour

Spend your morning immersing your senses in the south part of Shanghai's former French Concession, trying over 15 local breakfast items like pan-fried dumplings and soup dumplings.

A great way to start the day and experience local food culture.

Book this tour in advance. Product Code: 37849P8. Booking: https://www.viator.com/tours/Shanghai/Shanghai-Local-Breakfast-Tour-in-the-French-Concession/d325-37849P8?mcid=42383&pid=P00266106&medium=api&api_version=2.0

Stroll Along The Bund

Take a leisurely walk along The Bund, Shanghai's famous waterfront promenade, offering breathtaking views of the city's futuristic skyline and the historical colonial buildings on the opposite bank.

This iconic spot is perfect for photography, especially at sunset or night.

Lunch near The Bund

Enjoy lunch at a restaurant with views of The Bund or explore one of the many eateries in the surrounding area.

Explore Yu Garden & Bazaar

Visit the exquisite Yu Garden, a classical Chinese garden dating back to the Ming Dynasty.

Afterwards, browse the bustling traditional bazaar surrounding the garden for souvenirs and local snacks.

Nanjing Road Shopping Street

Experience the energy of Nanjing Road, one of the world's busiest and most famous shopping streets.

It's a vibrant pedestrian thoroughfare with a mix of international brands and local shops.

Dinner & Bund Night View

Savor dinner with a view, then witness the spectacular illuminated skyline of The Bund as the city lights up, offering a truly magical experience.

Transfer to Shanghai Airport

Check out from your Shanghai hotel and transfer to Shanghai Pudong (PVG) or Hongqiao (SHA) Airport for your flight to Zhangjiajie.

Lunch at Shanghai Airport

Enjoy lunch at one of the many dining options available at Shanghai Airport before your flight.

Flight to Zhangjiajie

Board your flight from Shanghai to Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport (DYG).

The flight offers a convenient way to reach this natural wonder.

Arrive & Check-in at Wulingyuan Hotel

Upon arrival at Zhangjiajie Airport, transfer to your hotel in the Wulingyuan District, which is conveniently located near the national park entrance.

Check in and unwind.

Dinner & Relax in Wulingyuan

Enjoy a local dinner in Wulingyuan, savoring the regional cuisine.

Spend the evening relaxing and preparing for your adventure in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park.

Zhangjiajie Forest Park & Avatar Mountains Tour

Embark on a full-day mini group tour to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park.

Experience all its highlights, including the Bailong Elevator, the inspiring Hallelujah Mountain (from 'Avatar'), Yuanjiajie, and Tianzi Mountain. This tour offers stunning views of the unique pillar-like mountains and lush landscapes.

This tour is a comprehensive way to see the park's main attractions. Wear comfortable hiking shoes. Product Code: 7493P187. Booking: https://www.viator.com/tours/Zhangjiajie/Private-Day-Tour-to-Zhangjiajie-Grand-Canyon-Glass-Bridge-and-Yellow-Dragon-Cave/d24683-7493P187?mcid=42383&pid=P00266106&medium=api&api_version=2.0

Dinner in Wulingyuan

After a day of extensive hiking and sightseeing, enjoy a well-deserved dinner in Wulingyuan, perhaps trying some local Hunan cuisine specialties.

Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park

Ride the world's longest cable car up Tianmen Mountain, renowned for its 'Heaven's Gate' (Tianmen Cave) and exhilarating glass skywalks. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and experience the thrill of walking on glass cliffs.

The cable car ride alone is an experience. Be prepared for crowds, especially at the glass skywalks. Dress warmly as it can be colder at higher altitudes.

Lunch near Tianmen Mountain

Have lunch near the Tianmen Mountain entrance or in Zhangjiajie city after your morning adventure.

Explore Zhangjiajie City

Spend a relaxed afternoon exploring parts of Zhangjiajie city.

You could visit a local market for souvenirs, enjoy a traditional tea ceremony, or simply stroll through a quiet park.

Farewell Dinner in Zhangjiajie

Enjoy a final dinner in Zhangjiajie, savoring the unique flavors of Hunan cuisine, known for its spicy and aromatic dishes.

Travel to Shanghai

Take a morning flight from Zhangjiajie Hehua International Airport (DYG) to Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA) or Pudong International Airport (PVG).

This will include airport transfers and check-in procedures.

Book your domestic flight in advance for better rates and availability. Consider which Shanghai airport is more convenient for your chosen hotel.

Hotel Check-in

Check into your hotel in Shanghai.

Take some time to freshen up and relax after your journey.

Confirm your check-in time with the hotel if arriving late.

The Bund Waterfront Stroll

Enjoy a leisurely walk along The Bund, Shanghai's iconic waterfront promenade.

Take in the spectacular views of the colonial-era buildings on one side and the futuristic Pudong skyline on the other.

The Bund is particularly beautiful at sunset and when the city lights come on. It's a perfect spot for photos.

Farewell Dinner

Savor a final delicious Chinese dinner in Shanghai.

Explore a local restaurant near The Bund or in the Former French Concession for an authentic culinary experience.

Try some Shanghainese specialties like Xiao Long Bao (soup dumplings) or Hongshao Rou (braised pork belly).

Breakfast & Checkout

Enjoy a quick breakfast at your hotel before completing the checkout process.

Ensure all your belongings are packed and ready. Request a wake-up call if needed.

Transfer to PVG

Travel from your hotel to Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) for your international flight.

Consider taking a taxi or the Maglev train for a fast transfer.

The Maglev train is a great option for speed. Allow ample time for traffic if taking a taxi, especially during peak hours. Confirm which terminal your flight departs from.

Airport Check-in & Security

Complete check-in procedures for your international flight and proceed through security.

International flights usually require arriving 2-3 hours before departure. Have your passport and e-ticket ready.

Departure Flight

Board your flight from Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) to Amsterdam.

Have a safe flight home! Thank you for choosing us to help plan your trip to China.