Hong Kong & Shenzhen 15-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrive in Hong Kong

Arrive at Hong Kong International Airport (HKG), clear customs, and transfer to your hotel.

Settle in and prepare for your adventure.

Take the Airport Express train to Kowloon or Hong Kong Station for a quick and convenient transfer. Taxis and buses are also available.

Victoria Peak Tram & Views

Ride the historic Peak Tram to the summit of Victoria Peak for breathtaking panoramic views of Hong Kong's skyline, Victoria Harbour, and the surrounding islands, especially stunning at sunset.

Book Peak Tram tickets online in advance to avoid long queues. Consider visiting just before sunset to experience both daylight and nighttime views.

Dinner in Central

Explore the diverse culinary scene in Central, offering everything from local dim sum to international gourmet dining.

Enjoy a relaxing first dinner.

Central has numerous Michelin-starred restaurants as well as more casual eateries. Options include Cantonese, Japanese, and Western cuisines.

Private Food Tour: Hong Kong Island

Embark on a private guided food tour of Hong Kong Island, sampling authentic Cantonese cuisine. Taste dim sum, wonton noodle soup, roasted meats, milk tea, and more across five foodie stops.

This private tour offers an intimate culinary experience. Come hungry!

Star Ferry & Tsim Sha Tsui

Take the iconic Star Ferry across Victoria Harbour to Tsim Sha Tsui (TST) on Kowloon side.

Enjoy the views from the Avenue of Stars and TST Promenade.

The Star Ferry is one of the cheapest and most scenic rides in Hong Kong. Ideal for photography.

Mong Kok Exploration

Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Mong Kok.

Visit the Ladies' Market for souvenirs, explore electronics shops, and sample street food.

Bargaining is expected at the Ladies' Market. Be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas.

Dinner in Kowloon

Enjoy dinner in Kowloon, with a vast array of dining options from traditional Cantonese eateries to modern cafes.

Try some local seafood or roasted goose.

Areas like Jordan and Yau Ma Tei are known for their local food stalls and restaurants.

Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car

Take the scenic Ngong Ping 360 cable car to Lantau Island, enjoying panoramic views of the airport, mountains, and sea.

Opt for a crystal cabin for a glass-bottom experience.

Purchase tickets online in advance to save time. Factor in potential wait times, especially on weekends.

Tian Tan Buddha & Po Lin Monastery

Visit the majestic Tian Tan Buddha (Big Buddha), a large bronze statue situated atop Ngong Ping.

Explore the serene Po Lin Monastery and its beautiful gardens.

There are many steps to reach the Big Buddha, but there's also a path for those with mobility issues. The monastery offers a vegetarian lunch.

Tai O Fishing Village

Travel to Tai O, a charming traditional fishing village known for its stilt houses built over the water. Take a boat ride to see the houses and perhaps spot pink dolphins.

Try local street food like dried seafood and egg waffles. The boat trip is usually short but offers unique photo opportunities.

Dinner on Lantau or Back in HK

Enjoy a relaxed dinner, either in Tai O for fresh seafood or head back to Hong Kong Island or Kowloon for more options.

Seafood restaurants in Tai O offer very fresh catches, but prices can be higher.

Travel to Shenzhen

Check out from your Hong Kong hotel and travel to Shenzhen via cross-border MTR train.

Clear immigration at Lo Wu or Futian checkpoint.

Ensure you have your China visa (if required for your nationality) ready. The MTR East Rail Line is a convenient option.

Check-in to Shenzhen Hotel

Check into your hotel in Shenzhen and drop off your luggage.

Take some time to freshen up before starting your exploration.

Futian or Luohu districts are central and well-connected for accommodation.

Window of the World

Spend the afternoon at Window of the World, a theme park featuring miniature replicas of famous landmarks from around the globe.

It's a fun way to 'travel the world' in a day.

The park is quite large, so wear comfortable shoes. There are also cultural performances throughout the day.

Dinner in Shenzhen

Enjoy dinner in Shenzhen.

The city offers a mix of Cantonese, Hunan, Sichuan, and international cuisines. Explore local restaurants near your hotel or a popular dining area.

Areas like Coco Park or Huaqiangbei have a good selection of restaurants and eateries.

Dafen Oil Painting Village

Visit Dafen Oil Painting Village, a unique art hub where thousands of artists produce and sell oil paintings, including famous reproductions and original works.

It's fascinating to watch artists at work. You can commission a painting or purchase affordable artwork here. Some small art galleries also offer painting classes.

Lunch in Dafen

Enjoy lunch at one of the local restaurants or cafes within or near Dafen Oil Painting Village, offering a taste of authentic local cuisine.

Look for small, family-run eateries for a more authentic experience.

Shopping at Luohu Commercial City

Experience the bustling shopping scene at Luohu Commercial City, a multi-story shopping mall located right at the border crossing.

Find everything from fashion to electronics.

Bargaining is expected. Be aware of product quality, especially for electronics and branded items.

Farewell Dinner in Shenzhen

Enjoy a final dinner in Shenzhen, perhaps trying a hotpot or a modern Chinese restaurant, before preparing for your onward journey.

Shenzhen is known for its diverse dining scene, from street food to high-end restaurants.

Travel from Shenzhen to Shanghai

Take a morning flight from Shenzhen to Shanghai, allowing for airport transit and check-in upon arrival.

Settle into your accommodation.

Consider booking a flight to Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA) for closer proximity to the city center.

Hotel Check-in & Freshen Up

Check into your hotel and take some time to refresh after your morning travel.

Stroll Along The Bund

Walk along the iconic Bund waterfront, admiring the historic colonial-era buildings on one side and the futuristic skyline of Pudong on the other.

Best experienced in the late afternoon as the city lights begin to illuminate the skyline.

Huangpu River Cruise

Enjoy a magical evening cruise on the Huangpu River, offering spectacular views of Shanghai's illuminated architecture from both sides of the river.

Numerous companies offer cruises; look for one with an open-air deck for the best views. Pricing can vary based on duration and amenities.

Dinner with a View

Dine at one of the many restaurants along The Bund or nearby, offering both local and international cuisine with excellent views.

Explore Yu Garden

Wander through the classical Chinese gardens of Yu Garden, a tranquil oasis with traditional pavilions, rockeries, and ponds. Afterwards, explore the surrounding Old City Bazaar.

Arrive early to avoid large crowds. The bazaar is great for souvenirs and local snacks.

Local Lunch in Old City

Enjoy traditional Shanghai snacks and dishes in the eateries around the Old City Bazaar.

Try soup dumplings (Xiaolongbao) or pan-fried dumplings (Shengjianbao).

Shanghai Museum Visit

Immerse yourself in ancient Chinese art and artifacts at the Shanghai Museum, featuring collections of bronzes, ceramics, calligraphy, and more.

Admission is free, but you may need to book tickets in advance online, especially during peak season. Closed on Mondays.

Nanjing Road Stroll & Shopping

Experience the bustling atmosphere of Nanjing Road, one of the world's busiest shopping streets.

Enjoy window shopping or find some souvenirs.

The eastern section is purely pedestrian and very vibrant in the evening.

Dinner near Nanjing Road

Choose from a wide variety of restaurants along or near Nanjing Road for your evening meal.

Shanghai Tower Observation Deck

Ascend to the top of the Shanghai Tower, China's tallest building, for breathtaking panoramic views of the city from its observation deck.

Book tickets online in advance to save time. Alternatively, visit the Oriental Pearl TV Tower or Jin Mao Tower for similar views.

Shanghai Breakfast Walking Tour

Spend your morning exploring the former French Concession on a walking tour, sampling over 15 local breakfast items like pan-fried dumplings (sheng jian bao) and soup dumplings (xiaolongbao). This immersive culinary experience allows you to discover hidden spots and local favorites.

This tour offers a fantastic culinary and cultural insight into the local lifestyle. Come hungry!

Explore French Concession

After the food tour, take some time to leisurely explore the tree-lined streets, charming boutiques, and art deco architecture of the former French Concession.

Great for unique cafes, independent shops, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Dinner in French Concession

Enjoy dinner at one of the many chic restaurants or cozy bistros within the French Concession.

Hangzhou Private Customized Day Trip

Embark on a full-day private excursion to Hangzhou, the 'Paradise City', by bullet train from Shanghai.

Visit top attractions like the serene West Lake, the famous Longjin Tea Farm, and explore the impressive Buddhist culture at Lingyin Temple. This tour is fully customizable to your preferences.

Includes private transfers, bullet train tickets, and a private guide. A fantastic way to experience China's natural beauty and rich history outside of the bustling city.

Dinner Upon Return to Shanghai

Enjoy a relaxed dinner upon your return to Shanghai after a long day of sightseeing in Hangzhou.

M50 Creative Park

Explore the M50 Creative Park (Moganshan Road 50), a thriving contemporary art district housed in former industrial buildings.

Browse galleries, art studios, and enjoy unique installations.

A great place to discover local contemporary art and unique souvenirs. Free to enter, individual galleries may have admission fees.

Lunch near M50

Have lunch at one of the cafes or restaurants within or near the M50 Creative Park.

Propaganda Poster Art Centre

Visit the unique Propaganda Poster Art Centre, a hidden gem showcasing a collection of historical Chinese propaganda posters.

Located in the basement of an apartment building, it offers fascinating insights into China's recent history. Check opening hours before visiting as they can be variable.

Farewell Dinner in Shanghai

Enjoy a final dinner in Shanghai, perhaps trying a cuisine you haven't yet experienced or revisiting a favorite spot.

Prepare for Departure

Organize your belongings and prepare for your onward journey to Chongqing and Chengdu tomorrow (Day 11).

Travel from Shanghai to Chongqing

Take a high-speed train or flight from Shanghai to Chongqing.

Enjoy the scenic journey as you head towards the 'Mountain City'.

Booking high-speed train tickets or flights in advance is recommended. The journey typically takes 6-8 hours by high-speed train or about 3 hours by flight.

Hotel Check-in Chongqing

Check into your hotel in Chongqing and settle in.

Explore Hongyadong

Visit the multi-story stilt house complex known for its traditional Bayu architecture, shops, restaurants, and stunning views of the Jialing River, especially beautiful at night.

Come before sunset to see it in daylight and then illuminated at night. It's often compared to the Spirited Away bathhouse.

Sichuan Hotpot Dinner

Indulge in an authentic Chongqing hotpot experience, known for its fiery and numbing flavors. Choose your broth, meats, and vegetables.

Ask for a 'yuan yang' pot (half spicy, half clear broth) if you prefer milder flavors. Be prepared for the spice!

Ciqikou Ancient Town

Wander through the narrow streets of Ciqikou, a preserved ancient town on the Jialing River. Explore traditional architecture, local crafts, tea houses, and street food.

Try local snacks like 'Ma Hua' (fried dough twists) and ginger candy.

Lunch in Ciqikou

Enjoy a local lunch at one of the many restaurants in Ciqikou Ancient Town, offering traditional Sichuan dishes.

Three Gorges Museum

Learn about the history and culture of Chongqing and the Three Gorges Dam region at the comprehensive Chongqing China Three Gorges Museum.

Free entry, but bring your passport for registration. Closed on Mondays.

Jiefangbei CBD

Visit the Jiefangbei CBD, Chongqing's bustling commercial and financial center.

Explore shopping malls, department stores, and enjoy the modern city vibe.

Evening River Cruise

Experience Chongqing's stunning skyline with an evening cruise on the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers.

The city lights are spectacular from the water.

High-Speed Train to Chengdu

Take a comfortable high-speed train from Chongqing to Chengdu, a journey known for its efficiency.

Book train tickets in advance, especially during peak season. The journey is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.

Hotel Check-in Chengdu

Check into your hotel in Chengdu and settle in.

Chengdu Local Lunch

Enjoy your first taste of Chengdu cuisine, perhaps some authentic Dandan noodles or Mapo Tofu.

Jinli Ancient Street

Explore the charming Jinli Ancient Street, located next to the Wuhou Temple.

This pedestrian street offers traditional Sichuan architecture, snacks, folk arts, and crafts.

Especially atmospheric in the evening with lanterns lit.

Wuhou Temple (Optional)

Visit the Wuhou Shrine, dedicated to Zhuge Liang and Liu Bei from the Three Kingdoms period.

The temple grounds are peaceful and historically significant.

Can be combined with Jinli, as it's adjacent.

Giant Panda Breeding Research Base

Visit the world-renowned Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding to see pandas in a near-natural habitat.

Arrive early to witness pandas at their most active during feeding time.

It's highly recommended to go in the morning, ideally by 8:30 AM, to see the pandas being fed and more active. Transportation can be arranged via taxi or tourist bus.

Sichuan Lunch

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, perhaps trying more famous Sichuan dishes like Gong Bao Chicken.

Kuanzhai Ancient Streets (Wide and Narrow Alleys)

Stroll through Kuanzhai Xiangzi, a historic block composed of three parallel alleys (Wide, Narrow, and Well Alleys) blending ancient and modern Chengdu life with teahouses, restaurants, and boutiques.

Sichuan Opera Show

Experience a vibrant Sichuan Opera performance, featuring face-changing, fire-spitting, puppetry, and traditional music and dance.

Book tickets in advance. Many shows include tea and snacks.

Leisurely Breakfast & Last Souvenirs

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast and perhaps do some last-minute souvenir shopping in the hotel area or nearby.

Hotel Checkout

Check out from your hotel in Chengdu.

Transfer to Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport

Arrange for transfer to Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU) for your departure.

Allow ample time for traffic and airport procedures.

Departure from Chengdu

Depart from Chengdu, concluding your 15-day China adventure.