China experiences: the must-see places and top attractions to add to your wish-list

Whether you’re familiar with China or need a few pointers on the best spots to visit, make sure not to miss these wish-list highlights.

With a remarkably rich history, energetic cities, and timeless wonders, both natural and manmade, China offers a collection of unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re embracing the distinctive regional cultures or soaking up the country’s finest vistas, there are countless reasons why it deserves a spot at the top of any travel wish-list.

What to expect from your experience in China

Though it might seem daunting for uninitiated travellers, this gem in East Asia is incredibly accessible and certainly ranks amongst the most impressive spots to visit. Whether you’re a newcomer or simply need a refresher, we’ve got you covered with a taste of what to expect from the best China experiences.

The cities

No journey would be complete without first exploring its bustling megacities, from Beijing to Shanghai, and the lively towns that dot the surrounding countryside. While exploring, expect plenty of contrasts, with magnificent ultra-modern landmarks blending seamlessly with the treasures of the ancient emperors. Away from the bustle of the city’s most popular spots, which can get busy, there is just as much magic to be found in intimate encounters with locals around each city’s quieter suburban areas.

The sights

As one of the world’s oldest and most powerful countries, China is certainly not short of world-famous landmarks. View the Great Wall on foot or by cable car, discover the neon-lit skylines of the country’s East Coast cities, and embrace the timeless beauty of its natural wonders, from the wide Yangtze River to Zhangjiajie’s ‘floating’ mountains. These are truly among the top attractions in China.

The cuisine

While you’re unlikely to find some of the familiar dishes you might expect from a Chinese restaurant in the UK, cooking in China offers a more authentic, flavoursome and communal dining experience. It’s not just the food either, with tea ceremonies promising some of the most memorable experiences and an intriguing glimpse into the time-honoured traditions of Chinese society.

The people

Though you may get a few curious glances from locals, Chinese people are renowned for their hospitality and passionate approach to sharing their culture. Whether you’re tentatively testing the waters with the local traditions or throwing yourself at every experience, you’ll feel like one of the family by the time your experience in China comes to an end!

Six must-see experiences in China

There’s a lot to love about China, but some attractions truly stand out. Here are six must-see places in China that should top every traveller's list.

1. Walking along The Great Wall

Spanning over 21,000 kilometres and having been built over the course of more than 2,000 years, the iconic Great Wall is in a league of its own when it comes to China’s most impressive sights. This magnificent landmark remains the world’s longest structure and is famously the only manmade building visible from outer space. Here, you can either embrace the wall’s centuries-old paths with a short, guided walk or see them from above on a cable car ride.

2. Exploring the Forbidden City

Embodying the majesty of China’s imperial past, this 15th-century complex is perhaps the most famous of the country’s historic palace buildings. The Forbidden City was the seat of the country’s ruling dynasties for over 500 years and is now one of Beijing’s most captivating landmarks. While in Beijing, be sure to pay the compound a visit, and meander around immerse yourself in the city’s imperial history - it is now one of the top attractions in China.

3. Gazing at the Terracotta Army

This fascinating collection of clay soldiers was built to protect the tomb of China’s first emperor, Qui Shin Huang, and lay undiscovered beneath Xi’an’s rural farmland until 1974. Today, they’re one of China’s most recognisable sights and are a must-see for any China itinerary. Marvel at the preserved terracotta, soak up the legendary history of the nation’s earliest emperors on a guided tour, and enjoy unobstructed views over the thousands of impressive clay figures that line each pit. Today, the Terracotta Army remains one of the most fascinating archaeological finds in the world and a highlight on any list of must-see places in China. 

4. Finding your Zen in Suzhou

After embracing the bustle of China’s major metropolitan cities, there’s nothing better than slowing things down in the country’s serene public gardens. Suzhou is a particularly good choice for this, and the UNESCO-listed Lingering Garden is the ideal spot to reflect on the lifelong memories you’ve made so far. Complete with vegetated ponds, ornate buildings, and meticulously planned courtyards, this idyllic space is a perfect retreat from the bustle of the city.

5. Cruising along the Yangtze River

To see a different side to China, a journey along the mighty Yangtze, the longest river in the country, is a wish-list experience you won’t want to miss. With an unforgettable panorama of vast gorges, charming waterside towns, and scenic highlights, this is the Chinese countryside at its most picturesque. Its dramatic gorges, and sweeping vistas make this one of the most memorable experiences in China. 

6. Meeting the giant pandas

Moving away from the treasures of China’s glorious past, one of the country’s most iconic sights remains one of the most ordinary. Panda bears can be found all over China, but there’s nowhere better to spot them in their natural habitat than the Sichuan province. The regional capital, Chengdu, is the perfect choice for guaranteed animal-sightings with its Panda Research Centre helping to protect the falling populations of these delightful bears and offering visitors the chance to spot them up close.

Honourable mention: The Liziba Monorail, Chongqing

Though it may not be quite as impressive or well-known as the other highlights featured on this list, Chongqing’s Liziba railway certainly makes up for it with just how unique a sight it is. This peculiar monorail line passes directly through a residential tower block, making for a truly unique journey!

Discover the top attractions in China with Newmarket Holidays

Experience all of these must-see places in China and more with our brand-new escorted tour, Highlights of China with Yangtze Cruise. For more information on the full itinerary, or to book your spot for 2026 or beyond, give one of our friendly holiday planners a call. You can also browse our whole collection on our destinations page.