China
China is a destination like no other, a captivating blend of ancient traditions and modern innovation. From the iconic Great Wall to bustling cities like Shanghai and Beijing, every step in this vast country unveils a story waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re drawn to its deep-rooted history, stunning landscapes, or diverse cuisine, China promises an unforgettable adventure.
Why Visit China?
Imagine walking along the Great Wall, marveling at the Terracotta Army in Xi’an, or cruising the serene waters of the Li River. China’s natural beauty is just as impressive, with breathtaking destinations like Zhangjiajie’s Avatar Mountains, the karst peaks of Guilin, and the shimmering lakes of Jiuzhaigou. For city lovers, vibrant metropolises like Hong Kong, Chengdu, and Guangzhou showcase a dynamic culture that’s constantly evolving.
Unique Experiences in China
- History & Culture: Discover ancient landmarks like the Forbidden City and the Summer Palace, or experience centuries-old traditions in remote villages.
- Nature & Adventure: Hike through the rice terraces of Longji, explore the mystical Yellow Mountains, or trek Tibet’s vast plateaus.
- Culinary Delights: Savor authentic Chinese cuisine, from dumplings in Shanghai to Peking duck in Beijing, and explore regional specialties from Sichuan spice to Cantonese dim sum.
Plan Your Trip
China is a country that truly has it all, whether you’re seeking a luxury getaway, a cultural deep dive, or an adventure into the wild. Start planning your journey today and uncover the magic of this extraordinary destination. With so much to offer, every moment in China will leave you inspired.
- Best time to visit
- Março a Maio e Setembro a Novembro
- Local cuisine
- Dim Sum e Peking Duck
- Entry and visa requirements
- Check official requirements (opens in a new tab)
- Travel eSIM
- Holafly Unlimited (opens in a new tab)
Start hereChina Itinerary: 14 Days in Chengdu, Guilin, Xingping & GuangzhouSafety and Accessibility Tips in China
Is it safe to travel to China?
China is generally considered safe for travelers, especially in major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. While the country doesn’t rank in the top 30 on the Global Peace Index 2023, violent crime rates in urban areas are relatively low. Nonetheless, it’s wise to take standard precautions like keeping valuables out of sight and staying alert in crowded areas.
How accessible is public transportation in China?
Major cities in China offer highly efficient public transit systems, such as the Beijing and Shanghai subways, known for their cleanliness, reliability, and English signage. Most main stations provide elevators and ramps for travelers with mobility issues. Popular apps like WeChat and Alipay are widely used for cashless payments, making transportation more convenient for visitors.
What local etiquette and cultural norms should I know before visiting China?
Chinese culture places great importance on respect and etiquette. Common greetings include a slight nod or a gentle handshake. During meals, it’s customary for elders to start eating first, and guests are expected to try all dishes. Avoid pointing with your finger or leaving chopsticks sticking upright in a bowl of rice, as this is linked to funerary traditions. Gifts are typically offered with both hands and may be politely declined before being accepted.
Is China LGBTQIA+ friendly for travelers?
China has a mixed approach to LGBTQIA+ rights. While homosexuality is not criminalized, there is no legal recognition for same-sex unions. In cities like Shanghai and Beijing, there are vibrant queer communities, inclusive neighborhoods, and events like ShanghaiPRIDE. However, discretion is recommended, particularly outside urban centers where attitudes may be more conservative.
Guides
Travel checklist for China
Check visa requirements (opens in a new tab)
Some countries are eligible for visa-free entry to China for short stays. Check if your country is on the list and what the specific requirements are before traveling.
eSIM with mobile data and no VPN needed (opens in a new tab)
Services like Holafly offer unlimited data eSIMs with access to blocked websites, eliminating the need to set up a VPN.
Local map apps (opens in a new tab)
Google Maps doesn’t work reliably in China. Use alternatives like Gaode Maps (Amap) or Baidu Maps for accurate navigation.
Digital payments with Alipay or WeChat Pay (opens in a new tab)
Most payments in China are made via Alipay or WeChat Pay. Link your international credit card for easy transactions.
Translation apps with OCR and voice (opens in a new tab)
English is not widely spoken in China. Use apps like Google Translate with OCR and voice features to facilitate communication.
Travel insurance with medical coverage (opens in a new tab)
Healthcare in China can be expensive for foreigners. A travel insurance policy with medical coverage is essential.
Common mistakes when travelling to China
Relying on public Wi-Fi (opens in a new tab)
Public Wi-Fi in China can be insecure and restricted. Use mobile data for a safer and more reliable connection.
Bringing up sensitive political topics (opens in a new tab)
Avoid discussing topics like Taiwan, Hong Kong, or human rights. These are highly sensitive issues in China.
Ignoring local etiquette (opens in a new tab)
Respect Chinese cultural norms, such as not pointing with your finger and minimizing physical contact.
Assuming foreign bank cards are widely accepted (opens in a new tab)
Many places in China do not accept foreign bank cards. Be prepared to use local digital payment methods.
Underestimating the language barrier (opens in a new tab)
Even in big cities, English isn’t widely spoken. Learn some basic Mandarin phrases or use translation apps.