Keep four strong bases

Start with four days in Beijing, then three in Xi'an including transfer, three in Chengdu including transfer and four in Shanghai including a flight. Two weeks can support this overview without moving every night, but remove a city if children, limited mobility or a very relaxed pace need fewer moves. International flights sit outside these on-the-ground days.

Give Chengdu a quieter chapter

Follow an early panda-base visit with a calm park or teahouse afternoon. Use another day for Wuhou Shrine and local food, asking about spice and allergies. The Xi'an–Chengdu rail and Chengdu–Shanghai flight are distinct transfer days. Add station or airport journeys, security and luggage, and check TFU versus CTU before booking the onward flight.

Check before you travel

This is an editorial planning guide, not live operational information. Recheck official reservations, opening notices, fares and entry requirements for your travel dates. Estimates are planning ranges, not bookable prices. Ask China AI for a starting route and request a personalized consultation for complex needs.

Sources & verification

Articles and budgets are planning references. A checked source link does not verify every changing fact. Confirm official notices for your dates.