Days 1–3: Beijing

Use day one for arrival and a neighborhood walk. Pair a confirmed Palace Museum visit with a gentle hutong afternoon on day two, then dedicate day three to the Great Wall including both transfers. If your international flight arrives late or a museum slot is unavailable, remove a stop rather than compressing every activity.

Days 4–7: Xi'an and Shanghai

Day four is the Beijing–Xi'an rail journey with station transfers and a simple evening meal. Day five is for the Terracotta Warriors. Day six is a flight to Shanghai with airport time; reserve the Bund for the evening only if energy permits. Day seven can fit Yu Garden or breakfast before departure. This template assumes different international arrival and departure cities; it does not cover every Xi'an sight.

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.