2-Week Custom China Itinerary

Plan to spend two weeks in China? UmeTravel offers private, tailor-made 2 weeks China itinerary that lets you explore the country in comfort, depth, and style. From the majestic Great Wall and Forbidden City in Beijing to the awe-inspiring Terracotta Warriors in Xi'an, heartwarming panda encounters in Chengdu, scenic cruises in Guilin, and the vibrant streets of Shanghai, our best 2 week China itinerary covers it all. Every journey includes private transportation, English-speaking local guides, and handpicked accommodations, guaranteeing a seamless and valuable experience. Say goodbye to rigid schedules or rushed sightseeing. With our private guided 2-week China tour, you get a fully personalized adventure that allows you to travel deeper, smarter, and truly immerse yourself in China's magic. Let UmeTravel craft your ideal two-week China itinerary, where every moment is thoughtfully planned and every destination leaves a lasting impression.

1. Why 2 Weeks is the Perfect Duration for a China Tour

Trying to squeeze all of China into a few days? It’s nearly impossible. But with two weeks in China, you can experience the country’s most iconic highlights and dive deeper into its rich culture, all without feeling rushed.

A 14-day China tour gives you the perfect balance: enough time for sightseeing, smooth travel between regions, and even a bit of downtime. You’ll avoid the stress of constant packing and repacking, while still covering a wide range of experiences.

You can comfortably visit legendary cities like Beijing, Xi’an, and Shanghai, then venture beyond with a scenic Li River cruise in Guilin, a visit to Chengdu’s pandas, or a stroll through ancient water towns near Suzhou.

Thanks to China’s vast high-speed rail network and efficient domestic flights, traveling long distances is easier than you might think. In just 2 weeks in China, you’ll move between diverse regions, each with its own food, architecture, and rhythm of life.

Whether you’re first-time visitors who want a well-rounded introduction to China’s history, culture, and modern life, or families looking for a meaningful, educational journey that balances sightseeing and downtime, or cultural travelers interested in everything from ancient temples to local food scenes, a 14 days China travel itinerary offers the perfect mix of depth, comfort, and discovery.

Curious what your own 2-week China tour adventure could look like? Let’s explore some inspiring routes next.

2. How to Choose the Best 2-Week China Itinerary for You

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to exploring China in two weeks. With such a vast and diverse country, your perfect 2 weeks in China itinerary depends on you, that is, your interests, pace, and travel style.

Do you dream of walking along the Great Wall and standing before the Terracotta Army? Or are you more drawn to misty mountains, bamboo raft rides, and quiet villages by the river? Maybe you're traveling with kids and want to mix in fun, interactive experiences. Or perhaps you're looking for something slower, more scenic, and deeply cultural.

That’s the beauty of a two-week trip to China, as it gives you the flexibility to build a journey that matches your personality. Here are a few traveler types we often work with:

◆First-Time Visitors

Want to hit the iconic highlights? We’ll design the best 14 day China itinerary that includes Beijing, Xi’an, and Shanghai, plus one stunning natural destination like Guilin or Zhangjiajie. You’ll get the full spectrum of China from imperial palaces to sky-high skylines.

◆Families with Kids

We focus on comfort, fun, and light learning when curating a dream 14-day China tour. Think pandas in Chengdu, hands-on dumpling-making classes, and relaxed pacing. It is perfect for multi-generational bonding with minimal travel stress.

◆Senior Travelers

Prefer a slower pace with fewer hotel switches in your China 2 week itinerary? We’ll limit long travel days and include senior-friendly hotels, private vehicles, and guides who adapt to your pace. Gentle walks, culture, and beautiful scenery await.

◆Couples & Honeymooners

Romantic escapes with style—sunset views over the Li River, tranquil gardens in Suzhou, and elegant boutique hotels. We’ll blend famous sights with quiet moments and luxurious touches for a really memorable China honeymoon tour.

◆Photography Lovers

From sunrise over the Great Wall to misty rice terraces in Longsheng, China is a visual feast. We'll tailor your route to include photogenic landscapes, ethnic festivals, and off-the-beaten-path gems.

No matter your style, our travel experts can craft a unique two week China itinerary that’s made just for you. Yes, it will balance the must-sees with hidden treasures, fast trains with peaceful walks, and big moments with personal ones. Just tell us what you love, and we will help you build your ideal 14 day China tour now.

3. Sample 2-Week China Itineraries (Tailored for Different Interests)

Not sure how to make the most of your 14 days in China? Let us show you what’s possible. Whether you're traveling with family, seeking spiritual wonders, passionate about cultural heritage, or dreaming of cruising China's great rivers, we've got a tailored 2-week itinerary that fits your style. Here are four unique journeys to inspire your adventure:

◆Itinerary 1: 14-Day Family Trip to China

-Best for: Families with kids and multi-generational travelers

-Style: Engaging, educational, and full of interactive fun

-Explore and tailor the full family-friendly itinerary: Beijing - Xi'an - Chengdu - Kunming - Dali - Lijiang - Shanghai

Overview of the Itinerary

Days 1-4: Beijing (Arrival, Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Jingshan Park, Hutongs, Beijing Opera Facial Makeup, Peking Roasted Duck, Mutianyu Great Wall, Temple of Heaven, Tai Chi, Summer Palace, Yonghe Temple, High-speed train to Xi'an)

Days 4-6: Xi'an (High-speed train arrival, Bicycle ride on City Wall, Terracotta Army, Miniature Terracotta Warrior crafting, Xi'an Museum, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Shadow Play, Paper Cutting workshop, High-speed train to Chengdu)

Day 7: Chengdu & Kunming (Panda Keeper Volunteer experience, Fly to Kunming)

Days 8-9: Dali (High-speed train to Dali, Cangshan Mountain, Gantong Temple Ropeway, Dali Old Town, Bai cuisine home-cooked meal, Xizhou Bai Minority's Village, Dali Three Pagodas, Erhai Lake bike ride, Bai tie-dye craft session)

Days 10-11: Lijiang (High-speed train to Lijiang, Black Dragon Pond Park, Old Town Lijiang, Lion Hill Park, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Baisha Village, Yufeng Temple, Baisha Murals)

Days 12-14: Shanghai (Fly to Shanghai, Yuyuan Garden, City God Temple, Nongtang alleys, Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, Shanghai Museum East, Shanghai Tower, The Bund, Xintiandi, Departure)

This family-friendly China 14 day itinerary combines China's top historical sights with hands-on cultural experiences and nature-based adventures, making it perfect for curious kids and parents alike. Start in Beijing with must-sees like the Forbidden City, the Great Wall (Mutianyu), and a fun face-painting activity inspired by Peking Opera. In Xi’an, get hands-on making your own clay terracotta warriors and enjoy cycling on the city wall. Then fly to Chengdu for an unforgettable panda keeper experience, before heading to the colorful Yunnan region. Explore ancient towns, ride a cable car up Cangshan Mountain, visit Bai minority villages, try traditional tie-dye, and cycle along Erhai Lake. End your 2-week China trip in modern Shanghai, where old alleyways meet sky-high towers. It’s a dynamic mix of sightseeing, culture, and family bonding at every turn.

◆Itinerary 2: 14-Day China & Tibet Tour

-Best for: Adventurous travelers and culture seekers

-Style: Deeply spiritual, immersive, and scenic

-Experience and book the Tibet and China combo tour: Beijing - Xi'an - Lhasa - Shigatse - Lhasa - Chengdu

Overview of the Itinerary:

Days 1-4: Beijing (Arrival, Huguosi Snack Street, Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Peking Duck, Hutong rickshaw ride, Mutianyu Great Wall, Temple of Heaven, Tai Chi, Summer Palace, Yonghe Temple, High-speed train to Xi'an)

Days 4-6: Xi'an (High-speed train arrival, Terracotta Army, TukTuk food tour, Xi'an Museum, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Xi'an Ancient City Wall, Muslim Street, Gaojia Courtyard)

Days 7-9: Lhasa (Fly to Lhasa, Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street, Drepung Monastery, Sera Monastery)

Days 10-11: Shigatse & Lhasa (Yamdrok Lake, Karo La Glacier, Pelkor Chode Monastery, Kumbum Stupa, Tashi Lhunpo Monastery)

Days 12-14: Chengdu (Fly to Chengdu, Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, Wenshu Temple, Jinli Old Street, Kuanzhai Alley, Departure)

If you're drawn to spiritual landscapes and diverse cultures, this 14 days China travel itinerary offers a powerful mix of China’s imperial treasures and the mystique of Tibet. Begin in Beijing with a walk through Tiananmen Square, a hutong rickshaw ride, and the serenity of the Temple of Heaven. Continue to Xi’an for an in-depth look at the Terracotta Army and a flavorful tuk-tuk food tour. Then soar to the Tibetan plateau to explore iconic landmarks like the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and sacred monasteries in Lhasa and Shigatse. Marvel at turquoise Yamdrok Lake and the glacial beauty of Karola. Wrap up in Chengdu with time to meet pandas and stroll through lively local alleys. This route balances epic nature with spiritual depth and cultural encounters that linger long after you return home.

◆Itinerary 3: 13-Day Cultural Heritage Tour

-Best for: First-timers who want depth, variety, and iconic sites

-Style: Culture-rich, leisurely paced, with a relaxing cruise break

-See and book the full heritage-focused route: Beijing - Xi'an - Chengdu - Chongqing - Yangtze River Cruise - Shanghai

Overview of the Itinerary

Days 1-4: Beijing (Arrival, Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Jingshan Park, Hutongs, Temple of Heaven, Tai Chi, Mutianyu Great Wall, Summer Palace, Yonghe Temple, High-speed train to Xi'an)

Days 4-6: Xi'an (High-speed train arrival, Terracotta Army, Bell & Drum Tower Square, Muslim Quarter, Great Mosque, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Hanfu experience, Dumpling making, High-speed train to Chengdu)

Days 6-8: Chengdu & Chongqing (High-speed train arrival, Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, Ear cleaning, Sichuan Opera Face-Changing Show, High-speed train to Chongqing, Three Gorges Museum, Hongya Cave, Jiefangbei Square, Ciqikou Ancient Town, Embark Yangtze River Cruise)

Days 8-11: Yangtze River Cruise (Safety briefing, Fengdu "ShuangGui Mt." exploration, Captain's Welcome Reception, Qutang Gorge, Wu Gorge, Goddess Stream/Shennong Stream, Xiling Gorge, Three Gorges Dam tour)

Days 11-13: Shanghai (High-speed train to Shanghai, Yuyuan Garden, City God Temple, Nongtang alleys, Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, Shanghai Museum East, Shanghai Tower, The Bund, Xintiandi, Departure)

This China 2 week itinerary is ideal for those who want a little bit of everything, from history, performance, cuisine, architecture, to natural beauty, with a more relaxed travel rhythm. From Beijing's imperial architecture to a dumpling-making session in Xi’an, and from watching Sichuan opera face-changing in Chengdu to sipping tea at traditional teahouses, every stop is packed with culture. You’ll then board a comfortable cruise down the legendary Yangtze River, gliding through dramatic gorges and visiting historical river towns. Daily shore excursions and onboard relaxation give you time to recharge before finishing in cosmopolitan Shanghai. It’s the perfect blend of activity and rest, offering insight into both ancient and modern China in 2 weeks.

◆Itinerary 4: 14-Day Yangtze & Li River Tour

-Best for: Nature lovers and photography enthusiasts

-Style: Scenic, laid-back, and diverse in landscape

-Discover and customize the scenic and serene itinerary: Beijing - Xi'an - Guilin - Li River - Yangshuo - Chongqing - Yangtze Cruise - Shanghai

Overview of the Itinerary:

Days 1-4: Beijing (Arrival, Huguosi Snack Street, Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Rickshaw Ride, Peking Duck, Coffee Break, Temple of Heaven, Tai Chi, Mutianyu Great Wall, Summer Palace, Kunming Lake, Tower of Buddhist Incense, Yonghe Temple, High-speed train to Xi'an)

Days 4-6: Xi'an (High-speed train arrival, Terracotta Warriors Museum, Xi'an City Wall bike ride, Muslim Street, Gaojia Courtyard, Shadow Play Performance, Xi'an Museum, Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, Fly to Guilin)

Days 7-8: Guilin & Yangshuo (Longji Rice Terraces, Dazhai Village, Cable car, Local minority cuisine, 4-star Li River Cruise, Yangshuo Cycling Adventure, Yulong River, Moon Hill, Scenic countryside views)

Days 9-12: Chongqing & Yangtze Cruise (High-speed train to Chongqing, Embark Victoria Cruise, Fengdu "Shuang Gui" Mountain, Captain's Welcome Reception, Qutang Gorge, Wu Gorge, Goddess Stream/Shennong Stream, Xiling Gorge, Three Gorges Dam tour, High-speed train to Shanghai)

Days 12-14: Shanghai (High-speed train arrival, Yuyuan Garden, City God Temple, Nongtang alleys, The Bund, Xintiandi, French Concession, Departure)

If stunning landscapes and peaceful countryside scenes are what you’re after, this best 14 day China itinerary is a visual feast. Begin in Beijing and Xi’an for your classic cultural fix, including the Great Wall and Terracotta Army, before heading south to the dreamy karst peaks of Guilin and Yangshuo. Cruise down the Li River, cycle through lush villages, and wander through rice terraces in Longji. Then continue west to Chongqing to board your Yangtze River cruise, drifting past steep gorges and ancient riverside settlements. Finish your journey in Shanghai’s former French Concession and futuristic skyline. This 2 week China tour is slower in pace but rich in scenery, ideal if you love capturing your travels with a camera or just want to take your time.

★Tell us your travel style, and we’ll tailor it for you

We're here to help you turn ideas into a journey that fits you. Whether you're traveling as a couple, with family, or on a solo cultural deep-dive, our team will personalize every stop, stay, and activity. Ready to create your own custom 2-week China itinerary? Talk to our China travel expert now.

4. What to Expect on a Custom 2-week China Tour with UmeTravel

Traveling for two weeks in China can be thrilling, but also a bit overwhelming if you're trying to plan everything on your own. That's where we come in. Our custom private China tours are designed to take the stress out of your journey while making sure you get the most out of every moment.

Here’s what you can expect when you travel with us:

√ Everything Handled, Seamlessly

From the moment you land to your final day in China, we handle every detail. Your private guide and driver will be there to meet you, help with check-ins, and take you directly to each site on your China two-week itinerary. We book all internal flights, high-speed trains, and carefully selected accommodations, so you never have to worry about logistics, connections, or how to get from A to B.

√ Your Pace, Your Style

Prefer a relaxed pace with plenty of free time? Or want to pack in as much as possible? We tailor your 2 weeks China itinerary based on how you like to travel. Whether you’re an early riser or enjoy slow mornings, traveling with kids or elderly parents, we’ll make sure the daily schedule matches your energy and preferences.

√ Cultural Guidance Every Step of the Way

China is rich in tradition, but also full of differences in terms of language, food, and etiquette, which can be confusing without the right support. Your local guide will not only explain what you’re seeing but also help bridge cultural gaps, assist with ordering food, and handle any unexpected hiccups. Think of them as your on-the-ground cultural concierge during your 2 weeks in China.

√ Personalized Support for Every Need

We've designed tours for families with toddlers, seniors with mobility needs, and travelers with dietary restrictions or allergies. Whether it's finding restaurants with gluten-free options, adjusting walking times, or including extra rest stops, we customize the China travel itinerary 2 weeks experience with your comfort in mind. No one-size-fits-all solutions here.

Traveling with us means more than just sightseeing; it’s about having peace of mind, deeper cultural connection, and a journey built around you. Contact us to tailor your personalized China 2 week itinerary now.

5. Top Tips for Planning Your 14 Day China Tour

A 2-week journey through China can be the adventure of a lifetime, especially with the right preparation. Here are our top tips to help you make the most of it, drawn from years of planning private China tours for travelers from around the world:

Tip 1: Travel Smart, Avoid Peak Holidays

The best times to visit China are in spring (April to early June) and autumn (September to October), when the weather is pleasant and crowds are manageable.

Try to avoid Golden Week (early October) and Chinese New Year (usually late January or February), as these are peak domestic travel periods, and popular sites can be packed.

Tip 2: High-Speed Train or Flight? Know When to Choose

China's high-speed rail network is incredibly efficient and comfortable for routes like Beijing–Xi'an or Xi'an–Chengdu. You’ll skip airport wait times and enjoy scenic views.

Flights are better for longer legs such as Lhasa, Kunming, or Guilin, where trains would take too long.

Don't worry, we'll recommend the best option for each leg, based on your route and pace.

Tip 3: Pack for Climate Contrasts

China spans a huge range of climates. In spring or fall, Beijing can be cool, while Guilin or Yunnan might be warm and humid.

Bring layers, a good pair of walking shoes, and a compact umbrella or rain jacket, especially for mountain or river destinations.

We'll give you a city-by-city packing checklist tailored to your season of travel.

Tip 4: Don't Stress About Visas, Language, or Payments

China requires a tourist visa (L) for most travelers, which you'll need to apply for in advance. We’ll guide you through the process step-by-step.
Language barriers? Not a problem. Your private guide will help you with everything from hotel check-ins to food orders.

And for payments: mobile apps dominate, but we'll make sure you have access to cash-friendly spots and help you prepare the right tools (like UnionPay or Alipay for foreigners).

Tip 5: Personalize for Your Group

Traveling to China with kids? Seniors? Vegetarians? We’ll adjust your itinerary accordingly, adding hands-on cultural activities for younger travelers, minimizing walking distances, or recommending restaurants that meet your dietary needs. Just tell us what matters to you, and we’ll take care of the rest.

With the right planning and the right team behind you, your 2-week trip to China will be smooth, enriching, and unforgettable. Need help getting started? We're ready when you are.