Best Cities for First-Time Visitors

The Great Wall, the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square — every major China highlight in one city. Non-negotiable for any first visit, and the infrastructure for tourists is excellent.

The most international city in mainland China. World-class metro system, English widely spoken, iconic Bund waterfront, and the easiest city on the continent for first-time visitors to navigate independently.

The Terracotta Warriors alone justify the trip. A compact, walkable walled city with 3,000 years of history at every corner and one of China's most vibrant street food scenes.

Giant pandas, world-famous hotpot, and a relaxed teahouse culture make Chengdu uniquely rewarding. Easy to navigate, extremely visitor-friendly, and a natural base for side trips to Leshan and Emei Mountain.

English everywhere, familiar international food options, no visa required for most passports, and one of the world's most dramatic skylines. An ideal soft landing into Chinese culture for first-time visitors.