Top 20 Chinese Cities To Travel To In 2026
The Ultimate China Destination Hotlist for the Year Ahead
Planning a trip to China in 2026? With the high-speed rail expanding, international flights increasing, and tourism hotspots evolving fast, now is the perfect time to explore the very best destinations China has to offer.
Whether you’re looking for ancient culture, futuristic skylines, foodie hotspots, outdoor escapes, or under-the-radar gems, this list brings together the cities that will truly stand out in 2026.
From first-time hotspots to lesser-known destinations, this list has something for every type of traveller that is visiting China in 2026.
1. Beijing
I’ve got a soft spot for Beijing because I lived there for 5 years, but it is also the perfect mix of history and modernity. Home to some of China’s most iconic landmarks — the Forbidden City, Great Wall, and the Summer Palace, just to name a few. It is a city that will keep you busy from dawn till dusk.
Why Visit in 2026
· Lots of things to do
· Easy metro access to attractions
· It has all four seasons, so it can be visited all year round, with each season bringing new activities to do.
2. Shanghai
One of China’s most cosmopolitan cities. Known for its iconic skyline, art museums, trend-setting cafés, global restaurants, and effortless travel connections. Shanghai is the perfect launch pad for travel in China.
Why Visit in 2026
· Great for shopping
· More coffee shops than any other city in the world
· Perfect base for first-time visitors, as many people speak English
3. Xi’an
Xi’an is the perfect city for history and cosplay lovers alike. Being a prominent stop on the Silk Road, it is a city bursting with culture, things to do and some incredible food!
Why Visit in 2026
· World-famous historical sites - like the Terracotta Warriors
· You can get dressed up in traditional Hanfu and pretend you have arrived back in the Tang Dynasty
· You can find some of the best food in the Muslim Quarter
4. Chengdu
Chengdu is a vibe! It is China’s most relaxed city, filled with incredible food, trendy people, an excellent tea culture… and of course, pandas! You can sip tea in the day and party well into the night. The people of the city are friendly and welcoming. It is also known as China’s ‘unofficial’ gay capital.
Why Visit in 2026
· The best food in China (in my opinion)
· The perfect city to chill when you have a heavy itinerary. The city is super relaxing, but also close to some incredible nature spots in Western Sichuan.
· Pandas! (Need I say more?)
5. Guilin and Yangshuo
One of China’s most visited nature spots. Its dream-like karst mountains look more like a painting than real life. It is an accessible area to get to and high on a lot of people’s bucket lists.
Why Visit in 2026
· Great for nature and photography lovers
· Beautiful, affordable hotels with incredible views
· Lots of activities to do
These 5 places are where I would recommend a first-timer to visit when they come to China. They offer a mix of history, modern China, amazing food and nature.
First time in China?
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6. Chongqing
Currently, China’s most viral city it is a place filled with crazy architecture, neon lights and spicy hotpot. If you want a fun city that will blow your mind, then Chongqing is the place to go.
Why Visit in 2026
· Fun attractions that you won’t find in other cities
· Crazy architecture
· It’s cyberpunk skyline
7. Shenzhen
Known as China’s Silicon Valley, Shenzhen oozes technology. The city is clean, green, ultra-modern and creative. It’s a relatively new city so you won’t find any history here, but if you like hi-tech stuff, nature and great temperatures, then it is the city for you.
Why Visit in 2026
· Leading in technology - think robots, drone delivery and tech giants
· Futuristic architecture
· Lots of green spaces and beaches to explore
8. Zhangjiajie
You might know this as China’s ‘Avatar Mountains’. It’s hard to believe that a place like this actually exists, but its otherworldly nature is a sight to behold. If you are scared of heights, then I wouldn’t recommend this nature lover’s theme park.
Why Visit in 2026
· The park is massive, so you can spend a few days there
· Incredible views
· Other attractions nearby to add on to your trip
9. Wuhan
Wuhan is famous for all the wrong reasons. It should be famous for being China’s breakfast capital. The street food markets are bustling first thing in the morning with some tasty delights.
Why Visit in 2026
· Noodles for breakfast are the best! Wuhan is famous for its Hot and Dry Noodles (Re Gan Mian)
· The first place in China to have a glass-bottom monorail
· Vibrant nightlife
10. Guangzhou
Guangzhou is the capital of Cantonese culture. A foodie city which is vibrant and modern, with great night views. Guangzhou is a travel hub with lots of international flights and expos that happen in the city.
Why Visit in 2026
· Foodie city
· Cool neighbourhoods
· Great for shopping
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11. Changsha
Changsha is like a fever dream; it is a city that hits all the senses at the same time. It’s loud, it’s neon, and it’s crazy. It may not be visited by many Western tourists, but domestic tourists have been filling its streets for years.
Why Visit in 2026
· Cool nightlife
· Amazing (and spicy) food
· Fun pedestrian streets
12. Xiamen
Relaxed coastal vibes, historic architecture, and amazing seafood. Xiamen has cool neighbourhoods, it is packed with green spaces and has interesting infrastructure.
Why Visit in 2026
· Beach and city vibes
· Serene nature
· Great stop off for other places in Fujian, like visiting the historical Tulou’s
13. Guiyang
Underrated, cool, green, and culture-rich — perfect for travellers seeking authentic China without the crowds. With some of the best and most affordable food in China.
Why Visit in 2026
· Friendly locals
· Amazing Miao and Dong minority culture nearby
· Great street food night markets
14. Hangzhou
Hangzhou is often regarded as one of the most beautiful places in China. Many traditional poems and stories talk about its natural beauty. Now, it is a real mix of nature and innovation.
Why Visit in 2026
· Famous for its West Lake, Longjing tea fields, and ancient temples.
· Relaxing city
· Great balance of nature and megacity
15. Suzhou
Known as the ‘Venice of the East’, Suzhou’s waterways and picturesque gardens show a more traditional side of China.
Why Visit in 2026
· Traditional architecture
· Picturesque canals
· Rich cultural heritage
16. Nanjing
China’s southern capital is a city bursting with history, nature spots and museums. It’s a compact city that has something for everyone.
Why Visit in 2026
· Historic city walls
· Many historical and modern attractions
· Salted duck
17. Sanya
Known as the ‘Hawaii of China’, if you want to incorporate stunning beaches into your China itinerary, then Sanya is the place to go.
Why Visit in 2026
· Luxury resorts
· Great weather all year round
· Tropical vibes and stunning coastline
18. Qingdao
Seaside charm, German architecture, seafood, beaches, and of course, the world-famous Tsingtao Brewery. If you are going for the beer, then in the summer, you can also head to the Qingdao International Beer Festival.
Why Visit in 2026
· Learn about and drink lots of Tsingtao
· European architecture
· Amazing and fresh seafood
19. Harbin
Home to the world-famous Ice & Snow Festival, Russian-style architecture, and nearby ski resorts. Harbin is the perfect winter destination.
Why Visit in 2026
· Ice and Snow Festival
· Unique architecture
· Vibey locals
20. Lijiang
A beautifully preserved old town with Naxi minority culture, snow-capped mountains, and atmospheric cafés. The old town is popular with domestic tourists and a must if you are visiting Yunnan.
Why Visit in 2026
· Breathtaking scenery and close to nature attractions like Tiger Leaping Gorge
· Picturesque cobbled streets
· Vibrant nightlife
How to Choose Your Perfect 2026 Destination
Not sure which cities to prioritise? Here are some quick suggestions:
Best for first-timers: Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Xi’an, Guilin
Best for food: Chengdu, Chongqing, Xi’an, Guangzhou
Best for nature: Guilin, Zhangjiajie, Lijiang, Hangzhou
Best for winter: Harbin, Sanya, Beijing
Best for culture & history: Xi’an, Beijing, Suzhou, Nanjing, Lijiang,
Beach lovers: Sanya, Xiamen, Qingdao
Best hidden gems: Guiyang, Qingdao, Changsha
Best for cyberpunk vibes: Chongqing, Changsha, Chengdu, Guiyang
Best for modern technology: Shenzhen, Wuhan, Chengdu, Shanghai
If you are stuck on where to go and need some extra help planning your trip, then get in touch. I can help you review your trip and save you time and stress!
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