A Week in China: An Itinerary of Beijing, Suzhou, and Shanghai

China is a fascinating destination, capable of combining ancient history and ultra-modern cities.

In one week, you can organize a balanced trip, visiting three very different destinations: the historic capital, a more traditional city, and a futuristic metropolis.

Here is a perfect 7-day itinerary between Beijing, Suzhou and Shanghai .

📍 Practical information

⏳ Duration: 7 days

🚄 Transportation: High-speed trains

💰 Budget: medium

💡 Travel tip

When traveling in China , one of the most important things to know is about payments.

Unlike many other countries, cash and cards are increasingly less used: most payments are made via smartphone.

The two fundamental apps are:

• Alipay

• WeChat

With these apps you can pay practically everywhere: restaurants, shops, public transport and even small local vendors.

✈️ Day 1–2: Beijing

The journey begins from Beijing , the historical and cultural heart of China.

🏯 What to see in Beijing

Forbidden City

An immense imperial complex that for centuries was the center of Chinese power.

Tiananmen Square

One of the largest squares in the world.

Temple of Heaven

An evocative place surrounded by greenery.

Great Wall of China

An unmissable experience during your trip.

👉 Find out what to see in Beijing in detail

🚄 Day 3–4: Suzhou

After Beijing, the atmosphere changes completely with Suzhou .

🌿 What to see in Suzhou

Classical Chinese Gardens

UNESCO World Heritage Sites, perfect for immersing yourself in traditional culture.

Canals and historic center

Stroll across bridges and enjoy authentic views.

Pingjiang Road

Characteristic street with shops and local atmosphere.

Eastern Gate

One of the city's most iconic buildings, a symbol of modern Suzhou.

Midtown / modern area

Contemporary area with skyscrapers, shopping malls and a more dynamic face of the city.

👉 Find out what to see in Suzhou in detail

🌆 Day 5–7: Shanghai

Last stop: Shanghai , the most modern city in the country.

🌇 What to see in Shanghai

The Bund

The most famous riverfront with skyline views.

Pudong

The area of futuristic skyscrapers.

Yu Garden

A traditional garden in the heart of the city.

Nanjing Road

The shopping street, always lively and brightly lit.

👉 Find out what to see in Shanghai in detail

🚆 How to get between cities

✈️ Beijing → Suzhou

• 🚄 High-speed train (recommended) ⏳ 5–6 hours

• ✈️ Domestic flight

  ⏳ about 2 hours

🚄 Suzhou → Shanghai

• 🚄 Fast train ⏳ about 30 minutes

✨ Why choose this itinerary?

A complete trip, ideal for a first time in China, which combines:

• 🏯 Beijing → history

• 🌿 Suzhou → tradition

• 🌆 Shanghai → modernity