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Holidays to China: Discover ancient wonders & modern marvels
From the Great Wall to the neon-lit streets of Shanghai, China is a land of contrasts, where ancient wonders meet modernity. Whether you're after cultural city breaks, family holidays or foodie adventures, China holidays are fun. Explore the Forbidden City, cruise the Li River or marvel at the Terracotta Warriors. With countless sights to see, every trip feels like a new discovery. Plus, with plenty of budget-friendly flights to China, getting there has never been easier.
Whether you're chasing history, shopping in bustling markets or savouring street food delights, China holidays promise unforgettable moments in Asia. If you are planning a holiday in China, browse money-saving deals on flights to China.
China at a glance
Flight duration (from London): 9 hours 51 minutes
Main airport: Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)
Population: 1.4 billion
Language: Mandarin
Currency: Chinese Yuan
Time zone: China Standard Time (GMT+8)
Getting to China from the UK
Getting to China from the UK is easier than ever, with flights departing from London, Manchester, Birmingham and Edinburgh. Major airlines like British Airways and China Southern offer direct flights, while budget-friendly flights with layovers are available through airlines like Qatar Airways and Turkish Airlines. If you're looking for cheap flights to China, booking early or flying midweek can land you the best deals.
Most flights arrive at Beijing Capital International Airport, a bustling hub that connects you to China's top destinations, from the Great Wall to Shanghai's skyline. The airport is 20 miles northeast of downtown Beijing, and you can catch a train or take the airport shuttle bus to get to the city.
China travel tips
Travelling to China is an unforgettable experience, but a little preparation goes a long way. Here are a few tips to make your China holiday a breeze:
Download a VPN to stay connected: Many Western websites are blocked in China, so you'll need a VPN to access popular social media sites.
Bring cash or set up WeChat Pay or Alipay: Most Chinese retailers rarely accept credit cards, relying on mobile payment apps instead. It's best to always have cash.
Learn a few Mandarin phrases: Learn simple phrases in Mandarin that can be picked up and used everywhere. It's also good to have the addresses you are visiting in English and Chinese.
Practice using chopsticks: Using chopsticks is a symbol of Chinese culture. Remember to never stick a pair of chopsticks vertically into rice or stab food like you would using a fork.
The best time to travel to China
China is a massive country with diverse climates. The best time to visit depends on the region you are visiting and what you want to do. Spring is one of the best times to visit China for sightseeing. It's the ideal time to explore the Great Wall or the Yellow Mountains. Autumn is also a good time for city breaks in Beijing, Xi'an or Chengdu. The Mid-Autumn Festival brings mooncakes and lanterns to the streets. Plus, with fewer tourists than in summer, there are better deals on China holidays.
China's summers can be hot and humid, especially in cities like Shanghai and Guangzhou. However, it's a great time for mountain escapes like Zhangjiajie (Avatar Mountains) or exploring Tibet. Summer is also the festival season, so make sure you experience the Dragon Boat Festival or Harbin's music festivals. If you're looking for family holidays, theme parks like Shanghai Disneyland are at their peak. Keep in mind that summer is the peak season for tourists, so flights and hotels can be pricier.
If you love winter adventures, visit China between December and February. Harbin's Ice Festival transforms the city into a frozen wonderland. You can also hit the slopes in China's ski resorts or visit quieter tourist sites in Beijing. Winter is the low season for tourism, so you'll find fantastic deals on flights to China and discounted hotel stays.
Fun places to visit in China
The Great Wall of China
No trip to China is complete without walking on the Great Wall of China. Whether you hike, take a cable car or even toboggan down, it's an unforgettable experience. Head to Mutianyu or Jinshanling for fewer crowds and breathtaking views.
Shanghai Disneyland
This park is ideal for families and thrill-seekers, blending classic Disney magic with Chinese culture. Feel the rush on the Tron Lightcycle Power Run, explore the enormous Enchanted Storybook Castle and watch dazzling parades and fireworks.
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
Have you ever seen the floating mountains in Avatar? Zhangjiajie National Forest Park's towering sandstone pillars inspired them. Walk the glass skywalk and take in jaw-dropping views. The misty peaks, lush greenery and dramatic cliffs make this park one of the most magical places in China.
Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding
Do you love pandas? This is the best place to see these adorable animals and learn about conservation efforts. Watch them munch on bamboo, tumble around in their enclosures and even see tiny cubs in the nursery.
FAQs about China holidays
Q: Which part of China is best for kids?
A: Beijing and Shanghai are fantastic for kids, and they offer fun-filled experiences. Beijing offers the Great Wall, the Beijing Zoo and interactive museums, while Shanghai has Disneyland, the Science & Technology Museum and the Bund's light show. Chengdu is perfect for panda lovers, and Guilin's stunning scenery makes for great outdoor adventures.
Q: Is China a good family holiday destination?
A: Yes. China is an incredible destination for family holidays, with something for everyone. From Shanghai Disneyland to the Great Wall and cute pandas in Chengdu, kids and adults alike will have unforgettable experiences. Plus, with delicious food, rich culture and modern cities, there's never a dull moment.
Q: Which part of China is the safest?
A: China is generally very safe, but some of the safest cities include Shanghai, Beijing and Hangzhou. These cities have low crime rates and well-maintained tourist areas. Hangzhou, with its peaceful West Lake, is particularly relaxing, while Beijing's well-policed streets make exploring easy.
Q: Is China friendly to tourists?
A: Yes. China is generally very friendly to tourists. Locals are often curious and welcoming, especially in major cities like Beijing, Shanghai and Xi'an, where tourism is common. While not everyone speaks English, people are usually eager to help, and translation apps make communication easier.
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