China in 2026: More Accessible Than You Think
China has dramatically simplified travel for German visitors. The 240-hour transit visa exemption and expanding e-visa program make it easier than ever to explore Beijing, Xi'an, and beyond. High-speed rail connects major cities faster than flying (when you factor in airport waits), and mobile payment via Alipay now works with European cards.
Days 1-3: Beijing — Imperial Capital
The Forbidden City deserves a full morning — arrive when gates open at 8:30am. Tiananmen Square, the Temple of Heaven, and the Summer Palace fill days two and three. But the highlight is the Great Wall. Skip the crowded Badaling section and head to Mutianyu instead — fewer tourists, better scenery, and a toboggan ride down.
Days 4-5: Xi'an — Terracotta Warriors
Take the high-speed train from Beijing to Xi'an (4.5 hours). The Terracotta Army is one of the world's most impressive archaeological sites — over 8,000 individually crafted warriors guarding Emperor Qin's tomb. The Muslim Quarter in Xi'an serves some of China's best street food, and the city wall is perfect for a sunset bicycle ride.
Days 6-8: Beyond the Classics
For travellers with more time, the Silk Road city of Dunhuang offers Buddhist cave art at the Mogao Grottoes. Jiuzhaigou Valley in Sichuan is a UNESCO site with turquoise lakes that look almost artificial. Hangzhou's West Lake and tea plantations make a peaceful conclusion before departing from Shanghai.
Q: Do Germans need a visa for China in 2026?
A: Germans currently enjoy 240-hour visa-free transit (must enter and exit through different cities). For longer stays, apply for an e-visa or traditional visa at the Chinese embassy.
Q: Is China safe for German tourists?
A: Very safe. China has extremely low violent crime rates. The main challenges are language (use Google Translate offline) and internet restrictions (bring a VPN).
Q: Can I use Google and WhatsApp in China?
A: Not without a VPN. Download a reliable VPN before departure. WeChat is the local alternative for messaging and payments.
Q: How expensive is China compared to Europe?
A: Mid-range travel in China costs EUR 60-100/day. High-speed trains are a bargain compared to European rail. Street food meals cost EUR 2-4.
Q: What is the best time to visit China?
A: April-May and September-October offer the best weather. Avoid Chinese New Year (January/February) and Golden Week (early October) when domestic travel peaks.
Top Tours to Book for Your Beijing Trip
Beijing rewards preparation more than any other Chinese city. The security checkpoints, language barriers at ticket counters, and sheer scale of the major sites mean that guided tours with pre-booked transport save hours of frustration and let you focus on the experience rather than the logistics.