Xi An China Travel Guide 2026: Things to Do, Tips & Attractions

There is no shortage of advice about Xi An. What is harder to find is a list you can actually book from. This guide is about a xi-an vs, built from the things you can actually book rather than a wishlist.

In short: we profile 14 experiences in and around Xi An in detail below; entry starts from S$4.00; the sweet spot for weather is Apr-May, Sep-Oct; a realistic daily budget is ¥300-¥1,000 per person/day.

Xi An at a glance

Where you are going, in plain terms

China is a land of ancient wonders and modern marvels. Walk the Great Wall, visit the Terracotta Warriors, cruise the Li River, and explore the futuristic skyline of Shanghai. With 5,000 years of continuous civilization, China offers unparalleled depth of history, cuisine, and cultural experiences.

A few things regulars take for granted:

• Check visa requirements before traveling to China.
• Book attractions in advance for better prices and guaranteed entry.
• Download offline maps for navigation.
• Keep local emergency numbers saved on your phone.
• Inform your bank of travel plans to avoid card blocks.
• Get travel insurance before your trip.

The experiences worth your time in Xi An

These are ordered by how much there is to say about them. All of them are live and bookable today.

Day trip to Mutianyu Great Wall + Summer Palace with Tickets by CITS x ZANBUS

Climb the breathtaking Mutianyu section of the Great Wall and wander through the magnificent Summer Palace in a single, seamlessly organized day tour. This CITS x ZANBUS experience combines two UNESCO World Heritage Sites with an English-speaking guide, round-trip transportation, and all admission tickets included—no shopping stops, just pure cultural immersion.

What makes it special: Dual UNESCO World Heritage Sites in one tour—nearly every other day trip covers only one of these landmarks Zero shopping stops guarantee a respectful, uninterrupted experience focused entirely on history and culture Professional CITS-licensed English-speaking guide provides deep historical context you won't find in any guidebook.

Hidden gems: Visit Mutianyu early in the morning to avoid crowds and capture the wall bathed in golden sunrise light—the towers look like they rise from the earth themselves The Summer Palace's Suzhou Street, a faux waterway lined with shops, is a lesser-known gem that recreates Qing Dynasty commercial life Between Watchtowers 14 and 20 at Mutianyu, the wall becomes wilder and more rugged, offering a more solitary and atmospheric experience.

Best time to go: Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) offer the most pleasant weather and stunning natural scenery—spring brings blooming flowers along the wall, while autumn paints the mountains in golden and crimson hues. Summer can be hot and crowded, while winter may see some areas of the Great Wall closed due to ice and snow.

How long to allow: This full-day tour typically runs approximately 10 to 12 hours, including hotel pickup and drop-off. Mutianyu Great Wall exploration takes about 3 to 4 hours, while the Summer Palace visit lasts roughly 2 to 3 hours, with comfortable breaks and transit time in between.

From S$22.70 · Beijing · Open: SUNDAY: 07:30-17:30, MONDAY: 07:30-17:30, TUESDAY: 07:30-17:30, WEDNESDAY: 07:30-17:30, THURSDAY: 07:30-17:30, FRIDAY: 07:30-17:30, SATURDAY: 07:30-17:30. · Check dates →

Beijing: Day Trip to the Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace by ZANBUS Day Tours

Enjoy hassle-free transportation, expert guidance, and ample time to soak in China's rich history and breathtaking scenery.

What makes it special: Exclusive parking on Jinbao Street in Wangfujing ensures a convenient and safe pickup experience No shopping stops or hidden tricks — a completely worry-free tour with guaranteed service quality Generous 4-hour window at Mutianyu gives you ample time to explore without feeling rushed.

Hidden gems: The Mutianyu section features the longest cable car system on the Great Wall — take it for stunning valley views Hidden watchtowers along Mutianyu offer quieter spots for solitude and photography away from the crowds The Summer Palace's western districts are less visited and provide a peaceful retreat among hidden gardens and pavilions.

Best time to go: Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) offer the most pleasant weather and stunning seasonal colors. Summer can be hot and crowded, while winter brings crisp air and fewer visitors, though some areas may be chilly.

How long to allow: This full-day tour typically lasts around 10 to 12 hours, including transportation, guided visits, and free exploration time at both Mutianyu Great Wall and the Summer Palace.

From S$32.49 · Beijing · Open: Open from 4/1-10/31, 6:00am-8:00pmOpen from 11/1-3/31, 6:30am-7:00pm. · No. 19, Gongmeng Road, Haidian District, Beijing · Check dates →

Badaling Great Wall Ticket

Climb the iconic Badaling Great Wall, the most celebrated section of the Ming Dynasty fortification and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

What makes it special: Recognized as one of the nine fortresses in the world and the finest surviving section of the Ming Great Wall Features a distinctive trapezoidal layout with narrow east and wide west sections, flanked by two historic gates Embodies the legendary spirit of 'If you don't go to the Great Wall, you are not a hero' — a rite of passage for visitors to China.

Hidden gems: Visit early in the morning before the crowds arrive for a serene and photogenic experience Explore the less-crowded northern stretches for a more peaceful climb with stunning views Stop by the nearby Ming Great Wall Museum to deepen your understanding of the fortress history.

Best time to go: Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) offer the most pleasant weather and stunning natural scenery. Summer mornings are ideal for avoiding both heat and crowds, while winter provides a quiet, snow-draped landscape for adventurous visitors.

How long to allow: Plan for 2 to 4 hours to fully enjoy the climb and explore the main sections of the Badaling Great Wall. Allow extra time during peak seasons when crowds may slow your pace.

From S$10.00 · Beijing · Open: SUNDAY: 07:30-16:00, MONDAY: 07:30-16:00, TUESDAY: 07:30-16:00, WEDNESDAY: 07:30-16:00, THURSDAY: 07:30-16:00, FRIDAY: 07:30-16:00, SATURDAY: 07:30-16:00. · 中国北京市延庆区京藏高速公路 · Check dates →

2026 Shanghai Marathon Hotel

Experience the thrill of the 2026 Shanghai Marathon from your home base at Campanile Hotel (Shanghai Bund Branch), perfectly positioned near the iconic waterfront. Whether you're lacing up for the race or cheering on your runner, enjoy a comfortable three-night stay with seamless access to event venues, public transit, and Shanghai's must-see attractions.

What makes it special: Purpose-built marathon package with a dedicated tour guide to enhance your event experience, Prime Bund location offering walkable access to both race routes and Shanghai's top sights, Comfortable three-night stay at Campanile Hotel with modern amenities designed for runners and supporters.

Hidden gems: Visit Fuxing Park early morning to watch locals practice tai chi and traditional dance, Discover the secret lanes of Former French Concession for boutique cafes and tree-lined streets, Catch the evening light show along the Huangpu River for a breathtaking Bund experience.

Best time to go: The 2026 Shanghai Marathon typically takes place in spring, making it an ideal time to visit when the weather is mild and pleasant for running and sightseeing. Autumn is another excellent window, with comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds compared to peak summer travel.

How long to allow: This package includes a three-night stay, which is ideal for experiencing the marathon event and exploring key Shanghai attractions. We recommend arriving a day early to acclimate and enjoying the Bund area before race day.

Good to know: Hotel allocation and room type are subject to availability at the time of booking.

From S$846.20 · Shanghai · Open: operating hour activities. · The Bund Bull · Check dates →

One-Day Tour of Hangzhou: West Lake Boat Ride, Lingyin Temple & Feilai Feng, and Former Residence of Hu Xueyan with Bilingual Driver-Guide

Explore the timeless beauty of Hangzhou on this private one-day tour, featuring a serene boat ride on West Lake, the spiritual Lingyin Temple, and the opulent Former Residence of Hu Xueyan. Enjoy seamless transportation and bilingual guidance for a hassle-free journey through one of China's most picturesque cities.

What makes it special: Private 7-seater business van ensures comfort and exclusivity for your group. Bilingual driver-guide provides seamless communication and local insights throughout the day. All entrance tickets are included, allowing you to focus on the experience without worrying about logistics.

Hidden gems: Take a quiet moment at the Manjuelong Tea Village nearby to see how local Longjing tea is processed. Explore the smaller side temples around Lingyin to escape the main crowd and find a peaceful atmosphere. Stroll along the Su Causeway early in the morning for the best views of the lotus leaves before they get crowded.

Best time to go: Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather and beautiful scenery, especially when the peach blossoms or gingko leaves are in bloom. Early mornings are best for avoiding crowds at popular spots like West Lake and Lingyin Temple.

How long to allow: The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, including hotel pick-up and drop-off. This allows ample time to enjoy each attraction without rushing.

From S$279.27 · Hangzhou · Check dates →

Temple of Heaven General Admission

Step back in time at Beijing’s Temple of Heaven, where Ming and Qing emperors once prayed for divine blessings and bountiful harvests. Wander through sacred courtyards, marvel at the iconic Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, and listen to echoes along the legendary Echo Wall.

What makes it special: The only surviving imperial altar complex dedicated to heaven worship in China, preserving 600 years of ritual tradition. Brilliant architectural symbolism, from circular heavens to square earth, encoded in every pillar and pathway. Living cultural heritage where Beijing residents continue traditional morning exercises on the same grounds emperors once reserved.

Hidden gems: Visit the Imperial Vault of Heaven at dawn for a quieter, mist-shrouded atmosphere perfect for reflection. Explore the minor side halls rarely marked on tourist maps, where ancient incense still lingers. Peek behind the Echo Wall to discover hidden carvings and original stone foundations used by court astronomers.

Best time to go: Spring (April–May) offers mild weather and blooming plum blossoms, while autumn (September–October) brings crisp skies ideal for photography. Avoid national holidays when domestic tourism peaks.

How long to allow: Allow 3–4 hours to fully explore the Inner and Outer Altars at a leisurely pace. Combine with nearby Tiantan Park for a half-day nature and history itinerary.

Good to know: Location: No.1, Tiantan Road, Dongcheng District, Beijing.

From S$15.00 · Beijing · Open: operating hour activities. · 1 Tian Tan Lu, Dong Cheng Qu, Bei Jing Shi, China, 100061 · Check dates →

Pop Mart Theme Park Ticket

Step into the vibrant world of Pop Mart Theme Park, China's first immersive theme park celebrating your favorite trendy IPs like Molly, Dimoo, Skullpanda, and Labubu. Spanning over 120,000 square meters, this unique destination offers interactive rides, exclusive exhibitions, and themed performances that bring beloved characters to life in stunning detail.

What makes it special: China's first immersive theme park dedicated entirely to trendy IPs with over 20 top characters Offers a perfect blend of family-friendly attractions and trendy experiences suitable for all ages Features exclusive IP-themed environments like Molly's Space Capsule and Dimoo's Forest Secret Realm.

Hidden gems: Visit the limited-edition stores for exclusive Pop Mart merchandise you won't find elsewhere Seek out hidden interactive plot tasks scattered across the park for surprise rewards Capture unique photo opportunities in the meticulously themed IP scenes that are perfect for social media.

Best time to go: Weekdays during non-holiday periods offer the most comfortable experience with shorter queues. Spring and autumn provide pleasant weather for exploring the outdoor areas. Avoid major Chinese holidays when the park tends to be extremely crowded.

How long to allow: Plan for a full day visit to experience all four core areas and catch the special performances. Allow extra time during peak seasons when queues for popular attractions may be longer.

From S$22.24 · Beijing · Open: SUNDAY: 10:00-21:00, MONDAY: 10:00-21:00, TUESDAY: 10:00-21:00, WEDNESDAY: 10:00-21:00, THURSDAY: 10:00-21:00, FRIDAY: 10:00-21:00, SATURDAY: 10:00-21:00. · Building 40, No.1 Chaoyang Park South Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing · Check dates →

Prince Kung's Palace Museum

Step into the opulent world of Qing Dynasty grandeur at Prince Kung's Palace Museum, Beijing's best-preserved princely mansion.

What makes it special: Largest and most complete princely mansion from the Qing Dynasty still standing in Beijing. Unique dual history as both Heshen's corrupt paradise and Prince Gong's reformist residence. Exquisite classical garden that perfectly balances architectural grandeur with natural beauty.

Hidden gems: Look for the subtle architectural details in the side courtyards that reveal the daily lives of princes and concubines. Discover the quiet tea pavilion in the garden where Prince Gong once held literary gatherings with scholars. Find the lesser-known ancestral shrine area that offers insight into Qing dynasty family worship traditions.

Best time to go: Spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) offer the most pleasant weather for exploring the gardens. Visit early morning on weekdays to avoid crowds and experience the mansion in a more tranquil atmosphere.

How long to allow: Allow 2-3 hours to thoroughly explore the mansion, gardens, and exhibitions at a comfortable pace.

Good to know: Location of use: Ticket gate of Prince Gong’s Mansion, Qianhai West Street, Xicheng District, Beijing.

From S$10.00 · Beijing · Open: operating hour activities. · 17 Qianhai W St, Xicheng District, Beijing, China, 100035 · Check dates →

Song of Everlasting Sorrow

Song of Everlasting Sorrow is a breathtaking outdoor theatrical spectacle set against the ancient backdrop of Huaqing Palace in Xi'an.

What makes it special: One of China's largest outdoor historical performances directed by renowned filmmaker Zhang Yimou Set against the actual historical site of Huaqing Palace, blending real architecture with theatrical magic A deeply emotional narrative that celebrates Chinese cultural heritage through love, loss, and poetry.

Hidden gems: Arrive early to explore the surrounding Huaqing Palace grounds before the performance begins Look for the subtle architectural details in the backdrop that reference ancient Chinese palace design Stay for the post-show reflections where performers sometimes share insights about the historical story.

Best time to go: Visit during spring or autumn when the weather is pleasant for this outdoor experience. Evening performances are recommended to fully appreciate the lighting and special effects that transform the historic setting.

How long to allow: Plan for approximately 2 to 3 hours including the 70-minute performance, pre-show exploration, and post-show departure. Allow extra time during peak seasons for ticket collection and finding your seats.

From S$16.14 · Xi An · Open: Open from 12/01-02/28, 6:30pm-9:20pmOpen from 09/12-10/16, 7:10pm-11:59pmOpen from 10/17-11/30, 6:30pm-11:55pm. · No. 38 Huaqing Road, Lintong District, Xi'an City · Check dates →

Huangpu River Dragon Boat

Glide along the iconic Huangpu River aboard a traditional dragon boat and experience Shanghai from a completely different angle. This unique cruise offers breathtaking views of the Bund's colonial architecture and the futuristic Pudong skyline, blending cultural heritage with modern city glamour.

What makes it special: Authentic dragon boat design that celebrates centuries-old Chinese cultural traditions Unparalleled riverside perspective of both the historic Bund and modern Pudong skyline A culturally immersive experience that goes beyond a standard sightseeing cruise.

Hidden gems: Visit during the early morning hours for a quieter, more serene cruise experience with softer lighting Ask the crew about the symbolism behind the dragon boat design and its historical significance Keep an eye out for local fishermen and river vendors who still operate along stretches of the Huangpu.

Best time to go: The best time to visit is during the late afternoon to early evening, when you can enjoy the golden hour lighting and watch the city lights come alive at dusk. The Dragon Boat Festival period, usually in June, offers a particularly vibrant and culturally rich experience.

How long to allow: The dragon boat cruise typically lasts around 45 minutes to 1 hour, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and sightseeing along the Huangpu River.

From S$70.00 · Shanghai · Open: SUNDAY: 19:00-21:00, MONDAY: 19:00-21:00, TUESDAY: 19:00-21:00, WEDNESDAY: 19:00-21:00, THURSDAY: 19:00-21:00, FRIDAY: 19:00-21:00, SATURDAY: 19:00-21:00. · 153 or 291Zhongshan Dong Er Lu (Zhongshan East2nd Rd), Shanghai, China · Check dates →

Shanghai Maglev Train

Ride the world's fastest commercial train and zip between Pudong International Airport and downtown Shanghai in just 8 minutes. The Shanghai Maglev Train offers an exhilarating glimpse into the future of transportation at speeds up to 431 km/h.

What makes it special: It is the world's first and fastest commercial magnetic levitation train, a true engineering marvel The entire journey from airport to Longyang Road Station takes only about 8 minutes Standard class tickets are affordably priced for such a high-speed experience.

Hidden gems: Arrive at Pudong Airport early to explore the maglev exhibition area before your ride The front carriage offers the best views of the track ahead for an immersive experience Grab a coffee at the station café and watch trains glide by on the platform.

Best time to go: Visit during the day for the best views of the Shanghai landscape speeding by outside the windows. Early morning or late afternoon tends to be less crowded, making for a more relaxed boarding experience.

How long to allow: The actual train ride lasts about 8 minutes one way. Plan for roughly 30 to 45 minutes total including time to board, find your platform, and settle in before departure.

From S$12.00 · Shanghai · Open: operating hour activities. · Pudong, Shanghai, China, 201204 · Check dates →

Mutianyu Great Wall Round-trip by ZANBUS with Tickets, Daily Departure 8/9/10 AM

Explore one of the world's most iconic landmarks with ease on this seamless Mutianyu Great Wall day tour from Beijing. Enjoy a comfortable nonstop ride, a licensed bus, and a generous 5 hours to wander the restored wall at your own pace, with tickets and hassle-free logistics all taken care of.

What makes it special: Nonstop licensed bus service between downtown Beijing and Mutianyu with an exclusive, easy-to-find meeting point next to the subway A full 5-hour self-guided window lets you explore the wall without rushing or forced stops No shopping stops or hidden fees—just a straightforward, comfortable tour with added perks like dining discounts.

Hidden gems: Arrive at the first departure for shorter lines and a more peaceful start on the wall Seek out the quieter western sections near Tower 22 for fewer crowds and dramatic scenery Stop at the small village shops near the ticket plaza for local snacks and handmade souvenirs.

Best time to go: Spring (April to early June) and autumn (September to October) offer mild weather and stunning natural colors. Early morning departures help you avoid peak crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures for hiking.

How long to allow: The tour provides up to 5 hours of self-guided time inside the Mutianyu Great Wall park. This allows ample opportunity to hike, explore watchtowers, and enjoy the scenery at a comfortable pace.

From S$26.76 · Beijing · Open: operating hour activities. · 99 Jinbao St, Dongcheng, Beijing, China, 100005 · Check dates →

Beijing Temple of Heaven Park Entrance

Step into the sacred heart of imperial Beijing at the Temple of Heaven, where ancient architecture meets living tradition. Wander through centuries-old cypress groves, witness locals practicing tai chi at dawn, and marvel at the breathtaking Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests—a masterpiece of Chinese cosmology and engineering.

What makes it special: The Temple of Heaven is the largest surviving complex of religious buildings in Beijing and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It uniquely blends imperial spirituality with daily community life, making it both a museum and a living park. The architectural symbolism of heaven and earth—round heavens, square earth—is woven into every structure and pathway.

Hidden gems: Arrive before 7 AM to watch locals practice tai chi, qigong, and calligraphy in the misty morning light. Explore the quieter northern sections of the park where ancient cypress trees over 600 years old create a cathedral-like canopy. Visit the Imperial Vault of Heaven during weekday mornings for a peaceful moment without the crowds.

Best time to go: Spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) offer the most pleasant weather and stunning seasonal colors. Early morning visits on weekdays provide the most authentic and tranquil experience, while weekends are livelier with local activities.

How long to allow: Plan at least 3 to 4 hours to fully explore the main halls and gardens at a relaxed pace. A half-day visit allows time to experience both the architectural wonders and the lively local atmosphere.

From S$4.00 · Beijing · Open: SUNDAY: 06:30-22:00, MONDAY: 06:30-22:00, TUESDAY: 06:30-22:00, WEDNESDAY: 06:30-22:00, THURSDAY: 06:30-22:00, FRIDAY: 06:30-22:00, SATURDAY: 06:30-22:00. · VCJ6+Q9J, Dongcheng, China, 100061 · Check dates →

The Palace Museum (The Forbidden City)

Step back in time at the Forbidden City, where imperial grandeur meets living history. Wander through majestic halls and hidden courtyards, then immerse yourself in the past with an included Hanfu or Qing Dynasty costume experience.

Hidden gems: The Corner Tower offers the best photo spot, especially at sunset Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and experience serene courtyards The imperial kitchen relics in the Treasure House reveal fascinating daily palace life.

Best time to go: Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Avoid Chinese public holidays when the site becomes extremely busy. Early morning visits provide the best light for photography and shorter queues.

How long to allow: Allow 4-6 hours to fully explore the palace complex and museums. Budget extra time if you wish to participate in the full costume experience with professional styling.

Good to know: Location of use: Customer support will contact the customer proactively.

From S$22.76 · Beijing · 4 Jingshan Front St, Dongcheng, Beijing, China, 100009 · Check dates →

What it costs in Xi An

Live HolidaySG prices, lowest ticket type first. Prices move with season and demand, so treat these as the current floor rather than a promise.

Weather, and what it does to your plans

Weather decides more of a Xi An itinerary than most people expect — outdoor attractions are the first thing to suffer and the hardest to reschedule.

The short answer: Apr-May, Sep-Oct.

Getting around Xi An

High-speed rail network, metro in cities.

• Public Transport — Check local metro/bus options in China.
• Taxi/Ride-hailing — Use local ride-hailing apps for convenience.

Where to base yourself

Picking the right neighbourhood saves more time than any transport pass.

• Chengdu — Chengdu City Center — $50-200/night — Central area in Chengdu with easy access to attractions.
• Shanghai — Shanghai City Center — $50-200/night — Central area in Shanghai with easy access to attractions.
• Guangzhou — Guangzhou City Center — $50-200/night — Central area in Guangzhou with easy access to attractions.
• Beijing — Beijing City Center — $50-200/night — Central area in Beijing with easy access to attractions.
• Chongqing — Chongqing City Center — $50-200/night — Central area in Chongqing with easy access to attractions.
• Hunan — Hunan City Center — $50-200/night — Central area in Hunan with easy access to attractions.
• Anhui — Anhui City Center — $50-200/night — Central area in Anhui with easy access to attractions.
• Guilin — Guilin City Center — $50-200/night — Central area in Guilin with easy access to attractions.
• Sichuan — Sichuan City Center — $50-200/night — Central area in Sichuan with easy access to attractions.
• Hangzhou — Hangzhou City Center — $50-200/night — Central area in Hangzhou with easy access to attractions.
• Suzhou — Suzhou City Center — $50-200/night — Central area in Suzhou with easy access to attractions.
• Zhuhai — Zhuhai City Center — $50-200/night — Central area in Zhuhai with easy access to attractions.
• Harbin — Harbin City Center — $50-200/night — Central area in Harbin with easy access to attractions.
• Xi An — Xi An City Center — $50-200/night — Central area in Xi An with easy access to attractions.

What to eat in Xi An

Food is usually the cheapest part of a trip that people remember longest.

• Local Specialties — Try the local cuisine and street food — ask locals for their favorite spots in China.
• Street Food — Explore local markets and street stalls for authentic flavors.
• Traditional Dishes — Visit local restaurants for traditional home-style cooking.

Local customs worth respecting

None of this is complicated, and getting it right changes how people treat you.

• Learn a few local phrases — it shows respect.
• Observe local dress codes at religious sites.
• Ask before photographing people.
• Respect local traditions and customs.

Staying safe in Xi An

Most problems travellers hit here are boring and preventable.

• Register with your country's embassy before travel.
• Keep digital + physical copies of your passport. Email a copy to yourself.
• Buy a local SIM/eSIM on arrival — emergency calls need a working phone.
• Buy international travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage.
• Keep valuables in hotel safes; carry copies of documents, not originals.
• Be aware of common tourist scams — research before your trip.
• Share your itinerary with family or friends back home.

Site-specific notes

• Day trip to Mutianyu Great Wall + Summer Palace with Tickets by CITS x ZANBUS — Stay on designated pathways at Mutianyu—the wall can be steep and narrow in sections, and railings are not present along every segment Keep valuables secure in crowded areas at both attractions, especially on public transportation and at ticket checkpoints Stay hydrated throughout the day, as walking on the Great Wall and through the Summer Palace grounds can be physically demanding.
• Beijing: Day Trip to the Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace by ZANBUS Day Tours — Stay on designated pathways along the Great Wall, as some sections can be steep and uneven Keep personal belongings secure in crowded areas and be mindful of your surroundings Carry sufficient water and take regular breaks, especially during warmer months, to avoid dehydration.
• Badaling Great Wall Ticket — Stay on designated paths and avoid climbing on unstable or unrestored sections Carry sufficient water and sun protection, especially during summer months Keep a close eye on children at all times due to steep drops along certain sections.
• 2026 Shanghai Marathon Hotel — Shanghai is generally very safe for travelers, but always keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas like The Bund and metro stations, Stay hydrated and pace yourself during marathon activities, especially if you're not a seasoned runner, Keep a copy of your passport and hotel address in Chinese to show taxi drivers if needed.

What to pack

Packed for the climate and the attractions above, not for a generic holiday.

• Comfortable walking shoes.
• Layers for changing weather.

Visa and entry for China

Taken from our embassy-sourced visa records, each checked against an official source. Rules change, so confirm against your own passport before you book flights.

Who needs one: Passport holders of ~54 eligible countries (incl. Singapore) transiting to a third country/region via designated ports

We also run a visa assistance service if you would rather not deal with the paperwork — see visa services.

Emergency numbers and who to call

Worth a screenshot before you fly — these do not need a data connection to be useful.

• Hospital — Check local international hospitals.

Frequently asked questions

What is the cheapest thing to book in Xi An?

Of the experiences in this guide, Beijing Temple of Heaven Park Entrance is the lowest at S$4.00. You can check live dates on its booking page.

When is the best time to visit Xi An?

Apr-May, Sep-Oct.

How much should I budget per day?

¥300-¥1,000 per person/day. That is on top of the attraction prices listed above.

How many days do I need?

Most itineraries we build for China run to 14 days. You can build your own at our itinerary builder.

How long should I allow for Day trip to Mutianyu Great Wall + Summer Palace with Tickets by CITS x ZANBUS?

This full-day tour typically runs approximately 10 to 12 hours, including hotel pickup and drop-off. Mutianyu Great Wall exploration takes about 3 to 4 hours, while the Summer Palace visit lasts roughly 2 to 3 hours, with comfortable breaks and transit time in between.

What do most visitors miss?

Visit Mutianyu early in the morning to avoid crowds and capture the wall bathed in golden sunrise light—the towers look like they rise from the earth themselves The Summer Palace's Suzhou Street, a faux waterway lined with shops, is a lesser-known gem that recreates Qing Dynasty commercial life Between Watchtowers 14 and 20 at Mutianyu, the wall becomes wilder and more rugged, offering a more solitary and atmospheric experience.

Do I need to rent a car?

High-speed rail network, metro in cities.

Are these prices per person?

Yes — every "from" price is the lowest available ticket for one person, before any date-based change. The exact breakdown by ticket type is on each booking page.

Can I book these and cancel later?

Cancellation terms differ by supplier and are shown on each product page before you pay. Check the terms on the specific experience rather than assuming a blanket policy.