China Holidays

How to reach China

• Flight time: Direct flights to China from London typically take 10–13 hours. Alternative routes, including from other UK airports, will likely involve a layover in cities like Hong Kong, Dubai or a European hub and a journey time of 15–18 hours.

• Transfer time: Depending on where you land, journey times from the airport to the city centre will vary. Airport Express trains take 20–30 minutes to get to Beijing or Hong Kong. In Shanghai, the Maglev train takes around 8 minutes (plus connection), while the metro is around 1 hour.

• Price: Airport Express trains cost around ¬•30 (€3) in Beijing, or HK$100 (€10) in Hong Kong. Shanghai's Maglev costs ¬•50 (€5), while the metro is ¬•7 (€0.75). Hotels sometimes offer airport pickups, which can be convenient, so check when booking.

Best time to visit China

China is so vast that many regions experience significantly different weather. Choosing the best time to visit depends on which part of the country you're heading to and the type of holiday you're after.

• March to May is one of the best times to visit, as temperatures are pleasant (10–22°C). Blooming flowers and moderate rain make it ideal for sightseeing. However, in the north, spring can be windy, with sand blowing in from the desert.

• June to August is peak season for local tourists, but it can be sweltering and humid, especially in the south. While temperatures soar above 30°C, even in Beijing, summer is the time for exploring China's mountainous regions or coastal cities where sea breezes provide relief. Popular tourist spots like the Great Wall and the Forbidden City can be crowded during this time.

• September to October is generally the best time for holidays to China, especially if you plan to visit cities like Beijing or Shanghai. Autumn's comfortable temperatures (15–25°C), crisp air and golden leaves make it a wonderful time to explore cities like Hangzhou and Chengdu, and there's usually less rain than in spring.

• November to February is winter in China, with temperatures dropping below 0°C in the north, especially in cities like Harbin and Beijing. However, winter is a magical time for visiting northern regions for activities like ice festivals or skiing. Southern cities like Hong Kong remain mild, making it an excellent winter escape.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Mandarin is China's official language, but many regions have their own dialects, including Cantonese, which is widely spoken in southern China, and Shanghainese. English is spoken in major cities and tourist areas, especially in hotels and restaurants, but it's a good idea to learn some basic Mandarin phrases to help with everyday communication.

• Local habits and customs: In China, showing respect is important. Avoid pointing at people with your finger – use your whole hand – and when dining, always pass food to others before serving yourself. Be prepared for queues and busy spaces, especially in major tourist attractions. Clothing rules are generally quite relaxed. Tipping is not expected, except in high-end hotels or with tour guides.

• Health and safety: In large cities, keep an eye on your belongings, take care on the roads and be on guard for scams. Tap water isn't safe to drink, so stick to bottled water, which is widely available. Healthcare in the main cities is excellent, but it's best to arrange travel insurance covering any medical expenses before you go. Also, consider bringing hand sanitiser and tissues, as public bathrooms often lack soap and paper.

• Currency: The currency in mainland China is the yuan (¬•), or renminbi. Hong Kong's currency is the Hong Kong dollar (HK$). ATMs are available nationwide, and major credit cards are accepted in most places frequented by tourists. However, cash is still king in local markets, so keep some handy for smaller purchases.

• Getting around: China's public transport systems are efficient and affordable. Cities are well catered for by a mix of metro systems, buses and taxis, although it's best to have your destination written in Chinese. High-speed trains are an excellent way to travel between cities.

• Electricity and plug types: Mainland China uses 220V with Type A, C and I plugs. UK travellers will need an adapter.

• Time zone: Despite China's size, the whole country operates on China Standard Time (CST), 8 hours ahead of GMT.

• Required travel documentation: UK citizens need a visa to enter China. Be sure to apply online well in advance. Then, you will have to go to the Chinese embassy or a visa centre (London, Manchester, or Edinburgh). You will need proof of onward travel and a booking for accommodation.

Best things to do in China

China is a vast and diverse country, offering a mix of modern cities, ancient history and natural wonders. From exploring the Great Wall to marvelling at the skyline of Shanghai, China holidays can be an unforgettable experience. Here's a rundown of the best things to do when visiting:

Viewpoints and panoramas

• The Great Wall: The Mutianyu section offers some of the best views, with its restored battlements and stunning vistas over the rolling hills and forests. It's less crowded than the more famous Badaling section, making it ideal for a peaceful walk.

• Victoria Peak, Hong Kong: For breathtaking panoramic views of Hong Kong's skyscrapers and Victoria Harbour, take the Peak Tram to the top of Victoria Peak. The view is particularly magical at night when the city lights up.

Historical monuments

• The Forbidden City, Beijing: One of the most iconic landmarks in China, the Forbidden City is a sprawling palace complex that served as the home of Chinese emperors for centuries. Its grand halls, intricate carvings and expansive courtyards make it a must-visit for any history lover.

• The Terracotta Army, Xi'an: These life-size statues were buried with China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, to protect him in the afterlife. Thousands of soldiers, horses and chariots have been unearthed, offering a fascinating insight into ancient Chinese culture and military power.

Activities for families in China

From animal encounters to fun parks, China is full of family-friendly activities.

• Theme Parks: In addition to Disneyland parks in Shanghai and Hong Kong, China's own version, Happy Valley, is full of thrilling roller coasters, water rides and entertainment suitable for all ages.

• Giant Panda Breeding Research Base: Located just outside Chengdu, this research centre is home to giant and red pandas. You can learn about conservation efforts, watch the pandas play and even see newborn cubs.

Free things to do in China

In China, you can do many things for free, perfect for those looking to explore the country on a budget.

• Events: Chinese New Year is one of the biggest celebrations in China, with colourful parades, fireworks and dragon dances taking place across the country. The Mid-Autumn Festival is another great time to visit, with lantern displays and mooncake tastings.

• Museums: Many of China's best museums are free to visit, including Beijing's National Museum of China, one of the world's largest, and Shanghai Museum, perhaps the country's best, with a fantastic array of art and historical objects. You may need to book online in advance.

Nature and outdoor activities

• Cycling: Rent a bike and cycle along the city walls of Xi'an or through the rice terraces of Longji in Guangxi Province.

• Hiking: China offers many hiking opportunities, with some of the best trails along the Great Wall, in the Yellow Mountains (Huangshan) or the Karst landscapes of Guilin. Each offers dramatic scenery, from steep cliffs to misty peaks.

Local dishes in China

One of the great delights of holidays to China is exploring the country's diverse culinary scene. With each region offering its own specialities, from street food snacks to elegant dishes at high-end restaurants, China is a foodie's paradise.

Some typical dishes

• Peking duck: Beijing's most famous dish, Peking duck, is known for its tender meat and crispy skin. The duck is served with thin pancakes, hoisin sauce and sliced cucumbers or spring onions.

• Sweet and sour pork: A Cantonese classic, this dish combines crispy pork in a tangy sweet and sour sauce, often served with pineapple and peppers.

Meat dishes

• Kung Pao chicken: Originating from Sichuan, this dish combines diced chicken, peanuts and dried chillies in a spicy, savoury sauce known for its signature spice.

• Char siu: This Cantonese-style barbecued pork is marinated in a sweet and savoury sauce, roasted and often enjoyed with rice or noodles.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Steamed fish with ginger and spring onions: A simple but popular dish in which fresh fish is steamed with light soy sauce, ginger and spring onions for a delicate flavour.

• Salt and pepper squid: Crispy and seasoned with chilli, this Cantonese dish is a favourite in seafood restaurants nationwide.

Street food

• Jianbing: A savoury Chinese crepe filled with egg, coriander and crispy wonton pieces, Jianbing is perfect for a warming breakfast or a quick bite on the go.

• Baozi: These steamed buns, stuffed with various fillings, from pork to vegetables, are found in food stalls across China.

Sweets and desserts

• Tangyuan: Glutinous rice balls filled with sweet sesame, red bean paste or chopped nuts, typically served in a warm soup. They are often eaten during festivals but can be found year-round.

• Mooncakes: A traditional treat, especially during the Mid-Autumn Festival, these pastries are filled with lotus seed paste or red bean and sometimes contain salted egg yolk.

Local drinks

• Tea: Famously drunk throughout China, tea accompanies meals in restaurants or is served in teahouses. The most common varieties are red and green or flavours such as jasmine, and it's always drunk without sugar and milk.

• Beer: Produced here for over 9,000 years, beer now rivals tea as the country's most popular beverage, and China is the world's largest market. Snow Beer is the biggest brand, although Tsingtao is the best-known, and craft beer is now on the rise in cities like Beijing and Shanghai.