First time china itinerary- 2weeks mid April

Question

Hi all, looking for feedback on the following itinerary starting mid April. Not looking to spend too much time in bustling cities. Prefer nature, views, culture. We will be 4A1C including 2 elderly.

Days 1,2,3- Beijing

Day 4,5 - Xi An

Days 6,7,8,9 - Zhangjiajie (reach by air)

Days 10,11 - Guilin

Days 12,13 - Yangshuo

Day 14- return to SG either via Guilin or Nanning

1) Any feedback welcome

2) Can also add 1day somewhere if worth it. Wanted to visit Yunnan as well but realized it deserves more time, maybe a 2nd trip.

3) Any idea if flying back to Singapore is better from Guilin or Nanning ? The flight from Nanning is cheaper and shorter however we would have to travel more from Yangshuo to Nanning.

Thank you very much !

Answer

Your proposed 2-week itinerary for China in mid-April is quite balanced between cultural sites and natural scenery, and it is doable, but there are a few points to consider given your group includes elderly travelers and a child.

Beijing (Days 1–3): Three days in Beijing is reasonable for a first-time visit. You can cover the main highlights such as the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, Temple of Heaven, and perhaps the Mutianyu Great Wall. Consider pacing your visits and using a private driver or taxis to reduce walking and waiting times, especially for the elderly.

Xi’an (Days 4–5): Two days in Xi’an is sufficient for seeing the Terracotta Warriors, city walls, and a quick walk around the Muslim Quarter. Since Xi’an is compact, it’s manageable even with a small child and older adults. Book Terracotta Warriors tickets in advance to avoid queues.

Zhangjiajie (Days 6–9): Flying in is ideal. Four days here is good for exploring the national park’s highlights like Yuanjiajie, Tianzi Mountain, and the Glass Bridge. Be prepared for some walking and elevation changes; cable cars are helpful for elderly travelers. Consider staying near the park entrance for easier access.

Guilin (Days 10–11) & Yangshuo (Days 12–13): Guilin and Yangshuo are famous for karst landscapes and river scenery. Two days in Guilin is enough to see the Reed Flute Cave and Elephant Trunk Hill. Three days including Yangshuo gives time for a Li River cruise, cycling or bamboo rafting. Staying in Yangshuo town is convenient for evening activities and local dining.

Option: You could add one extra day in Yangshuo to relax and enjoy nature activities, which is particularly nice for a family with elderly travelers.
Option: If you are very keen on Yunnan, consider a separate 5–6 day trip later, as it’s far from your current route and deserves more time.

Return flight: Flying back from Guilin is more convenient as it is closer to Yangshuo (about 1–1.5 hours by car). Flying from Nanning is cheaper and slightly shorter in flight time, but adds extra land travel (about 3–4 hours by road). For a family with mixed ages, Guilin is generally easier and less stressful.

Option: If budget is a priority and your group can manage the extra transfer, Nanning is feasible.
Option: If comfort and time-saving are priorities, return via Guilin.

Overall, your itinerary balances city highlights and nature well. Mid-April is a good time weather-wise, though be prepared for occasional rain in Zhangjiajie. Booking flights and train tickets early is recommended to secure seats for your family, especially for internal flights.

First time china itinerary- 2weeks mid April

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