Advice on how many days in 3 cities

Question

Hi everyone,

I’m planning my first trip to China in early November. My current plan is:

Chengdu: 1st November, arriving at Tishuan Airport at 11:50.

Chongqing: 4th November, traveling from Chengdu by train.

Shanghai: 7th November from Chongqing, staying until the 11th November.

I'm going to Malaysia on the 17th. Which leaves me with a few days between Shanghai and Malaysia

I’m wondering if this itinerary is too tight. I’m considering:

Extending my stay in each city by one day.

Possibly adding another city in China ideally:

Not too far north. (because i cant pack both winter/hot clothes)

Not too far from Shanghai.( dont wanna be in plane for 4+ hours...)

I'm considering adding one day for each cities because ideally id like not too rush and would like a day to just chill around/experience the nightlife.

Any suggestions on whether to stick to this plan, extend it, or add another city? I’d love recommendations for a city that gives a great cultural experience without requiring too much extra travel. Thanks

Thanks in advance!

Answer

Your current plan of visiting Chengdu, Chongqing, and Shanghai in early November is doable, but it is indeed a bit tight if you want to fully enjoy each city, have time to relax, and experience the nightlife. Adding an extra day in each city would make your itinerary more comfortable, especially considering travel times between cities by train or flight.

Suggestions for itinerary adjustments:

Chengdu: Currently 1st–4th November (3 nights). Adding an extra day allows you to visit more leisurely the Giant Panda Base, Wuhou Shrine, Jinli Ancient Street, and maybe a Sichuan opera show in the evening.
Chongqing: Currently 4th–7th November (3 nights). One extra day would give you time to explore Ciqikou Old Town, Hongya Cave, the Yangtze River Cable Car, and perhaps a relaxed hotpot dinner without rushing.
Shanghai: Currently 7th–11th November (4 nights). Adding one day would allow a slower exploration of the Bund, French Concession, museums, or a day trip to nearby water towns like Zhujiajiao or Tongli without feeling pressed.

If you wish to add another city close to Shanghai for cultural experience without long travel, consider:

Hangzhou: Only about 1 hour by high-speed train from Shanghai. Famous for West Lake, Lingyin Temple, tea plantations, and charming streets. Easy to do in 1–2 days.
Suzhou: Around 30–40 minutes by train from Shanghai. Known for classical gardens, canals, silk industry, and traditional culture. A day or overnight visit works well.
Ningbo or Shaoxing: Both within 2–3 hours by train. Ningbo is a port city with a rich maritime history; Shaoxing is famous for waterways, wine culture, and traditional architecture. Optional if you want something quieter and less touristy.

Summary recommendation:

Extend each city by 1 day if possible to reduce rushing and allow nightlife/cultural experiences.
Add either Hangzhou or Suzhou for a compact cultural side trip near Shanghai.
Keep in mind your travel window to Malaysia; adding cities too far north or west will require long flights or train rides, which could make the trip more tiring.

Overall, your revised plan with an extra day in each city and one nearby city near Shanghai would provide a balanced mix of sightseeing, culture, and relaxation without overpacking your schedule.

Advice on how many days in 3 cities

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