DISCOVER A LAND OF ANCIENT WONDERS AND EXTRAORDINARY FAMILY ADVENTURES
From the Great Wall's ancient watchtowers to panda encounters in Chengdu, China rewards curious young explorers with history, culture and adventure at every turn.
China rewards families willing to swap the sunlounger for the unexpected. Children who might balk at a museum back home will happily clamber along a watchtower on the Great Wall, which stretches over 21,000km across the country's north, or stand nose to nose with a giant panda at the Chengdu Research Base, one of the best places in the world to see them up close. In Xi'an, the Terracotta Army's 8,000-plus life-size warriors tend to make more of an impression on ten-year-olds than any classroom ever could.
Getting around is part of the appeal rather than a chore. China's high-speed rail network, the largest in the world, links cities like Beijing, Xi'an and Shanghai in a matter of hours, turning long transfers into an experience children remember rather than endure. Food markets, calligraphy lessons and rickshaw rides through Beijing's hutongs add texture between the big sights, and our tailor-made family holidays are built with enough downtime that nobody, adults included, ends the day exhausted.
I know China well. Let me plan your tailor-made trip.
Essence of China
- Beijing
- Xi’an
- Longsheng Rice Terraces
- Yangshuo
- Shanghai
From Beijing’s palaces to Shanghai’s skyline and timeless landscapes
China Family Holiday Ideas
Our China specialist, Sophie, says:
"China surprises families every time. I love watching kids get excited about the Great Wall, then completely lose it over a panda at Chengdu. It's not just the big sights – it's the noodle stalls, the bike rides through old hutongs, the moment a Terracotta Army guide brings the history to life for someone who's ten, not forty. China is enormous, so we don't try to see it all in one trip; we build in enough time and downtime that everyone, kids included, actually enjoys the days in between. It's one of those countries that manages to be completely unfamiliar and totally welcoming to families at the same time."
China Family Stays
China Honeymoon FAQs
Planning a China Honeymoon? Our experts share advice on everything from destinations, to trip additions and ideas.
Is China a good destination for a family holiday?
Yes – China works well for families who enjoy a mix of culture and hands-on adventure. Highlights like the Great Wall, the Terracotta Army and the giant pandas of Chengdu tend to land just as well with children as with adults, and itineraries can be paced to suit younger children or teenagers.
What is the best time of year to visit China with children?
Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer the most comfortable temperatures and clearer skies for sightseeing, and avoid the crowds and heat of the summer school holidays. We can advise on timing around Chinese public holidays, when domestic travel spikes and popular sites get busier.
Is China safe to travel to with kids?
China is generally a safe and well-organised destination for families, with modern infrastructure and a low rate of petty crime in the main tourist cities. As with any long-haul destination, we brief every family on practicalities – from food and water to transport – before you travel.
How much walking or travelling is involved – is it suitable for young children?
It varies by itinerary. Some sites, like sections of the Great Wall, involve steps and uneven ground, so we can recommend easier-access sections and build in downtime between cities. China's high-speed rail network also makes travelling between destinations quick and comfortable, even with younger children in tow.
What kind of activities can children enjoy beyond sightseeing?
There are countless options in any destination across China that can occupy young minds. Panda keeper experiences in Chengdu, dumpling-making and calligraphy classes, cycle rides through Beijing's hutongs, and kung fu or tai chi lessons are all popular additions that give children something hands-on alongside the big historical sites.
How long should a family trip to China be?
Most family itineraries run 10–14 days, enough time to cover Beijing, Xi'an and Chengdu or other itineraries without feeling rushed. Shorter trips focused on one or two areas work well for families who prefer a slower pace or are combining China with another destination.
Speak to a China expert today
and start planning your tailor-made holiday
Sophie
China Expert
When to go to China
Find out the best time to visit China with our month by month guide.
- Best
- Good
- Mixed
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
January
Cold but generally dry. Ideal for Harbin's Ice Festival and winter scenery in northern China.
February
Chinese New Year brings incredible celebrations alongside colder weather and busy transport networks.
March
Spring arrives with mild temperatures and blossom across many of China's cultural highlights
April
Warm, dry weather makes April one of the best months to explore most regions of China.
May
Excellent conditions nationwide before the peak summer heat and rainfall begin.
June
Warmer weather arrives, with mountain regions offering comfortable conditions for exploring.
July
Hot and humid in many areas, but perfect for Tibet and higher-altitude destinations.
August
Warm and often wet, although western China and Yunnan remain rewarding choices.
September
Pleasant temperatures and clear skies make September one of the finest months to visit.
October
Autumn colours and crisp weather create superb touring conditions after the National Day holiday.
November
Dry, cool weather and fewer crowds make November excellent for sightseeing.
December
Cold in the north but ideal for winter landscapes, festive experiences and quieter attractions.
Speak to a China honeymoon expert today
and start planning your tailor-made holiday
Sophie
China Expert
