China dazzles visitors with its vast landscapes, deep-rooted traditions, futuristic cities, ancient wonders, and some of the world’s most Instagrammable backdrops. Whether you’re a foodie, culture vulture, city explorer, or mountain lover, choosing where to base yourself can make your journey unforgettable—and photogenic. This in-depth guide introduces the best areas to stay for eating, sleeping, and Instagramming like a legend, along with pro travel tips and cultural insights to help you discover the “musts” and the hidden gems that will make your journey legendary.
Before you hop on a plane to eat dim sum in Shanghai or take that must-have selfie on the Great Wall, let’s talk logistics for Indian travelers. Indian travelers are required to obtain a valid tourist visa before entering China. The process includes submitting passport, photos, travel plans, and hotel bookings to the Chinese Visa Application Center.
So, whether you’re temple hopping in Chengdu or dumpling hunting in Beijing, make sure your China visa for Indians is approved—because your camera roll deserves those legendary snaps.
Table of Contents
1. Beijing — Imperial Grandeur & Urban Cool

Why Stay Here?
Beijing is a living chronicle of Chinese history, blending imperial architecture with thriving modern urban districts. Stay near the Forbidden City and you’ll be steps away from ancient palace walls, traditional hutong alleys, and trendy dining or nightlife spots. The city offers unrivaled opportunities to experience and capture—Chinese classic grandeur side-by-side with the buzz of a capital city. Many travelers visit Beijing’s hutongs for a stroll but consider staying several nights inside a siheyuan (courtyard home) converted into a boutique guesthouse.
Waking up to the sound of bicycle bells and the morning chatter of neighbors, you’ll sip soy milk with locals and perhaps join in a spontaneous game of Chinese chess in a sun-dappled alley. These immersive touches gift unique photo ops—close-ups of ancient wooden doors, steaming street breakfasts, and red lanterns at dusk.
What to Eat
- Peking Duck: Crispy, succulent, and a feast for the senses; go to Duck de Chine or the century-old Quanjude.
- Street Snacks: Try jianbing (savory crepes) and lamb skewers in bustling local night markets.
Where to Sleep
Opt for a boutique hotel in a hutong for a taste of old Beijing or splurge on a high-rise room with city views near Wangfujing or Chaoyang.
Instagram Hotspots
- Great Wall at Mutianyu or Jinshanling (less crowded, more dramatic angles).
- Forbidden City rooftops at sunset.
- Jingshan Park panoramic lookout.
- Umbrella-shade covered narrow hutong lanes full of local life.
Pro Tips
- Book tickets to the Forbidden City ahead—access is limited, especially during holidays.
- Public transport is robust; use it to access top sites efficiently.
Seasonal Discoveries
If your visit falls during spring, capture the legendary cherry blossoms lining Yuyuantan Park or Beihai Park. In winter, the frozen lakes of Houhai beckon for ice skating—a classic northern pastime that provides both fun and gorgeous, offbeat content for your feed.
2. Shanghai — Where Future and Past Collide
Why Stay Here?
Shanghai is where sleek modern design and colonial history harmonize. The Bund waterfront offers walkable access to Art Deco skyscrapers, chic boutiques, and vibrant nightlife alongside the Huangpu River. Lose yourself in the vibrant tangle of French Concession lanes for food, shopping, and atmospheric Instagram snaps.
Escape the downtown pace and head to nearby water towns like Zhujiajiao or Qibao. Glide down narrow canals past stone arch bridges and willow trees, and frame ancient houses reflected in the water as gondoliers punt by. These towns offer a tranquil, timeless side of China—and spectacular golden-hour photos.
What to Eat
- Soup dumplings (xiao long bao) at Nanxiang Steamed Bun or Din Tai Fung.
- Hip international fare at trendy restaurants lining the Bund and Xintiandi.
- Night street markets transform for street eats—don’t skip the fried noodles!
Where to Sleep
High-rise hotels with Bund views, or chic boutique lodgings in the leafy French Concession.
Instagram Hotspots
- The stunning futurism of Lujiazui by night.
- Ferry views of the Bund skyline.
- Art Deco details in hidden lanes.
- Colorful stalls at Yuyuan Garden.
Pro Tips
- Walk the Bund at sunrise for crowd-free golden hour shots.
- Extend your trip to nearby water towns and gardens of Suzhou or Hangzhou.
Nightlife and Neon
Shanghai is a city that truly comes alive after dark. Seek out secret speakeasies tucked inside historic lane houses or catch a river cruise on the Huangpu to watch towers light up in a futuristic light show. For unique perspectives, try night photography from the rooftops of Xintiandi or the new bars in the North Bund area, where fewer tourists venture and the skyline sparkles.
3. Xi’an — History Alive on Every Corner
Why Stay Here?
Xi’an has served as capital for 13 dynasties and is famous as the eastern terminus of the Silk Road. Here, two millennia of history meet modern city buzz—a perfect playground for storytelling and content creation. Xi’an isn’t just about sightseeing; it’s about experiencing daily life. Join a local food tour and learn to make biang biang noodles from scratch. Get hands-on with a pottery-making workshop inspired by the Terracotta Army, and craft unique keepsakes to photograph and take home.
What to Eat
- Biang biang noodles: Wide, chewy noodles served street-side in the Muslim Quarter.
- Pit-roasted lamb and roujiamo (Chinese hamburger).
Where to Sleep
Stay inside the city walls to be within walking distance of the Bell Tower, Drum Tower, and atmospheric backstreets.
Instagram Hotspots
- The Terracotta Warriors up close and personal.
- Lantern-lit walkways of Great Tang All Day Mall.
- The bustling and aromatic Muslim Quarter.
- Cycling atop the ancient city walls with the modern skyline as your backdrop.
Pro Tips
- The Bell and Drum Towers shine at night with vivid lighting displays.
- Try a themed Hanfu photoshoot against the city’s historic backdrop for a viral cultural reel.
Street Theater
After sunset, the Shaanxi Grand Opera House hosts a vibrant Tang Dynasty music and dance show—a swirl of color, movement, and costume that lights up Instagram feeds.
4. Chengdu — Pandas, Chill Vibes, & Spice
Why Stay Here?
Chengdu, UNESCO City of Gastronomy and home to the giant panda, has a laid-back feel, making it perfect for culinary exploration and tranquil living. The city’s teahouses, hotpot restaurants, and breezy lanes guarantee both inspiration and comfort. Find time to truly slow down in one of Chengdu’s centuries-old teahouses.
Order chrysanthemum tea, snap shots of tea masters pouring from long-spouted kettles, and observe locals debating or playing cards. With an unobtrusive lens you can capture an authentic slice of daily city life.
What to Eat
- Sichuan hotpot: Try at Haidilao or Shizilou for a mouth-numbing feast.
- Local snacks: dan dan noodles, mapo tofu, and rabbit head (for the daring).
Where to Sleep
Stay near Jinli Ancient Street or Kuanzhai Alley for access to buzzing eateries, craft stalls, and cultural performances.
Instagram Hotspots
- Panda Research Base—adorable shots guaranteed.
- Teahouse scenes with mahjong-playing locals.
- Colorful masks and costumes of Sichuan opera.
- Magnolia Yaowang Valley during the festival for sea-of-flowers photoshoots.
Pro Tips
- Visit in spring for the Magnolia Festival and rural photo-ops in Sichuan’s green valleys.
- Join a cooking class for behind-the-scenes content.
Nature at Your Fingertips
Beyond pandas, the bamboo forests and flower fields of Jinjiang Greenway, as well as proximity to Mount Qingcheng (a sacred Taoist site), make Chengdu an ideal base for combining city eats, rural cycling, mountain trekking, and serene temple photography—all in a single day.
5. Guilin & Yangshuo — Dreamlike Landscapes
Why Stay Here?
Guilin and the nearby town of Yangshuo are the heart of karst wonderland—think mist-shrouded peaks, bamboo groves, and ribboning rivers. The area is a magnet for landscape photographers, outdoor adventurers, and anyone seeking serenity.
What to Eat
- Guilin rice noodles: A local breakfast staple.
- Freshwater fish steamed with chilis.
Where to Sleep
Riverside guesthouses in Yangshuo’s countryside—opt for small boutique hotels or family-run abodes for unbeatable sunrise views.
Instagram Hotspots
- Sunrise Li River raft rides with cormorant fishermen.
- Moon Hill’s panoramic peaks.
- Rural cycling trails past rice paddies and hidden villages.
- The ancient West Street with neon-lit shops.
Pro Tips
- Arrive early for morning light and mist on the Li River.
- The village of Xingping is less crowded, with breathtaking views.
6. Lijiang & Dali — Ancient Towns, Ethnic Charm
Why Stay Here?
Nestled in Yunnan province, Lijiang and Dali are beautifully preserved towns with cobbled streets, Naxi and Bai minority cultures, and stunning mountain backdrops. Their unique blend of history, art, and local customs offers endless opportunities for authentic photos and immersive experiences.
What to Eat
- Naxi barbecue and yak butter tea.
- Dali’s famous cheese and grilled fish.
Where to Sleep
Traditional courtyard inns offering stylish comfort in centuries-old surroundings.
Instagram Hotspots
- Lijiang’s Black Dragon Pool with Jade Dragon Snow Mountain behind.
- The “Sea of Erhai Lake” in Dali with fishing boats and reflective water.
- Umbrella-lined old-town alleys and artisan workshops.
Pro Tips
- Plan an early morning shoot to avoid crowds and capture golden light.
- Shop for handmade tie-dye or embroidery for props or keepsakes.
7. Zhangjiajie — Otherworldly Mountains
Why Stay Here?
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, inspiration for the movie Avatar, is renowned for its surreal quartzite pillars and glass walkways. This UNESCO site is a must for dramatic adventure and nature shots.
What to Eat
- Hunan peppery cuisine—spicy, fragrant, and bold.
- Try “san xiang” (three flavors)—typical local dishes.
Where to Sleep
Mountain view hotels near the park entrance for early access before the crowds.
Instagram Hotspots
- Glass skywalks suspended over deep gorges.
- Cloudy sunrise at the “Avatar Hallelujah Mountains”.
- Colorful cable cars above a forest of pinnacles.
Pro Tips
- Arrive at opening or close to sunset for moody, empty paths.
- Pack for variable weather—clouds can add dramatic effect!
8. Hong Kong — Neon Nights & Skyline Dreams
Why Stay Here?
Hong Kong is an urban jungle where East meets West, skyscrapers dominate the sky and bustling markets spill into neon-lit alleyways. Both city life lovers and nature enthusiasts will find their calling here.
What to Eat
- Dim sum: Tim Ho Wan or local dai pai dong food stalls.
- Classic egg tarts and pineapple buns.
Where to Sleep
Skyscraper hotels in Tsim Sha Tsui or SoHo; be sure to get a harbor view.
Instagram Hotspots
- The Peak’s panoramic skyline vistas.
- Colorful trams and market stalls in Central and Sheung Wan.
- Light shows over Victoria Harbour.
- Temple Street night market.
Pro Tips
- Try a rooftop bar for the best cityscapes.
- Take the Star Ferry at dusk for classic harbor shots.
9. Suzhou — Classical Gardens & Serenity
Why Stay Here?
Nicknamed “the Venice of the East,” Suzhou’s tranquil gardens, stone bridges, and willow-lined canals evoke a poetic atmosphere, perfect for those seeking peaceful slices of traditional China.
What to Eat
- Sweet and sour mandarin fish; local dumplings.
- Suzhou-style mooncakes.
Where to Sleep
Stay in restored mansions or garden-fronted boutique hotels near Pingjiang Road.
Instagram Hotspots
- Lingering Garden’s ornate pavilions and lily ponds.
- Panmen Gate rising above lotus-filled moats.
- Classical canal scenes at sunrise with stone bridges reflected in still water.
Pro Tips
- Early morning is best for quiet garden photos.
- Save time to visit nearby water towns like Zhouzhuang.
10. Tibet (Lhasa) — Spiritual Peaks & Rich Heritage
Why Stay Here?
In the heart of the Himalayas, Lhasa offers awe-inspiring scenery and a spiritual atmosphere: think the Potala Palace, multi-hued prayer flags, and centuries-old monasteries.
What to Eat
- Butter tea, yak meat, and tsampa (barley dough).
- Fresh momos (dumplings).
Where to Sleep
Modern hotels in downtown Lhasa or authentic Tibetan-style guesthouses in the old town.
Instagram Hotspots
- Potala Palace wrapped in sunrise or twilight colors.
- Jokhang Temple pilgrims in prayer.
- Mountain vistas with fluttering prayer flags.
Pro Tips
- Acclimatize to the altitude before extensive exploring.
- Respect local customs—photography is restricted in some temples.
11. Macau — Old-World Charm & Glittering Modernity
Why Stay Here?
Macau marries centuries of Cantonese and Portuguese heritage with glitzy casinos and Michelin-starred restaurants.
What to Eat
- Egg tarts and pork chop buns from pastelarias.
- Portuguese seafood rice and African chicken.
Where to Sleep
Historic hotels near Senado Square or luxury resorts on the Cotai Strip.
Instagram Hotspots
- The Ruins of St. Paul’s Cathedral at dusk.
- Candy-colored houses of Taipa Village.
- Glamorous casino facades by night.
12. Sichuan’s National Parks — Jiuzhaigou & Beyond
Why Stay Here?
Sichuan boasts pristine reserves like Jiuzhaigou National Park, famed for sapphire lakes and rainbow-hued forests. Traveling further, the park’s Tibetan villages offer an intimate cultural experience.
What to Eat
- Tibetan yak butter tea and snacks in local villages.
- Corn cakes, wild mushrooms, and spicy hotpot.
Where to Sleep
Ecotourism lodges in the park, or guesthouses in nearby Tibetan hamlets.
Instagram Hotspots
- Five Flower Lake’s turquoise water.
- Wooden bridges and autumn foliage.
- Villages decorated for festivals and rituals.
Pro Tips
- Visit outside peak season for more serene scenes.
- A guide is recommended for hikes into remote valleys.
Comparing the Legends: Which Area Suits Your Travel Style?
Use the table below to weigh your options and tailor your trip for the most legendary experience.
City/Area | Best For | Instagram Focus | Must-Try Food | Culture Vibe |
Beijing | History, Grand Sights | Imperial palaces, Hutongs | Peking Duck, Jianbing | Regal, Fast-Paced |
Shanghai | Urban buzz, Nightlife | Skyscrapers, Bund, Lanes | Xiao Long Bao, Noodles | Modern, Chic |
Xi’an | Ancient culture, Foodies | Terracotta Army, Walls | Biang Biang Noodles | Historic, Multicultural |
Chengdu | Foodies, Laid-back stays | Tea houses, Pandas, Opera | Sichuan Hotpot, Mapo Tofu | Relaxed, Artistic |
Guilin/Yangshuo | Nature, Adventure | Karst peaks, Rivers | Rice Noodles, River Fish | Scenic, Laid-back |
Lijiang/Dali | Folkways, Old Towns | Lake, Snow Mountains, Streets | Grilled Fish, Bai Cheese | Artistic, Multicultural |
Zhangjiajie | Adventure, Hiking | Misty Pillars, Glass Bridges | Hunan Dishes | Wild, Jaw-dropping |
Hong Kong | Sky-high glamour, Markets | Peak, Neon, Harbour | Dim Sum, Egg Tarts | Cosmopolitan, Busy |
Suzhou | Gardens, Tranquility | Waterways, Classical Gardens | Mandarin Fish, Dumplings | Elegant, Peaceful |
Tibet (Lhasa) | Spirituality, Epic views | Potala Palace, Monasteries | Yak, Momos, Butter Tea | Serene, Spiritual |
Extra: Off-the-Beaten Path Destinations
Datong & Pingyao
Journeying off the main circuit, Datong (hanging monasteries, Yungang Grottoes) and Pingyao (Ming dynasty city walls, lantern-lit streets) offer ancient ambiance and less-trodden visuals.
Ningbo
A historical port city with temples, vibrant seafood markets, and riverside walks—ideal for those craving authenticity without crowds.
Practical Travel Tips for Eating, Sleeping, and Instagramming in China
- Visa & Entry: Check the latest visa requirements well in advance. Book popular attractions and hotels early if you’re visiting in peak season.
- Local Payment: Many places are cashless. Download Alipay or WeChat Pay—foreign cards are less widely accepted.
- Connectivity: Get a Chinese SIM card for high-speed data or use a reliable VPN if you need to access western sites.
- Getting Around: Use bullet trains for long distances, subways in cities, and consider hiring local guides for offbeat locations.
- Cultural Etiquette: Dress modestly for temples and ask before photographing people, especially in minority areas and markets.
- Top Pro Tip: The best Instagram content often comes from embracing daily local life—snap early-morning market scenes, festival parades, or tranquil parks at dusk before the crowds arrive.
China has no shortage of unforgettable places where eating, sleeping, and Instagramming will become headline experiences in your travel story. With regions ranging from historic cities to mystical peaks, culinary capitals to serene villages, your adventure here will be as legendary as you make it—so pack your appetite, your curiosity, and your camera. Prepare for a journey that fills both your memory card and your heart, and never forget to Travel Till You Drop!
Book Your Trip : Check Out My Resources for Your Travel Needs
Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. This is my very first stop when I’m looking for my next trip. It’s a fast, easy-to-use search engine that is perfect for finding an affordable flight, a perfect hotel, and the right rental car for you in locations around the globe.
Book Your Accommodation
If you are looking for a super budget friendly location and are open to a hostel stay, make sure you book your hostel with Hostelworld. It offers the broadest range of quality hostels around the world.
If you’d prefer a hotel or a guesthouse for stays less than 28 days, drop on over to Booking.com It’s perfect for providing excellent options, a ton of user reviews, and prices to fit every budget.
For stays over 28 days, AirBnB still remains my #1 choice. User reviews and monthly pricing allow for some incredible deals all around the world.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is but a small up-front investment that you won’t want to leave home without. After just one experience of having to delay or cancel your trip or having your luggage stolen, you’ll wish you would have made that investment. I’ve hated my life a few times when the moment arose, and I decided to skip out. Let’s just say, I’ve changed my ways and recommend each of the following companies to protect your ass-ets.
My favorite companies are:
- SafetyWing (best for All Travelers)
- World Nomads (best of Adventure Travelers)
- MedJet (great for additional evacuation coverage)
Want to Travel for Free?
Travel credit cards allow you to earn points that can be redeemed for free flights and accommodation — all without any extra spending. Check out my guide to getting free flights to get started.
Ready to Book Your Trip?
Check out my Resource Page for the best companies to help you book your travel at reduced rates! This list will help you get to where you’re going. I know-I use them ALL the time!