The best time to visit China in 2025 - and just some of the incredible places to visit
By Allison Yee|
Australians have long had a passion for exploring Asian countries, and recent statistics show that China might be sneaking its way to the top of the list.
While Japan and South Korea continue to dominate as trending destinations, the Australian Bureau of Statistics reports there was a 124 per cent surge in Aussies visiting China in 2024, compared to the year before.
And that trend continues into this year, with China ranking as one of the top holiday destinations specifically for younger generations in Australia, according to Hilton's 2025 Trends Report
READ MORE: Top holiday destinations for Aussie families - according to their generation
With everything from sprawling cities, iconic sights such as The Great Wall, an endless array of exciting cuisine and cheap flights to get there from Australia, it's hard to know where to start when planning a trip to this amazing country.
Best time to visit China?
China is a great destination to visit all year around, however those in the know recommend booking a trip in spring between April to May, or in the autumn months of September to October.
Thanks to mild temperatures and flowers starting to bloom, spring is a great option for travellers who want to avoid the humidity and stickiness of summer months.
Autumn is a similarly comfortable time for adventurers to take in the sights, with the added bonus of fabulously colourful foliage as forests shed their leaves.
It is important to remember that China is a huge country (approximately 24 per cent larger than Australia) so there will be differences in weather depending on where you decide to visit.
Best places to visit China?
Beijing
Home to over 20 million people, bustling Beijing is an essential stop for anyone keen to tick off the must-visit landmarks in China.
From Tiananmen Square to the Forbidden City and the Great Wall, there's endless sights to see. Don't forget to make time to wander the charming hutongs (narrow alleys) filled with locals, and book in at least one delicious Peking Duck meal.
Shanghai
Sophisticated and charming, Shanghai has it all from impressive architecture (covering everything from neo-classical to Art Deco styles) to fine dining and next-level shopping.
The world-famous Bund is the best budget attraction around, with a free stroll along this promenade lining the Huangpu River a great way to take in the city's skyline of historical buildings mixed in with towering skyscrapers.
Sichuan
Whether it's marvelling at the beauty of Jiuzhaigou National Park or visiting the 71-metre tall Leshan Giant Buddha carved into a steep rock face, Sichuan is located in the southwestern part of the country and a popular spot on the tourist trail.
Head to the capital of Chengdu, where the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is located and home to 120 giant pandas and 76 red pandas. Feeding takes place at opening time, so time your visit for the best chance to see them in action.
Hong Kong
Fast-paced and vibrant, Hong Kong's reputation as a cosmopolitan city celebrating good food, excellent shopping and blend of cultures has seen travellers flocking to experience its east-meets-west way of life.
Whether it's haggling at night markets, indulging in Michelin-starred dim sum, spending the day at Hong Kong Disneyland or soaking up the atmosphere at Happy Valley Racecourse, this former British colony has something for the whole family.
Do Australians need visas for China?
According to Smartraveller.gov.au, Aussie passport holders do not require a visa for stays in China for less than 30 days. Eligibility to enter China will be assessed by Chinese authorities at the border.
Smartraveller.gov.au does advise on exercising a high degree of caution when visiting China.
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Cheapest way to see China?
If you want to make your travel dollars go further, China is a great place to do that.
Eight Chinese carriers (including Air China and Cathay Pacific) now operate direct flights to Australia, meaning flight prices are competitive. Skyscanner reports that a one way flight costing around $270 can be found when booking for May.
Once there, not only is public transport efficient and inexpensive, but China's high-speed rail (HSR) network is the world's largest and most extensively used, making it a great way to easily cover ground all across the country.
If you want to see your budget extend even further, it pays to venture off the beaten track and visit smaller provinces, where the cost of food, accommodation and entry fees to attractions will be less.
Needless to say, eating at local restaurants and staying at smaller hostels or lodgings will not only save you cash but also let you experience authentic daily life.
