Part of our China guide.
For a ten-day trip to China, budget travelers can expect to need around $800 to $1,200, while mid-range travelers should plan for $1,800 to $3,000. These figures cover accommodation, local transport, food, and entrance fees for a single person, based on typical costs documented between 2019 and 2024.
Related travel guides: What It Costs In Budget Travel, What It Costs In Spain, and What It Costs In Australia.
How Much Money Did I Need For A Ten-Day Trip To China?
Accommodation costs vary widely. A dorm bed in a hostel costs $8–$15 per night, a budget private room in a guesthouse runs $20–$40, and a mid-range hotel room in a major city is $50–$100. For a ten-day trip, budget accommodation totals $80–$150, while mid-range hotels run $500–$1,000.
Food is inexpensive if you eat locally. Street food and meals at small restaurants cost $2–$5 per meal. A sit-down dinner at a mid-range restaurant costs $10–$20 per person. Daily food costs for a budget traveler are about $10–$15, and for a mid-range traveler about $25–$40. For ten days, that is $100–$150 on a budget and $250–$400 for mid-range.
Local transport within cities is cheap. A subway or bus ride costs $0.30–$0.80. Taxis start at about $2–$3 for the first few kilometers. For a ten-day trip, budget $5–$10 per day for local transport, totaling $50–$100. High-speed trains between cities cost $30–$80 per journey, depending on distance and class.
Entrance fees for major attractions range from $5 to $30 per site. The Great Wall costs about $6–$10, the Forbidden City about $10, and the Terracotta Army about $20. Budget $50–$100 for entrance fees over ten days.
A budget traveler spending $800–$1,200 for ten days stays in hostels or budget guesthouses, eats street food, uses public transport, and visits a few paid attractions. A mid-range traveler spending $1,800–$3,000 stays in mid-range hotels, eats at restaurants, takes some taxis and high-speed trains, and visits more paid attractions.
Travel Guide: What To See, Do, Costs, & Ways To Save
Major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Xi’an, and Guilin offer iconic landmarks, historical sites, and vibrant markets. The Great Wall, the Forbidden City, the Terracotta Army, and the Li River are key attractions. Many visitors also explore hidden gems in China such as lesser-known ancient towns and natural parks. To save money, travel during the shoulder seasons (April–May or September–October), eat at local food stalls, use public transport, and book accommodation in advance. Consider a China Rail Pass for multiple high-speed train journeys. Many museums and temples offer discounted or free entry on certain days.
