14 days in Xiamen, Xi'an & Lijiang Itinerary

Known for centuries as a gateway to China, the port city of Xiamen has become a destination in itself, first to domestic visitors and now to a growing number of people from across the world.

Venture out of the city with trips to Qingshui Rock (in Anxi County), Quanzhou (Quanzhou Maritime Museum, Quanzhou Hermitage, &more) and Chongwu Ancient Town (in Hui'an County). Next up on the itinerary: shop like a local with Gulangyu, walk around Xianyue Park, stroll through Kulangsu Huandao Road, and steep yourself in history at Xiamen University.

To find photos, maps, traveler tips, and tourist information, use the Xiamen trip planner.

Sydney, Australia to Xiamen is an approximately 10- hour flight. You'll gain 2 hours traveling from Sydney to Xiamen due to the time zone difference. Traveling from Sydney in October, things will get a bit warmer in Xiamen: highs are around 34°C and lows about 25°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 6th (Sun) early enough to travel to Xi'an.

Historians often describe Xi'an, capital city for over a dozen dynasties, as the birthplace of Chinese civilization.

Xi'an is known for museums, historic sites, and wildlife. Your plan includes some of its best attractions: get engrossed in the history at The Museum of Qin Terra-cotta Warriors and Horses, let your taste buds guide you at a local gastronomic tour, explore the ancient world of Xi'an City Wall (Chengqiang), and steep yourself in history at Drum Tower (Gulou).

For other places to visit, where to stay, ratings, and tourist information, go to the Xi'an trip itinerary tool.

Traveling by combination of bus and flight from Xiamen to Xi'an takes 4.5 hours. Alternatively, you can fly; or drive. Expect a bit cooler weather when traveling from Xiamen in October: highs in Xi'an hover around 22°C, while lows dip to 10°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 9th (Wed) to allow time to travel to Lijiang.

The cultural capital of the Naxi people, one of the 55 minority ethnic groups in the country, Lijang traces its history back over 800 years, with the city developing from a trading post on the ancient Southern Silk Road.

Change things up with these side-trips from Lijiang: Tiger Leaping Gorge (Hutiao Xia) (in Shangri-La County) and Yulong (Jade Dragon) Mountain (in Yulong County). Spend the 11th (Fri) exploring nature at Three Parallel Rivers National Park. Spend the 13th (Sun) exploring nature at Mt. Laojun Mountain National Geological Park ,Yulong Liming. There's lots more to do: make a trip to Old Town of Lijiang - China, contemplate the long history of Shuhe Ancient Town, and admire the local landmark of Black Dragon Pond Park.

To see traveler tips, reviews, where to stay, and tourist information, refer to the Lijiang journey maker website.

Do a combination of flight and bus from Xi'an to Lijiang in 5.5 hours. Alternatively, you can drive; or take a train. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 13th (Sun) so you can travel back home.