China travel tips for first-time visitors: 2026 checklist

Written by Richard from practical experience helping first-time visitors. Last reviewed 25 July 2026; confirm changing rules with official sources.

China is one of the most rewarding — and most different — places to travel. The trick is that almost everything runs through Chinese apps, so a little preparation turns a potentially stressful trip into a smooth one. Here’s the short version of what to do before you go.

Payments ready

Set up Alipay and WeChat Pay before you depend on them.

Internet that works

Choose connectivity before landing, not after your usual apps stop loading.

Connections understood

Know the apps, stations and documents before your first travel day.

1. Visa & entry

Through 31 December 2026, ordinary passport holders from most EU countries, the UK, Canada and many others can enter mainland China visa-free for up to 30 days for tourism, business, family visits, exchange or transit. The policy is temporary and eligibility depends on the passport and purpose of travel. Check the current official National Immigration Administration country list and the Chinese embassy responsible for your passport before booking.

2. Payments — the most important step

China is nearly cashless, and physical foreign cards are rarely accepted in shops. The fix is to link an international card (Visa, Mastercard and others) to Alipay and/or WeChat Pay before you travel. Set both up — Alipay tends to be more reliable for foreign cards. Full walk-through in the Alipay & WeChat Pay guide.

3. Internet, eSIM & VPN

Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook and many Western sites are blocked on mainland China’s network. Read the full China eSIM and internet guide, then plan for it:

• Get a travel eSIM that routes through outside China (many keep your usual apps working), or a local SIM if you prefer.
• Install and test a reputable VPN before you arrive — they can’t reliably be downloaded once you’re inside.
• Download offline maps; Apple Maps works well, and Amap/Baidu Maps are the local standard.

4. Apps to install before you go

The best apps for China travel guide explains the complete setup. At minimum, install:

• Alipay and WeChat — payments, transport, translation, mini-programs.
• Didi (in Alipay or standalone) — ride-hailing.
• A translation app — Google Translate’s offline pack, or the translator inside Alipay.
• A metro app or the metro mini-program inside Alipay for tap-to-ride.

5. Getting around

High-speed rail is fast, punctual and connects the whole region (Shenzhen–Guangzhou in about 30 minutes). City metros are cheap, clean and English-signed. Didi replaces street taxis once your payment works. Book train tickets with your passport via Trip.com or the official rail app; the China high-speed train guide explains booking, stations and boarding.

6. Money, health & etiquette

• Carry a little cash as backup, but you’ll rarely need it.
• Bring any personal medication with prescriptions; pharmacies differ.
• Tap water isn’t for drinking — bottled or boiled is the norm.
• Tipping isn’t expected in most places.
• Carry your passport; hotels register you with local police on check-in.

Where to go

If you’re landing in the south, start with the Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Hong Kong and Macau guides — or let me build you a custom itinerary.