Traveling to China doesn’t have to break the bank. From the bustling streets of ancient cities to serene natural landscapes, China offers a wide range of budget-friendly destinations that allow travelers to experience its rich culture and stunning scenery without overspending. Whether you’re backpacking or seeking affordable luxury, these top 10 budget-friendly destinations in China provide great value for your money.

1. Xi'an

Known for being home to the Terracotta Army, Xi'an is a city steeped in history and one of the most affordable travel destinations in China. Accommodation and food are inexpensive, especially if you opt for local guesthouses and street food. Must-visit spots like the Ancient City Wall, the Bell Tower, and the Muslim Quarter are free or very cheap to explore. Xi'an also offers some affordable tours to the Terracotta Warriors and surrounding historical sites, making it an ideal spot for history buffs on a budget.Here is a recommended itinerary for Xi'an: 2-Day Xi'an In-Depth Tour

2. Pingyao

Pingyao, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of China’s best-preserved ancient cities, offering visitors a step back in time. This charming walled city, with its traditional courtyards, narrow lanes, and ancient architecture, is extremely affordable to explore. You can visit temples, old banks, and ancient houses without spending much. Street food in Pingyao is cheap, and staying in traditional guesthouses will allow you to experience authentic Chinese culture at a fraction of the cost of larger cities.Here is a recommended itinerary:Shanxi to Pingyao Tour

3. Chengdu

Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province, is famous for its relaxed vibe, delicious cuisine (especially the spicy Sichuan hotpot), and being the home of the giant panda. This city is not only affordable but also offers a lot for travelers to enjoy on a budget. You can visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding for just a small entrance fee, explore Sichuan’s culinary delights in the city's many street food markets, and visit attractions like Wuhou Shrine or Jinli Ancient Street without spending much.Here is a recommended itinerary for Chengdu: 1-Day Chengdu Panda Tour

4. Yangshuo

Yangshuo, located in southern China’s Guangxi Province, is known for its stunning karst mountain landscape, which is a must-see on any budget trip. There are plenty of low-cost options for exploring the area—bike rentals are cheap, and walking along the Li River or hiking in the surrounding countryside is free. Hostels in Yangshuo offer affordable accommodations, and the town’s street food stalls serve local delicacies at a fraction of the price of typical restaurants. Don’t forget to visit the Moon Hill and take a scenic bamboo raft ride. Here is a recommended itinerary:2-Day Guilin Trip

5. Dali

Dali, located in Yunnan Province, is a haven for budget travelers who love history and nature. The ancient town of Dali is affordable to explore, with its old streets lined with charming shops and cafes. The city offers low-cost guesthouses and hostels, and street food is inexpensive and delicious. Dali is surrounded by scenic landscapes, including the famous Erhai Lake and Cangshan Mountain, both of which can be enjoyed for free or at minimal cost. It’s a great destination for those who want a laid-back atmosphere and breathtaking views without the high price tag.Here is a recommended itinerary:Dali and Lijiang Old Town Tour

6. Lijiang

Another gem in Yunnan Province, Lijiang is famous for its ancient Naxi culture and charming old town. The cost of accommodation and food in Lijiang is relatively low, and the old town is free to explore. You can spend your days wandering the winding cobbled streets, exploring local markets, and visiting attractions like the Black Dragon Pool. The nearby Jade Dragon Snow Mountain offers affordable access via public transport or budget-friendly tours, making Lijiang a great place for both cultural and natural experiences on a budget.Here is a recommended itinerary:3-Day Lijiang Tour

7. Zhangjiajie

Zhangjiajie, in Hunan Province, is home to the stunning Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, the inspiration for the floating mountains in the movie Avatar. While the park itself requires an entry ticket, it's a very affordable destination compared to other natural sites in China. You can hike the park’s breathtaking trails or take a cable car (which is also reasonably priced) to view the towering sandstone pillars. The nearby Tianmen Mountain also offers impressive views and an affordable cable car ride, making it a great destination for outdoor lovers on a budget.Here is a recommended itinerary:1-Day Zhangjiajie forest&Tianmen Mountain

8. Shenzhen

While Shenzhen is known for being a tech hub and a booming metropolis, it can still be surprisingly affordable for travelers on a budget. Visit the vibrant, yet cheap, markets like Dongmen Market for souvenirs and local eats, or explore the free parks such as Lianhuashan Park and Shenzhen Bay Park. The city also offers budget-friendly accommodation, from hostels to affordable hotels. If you're interested in theme parks, Shenzhen has some great options like Window of the World and Splendid China, both of which are often cheaper than their counterparts in other cities.

9. Huangshan

Huangshan, or Yellow Mountain, is one of China’s most iconic natural sites and offers incredible mountain scenery. While there is an entry fee for the scenic area, it remains a budget-friendly destination compared to other famous mountain resorts. You can hike on the well-maintained trails of Huangshan, and there are plenty of budget accommodations in the area. The mountain’s unique granite peaks, ancient pine trees, and sea of clouds make for unforgettable views, and the experience of hiking or taking the cable car is worth every penny.Here is a recommended itinerary:3-Day Mount Huang Tour

10. Suzhou

Suzhou, often called the "Venice of the East," is famous for its classical Chinese gardens and beautiful canals. The city offers an affordable escape, with entrance fees to most gardens and temples being relatively low. You can easily spend a day strolling around the well-preserved ancient streets and exploring Suzhou’s famous silk market. A boat ride along the canals is a peaceful and budget-friendly way to take in the scenic beauty of the city, and the local food, including dumplings and sweet treats, is inexpensive and delicious.Here is a recommended itinerary:2 Days Suzhou Tour

If you're planning an unforgettable trip, we have carefully designed multiple China tour itineraries to meet different needs and interests. contact us to learn more and customize your perfect China adventure.