China Tours from Italy
Italy and China have a long history of economic and cultural exchange. In 97AD, an envoy called Gan Ying was sent to Roman Empire for trade promotion. Although he failed his mission because of the impediment of Parthian Empire, several decades later in 166, Roman emperor sent his envoy to Eastern Han royal court in Luoyang, which was recorded in the Chinese history books. This is the earliest record of direct exchanges between China and Europe (Italy).
As China and Italy are both ancient civilizations with splendid cultural heritages, delicious foods, and friendly people, we have a lot to learn, share and exchange between each other. Starting from December 1, 2023, until December 31, 2025, Italian citizens with ordinary passports can travel to China for business, tourism, family visits, and transit purposes without a visa for up to 15 days. This visa-free policy makes it easier for Italians to explore China.
Like Italy, China boasts a rich cultural heritage that spans thousands of years. From the Great Wall to ancient temples, visitors can immerse themselves in fascinating histories and witness the evolution of New China. In this country, there are also some of the most stunning sceneries in the world, from Yellow Mountain to Zhangjiajie Sandstone Peaks, Jiuzhaigou Valley to Li River. Italians who love the beauty of their own country would surely appreciate the natural wonders of China.
What is more, China is home to some of the world's most exciting and dynamic cities, such as Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Chongqing, Guangzhou, Shenzhen and Hong Kong. These cities offer a unique blend of history, culture, diversity and modernity. At the same time, Italian foodies will never miss the chance to taste vast array of delicious dishes from different parts of China.
So, whether you’re drawn by visa-free travel, cultural exploration, natural beauty or food appeal, China has much to offer Italian travelers!
Best Tours to China from Italy for First Timers
- Destinations: Beijing, Xian, Shanghai
- Explore the Great Wall and the Forbidden City in Beijing
- Witness the grandeur of Terra-Cotta Warriors in Xian
- Amazed by the stunning view of Shanghai skyscrapers
- Destinations: Beijing, Xian, Guilin, Yangshuo, Shanghai
- See one of the most beautiful rural areas in Yangshuo
- Enjoy a peaceful bamboo raft trip down Yulong River
- Appreciate the historical highlights in Beijing, Xian
- Bustling & futuristic modern metropolis - Shanghai
- Destinations:Beijing, Xian, Chengdu, Guilin, Yangshuo, Shanghai
- Specially designed for family travelers
- Top historical attractions like the Great Wall, Terra Cotta Warriors
- Some outdoor activities like walking and biking ideal for the kids
- Cultural activities good for both parents and children to participant in
China Holiday for Italian Travelers
Personalized Tours for Travellers from Italy
Top Destinations for Italian Tourists to Visit in China
For Italian travelers, China can be a great destination in any sense. Nowadays China regains the global attentions and respect after 40 years of fast development. More and more people at different age groups in Italy cast eyes on this mysterious Oriental state and emerging power of the world. The current 15-day visa exemption policy can provide great convenience for the Italian travelers to realize their dreams to the Middle Kingdom.
When visiting China, Beijing and Shanghai can never be missed out, as they both enjoy a unique and irreplaceable position in this country, either politically, or economically and culturally. The two cities have so much to offer, no matter what their attractions, food, and hotels are, etc. Xian, Luoyang and Chengdu are amazing destinations for those who are fond of Chinese history. They are also famous for their local snacks. And don’t forget that Chengdu is the hometown of giant pandas. Guilin/Yangshuo’s natural scenery will also make Italian tourists to relax and enjoy a slow-paced holiday in the rural area. Other destinations like Yunnan and Tibet are definitely worth a visit if they want to experience a unique trip in this country.
Recommended Resorts/Hotels
A blissful trip isn’t complete without comfortable hotels. No matter what you want in China, Italian travelers will find an ideal accommodation to suit their needs: luxury hotels (5, or 5+ star), superior hotels (4 star) and local boutique or budget accommodations. ETC specialists are very good at selecting value-for-money hotels for our clients during their stay in the country.
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Beijing
- Sunworld Hotel (4*)
Add: 88, Dengshikou Avenue, Dongcheng District, Beijing
Tel: +86 10 58168999 - Crowne Plaza Beijing Chaoyang U-Town (5*)
Add: 3, Sanfeng North Area, Chaoyang District, Beijing
Tel: 86 10 5909 6688
- Sunworld Hotel (4*)
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Shanghai
- Angting Villa Hotel (4*)
Add: 46, Anting Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai
Tel: 86 21 64331188 - The Langham Shanghai Xintiandi (5*)
Add: 99, Madang Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai
Tel: 86 21 23302288
- Angting Villa Hotel (4*)
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Xian
- Grand Noble Hotel, Xian (4*)
Add: 334, East Main Street, Beilin District, Xian
Tel: 86 29 8769000 - Sofitel Xian on Renmin square (5*)
Add: 319, Dongxin Street, Xincheng District, Xian
Tel: 86 29 8792888
- Grand Noble Hotel, Xian (4*)
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Sanya
- South China Resort (4*)
Add: 2, Yuhai Road, Jiyang District, Sanya
Tel: 86 898 88219888 - Marriott Yalong Bay Resort & SPA (5*)
Add: 1, Wanyue Road, Yalong Bay, Jiyang District, Sanya
Tel: 86 898 8856 8888
- South China Resort (4*)
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Chengdu
- Tibet Hotel (4*)
Add: 10, Renmin North Road, Jinniu District, Chengdu
Tel: 86 28 83183388 - The Ritz-Carlton Chengdu (5*)
Add: 269, Shuncheng Avenue, Qingyang District, Chengdu
Tel: 86 28 83588888
- Tibet Hotel (4*)
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Guilin
- Bravo Hotel (4*)
Add: 14, South Ronghu Road, Xiangshan District, Guilin
Tel: 86 773 2898888 - Shangrila Guilin (5*)
Add: 111, Huangcheng Bei Er Road, Qingxing District, Guilin
Tel: 86 773 2698888
- Bravo Hotel (4*)
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Guangzhou
- Ocean Hotel (4*)
Add: 412, Huangshi East Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou
Tel: 86 20 87765988 - Sofitel Guangzhou Sunrich Hotel (5*)
Add: 988 Guangzhou Da Dao Zhong, Tianhe District, Guangzhou
Tel: 86 20 38838888
- Ocean Hotel (4*)
Practical Tips on China Tours from Italy
China Visa Tips for Italian Citizens
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Where to Apply for China Visa in Italy?
The CVASC collects consular fees and taxes on behalf of the Embassy, and commissions on their own behalf (VAT included).
Address: Viale Regina Margherita 279, 00198 Rome, Italy
Tel: +39-06-44250240
Fax: +39-06-44260770
Email: romacentre@visaforchina.org
Website: https://www.visaforchina.cn/ROM2_IT/ (Milan and Florence available as well)
Opening hours: 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays)After the opening of CVASC, the Chinese Embassy will not receive applications for visas to China with ordinary passports.
The following applications must be submitted directly to the Visa Desk of the Embassy:
1. For Diplomatic and Service Passports, or for Government Delegations
2. For the Entry Permits for Hong KongOpening hours: 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Monday to Friday (excluding holidays)
Address: VIA BRUXELLES, 56B, 00198, Rome
E-mail: roma@csm.mfa.gov.cn -
The Chinese Embassy in Italy:
◎The Chinese Embassy in Italy
Tel: +39 06 44250240
Fax: +39 06-96524260
E-mail: roma@csm.mfa.gov.cn
Address: VIA BRUXELLES, 56 00198 Roma
Practical Travel Tips for Italians traveling in China
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What is the best time to travel in China for Italians?
China is an all-year-round destination for Italian tourists. For different seasons, they may have different options. Generally April, May, September and October are the better months for visitors as the temperatures are mild during the period, while in September and October there are much less chances of rain. In certain places, Harbin should be visited in January and February for the International Ice & Snow Festival there.
During the summer holiday (Mid-July to mid-August) and the first week of October, all the tourist spots are packed with Chinese tourists. Then it is not so recommended to come at this time of the year. -
What are the top China destinations for Italian tourists?
● Top Historical and Cultural Destinations: Beijing, Xian, Chengdu
● Top Natural Scenic Destinations: Zhangjiajie, Jiuzhaigou, Guilin, Huangshan (Yellow Mountain)
● Top Destinations to see ethnic culture: Dali, Lijiang of Yunnan, Kaili, Zhaoxing of Guizhou, Tibet, Xinjiang.
● Top Foodie Destinations: Chengdu, Guangzhou, Hong Kong, Hangzhou
● Top Shopping Destinations: Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Hong Kong -
Are there any special spots in your tours for Italian tourists?
If the customers are interested in the history of Sino-Italian cultural exchange, we can arrange a visit to the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception (Beijing), which was first founded by Italian Jesuit Matteo Ricci in 1605. He was also buried at a cemetery dedicated to foreign missionaries in Beijing after death with other missionaries like Giuseppe Castiglione, who served an artist at the imperial count of three Qing Emperors. Their tombs are located in the campus of Beijing Administration Institute. You can also explore Marco Polo Bridge (Lugou Bridge) 15km southwest of Beijing’s city center, which was mentioned in his travel book.
120km to the east of Beijing, there is another mega-city of China called Tianjin. In history, it was an important colonial region of Western countries in North China. Up to now, there is a pedestrian street developed from the original Italian Concession, with many Italian style architecture and sculptures on both sides of the street. -
Are there any interesting activities for the Italian family travelers?
Absolutely yes, there are many options in different cities. For example, they can take the toboggan ride down the Mutianyu Great Wall, or fly kites in Temple of Heaven. In Xian, they can ride a bike on the old city wall, and learn to make Chinese dumplings. When in Yangshuo, they can do more walking and biking, taking Kungfu & painting class, etc. In every city, we can find something unique that will suits the needs of children to make their trip in China more enjoyable.
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Where to shop in China for Italian tourists?
China is the manufacturing superpower, while with the largest market in the world. Here is definitely a great shopping paradise for avid Italian shoppers. Here below are some recommendations in the first-tier cities of China:
Beijing:
1. Wangfujing Shopping Street
There is an array of malls and department stores along the pedestrian street for shopping clothes, silk, Chinese tea, etc. You can also try the snacks from all over the country at the Snack Street adjacent to it.
2. Xidan Commercial Street
It is also another famous shopping area at city downtown with many malls and stores finding their places here.
3. Xiushui Market (Silk Market)
It has been developed into a huge shopping mall, with hundreds of booths selling all kinds of things. Most of the shop owners can speak some English.
4. Hongqian Market (Pearl Market)
Just a stone’s throw from the east gate of Temple of Heaven, it is the biggest pearl wholesale market in Beijing.
Shanghai:
1. Nanjing Pedestrian Road
It is crowned as the No. 1 Shopping Street in China. The shopping malls and all kinds of shoppers will never let you down.
2. Huaihai Road
You will see many high-end boutique shops and shopping centers here. There are so many chances for you to explore the latest brand clothes and cosmetics.
Guangzhou:
1. Beijing Road
This is a pedestrian shopping street at downtown. You will see all kinds of options to buy, from brand clothes to souvenirs and jewelries. It is usually packed with Chinese tourists.
2. Shangxiajiu Street
This is also a pedestrian street. Hundreds of big or small shops are lined up along the street, as well as some restaurants. It is more popular among the locals, and good to visit at night.
Shenzhen:
1. Huaqiangbei Commercial Street
This is a perfect place to shop those electronics. The SEG Plaza at the corner is a good place to start. There are also other shopping centers along the road.
2. Dongmen Commercial Street
This is a pedestrian street, very popular among the younger generations in Shenzhen. You can find a number of shopping centers here. Many shops are open until midnight.
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What about drinks?
Local tea is commonly served with meals and there is a variety of soft drinks, local and imported beers and wines available for purchase. You should not drink the tap water, bottled water is inexpensive and readily available. If you like a 'cuppa', you may like to bring along a small supply of tea bags, coffee and milk powder. Most rooms have electric jugs or thermos flasks of boiling water to make hot.
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What are the toilet facilities like on a China tour?
All of hotels reserved by Easy Tour China for you are equipped with western style bathrooms and toilets. Obviously in the more remote areas, they may be a little more basic, but clean and simple is common. Whilst sightseeing, toilet facilities at restaurants and local tourist sites can vary and we would recommend that you carry tissues, wet wipes or disinfectant gel with you, “just in case”.
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What should I pack?
Casual clothing is appropriate at all times although clothes that are too revealing are still frowned upon in all over China. Try to pack lightly as your trip may involve an amount of personal baggage handling as porters are often not available except in larger hotels. For security reasons it is essential that your baggage can be locked whilst during air transportation between cities. At times, you may not be able to check into your hotel room immediately or be able to access your main bags. To ensure your comfort, a change of clothes in your hand luggage to coincide with local weather conditions is always handy. All personal toiletries should be taken with you and small packets of tissues or wet wipes are recommended. A small medical kit containing medication to alleviate common ailments is suggested.
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Are there any clothing suggestion?
Spring (Mar – May) with temperature at 10 - 22°C: Western suits, jackets, sports coats, woolen jackets, long sleeve shirts and travel shoes
Summer (Jun – Aug) with temperature above 22-35°C: T-shirts, short sleeve shirts, skirts, sandals, caps, rain wear
Autumn (Sep – Nov) with temperature at 10 - 22°C: Western suits, jackets, sports coats, light woolen sweaters, rain wear and travel shoes
Winter (Dec – Feb) with Below 10°C (colder in North China): Overcoat, thick woolen sweaters, lined coats; In northern China, cap, gloves and cotton-padded shoes are required. -
How to pay my China trip from Italy?
Easy Tour China accepts the 3 payment methods of bank transfer, credit card and Paypal. For more information, please visit our webpage at https://www.easytourchina.com/info-v638-payment-guide.
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Can I use credit cards in China?
Yes, you can only use the credit card in some hotels, shopping centers and tourist shops. Many local establishments don’t accept the foreign credit cards. You can withdraw some cash (Chinese money) from ATM machine. If registering an account on Chinese APP like Alipay or Wechat Pay on your smart phone, you can even make full use of the advanced and convenient mobile payment in China.