Solo China: 12 Days for First-Timers

China is one of the safest and most rewarding countries for solo travel, and this 12-day route is designed for exactly that. It sticks to well-connected cities where English signs, hostels and other travelers make going it alone genuinely easy.

You'll follow the classic corridor — Beijing, Xi'an, Chengdu and Shanghai — which conveniently follows the high-speed rail line, so you're never more than a few hours from your next bed. The cities are walkable, the transport is predictable, and solo dining is completely normal here.

Why it suits solo travelers

• Every stop is a major hub with hostels and English-speaking staff.
• High-speed rail means no lonely overnight journeys if you don't want them.
• Meals are often served family-style and fast, so eating alone is effortless.

Stay in hostels in Beijing and Chengdu — they're social hubs and an easy way to find company for the next day's sightseeing.