Find and Book Cheap Flights to China Today

Spring is an ideal time to visit, with mild weather, blooming flowers, and flight prices to China starting to increase slightly.

Peak travel season, flight prices to China can be the highest. This is the time to explore cool mountains and plateaus.

Autumn is the best time to travel to China. The weather is dry, cool, the scenery is vibrant with red and yellow leaves, and flight prices to China start to stabilize.

Low travel season, you can find the cheapest flights to China. However, the weather is very cold, especially in the North, but it's an opportunity to see snow and attend the ice festival.

Vietnamese citizens need a visa to enter China for tourism, business, or visiting relatives. You should submit your visa application at the Chinese Embassy or Consulate in Vietnam at least one month before your trip. Check the requirements for passports, photos, and invitation letters (if applicable) to ensure a smooth visa application process.

The public transportation system in China is highly developed. In major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, you can easily use the subway (Metro), buses, and taxis. The subway is the fastest and most economical means of transport. For intercity travel, the high-speed train (bullet train) is the top choice, known for its speed and comfort. You should install local map and ride-hailing apps because Google Maps and other international apps may not work well. Always carry cash for small buses or taxis in suburban areas.

The currency unit is the Yuan (CNY). China is an almost cashless society, with mobile payment apps like Alipay and WeChat Pay widely used. Tourists should be prepared for this. You can link international cards to these apps, but sometimes it can be difficult. Buying a travel SIM or using international roaming services is necessary to access the Internet and blocked apps (like Google, Facebook). Download a VPN before arriving to maintain connection with the outside world. Exchange rates are usually best at major banks or ATMs, but you should exchange a small amount of cash beforehand in Vietnam.

Chinese culture values respect for elders and modesty. When communicating, avoid pointing with your finger and use your whole hand instead. Giving small gifts when invited to someone's home is a nice gesture. In public, queuing is expected, although sometimes jostling can occur. Mandarin is the main language, and English is not common outside major tourist areas. Learning a few basic phrases will be very helpful. Be prepared for differences in personal space, as large cities are very crowded. Don't hesitate to bargain when shopping in markets, but maintain a polite attitude.

Chinese cuisine is incredibly rich, with significant differences between regions. In Beijing, try Peking Duck; in Sichuan, try spicy and numbing dishes like Mapo Tofu; and in Guangdong (Guangzhou), enjoy delicate Dim sum. Don't miss the local street food, which is often delicious and cheap. When dining in restaurants, leaving some leftover food is normal, even a sign that the host has served enough. Try local teas, as tea is an important part of the culture. If you don't eat spicy food, be sure to specify when ordering, especially in the central and western provinces.

China is generally a safe country, but you should still be careful about pickpocketing in crowded areas, such as subway stations and markets. A common scam is the 'tea artist' or 'student' inviting you to a tea house or art gallery, then charging exorbitant prices. Politely decline random invitations from strangers. Always carry a copy of your passport and visa, keeping the original in a safe. If you encounter problems, contact the police or the Vietnamese Embassy. When using a taxi, ensure the driver turns on the meter and have the destination address written in Chinese to avoid misunderstandings.

To experience authentic China, stay away from international chain stores and seek out local markets. Instead of just visiting the Great Wall at the crowded Badaling section, try hiking at Jinshanling or Mutianyu for a quieter experience. In Shanghai, explore the ancient 'Longtang' alleys instead of just strolling along the Bund. Take time to ride the high-speed train to see the diversity of the landscape. A small tip from TICKETS.VN: For a stunning photo, go to Pudong, Shanghai, at sunset, when the skyscrapers begin to light up, creating a spectacular light show.