China

No list that advises on the best things to do in China is complete without mentioning The Great Wall, this fabled UNESCO World Heritage Site draws visitors from all over the world and it’s so easy to see why, this astounding sight is absolutely awe-inspiring.

The Great Wall winds around the rugged countryside and steep mountains of northern China, showcasing an incredible example of ancient Chinese architecture that still retains much of it’s majesty since it’s construction centuries ago. The crumbling sections only add the mysterious ambience and its a must-see for every traveller visiting China.

Renowned for being one of the greatest archeological sites in the world, The Terracotta Army in China will leave you absolutely awe-struck and amazed.

The Terracotta Army is made up of thousands of highly-detailed life-size statues that represent the army that united China over 2,000 years ago, and each soldier was constructed in parts that were fired, assembled and painted individually; a truly incredible feat. Not only did every soldier have a unique facial expression and hairstyle, there are also replicas of the horses and chariots that were used at the time too.

The giant pandas’ only suitable habitats are on remote mountainsides in the foothills of China where large bamboo groves grow, but Chengdu operates many large panda bases and nature reserves that tirelessly protect and monitor these incredible animals.

With less than 2,000 giant pandas left in the wild, it’s near impossible that you’ll happen upon one on a hike, but you’ll definitely get the chance to get up close with them at Chengdu’s panda bases. These bases are home to many adult and baby pandas and lets you watch them do what they do best; eat, sleep and play. Adorable!

Located within Beijing and therefore within easy reach of anyone flying into their main airport sits The Forbidden City in China, an absolutely incredible imperial palace that has earned it’s place as one of the five most important palaces in the world.

This stunning palatial structure of grand galleries and foreboding walls dates back to almost 600 years ago and is absolutely mesmerising to walk around and take in. The palaces have been home to many emperors and now houses ancient artefacts, paintings, jade and ceramics which really adds the feeling of being transported back in time that you get when visiting.

Swap ancient ruins with a trip to Shanghai to get a glimpse into the future. No better place showcases the incredible juxtaposition of China more than the Bund.

Renowned for being one of the most recognisable symbols of Shanghai, the Bund is a mile-long promenade overlooking the Huangpu River that houses 52 gothic, baroque and neoclassical buildings, which contrast greatly with the soaring glass skyscrapers across the river. The best time to visit is at sunset, as you’ll be able to get some great shots of the blush pink sunset and the building’s bright lights after dark.

For a taste of ancient China and the traditional way of life that seems to be disappearing as the country hurtles forward into the future, visit Lijiang’s beautiful Old Town.

Lijiang sits within the Yunnan Province of China, and the Old Town is listed as a UNESCO World Cultural Site, boasting stunning authentic architecture, crescent bridges and a landscape of clear streams, snowy mountains and fresh air. An afternoon of walking along the cobbled paths and through the lantern-lit alleys will easily make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

Renowned for being one of the 'Top 10 Water Wonders of the World', the Li River is an absolute must-see for everyone visiting China.

When you think of China, and you imagine a tranquil mist-covered river flanked by emerald mountainsides, you're thinking of the Li River. The best way to see this absolutely spectacular wonder is by cruise, which will take you from one end of the river to the other, and showcases the incredible karst hillsides, forests and villages that line the riverbank. Alternatively, you can raft along the water or hike through the surrounding landscape.

The Yellow Mountains of China were granted UNESCO World Heritage status in 1990, and they're spectacular formations and natural scenery continue to dazzle all who visit.

Although parts of the mountains are yellow, they're actually named after the legendary Yellow emperor. The mountains are comprised of oddly shaped peaks and jagged faces, with some areas covered in thick plumes of enchanting mist and others coated in lush emerald forestry. The mountains are also home to many pine trees and plenty of natural hot springs.

China's incredible main square has a tragic and often overlooked past, and those with some time to spare on their trip could easily make the journey to visit this famous destination.

Tiananmen Square was the gathering point of a friendly protest comprised of thousands of students who were standing together against the communist regime in 1989, who were gunned down and attacked by the Chinese troops after the government declared martial law and forcibly ended the protests. The number of the dead has never been officially released though the number are speculated to be in the 10s of thousands.