Two cities, one country and a thousand contrasts.

With just two check-in suitcases, a crossbody each and a spacious tote, we spent 10 days discovering Beijing and Shanghai – two cities full of contrasts, colour and quiet surprises. From incense-filled temple courtyards to glowing riverfront skylines, the journey was a blend of stillness, scale, tradition and modern pace.

And despite the distance, both cities were easier to explore than we expected – clean, efficient and surprisingly accessible, even for first-time visitors.

We spent an afternoon exploring the 798 Art District, where former factory buildings now house contemporary galleries, design studios and quiet courtyards. It’s a place where the industrial past meets a creative future. And no visit to Beijing feels complete without a journey to the Great Wall – we chose the Mutianyu section for its forested surroundings and gentler pace. There’s nothing quite like standing on that ancient stone, hills unfolding in every direction.

Evenings were for the senses – none more so than at Huda, a buzzing Sichuan restaurant in the Dongzhimen area. Think spicy crayfish, cold beer, fast-moving waiters and the kind of joyful noise that defines a city from the inside out.

Where Beijing grounds you, Shanghai propels you forward. A walk along The Bund at night, the skyline reflecting in the Huangpu River, is pure cinematic wonder. Towering modern shapes on one side, colonial architecture on the other – and the hum of the city all around. We cruised the river one evening, watching the lights shimmer and shift as we floated past.

Evenings were just as layered. One night, we followed the scent of grilled skewers and fried dumplings through side streets and evening markets. With a tote over the shoulder and a crossbody close at hand, we sampled xiaolongbao, scallion pancakes and crispy tofu straight from street vendors – quick, flavourful and deeply satisfying.

Another evening, we dressed up for Hakkasan – a refined contrast to the city's street-level chaos. Set high above the skyline, the atmosphere was calm and considered. We shared Cantonese dim sum and jasmine tea beneath soft lighting, while the city glowed beyond the glass. Both experiences – from curbside bites to elegant plating – felt equally true to Shanghai.

Beijing and Shanghai are both well connected with direct flights from major cities in Europe, including Copenhagen, Stockholm and Oslo. Most international arrivals land in Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) or Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG), both of which offer easy access to the city centre by taxi, airport express or metro.

Travel between the two cities is seamless: the high-speed train takes just under 5 hours and offers a smooth, scenic ride – perfect if you're travelling with a light suitcase and want to experience more of the landscape along the way.

Tip: Visa requirements apply for most travellers – be sure to check before you go. And don’t forget your travel pouch for keeping your passport, documents and currency secure on the move.

Two cities. Endless impressions. Our essentials: 

• Hardcase check-in suitcase (24”-28") – ideal for trains, taxis and all your souvenirs
• Large tote or shopper – perfect for carrying layers, water and market finds 
• Crossbody bag – secure and comfortable for long days on the move 
• Travel pouch and toiletry bag – to keep essentials sorted 
• Breathable layers, walking shoes, sunglasses and a scarf for cooler evenings or temple visits

Spring (April–May) and early autumn (September–October) are ideal times to visit, with mild temperatures and clear skies.

We spent 10 days in total – five in each city – and found that to be the perfect balance between seeing the highlights and having time to slow down and take it all in.