Cheap Flights to China

Overview

China has one of the world’s oldest civilizations with a recorded history dating back 5,000 years. Its most famous national treasures are almost as old. The Great Wall was first built in the 7th century, the Terra-Cotta Warriors were buried in 210BC, and Suzhou, China’s Venice, is 2,500 years old. In recent years, China has been modernising at breakneck speed, and more and more airlines have been offering airline tickets to China for business and leisure travellers.

China’s neon-bathed cities – Beijing and Shanghai in particular but Hong Kong too – are the ones to seek out for the best in new design, restaurants, bars, shops, galleries and hotels.

Outside the cities, nature reserves and national parks show China’s diversity of landscapes. From plateaus and mountains in the west to lower lands in the east and huge rivers, the landscapes provide habitats for its animals, most famously the Wolong Nature Preserve, China’s largest panda reserve.

China is an emerging superpower, but it is also an empire with a mouthwatering variety of food – in the south rice and prawns, in the west spicy lamb and in the north, duck. More than a country, China is a feast for the senses.

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How long is the flight to China from Canada?

The flight from China to Canada averages 17h 40m to 19h 10m. A direct flight will require about 11h to 13h travel time. Multi-stop flights will increase flight duration, with some flights taking as much as twice the time of a direct flight depending on stopovers. Watch for China travel deals, as those may offer lower fares but substantially longer travel times. Flights to Beijing offer the shortest travel time.

Which cities offer direct flights to China from Canada?

Flights from Canada to China offering direct service are available from Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver. Air Canada, Lufthansa, Air China, Sichuan Airlines, China Eastern, China Southern, and other airlines provide direct service, with more than two dozen airlines offering indirect flights from major Canadian cities like Toronto, Calgary, Montreal, and Vancouver. Popular arrival cities for direct and indirect flights include Beijing, Shanghai, Nanjing, Xiamen, Shenyang, Shenzhen, and Chengdu.

What is the best way to travel around China?

Because China is so large, it is recommended to take domestic flights for longer distances, for those who can afford the additional plane ticket. There are bullet trains available now, as well, that provide access to many of the popular cities in the central, northeastern, and eastern parts of the country. The Bullet system specifically is known for its economy and quick travel time. In major cities like Beijing, subway lines are available. In fact, there are more than 23 cities in China that now have subway systems, with plenty of English-speaking agents as well as English signs and maps. Taxis are another secure option, although this may be more expensive than some options.

What are some things to do in China?

China is home to thriving urban environments like Hong Kong and Shanghai, as well as historic and ancient destinations like the Forbidden City, Great Wall, and Summer Palace. The Sichuan Province is known for authentic Chinese cuisine and visitors can also cycle the Xi’an Wall, enjoy the Shanghai skyline, and find plenty of modern shopping, dining, and nightlife. Kashgar’s Night Market is also worth a stop, as is Victoria Peak and the Peak Galleria Mall overlooking Victoria Harbour and the mountains of Kowloon. Tourists can also visit the giant pandas of Chengdu.

Do I need a passport to fly to China from Canada?

Flying into China from Canada requires a standard Canadian passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the point of arrival to the country. Canadian nationals will also need to apply for a visa, even if their intentions are leisure or business. Travellers should ensure that they apply in advance for the appropriate visa in order to expedite the customs and entry process. Overstaying visas can lead to fines and detention, as China has strict travel laws. Those planning to visit Hong Kong and the mainland should be sure to choose a multiple-entry visa.