Traveling to China From Switzerland visa-free

Traveling to China from Switzerland just got a lot easier now because they don't need a visa anymore. This big change means that people from these two countries can now visit beautiful places, and enjoy their rich culture. It's like a special agreement between the two countries that makes going from one to the other much simpler and friendlier.

It also shows that Switzerland and China are becoming better friends, opening doors for more tourists and making it easier for businesses to work together.

By removing the need for a visa, it's hoped that more people from Switzerland will pack their bags for China.

China is a rich country full of amazing places worth visiting, and there are many attractions that you can visit during your 15-day visa-free stay in China.

But, first the details about visa-free agreement.

Good to know about China's visa-free 

On March 7, 2024, China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that China will expand its 15-day visa-free entry policy to six additional European countries. In these 6 countries is also Switzerland.

The visa-free policy starts on March 14 and it will end on November 30, 2024. This means that everyone who holds an ordinary passport can travel to China from Switzerland visa-free. It is an amazing business opportunity, to travel, and visit relatives in China. This visa-free option can also be used by those who make transit in China.

If you need to apply for a Chinese visa, here you can do that online. Or you can use this step-by-step guide for visa application.

This is the office address 1st Stock, Murifeld, Weltpoststrasse 5, 3015, Bern, Switzerland, It is open Monday to Friday.

Places to visit in China for 15 days

A 15-day trip to China offers a fantastic opportunity to explore its vast diversity, from ancient sites to modern marvels, and natural wonders to vibrant cultural experiences. Here’s a suggested itinerary that covers some of China’s most unforgettable destinations, but you can contact us, at any time for a private or group tour of China’s most popular attractions if you don't know what to visit in China.

Days 1-3: Beijing

Beijing is the capital of China and one of the most visited cities in China. Beijing is a city that blends ancient history and tradition with modern living. There are so many things to do and see in Beijing, but these are the most popular attractions that you can’t miss:

Great Wall of China: The Great Wall of China is a tourist attraction you can not miss during your adventure in China. The most popular sections are Mutinayu and Badaling and also they are close to Beijing. Both sections offer a natural scenic beauty, but also there are a lot of crowds, especially in summer, our recommendation is to visit early to avoid crowds.

Forbidden City: Dive into the heart of China’s imperial past. The Forbidden City in Beijing is a huge and beautiful palace where China's emperors used to live for over 500 years. It's filled with amazing buildings and old treasures that show how rich and powerful China's history is, making it a must-see for anyone visiting the city.

Tiananmen Square: Witness one of the world’s largest public squares.

Summer Palace: Explore this masterpiece of Chinese landscape garden design.

Days 4-5: Xi’an

Xi’an is one of China's oldest cities and is a treasure trove of historical wonders, famously known as the starting point of the Silk Road. It's famous for the Terracotta Army, an amazing collection of clay soldiers that were buried underground to protect an ancient emperor after he died. Here are the most popular attractions in Xi’an:

Terracotta Army: Marvel at the ancient clay warriors buried with Emperor Qin Shi Huang.

Xi’an City Wall: Rent a bike and cycle around this well-preserved ancient city wall.

Muslim Quarter: Enjoy delicious street food and vibrant market life.

Days 6-7: Chengdu

Chengdu, known as the land of abundance, is celebrated for its laid-back lifestyle and culinary excellence, famously being the home of spicy Sichuan cuisine. It's also the gateway to seeing China's beloved giant pandas up close at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, a must-visit for animal lovers and conservation enthusiasts. This is the best time to visit Chengdu.

Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding: See pandas up close in a conservation center.

Jinli Street: Experience traditional Sichuan architecture and cuisine.

Days 8-10: Guilin and Yangshuo

Guilin captivates visitors with its breathtaking landscape of limestone karst hills rising from the serene Li River, a scene so beautiful it's often depicted in the Chinese currency. This picturesque city is a haven for nature lovers, offering unforgettable river cruises and tranquil walks amidst its stunning scenery.

Li River Cruise: Admire the stunning limestone karst landscape on a boat trip from Guilin to Yangshuo.

Yangshuo: Explore the countryside by bike or take a bamboo raft down the Yulong River.

Days 11-12: Zhangjiajie

Zhangjiajie is renowned for its otherworldly landscapes, including towering sandstone pillars that inspired the floating mountains in the movie "Avatar." This UNESCO World Heritage site, with its vast network of canyons, forests, and precarious bridges, offers an unparalleled adventure for hikers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park: Wander through breathtaking Avatar-like pillars. Visit Yuanjiajie and Tianzi Mountain for the best views.

Glass Bridge: Test your courage on the world’s highest and longest glass-bottomed bridge.

Days 13-15: Shanghai

Shanghai stands as a dazzling metropolis where the future meets tradition, home to the iconic Bund waterfront and the soaring Shanghai Tower, one of the world's tallest buildings. This dynamic city blends cutting-edge architecture with historic shikumen houses, offering a vibrant cultural tapestry and a glimpse into China's rapid urban evolution.

The Bund: Stroll along the waterfront with its colonial architecture.

Shanghai Tower: Get panoramic views of the city from one of the world’s tallest buildings.

Yu Garden: Find peace in this exquisite traditional garden.

Nanjing Road: Experience the hustle and bustle of one of the world’s busiest shopping streets.

Traveling from Switzerland to China from Switzerland without needing a visa marks a significant shift towards making the wonders of China more accessible to Swiss travelers. This new ease of access opens up a realm of possibilities for cultural exchange, tourism, and business, bridging the gap between the Swiss and Chinese peoples.