Suzhou China 7 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Suzhou

  • Morning: Arrive at Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) or Hongqiao International Airport (SHA)
  • Afternoon: Take a high-speed train from the airport to Suzhou North Station (approximately 30 minutes)
  • Evening: Check-in at Jinjiang Metropolo Hotel Classiq Suzhou (4-star hotel, prices start from around ¥500 per night)
  • Dinner: Head to Song He Lou, a traditional Chinese restaurant serving local cuisine, try their signature dish " Dongpo Pork"
  • Things to know:
    • Suzhou has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters
    • Learn some basic Mandarin phrases to interact with locals
  • Tips:
    • Be prepared for crowds during peak travel seasons (summer and autumn)
    • Bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun

Day 2: Classical Gardens

  • Morning: Visit Humble Administrator’s Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its beautiful landscaping and tranquil atmosphere
  • Afternoon: Explore Lingering Garden, another famous classical garden in Suzhou
  • Evening: Try some local street food at Tiger Hill Night Market
  • Places to eat:
    • Jade Restaurant (traditional Chinese cuisine)
    • Suzhou Snacks Street (try their fried dough sticks and other snacks)
  • Transportation:
    • Take bus No. 5 or 16 from the city center to Humble Administrator’s Garden
    • Taxi ride from Lingering Garden to Tiger Hill Night Market takes around 10 minutes

Day 3: Water Towns

  • Morning: Visit Tongli Ancient Town, a historic water town with well-preserved architecture and picturesque canals
  • Afternoon: Explore Zhaojia Garden, a tranquil oasis with beautiful gardens and traditional buildings
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Xuan Qiao Restaurant (try their local specialties like Suzhou-style braised pork)
  • Things to know:
    • Be respectful of the local community and rules in Tongli Ancient Town
    • Try some local street food like fried eel or fish balls
  • Tips:
    • Wear comfortable shoes for walking in Tongli Ancient Town
    • Bring a camera to capture the beautiful scenery

Day 4: Cultural Heritage

  • Morning: Visit Shantang Street, a historic pedestrian shopping street with traditional architecture and local shops
  • Afternoon: Explore Suzhou Museum, which showcases the city’s history, art, and culture
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Guandi Restaurant (try their Sichuan hot pot)
  • Places to eat:
    • Dongfang Restaurant (traditional Chinese cuisine)
    • Suzhou Night Market (try their local snacks like fried chicken or crepe cakes)

Day 5: Relaxation

  • Morning: Visit Shangri-La Hotel Suzhou’s spa and wellness center to rejuvenate and relax
  • Afternoon: Take a stroll along the picturesque Qintai Riverwalk, which offers beautiful views of the surrounding gardens and architecture
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Li Yuan Restaurant (try their local specialties like Suzhou-style braised chicken)
  • Things to know:
    • Be prepared for crowds during peak travel seasons (summer and autumn)
    • Try some local snacks like fried dough sticks or steamed buns

Day 6: Day Trip

  • Morning: Take a day trip to Lake Tai, one of China’s largest freshwater lakes, which offers stunning scenery and opportunities for boating or fishing
  • Afternoon: Visit the nearby Qintai Museum, which showcases the history and culture of Lake Tai
  • Evening: Return to Suzhou and enjoy dinner at Jade Restaurant (try their local specialties like braised pork belly)
  • Tips:
    • Bring a picnic lunch or snacks for your day trip to Lake Tai
    • Be prepared for crowds during peak travel seasons

Day 7: Departure

  • Morning: Check-out of your hotel and spend some time shopping for souvenirs or visiting any last-minute attractions
  • Afternoon: Take a high-speed train back to Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) or Hongqiao International Airport (SHA)
  • Things to know:
    • Be prepared for crowds during peak travel seasons
    • Try some local snacks like fried dough sticks or steamed buns before departing