xiamen itinerary 5 days The Perfect Tour Guide for First-Time Visitors 2025

Planning your next trip to China? A five-day itinerary in Xiamen is the perfect choice. Xiamen is a beautiful coastal city renowned for its captivating scenery, rich history, and delicious cuisine. This detailed five-day Xiamen itinerary guide will take you to explore the best attractions. We’ll provide daily itineraries featuring must-see attractions, food recommendations, and practical tips. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or as a couple, this Xiamen itinerary caters to your needs. Let’s start planning your perfect five-day adventure!

Xiamen Five-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Xiamen and explore Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street.
Day 2: Spend the day exploring Gulangyu Island.
Day 3: Visit Xiamen University and Nanputuo Temple.
Day 4: Enjoy Huan Dao Road and the beaches.
Day 5: Visit Jimei Academy Village before departure.

This Xiamen itinerary is flexible and adaptable. Adjust it based on your interests. Now, let’s dive into the detailed breakdown for each day.

Day 1: Arrival in Xiamen & Explore Zhongshan Road
Upon arrival in Xiamen, you may land at Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport (XMN) or arrive at Xiamen Railway Station. From the airport or station, you can easily take a taxi or the metro to your downtown hotel.
Accommodation Recommendation: Stay in the Siming District. It offers convenient transportation and proximity to most major attractions. Consider hotels near Zhongshan Road.
Afternoon: Zhongshan Road Pedestrian Street. This historic, vibrant commercial street lets you soak up Xiamen’s lively atmosphere.
Activities: Take a stroll, shop, and sample street snacks.
Food Recommendations: Be sure to try Satay Noodles. This is a noodle soup with a spicy peanut sauce flavor. Another must-try snack is Oyster Omelette.
Evening: You can rest at your hotel to prepare for the next day. Alternatively, take a walk along the seaside to enjoy the city’s night views.

Day 2: Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site Gulangyu Island
Today, you’ll spend the entire day exploring Gulangyu Island. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its colonial-era architecture, piano museum, and beautiful gardens.
Important Note: Foreign visitors must take a ferry from Xiamen International Cruise Terminal. Be sure to book ferry tickets online in advance, as availability is limited.
Morning: Board the ferry to Gulangyu. The journey is brief, lasting about 20 minutes. Enjoy stunning sea views along the way.
Morning Activity: Upon arrival, head to Sunlight Rock. This is the island’s highest point. Climb to the summit for breathtaking panoramic views of Gulangyu and Xiamen City.
Afternoon Activity: Visit Shuzhuang Garden. This is a beautiful seaside garden. Then, proceed to the Piano Museum. Known as the “Piano Island,” Gulangyu houses this museum featuring numerous antique pianos.
Lunch Suggestion: Enjoy lunch at a local eatery on Gulangyu. Savor fresh seafood. The island also offers many cafes where you can relax with a cup of coffee.
In the evening, take the ferry back to Xiamen. You might feel a bit tired, but your heart will be filled with wonderful memories.

Day 3: Culture and History – Xiamen University and Nanputuo Temple
Today you’ll visit one of China’s most beautiful campuses and an ancient Buddhist temple.
In the morning, head to Nanputuo Temple. This is Xiamen’s most famous and significant Buddhist temple, nestled at the foot of Wulao Peak.
Activities: Explore the temple complex. Admire the grand halls and Buddha statues. The temple’s atmosphere is exceptionally serene. If interested, observe Buddhist rituals. Admission is free.
Xiamen University is within walking distance of Nanputuo Temple. This campus is renowned for its stunning traditional architecture and picturesque scenery.
Important Note: Foreign visitors can typically enter the campus with their passports. However, check the latest regulations beforehand, as policies may change.
Activities: Stroll through the campus. Visit Furong Lake. See historic buildings like Song’en Building.
Lunch Suggestion: Eat at a student cafeteria near Xiamen University. It’s a great way to experience local cuisine at affordable prices.
In the afternoon, visit the nearby Hulishan Battery. This historic site features old cannons and overlooks the sea. Then relax at Baicheng Beach to end the day.

Day 4: Nature & Leisure – Huan Dao Road & Zengcuoan
After several days of intensive sightseeing, today is dedicated to enjoying Xiamen’s natural scenery and relaxed atmosphere.
Morning: Head to Huan Dao Road. This scenic coastal route is Xiamen’s most popular cycling path.
Activities: Rent a bicycle and cycle along Huan Dao Road. You’ll pass beaches, parks, and sculptures. It’s a great way to feel the sea breeze and get some exercise.
Afternoon: Visit Zengcuoan. This former fishing village has transformed into an artistic and creative community. It resembles Gulangyu but is smaller and more locally authentic.
Activity: Explore the narrow streets lined with shops, cafes, galleries, and snack stalls. It’s a great spot to buy unique souvenirs and sample more local snacks.
Food Recommendation: In Zengcuoan, try peanut soup or grilled seafood.
In the evening, find a cozy cafe in Zengcuoan or return to your hotel to rest. This is a relaxing day in your five-day Xiamen itinerary.

Day 5: Jimei Academy Village & Departure
This is the final day of your five-day Xiamen itinerary. Depending on your flight or train schedule, you may only have half a day available.
In the morning, consider visiting Jimei Academy Village. Located outside Xiamen’s main island (accessible by metro), it’s well worth the trip. This picturesque educational district was built by the patriotic overseas Chinese figure Tan Kah Kee. Its architecture blends Chinese and Western styles, creating a truly unique atmosphere.
Activities: Take a stroll through the academy village. Admire the Dragon Boat Pond and the distinctive buildings.
Afterward, it’s time to conclude your five-day Xiamen itinerary. Head to the airport or train station, returning home with cherished memories and photos.

Practical Information for Your Xiamen Trip
Best Time to Visit: Autumn (September to November) and Spring (March to May). Enjoy pleasant weather.
Transportation: Xiamen boasts an efficient bus and metro system. Taxis and ride-hailing services (like Didi) are also convenient.
Currency: Chinese Yuan (RMB). Carry some cash, though mobile payments are widely accepted.
Language: Mandarin is the official language. English is limited in tourist areas. Learning a few basic phrases is helpful.

This five-day Xiamen trip guide covers the city’s best highlights. From historic Gulangyu Island to the picturesque Xiamen University, you’ll experience the city’s diversity. Enjoy your journey!