Best Apps for Travel in China
Planning a trip to China but worried about how well your phone will work for you there? If you're a first-time traveler, navigating the country can feel a bit overwhelming and the apps used there are different to your home country (thanks Great Firewall). But don’t worry, as we have made an essential list of the best apps for travel in China to help you! Downloading these are setting them up beforehand can make your journey smoother, easier, and way more fun.
Here are the best apps for travel in China that every traveler should download before takeoff.
1. WeChat (微信)
Your all-in-one travel companion
WeChat isn’t just a messaging app—it’s China’s super app. Locals use it for everything from chatting with friends and sharing photos, to paying for meals, booking hotels, and even ordering taxis. Set up a WeChat Pay account (yes, it’s now possible for foreign visitors!) and you’ll be living like a local in no time.
2. Didi (滴滴出行)
Like Uber, but for China
Need a ride? Didi is China’s version of Uber, and it’s just as easy to use. You can book a car, check the driver’s info, and even see the fare before you ride. The app also has an English version, which is super handy if your Chinese is a bit rusty.
3. Pleco
Your pocket Chinese dictionary
Pleco is the best Chinese-English dictionary app out there. It works offline, has voice recognition, handwriting input, and even a camera feature that lets you scan Chinese text. Perfect for reading signs, menus, or asking for help when you're stuck.
4. Apple Maps or Amap (高德地图)
Reliable local navigation
Google Maps doesn’t work well in China, so you’ll need a local map app. Apple Maps and Amap are both great options. Amap now has an English version and works well for directions, public transport routes, and nearby places like restaurants or attractions.
5. Ctrip (Trip.com)
Your go-to for booking trains, flights, and hotels
Ctrip (now known globally as Trip.com) is the most popular travel booking app in China. It’s available in English and lets you book trains, flights, hotels, tours, and even tickets to attractions. Very useful if you're planning to travel across multiple cities.
6. MetroMan
Subway maps in your pocket
If you're hopping around cities like Beijing, Shanghai, or Guangzhou, MetroMan is a lifesaver. It provides clear, easy-to-read subway maps and shows you the best routes, transfer stations, and ticket prices.
7. Alipay (支付宝)
For cashless payments everywhere
Like WeChat Pay, Alipay is another major mobile payment option in China. You can use it for taxis, shops, restaurants, and even street vendors. Foreign credit cards are now supported, making it easier than ever to go fully cashless.
8. Lets VPN or another reliable VPN
Stay connected to your favorite apps
Some popular apps and websites like Google, WhatsApp, and Instagram are blocked in China. To access them, you’ll need a VPN. LetsVPN is one that works well in China and is good value. MUST download before you go!
9. Google Translate (with offline download)
Break the language barrier
Even though it’s partly blocked in China, the Google Translate app still works if you download the offline Chinese language pack before your trip. It’s great for quick translations and even has a camera feature to read Chinese signs or menus.
Final Tip:
Before your trip, download all these apps and get them set up while you're still outside of China. Some app stores and features might be restricted once you're inside the country.
Traveling in China is an incredible experience—and with the right apps on your phone, it gets a whole lot easier. Want help planning your perfect China trip? Contact us today and let our expert team take care of all the details!
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