Classical China - 9 day tour

After breakfast at our hotel, we will visit the historic site where the People's Republic of China was founded. Tiananmen Square, one of the world's most remarkable public spaces, lies at the heart of Beijing.

We will then visit the Forbidden City, the largest ancient palace complex in the world. As we explore its grand halls and beautiful gardens, we will witness the best-preserved imperial palace in China, a site of immense historical significance.

Lunch will be included at a local Chinese restaurant before we head to the Temple of Heaven. This architectural masterpiece was visited by the Emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties for centuries. It's where they prayed for a good harvest and is a stunning testament to imperial architecture. We will have a chance to experience a traditional tea ceremony before transferring back to the hotel, with free time to get dinner or further explore Beijing.
Overnight: Beijing  |  Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast at our hotel, we will head to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall. Here, we can marvel at this incredible feat of Chinese engineering and ingenuity, a breathtaking monument to human achievement set against a backdrop of spectacular scenery.

After lunch, we will visit the Summer Palace, once the retreat of the imperial family. This enchanting site offers breathtaking views and the chance to admire the serene Kunming Lake. The beautifully adorned buildings and courtyards are steeped in history and provide a glimpse into the grandeur of China’s imperial past.

We will then get our transfer back to the hotel, and the evening is at leisure.
Overnight: Beijing  |  Breakfast, Lunch

Beijing - Xi'an. We start today with a guided tour of Beijing's charming and intricate alleyways, known as ‘Hutongs’, experiencing them in style. We'll then enjoy lunch at a local family home or a traditional restaurant.

In the afternoon, we will transfer to Beijing West Railway Station to catch a high-speed train to Xi'an, travelling in comfort in a second-class seat for the 5-6 hour journey. Upon arrival in Xi'an, you will be warmly welcomed by our local guide at the railway station and will then be transferred to our hotel in Xi'án.
Overnight: Xi'an  |  Breakfast, Lunch

Xi'an - Shanghai. We will start our day by exploring the ancient City Wall, a remarkable relic from the Ming Dynasty that dates back 600 years and is the best-preserved of its kind in China.

Next, we’ll wander through the vibrant Muslim Quarter, where we’ll have the chance to sample a variety of delicious local street foods at the market. Our adventure continues with a visit to the Great Mosque, an impressive example of Islamic architecture in China.

After lunch, we’ll transfer to the railway station to board our overnight train to Shanghai (4 berth cabin). Departing mid-afternoon, we’ll embark on a train journey of approximately 15-16 hours. We recommend you stock up on snacks befor the journey!
Overnight: Sleeper train  |  Breakfast, Lunch

We’ll begin our day with a visit to Zhujiajiao, often dubbed the ‘Venice of China’. This picturesque water town offers a charming escape from the bright lights and towering skyscrapers of Shanghai. Here, we’ll drift along tranquil canals, where daily life is leisurely conducted by boat, and admire buildings that gracefully rise just above the waterline.

After lunch at a local restaurant, we’ll explore the Former French Concession. This historic district is renowned for its elegant tree-lined streets, colonial architecture, and vibrant atmosphere, providing us with a unique glimpse into Shanghai's cosmopolitan past.

Our adventure continues with a visit to a silk factory, where we’ll discover the intricate process of silk production. Your final evening in China is at leisure.
Overnight: Shanghai  |  Breakfast, Lunch