SEMI-INDEPENDENT TOUR: Explore China, from Beijing to Shanghai and the wonders in between. Visit iconic landmarks such as the Great Wall of China and the Forbidden City, and delve into the rich histories of Pingyao and Xi'an. This tour offers a perfect blend of modern and ancient Chinese culture, from savouring Beijing duck to biking along Xi’an’s city walls. Discover the best of China’s rivers, temples, and vibrant city streets on this unforgettable journey.
Included
Itinerary
Welcome to Beijing
Welcome to Beijing! On arrival, make your own way to the tour hotel. In the afternoon, meet your Tour Leader and fellow travelers in the hotel lobby. Enjoy an orientation walk around the city, followed by a delicious welcome dinner at a local restaurant where you'll try the city's best dish: Beijing duck!
During dinner, your guide will provide a detailed trip briefing. Afterwards, choose to rest up for the next day or join your Tour Leader at a local craft beer bar. The choice is yours!
Overnight: Beijing | Dinner
Tiananmen Square & The Forbidden City
Rise and shine for an exciting day in Beijing! After breakfast, the adventure kicks off with visits to Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City, followed by a hike up to Jingshan Park for stunning city views.
In the afternoon, enjoy free time in Nanluoguxiang, an area perfect for shopping enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, with its quaint lake and vibrant shops. You'll find plenty of great lunch spots here! If you're interested in something different, hop on the metro to see the iconic Bird’s Nest, famous for the 2008 Summer and 2022 Winter Olympics.
The rest of the evening is yours to explore at your leisure.
Overnight: Beijing | Breakfast
The Great Wall
Today, you have another early start as you head out to one of the wonders of the world – the Great Wall of China. After breakfast, you’ll travel to a section of the wall a couple of hours outside the capital, where you’ll spend the day hiking along this awe-inspiring structure.
You’ll return to the city in the late afternoon. You can choose to rest up or continue exploring. If you have the energy, consider visiting the Summer Palace or District 798 for more sightseeing and adventure!
Overnight: Beijing | Breakfast
Temple of Heaven & Pingyao
Beijing - Pingyao. This morning, you'll start your day by exploring the Temple of Heaven. Located in a sprawling park in the city center, it's a popular spot for locals to exercise. Why not join in with a tai chi class for a true local experience?
After a break for lunch at the Fake Market, enjoy some time shopping – and be sure to stock up on snacks before we head to our next destination: Pingyao!
We'll take a bullet train for just over three hours, arriving in Pingyao, where you have the option to join the group for dinner at a local restaurant. Be sure to try the famous Pingyao beef! If you still have energy, spend the evening exploring the lively town, filled with bars and markets.
Overnight: Pingyao | Breakfast
Pingyao Old Town & Xi'an
Pingyao - Xi'an. After breakfast at your hotel this morning, you’ll have a free day to explore Pingyao’s Old Town. With its rich history, the town boasts over twenty museums, temples, and other highlights, all accessible with your provided entry ticket. Consider visiting the first Bank of China, the Temple of Confucius, or taking a hike along the city walls.
In the evening, you'll board the bullet train to your next destination: Xi’an! You'll arrive tonight, just in time to get a good night’s sleep ahead of another busy day.
Overnight: Xi'an | Breakfast
Explore Xi'an
This morning, your Tour Leader will take you to a local spot for breakfast. Afterwards, get ready to explore ancient Xi’an, renowned for its stunning city walls. You’ll cycle 13km along the walls, enjoying breathtaking views of the old capital.
After a lunch break, you can opt to join your group for an exciting cultural activity: a calligraphy class! Head to the Small Goose Pagoda, where you’ll learn about Chinese calligraphy and try your hand at it.
In the evening, join a walking tour through Xi’an’s Muslim Quarter. Here, you’ll see landmarks like the Drum & Bell Tower and get the chance to try some tasty regional snacks. Afterwards, opt to join your group for a fun karaoke night!
Overnight: Xi'an | Breakfast
The Terracotta Warriors
Xi'an - Shanghai. After an early breakfast, you'll visit one of Xi’an’s most iconic archaeological sites: the Terracotta Warriors! This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the tomb of the first Emperor of Imperial China, Qin Shi Huang (259-210 BC), guarded by thousands of life-size terracotta statues. You'll conclude your tour with a visit to the local museum and cinema, where a documentary will provide you with detailed insights into this extraordinary site.
Afterwards, head straight to the train station for your transfer to Shanghai, the final destination on your China tour. You’ll arrive in the evening, ready for another exciting day tomorrow.
Overnight: Shanghai | Breakfast
Stunning Shanghai
Start your day with breakfast at the hotel, then embark on a walking tour of vibrant Shanghai. Your guide will offer insights into local life, and you'll get to taste local specialties like stuffed pancakes and sesame bread. Explore highlights such as the Jinmao Tower, the Financial District, and Yu Gardens, followed by some free time to shop and break for lunch.
For thrill-seekers, consider taking the Skywalk at Jinmao Tower, where you can experience breathtaking views from 350 meters above the ground!
Afterwards, spend your afternoon as you like—continue exploring the city, visit the Museum of Contemporary Art, or wander Nanjing Road. In the evening, you can opt to join your group for a cooking class and learn to make delicious xiaolongbao, a Shanghainese specialty!
Overnight: Shanghai | Breakfast
Zhujiajiao Water Town
Shanghai - Zhujiajiao - Shanghai. After breakfast, venture outside Shanghai for an exciting day trip to Zhujiajiao, a historic water town famed for its canals and ancient architecture. With a history spanning over 1,500 years and archaeological sites dating back more than 5,000 years, Zhujiajiao offers a glimpse into China's rich past. Explore traditional trade houses, enjoy a scenic boat ride, and learn about the Great Canal of China, which connects Hangzhou and Beijing.
Return to Shanghai in the late afternoon for a stylish boat cruise along the Huangpu River. Enjoy your final evening with a glass of bubbly and snacks as you take in the sunset. Celebrate your trip with a farewell dinner, then continue the festivities with cocktails at one of the city’s rooftop bars.
Overnight: Shanghai | Breakfast, Dinner
Goodbye
After breakfast this morning, your China tour concludes. Make your own way to the airport for your onward flight or contact us if you need to return to Beijing by train or require an airport transfer. Safe travels!
Breakfast
Prices & Dates
All dates are guaranteed to operate when there are 2 persons booked on the tour. 'Twin/Double' prices are per person when there are 2 people sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to solo travellers or anyone wanting the privacy of a single room.
Extra Prices
At a Glance
