We Love —
- Uncovering the secrets of the Forbidden City and walking along the iconic Great Wall with breathtaking views over the surrounding mountains.
- Embarking on an unforgettable cruise from Chongqing to Yichang, gliding along the majestic Yangtze River and marvelling at the riverside scenery.
- Discovering the futuristic skyline of Pudong with its soaring skyscrapers and the historic charm and colonial architecture of the Bund in Shanghai.
Customer reviews —
China is now welcoming visitors again. Embark on a memorable journey that includes scaling one of the 7 Wonders of the World, encountering adorable pandas, and cruising along the Yangtze River to witness the grandeur of the world's largest dam. To explore the breathtaking beauty of rice terraces and distinctive sugar loaf formations, go for the 16 night tour.
Your itinerary in brief —
Embark on an enthralling 11 night tour through the heart of China. Your adventure kicks off in the ancient capital, Beijing, where you'll marvel at the Forbidden City and the Great Wall. Traverse through the historic city of Xi'an, discovering the Terracotta Army's secrets, and savouring local culinary delights. Immerse yourself in Chengdu's modern charm, home to the beloved giant pandas. Cruise along the Yangtze River from Chongqing to Yichang, witnessing the breathtaking Three Gorges. Explore the dynamic metropolis of Shanghai, with its iconic skyline and vibrant blend of tradition and modernity.
Opt for a 16-night tour with stops in the picturesque Guilin and the cosmopolitan Hong Kong.
11 night tour:
Day 1: Arrive in Beijing
Day 2 & 3: Beijing
Day 4: Beijing - Xi'an
Day 5: Xi'an
Day 6: Xi'an - Chengdu
Day 7: Chengdu - Chongqing - Cruise
Day 8 & 9: Yangtze River Cruise
Day 10: Yichang - Shanghai
Day 11: Shanghai
Day 12: Depart from Shanghai
16 night tour:
Days 1-11: Identical to those in the 11 night offer
Day 12: Shanghai - Guilin
Day 13: Guilin - Longji - Guilin
Day 14: Guilin - Yangshuo - Guilin
Day 15: Guilin - Hong Kong
Day 16: Hong Kong
Day 17: Depart from Hong Kong
Please note: your itinerary may have minor adjustments, but your overall trip experience will remain the same.
Your itinerary in detail —
11 night tour:
DAY 1: ARRIVE IN BEIJING
Nestled in the heart of northern China, Beijing captivates visitors with its fascinating tapestry of ancient charm and contemporary allure. The cityscape is punctuated by architectural wonders, from the imperial grandeur of the Forbidden City to the harmonious symmetry of the Temple of Heaven.
As a pulsating hub of activity, Beijing's lively streets are adorned with traditional hutongs, modern skyscrapers, and an array of bustling markets where the aromas of sizzling street food intermingle with the vibrant hues of traditional crafts.
- Private transfer to the hotel
- Check-in at the hotel
- Optional excursion to the Temple of Heaven (for morning arrivals; at an extra cost; to be selected at the time of booking)
- Night at Jinglun Hotel 4* or similar
DAY 2 & 3: BEIJING
Spend the second day however you choose or opt for the optional excursion to Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City (at an extra cost; to be selected at check out at the time of booking).
On day 3, enjoy a morning excursion to the Mutianyu Great Wall and in the afternoon, visit the Summer Palace, the last royal garden of the Qing Dynasty.
- Breakfast included
- Optional full-day city tour of Beijing (at an extra cost; to be selected at the time of booking)
- Morning excursion of the Great Wall & lunch on-site (day 3)
- Visit the Summer Palace (day 3)
- Night at Jinglun Hotel 4* or similar
DAY 4: BEIJING - XI'AN
Xi'an is a historically significant city located in northwestern China, renowned for being the starting point of the Silk Road. Steeped in over 3,000 years of history, Xi'an served as the capital for numerous Chinese dynasties, including the Qin and Tang. The city is most famous for the Terracotta Army, an extraordinary archaeological discovery featuring thousands of life-sized clay soldiers and horses that were crafted to accompany China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, in the afterlife. In addition to its rich cultural heritage, Xi'an boasts well-preserved city walls, ancient pagodas, and a vibrant Muslim Quarter, making it a captivating destination for travellers and history enthusiasts alike.
- Breakfast included
- Second-class express train journey Beijing-Xi'an
- Transfer to the city
- Visit Small Wild Goose Pagoda & Xi'an Museum
- Night at Grand Soluxe International Hotel Xi'an 4* or similar
DAY 5: XI'AN
Visit Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Site Museum to see the Terracotta Army where you can admire thousands of life-size statues, seemingly frozen in time, that guard the tomb of China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huang.
- Breakfast & lunch included
- Return to Xi'an
- Optional evening of Tang song and dance show (at an extra cost; to be selected at the time of booking)
- Night at Grand Soluxe International Hotel Xi'an 4* or similar
DAY 6: XI'AN - CHENGDU
Chengdu is the capital of Sichuan province in southwestern China, known for its laid-back atmosphere, spicy cuisine, and vibrant cultural scene. Renowned as the home of the giant panda, Chengdu is a hub of biodiversity with the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding attracting visitors from around the world. The city is celebrated for its traditional teahouses, Sichuan opera performances, and the picturesque Jinli Ancient Street, where ancient architecture meets modern charm. Chengdu's culinary scene is marked by its fiery Sichuan cuisine, offering mouth-watering dishes like mapo tofu and hot pot, making it a haven for food enthusiasts.
- Breakfast included
- Second-class express train journey Xi'an-Chengdu
- Visit Jinli district, People's Park & local market
- Night at Holiday Inn Express Gulou Hotel 4* or similar
DAY 7: CHENGDU - CHONGQING - CRUISE
Visit the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base in Chengdu and see these adorable animals.
- Breakfast & lunch included
- Second-class express train journey Chengdu-Chongqing
- Transfer to the port
- Night aboard Victoria Anna OR Jenna OR Katarina or similar
DAY 8 & 9: YANGTZE RIVER CRUISE
The Three Gorges refer to a stunning and renowned stretch along the Yangtze River in China, characterised by three spectacular gorges—Qutang Gorge, Wu Gorge, and Xiling Gorge. This picturesque region is famous for its dramatic landscapes, towering cliffs, and the impressive Three Gorges Dam, one of the world's largest hydroelectric power stations. Cruising through the Three Gorges provides a mesmerising journey, offering breathtaking views of steep cliffs, serene waters, and traditional villages along the riverbanks.
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner included
- Visit Shuangguishan Park or the Shibaozhai temple (day 8)
- Visit Wu Gorge (day 9)
- Excursion along the Shennong River in a wooden boat (day 9)
- Night aboard Victoria Anna OR Jenna OR Katarina or similar
DAY 10: YICHANG - SHANGHAI
Today, visit the imposing Three Gorges Dam, the largest in the world, which stands 185 metres tall and stretches over 1.5 miles.
- Breakfast & lunch included
- Second-class express train journey Yichang-Shanghai
- Night at Golden Tulip Shanghai Rainbow 4* or similar
DAY 11: SHANGHAI
As China's financial hub, Shanghai boasts iconic skyscrapers like the Oriental Pearl Tower and the Shanghai Tower that define its futuristic cityscape. The historic Bund, a waterfront promenade, showcases a blend of colonial-era architecture and modern structures, offering stunning views of the Huangpu River. Shanghai is a melting pot of diverse cuisines, and its traditional neighbourhoods, such as the French Concession, provide a glimpse into the city's past. With a vibrant arts scene, world-class shopping districts, and a blend of East-meets-West influences, Shanghai stands as a symbol of China's rapid development and global significance.
- Breakfast included
- Free day
- Optional full-day city tour of Shanghai (at an extra cost; to be selected at the time of booking)
- Night at Golden Tulip Shanghai Rainbow 4* or similar
DAY 12: DEPART SHANGHAI
- Breakfast included
- Private transfer to the airport
16 night tour:
Days 1-11: Similar to those in the 11 night offer
DAY 12: SHANGHAI - GUILIN
Visit Elephant Trunk Hill, an iconic natural landmark resembling an elephant drinking from the river, where you will get to admire the beauty of the whole city of Guilin.
- Breakfast & lunch included
- Domestic flight Shanghai-Guilin (Economy Class, taxes and fuel surcharge included)
- Night at Guilin Gaoxin Atour Hotel 4* or similar
DAY 13 & 14: GUILIN
Guilin, located in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region in southern China, is celebrated for its breathtaking karst landscape characterised by limestone peaks, crystal-clear rivers, and lush greenery. The Li River, winding through the karst hills, is a highlight, offering some of the most picturesque scenery in the country. The region is famous for its traditional bamboo raft cruises, providing a tranquil journey through the stunning landscape.
- Breakfast & lunch included
- Visit the rice terraces of Longji (day 13)
- 4-hour cruise on the Li River & visit Yangshuo (day 14)
- Night at Guilin Gaoxin Atour Hotel 4* or similar
DAY 15: GUILIN - HONG KONG
- Breakfast included
- Second-class express train journey Guilin - Hong Kong
- Free day
- Night at Dorsett Kwun Tong Hong Kong 4* or similar
DAY 16: HONG KONG
Hong Kong is known for its impressive skyline, bustling streets, and a unique blend of East-meets-West culture. The city is a major international financial hub and a global centre for trade and commerce. Hong Kong features iconic landmarks such as Victoria Peak, Victoria Harbour, and the Symphony of Lights, which illuminate the skyline at night. With its diverse culinary scene, lively street markets, and a mix of modern and traditional neighbourhoods, Hong Kong remains a dynamic destination that seamlessly integrates tradition and innovation.
- Breakfast included
- Free day
- Night at Dorsett Kwun Tong Hong Kong 4* or similar
DAY 17: DEPART HONG KONG
- Breakfast included
- Private transfer to the airport
Important information about your tour and visits: The hotels, which comply with local standards, are indicative and may be changed locally for hotels of a similar category. The itinerary is subject to changes due to compelling reasons such as delayed flights, weather conditions or other cases of force majeure. The order of visits is also subject to change.
Your hotels —
Just for you:
Hand-picked just for you
At each of your stops, you will be staying in comfortable rooms in thoughtfully selected hotels.
Your hotels:
Beijing: Jinglun Hotel 4*
Xi'an: Grand Soluxe International Hotel Xi'an 4*
Chengdu: Holiday Inn Express Gulou Hôtel 4*
Yangtze River Cruise: Victoria Anna OR Jenna OR Katarina
Shanghai: Golden Tulip Shanghai Rainbow 4*
Guilin: Guilin Gaoxin Atour Hotel 4*
Hong Kong: Dorsett Kwun Tong Hong Kong 4*
If the hotels listed above are unavailable, you will be provided with comfortable accommodation in similar hotels. Local standards apply.
Maximimum room capacity: 3 adults.
Your dining choices
Throughout your tour, enjoy breakfast included with 6 (on 11 night tour) or 9 lunches (on 16 night tour) and full board (breakfast and your evening meal served in the main buffet restaurant - excludes drinks) during the cruise.
Included extras —
English-speaking guide
An experienced English-speaking guide will accompany you as per itinerary, bringing each destination’s history and culture to life.
Optional excursions —
Imperial Evening in Xi'an: Tang Dynasty Show and Dumpling Banquet
Enjoy an exceptional evening in Xi'an, savouring a dumpling banquet while admiring the sumptuous spectacle of songs and dances from the Tang dynasty, a symbol of Chinese cultural refinement.
Day trip to Shanghai
Discover Shanghai in a day, from Chinese traditions and futuristic architecture to lifestyle, from Yu Garden to Jin Mao Tower, via the Bund and the French Concession.
Excursion to Zhujiajiao from Shanghai
Depart from Shanghai for a peaceful getaway to Zhujiajiao, a charming water village with picturesque alleys, ancient bridges and traditional houses, with a guide and local lunch included.
Excursion to Suzhou from Shanghai
From Shanghai, set off to explore the refined gardens of Suzhou and the charming water village of Tongli, with its imperial elegance, peaceful canals and authentic traditions.
Visit to the Temple of Heaven
Discover the Temple of Heaven in Beijing, an imperial jewel symbolising the union of heaven and earth, on a private guided tour with transfer included.
Day trip to Beijing (Forbidden City + Jingshan Park + Hutong)
Discover Beijing in one day through the Forbidden City, Jingshan Park and the Hutongs, with a local guide, private transfers, lunch with locals and a rickshaw ride included.
Included services —
Complimentary eSIM during your stay
Enjoy seamless connectivity with one eSIM included for your trip.
Your journey to China —
Flights:
You will be able to choose your airline and flight times when you make your booking, in either Economy, Premium, or Business class, depending on the destination and carrier. This flight may include one or more stopovers. Please review your flight options carefully as departure and arrival airports may differ, in order to offer the best price.
Luggage information
Luggage, meals and other services on board may be subject to an additional fee on certain airlines. It is possible to view details of luggage allowances when you choose your flights at the next stage of the booking process. If luggage is not included with your flight, please go to the airline's website before your departure to purchase your luggage for an additional fee.
For domestic flights, airlines do not always offer the option of reserving luggage. In this case, you will need to pay for it at the airport counter.
You will receive all the information you need to check in for your flights after you have made your reservation.
Your destination —
China
Welcome to China
Explore the iconic Great Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage site, winding majestically across diverse landscapes, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into China's rich history. Immerse yourself in the imperial grandeur of the Forbidden City in Beijing, adorned with intricate architecture and imperial gardens. Discover the vibrant cityscape of Shanghai, where futuristic skyscrapers contrast with historic neighbourhoods, creating a dynamic urban tapestry.
Must-sees:
- Walking the Great Wall as it snakes across dramatic ridges
- Exploring the Forbidden City’s grand courtyards in Beijing
- Cruising the Li River through surreal limestone karsts in Guangxi
- Gazing at the Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an
- Admiring pandas at the research centres in Chengdu
Culinary culture:
Food in China is as diverse as its geography. In Sichuan, expect bold flavours, fiery chilli and numbing peppercorns. Cantonese cuisine highlights delicate dim sum and fresh seafood. Beijing is famed for its crisp-skinned Peking duck, while noodles, dumplings and regional street snacks offer everyday comfort. Eating here is as much about sharing as it is about flavour - gathered around a table, meals are a window into culture and community.
Dive deeper:
Beyond its iconic landmarks, China reveals quieter wonders. Explore ancient water towns south of the Yangtze, where stone bridges arch over narrow canals. In Yunnan, Tibetan influences echo through highland monasteries, while in Gansu, the Silk Road caves preserve centuries of devotion.
Festivals add vivid colour: the Chinese New Year in February fills the country with dragon dances, lanterns and fireworks; the Dragon Boat Festival in June brings thrilling boat races and zongzi rice dumplings; and the Mid-Autumn Festival in September lights the night with lanterns and mooncakes, a poetic celebration of family and tradition.
Good to know:
The currency is the yuan (RMB). High-speed trains connect most major cities, making travel swift and easy. Autumn (September–October) and spring (April–May) offer the most comfortable weather.
