China · City Tours

8-Day China Tour of Beijing Xi'an and Shanghai Highlights

8 Days Round trip from Beijing Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Explore the Forbidden City, Tian'anmen Square, and Coal Hill for panoramic views of Beijing's imperial past
  • 02 Walk through Beijing's ancient Hutongs and visit a local family for cultural insight
  • 03 Hike the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall and admire its breathtaking scenery
  • 04 Visit the serene Summer Palace and stroll through its classical gardens and lakeside paths
  • 05 Experience local life at the Temple of Heaven and browse antiques at Panjiayuan Market
  • 06 Discover the life-sized warriors of the Terracotta Army and explore Xi'an's Ancient City Wall

Embark on an 8-day classical tour through China's iconic capitals and vibrant metropolises. In Beijing, discover ancient imperial landmarks such as the Forbidden City, the Great Wall, and the Summer Palace. Continue to Xi'an to witness the legendary Terracotta Army and explore its historic Muslim Quarter and city walls. Conclude in modern Shanghai, where traditional gardens, colonial architecture, and futuristic skylines come together.

Embark on an 8-day classical tour through China's iconic capitals and vibrant metropolises.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 8 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Easy
Accommodation Included · Standard
Transport Included
Cities Beijing, Shanghai, Xi'an
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Arrival in Beijing

  • Meet your private guide upon arrival in Beijing.
  • Transfer to your hotel and complete the check-in procedures.

  • You may choose to explore the city independently or rest at the hotel after your long flight.

2
Day 02

Beijing's Imperial Landmarks and Hutong Life

  • Visit Tian'anmen Square, the largest public square in the world.
  • Enter the Forbidden City through its southern gate and explore its ancient palaces and courtyards.

  • Climb Coal Hill for a panoramic view of the Forbidden City.

  • Walk along Yan Dai Xie Jie, a lively street filled with shops and local charm.

  • Visit Houhai Lake, once a royal retreat and now a popular cultural area.

  • Explore the Bell and Drum Tower Square.

  • Take a traditional rickshaw ride through Beijing's old Hutongs.

  • Visit a local family home to gain insight into traditional Beijing life.

3
Day 03

Mutianyu Great Wall, Summer Palace, and 798 Art Zone

  • Drive to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall.
  • Take a cable car to the watchtower and hike along the historic Wall.

  • Visit the Summer Palace with its scenic lake, gardens, and ancient pavilions.

  • Explore the 798 Art Zone, a modern art district featuring galleries, studios, and shops.

4
Day 04

Temple of Heaven and High-Speed Train to Xi'an

  • Visit the Temple of Heaven, a sacred imperial site that is now also a lively public park.
  • Observe locals practicing Tai Chi, dancing, singing, and socializing.

  • Explore Panjiayuan Market, renowned for antiques, curios, and cultural treasures.

  • Take a high-speed train to Xi'an and transfer to your hotel upon arrival.

5
Day 05

Terracotta Army, Xi'an Old City, and Flight to Shanghai

  • Visit the Terracotta Army, an archaeological wonder featuring life-sized warriors and horses.
  • Return to Xi'an to explore the Ancient City Wall on foot or by bicycle.

  • Walk along Muslim Street to discover local snacks, handicrafts, and vibrant culture.

  • Visit the Great Mosque hidden within the alleyways.

  • Enjoy a traditional Shadow Play performance in a historic courtyard.

  • Take a flight to Shanghai and transfer to your hotel.

6
Day 06

Shanghai Gardens, Waterfront, and City Views

  • Visit Yu Garden, a classical Chinese garden, and the nearby market for local snacks and souvenirs.
  • Walk along Nanjing Pedestrian Road and continue to the Bund waterfront.

  • Admire the historical architecture and panoramic views across the Huangpu River.

  • Visit a multifunctional commercial space known for its greenery, art galleries, and boutique stores.

  • Choose an optional evening activity such as an Acrobatic Show or a night cruise on the Huangpu River.

7
Day 07

Zhujiajiao Water Town and Shanghai Arts Districts

  • Travel to Zhujiajiao Water Town, often called the 'Venice of Shanghai'.
  • Ride a hand-cranked boat along the canals to the town center.

  • Take a walking tour through narrow streets lined with traditional architecture and local crafts.

  • Return to Shanghai and visit Tian Zi Fang, an arts and crafts enclave with cafés and boutiques.

  • Explore Xin Tian Di, a fashionable district for shopping, dining, and entertainment.

8
Day 08

Oriental Pearl Tower and Departure from Shanghai

  • Cross the Bund Sightseeing Tunnel to Pudong.
  • Visit the Shanghai Municipal History Museum at the base of the Oriental Pearl Tower.

  • Ascend to the observation deck of the Oriental Pearl Tower for sweeping city views.

  • Explore Lane 1192, a retro-themed street that recreates the atmosphere of 1930s Shanghai.

  • Shop at Fun Collection Market, an underground mall with a variety of goods.

  • Transfer to the airport for your international departure, concluding your tour in China.

Forbidden City, Mutianyu, Terracotta Army, The Bund

Where this trip takes you

Forbidden City, Mutianyu, Terracotta Army, The Bund

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Beijing 3 cities · 8 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • 7 nights' accommodation based on twin share with a Western-style breakfast
  • Deluxe air-conditioned bus with an excellent English-speaking guide
  • Entrance fees as per itinerary and an internal economy class flight from Xi'an to Shanghai
  • Domestic high-speed train travel between Beijing and Xi'an
  • 12 meals included - 7 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 2 dinners
  • Return airport transfers on arrival and departure

What's Not Included

  • International flights
  • Tips for guides and drivers
  • Personal expenses such as laundry, drinks, telex, and telephone calls
  • Excess luggage on flights (check-in luggage 23 kg and hand luggage up to 5 kg)
  • Meals not mentioned in the program and drinks during meals
  • Single supplement for individuals staying in a single room

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
中国北京市顺义区北京机场T3 Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)
Tour start
Beijing, China
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 8 days finish where they began, in Beijing.

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Starting from

USD 1,225 /person
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Estimated room rates

Single Room $1,225.00 — $2,968.00
Double Sharing $1,225.00 — $1,948.00

When

Travellers

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