Discover China

previous - next image

Go Back Go Back

Show on Map

To book this experience call us on

0800 804 8911

Discover China

12 Days from £1431

Beijing (4 nights), Xian (1 night), Guilin (2 nights), Yangshuo (1 night), Shanghai (3 nights)

The ideal tour for first time visitors to China who wish to explore four of the country’s most fascinating cities and visit some of China’s most famous and incredible sights. Start in the capital Beijing before slowing the pace down in the smaller cities of Xian and Guilin, finally ending your tour in the vibrant metropolis of Shanghai.

Highlights include:
• Private touring for maximum flexibility.
• Spend time wandering round the magnificent Forbidden City
• Walk along the Great Wall of China
• Visit the incredible Terracotta Warriors just outside Xian
• Enjoy a leisurely cruise down the Li River amid towering limestone karst scenery
• Stay in the charming town of Yangshuo amid rural scenery
• Gaze out at the Bund from modern Pudong in west Shanghai
• Visit the beautiful old water canal village of Zhujiajiao

Departures:
Daily

Day 1: Arrive Beijing:
On arrival transfer to your hotel for four nights and enjoy the rest of your day at leisure
Accommodation: Superior: Marco Polo Xidan

Day 2: Tian’anmen Square, Forbidden City and Temple of Heaven:
A full day’s sightseeing starting in central Beijing at Tian’anmen Square, the world’s largest public square and home to Chairman Mao Tse Tung’s Mausoleum. Continue on to the incredible Forbidden City, originally home to the Ming and Qing dynasties and the heart of the empire for over 500 years. After lunch at a local restaurant continue on to the Temple of Heaven, one of China’s best examples of Ming architecture, originally built in 1420. (B,L)

Day 3: The Great Wall and Summer Palace:
An early start for the drive out to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, 90 kilometeres northwest of Beijing. The Mutianyu section dates from the Ming Dynasty and is less commercial than some sections closer to Beijing. After lunch, visit the Summer Palace and its extensive grounds filled with temples, lakes, pavilions and gardens. Watch local residents while away the hours practicing Tai Chi and calligraphy or playing chess. (B,L)

Day 4: Beihei Park and Hutong Tour:
After breakfast visit Beihei Park before exploring Beijing’s fascinating maze of narrow lanes and ancient courtyard houses known as the 'Hutong'. Your rickshaw driver will take you to the Bell Tower, through the traditional lanes and on to a kindergarten (closed on certain days) and for lunch with a local family. The afternoon is at your leisure to shop in ‘Silk Alley’ or the local markets. In the evening perhaps enjoy one of Beijing’s most famous delicacies for dinner – Peking Duck, at your own expense. (BL)

Day 5: Beijing - Xian:
Fly to Xi’an and on arrival, visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda built in 652 AD, the impressive ancient City Walls (dating back to the 14th Century) and the Provincial History Museum, one of the most spectacular museums in China. In the evening you may wish to attend a Tang Dynasty Dinner Show (at own expense). (BL)
Accommodation: Superior: Grand Mercure on Remin Square

Day 6: Terracotta Warriors, Muslim Quarter - Guilin:
Spend the morning visiting the spectacular Terracotta Warriors, discovered as recently as 1974. One of the world’s most important archaeological discoveries, the 2000 year old army consist of warriors, horses, crossbow bearers and armoured soldiers, each one unique and featuring a different facial expression. After a local lunch return to Xian to spend the afternoon exploring the atmospheric Muslim Quarter and its centre-piece, the Grand Mosque. Late afternoon, depart Xian on your flight to Guilin. (B,L)
Accommodation: Superior: Guilin Bravo

Day 7: Guilin - Longsheng:
After a hearty breakfast enjoy the scenic drive to Longsheng before trekking along the Devils Backbone Rice Terraces. The landscape is spectacular and the views from the terraces simply breathtaking. (B,L – picnic)

Day 8: Li River Cruise to Yangshuo:
One of the highlights for many visitors to China is the full day Li River cruise, passing towering limestone karsts and peaks. The cruise finishes in the charming small town of Yangshuo. Spend the remainder of the afternoon exploring before overnighting at the Paradise Yangshuo Hotel and perhaps sampling one of the town’s many restaurants for dinner. (B,L)
Accommodation: Superior: Paradise Yangshuo

Day 9: Guilin – Shanghai:
Returning from Yangshuo visit Fubo Hill and Reed Flute Cave on the outskirts of Guilin before your flight to Shanghai. The afternoon is at leisure to explore this incredible city. (B)
Accommodation: Superior: Panorama Century Court

Day 10: Jade Buddha Temple, Yu Yuan Gardens and river cruise:
Your full day tour includes the highlights of Shanghai – the Jade Buddha Temple, Yu Yuan Gardens, the Old Town and a dim sum lunch at a local teahouse. In the evening enjoy a Huangpu River cruise along the famous Bund (B,L)

Day 11: Zhujiajiao Water Village:
Depart for the charming traditional water town of Zhujiajiao to browse the narrow lanes and the network of waterways, stone bridges and wooden houses before returning to Shanghai and a spot of shopping on Nanjing Shopping Street. You may wish to catch an acrobatic show in the evening (own expense). (B,L)

Day 12: Depart Shanghai:
After breakfast, depart for the airport and your onward flight. (B)

Prices Include:
• Accommodation and meals as specified (B = breakfast, L = lunch)
• Private tours and transfers with an English speaking guide
• Entrance fees
• Domestic flights as stated. International flights from the UK are not included.

Experiences

Unmissable experiences

Our favourite hotels

Discover China

Discover China