The world’s most populous nation, China is replete with engaging cities and ancient landmarks. It’s a vast country of contrasts and contradictions, covering an area larger than Europe and home to twice as many different dialects and ethnicities. So China holidays serve up all sorts of fascinating attractions. You can discover more than 50 UNESCO-listed sites, ever-changing landscapes, and one of the oldest cultures in the world.

On a holiday to China, you can step back in time whilst also catching a glimpse of the future. Lose yourself in sprawling cities, where gleaming skyscrapers rise above quiet temples and grand palaces. You’ll find some of China’s biggest attractions in the capital, Beijing, including the Forbidden City, the Palace Museum and Tiananmen Square – made famous by the iconic ‘tank man’ photo, taken during a student demonstration in 1989. Meanwhile, in old-meets-new Shanghai, you can admire the futuristic skyline and stroll through the 400-year-old Yuyuan Garden. Or you could head to the city of Xi’an to marvel at the world-renowned Terracotta Warriors.
 

Naturally, your trip wouldn’t be complete without stepping foot on the Great Wall of China. Covering 13,000 miles, this incredible structure is more than half the length of the equator – and, perhaps even more impressively, some parts date back nearly 3,000 years. You can visit the beautifully restored Mutianyu section, about 45 miles north of Beijing. Or, if you’re eager to walk part of the Wall, make tracks for Jinshanling, which is about a two-hour drive from Beijing.

Want to explore some rural areas during your China holiday? Head to the picturesque province of Guangxi, Guizhou or Yunnan. You’ll be able to see snow-capped mountains, traditional pagodas and lush rice fields, where families use water buffalo to plough their crop. Or you could spend some time sailing on the languid waters of the mighty Yangtze River. The longest river in Asia, the Yangtze meanders for nearly 4,000 miles – but the Three Gorges area is the most scenic, where green-clad cliffs rise out of the water.

Intrigued? Speak to our Travel Specialists to find out more about our China holidays. Whether you’re looking for a guided tour of the Great Wall of China, or a multi-centre holiday to Beijing and Shanghai, we’ll help you plan the perfect getaway.