The Best of China
A journey through China's most iconic cities and landmarks, from Beijing's imperial heart and the Great Wall to Xi'an's ancient treasures and Shanghai's historic neighbourhoods.
Journey highlights
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Visit the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, the Great Wall, the Terracotta Warriors and Shanghai's historic Bund in one comprehensive journey.
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Explore the contrasting character of Beijing, Xi'an and Shanghai, from imperial palaces and hutongs to colonial boulevards and modern skylines.
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Meet residents in Beijing's hutongs, observe life unfolding in Shanghai's parks and neighbourhoods, and gain a deeper understanding of contemporary China.
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Discover some of China's most important historical sites, including the Terracotta Warriors, Wild Goose Pagodas and centuries-old sections of the Great Wall.
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Itinerary
Fly into Beijing
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At a Glance
Day 1: Welcome to BeijingArrive in Beijing and transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure.
The Peninsula Beijing offers a welcoming place to relax and settle into the rhythm of the city. Take time to unwind in the indoor swimming pool, enjoy a treatment at the spa, or simply retreat to the comfort of your spacious suite after your journey.If you're feeling refreshed, the hotel's exclusive shopping arcade is worth exploring, while the nearby Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square are within easy reach for a gentle introduction to Beijing. Whether you choose to relax or start exploring, The Peninsula provides a comfortable and convenient base from which to begin your time in the capital.Day 2: Imperial Beijing RevealedBegin at the Forbidden City, the vast palace complex that served as the home of China's emperors for almost 600 years. Explore the historic halls, courtyards and gateways at the heart of imperial Beijing before continuing to Tiananmen Square, one of the city's most significant public spaces.
Later, experience a different side of the capital during a cashless exploration of Beijing's hutongs. Travel through the historic alleyways by shared bicycle, stopping to sample local snacks and observe how digital payment platforms have become part of daily life throughout the city.
Continue deeper into the hutongs on foot, where you'll gain an insight into one of Beijing's most enduring neighbourhood traditions. Meet local residents, visit family homes and experience the daily rhythms of life in these historic courtyard communities. Your guide will return you to your hotel at approximately 5:00pm.
Day 3: Along the Great Wall at JinshanlingTravel into the mountains of Hebei Province to explore the Jinshanling section of the Great Wall, one of the most scenic stretches accessible from Beijing. A short gondola ride brings you to the wall before a hike of approximately three hours along a mix of restored and original sections. Along the way, enjoy views across mountain ridges and watchtowers while learning about the history of this remarkable structure.
After the hike, enjoy a picnic lunch on the Great Wall before returning to Beijing.
Where to stay
Peninsula Beijing (3 nights)
Alternative Places to Stay Nearby
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At a Glance
Day 4: Onward to Xi'anAfter arriving in Xi'an, Sofitel Legend People's Grand Hotel Xi'an offers a refined place to unwind before exploring one of China's oldest cities. Set within the ancient city walls, the hotel is ideally located for visiting key sights such as the Muslim Quarter, Wild Goose Pagoda and the city walls themselves.
Take time to relax in the comfort of your spacious room or suite, where high ceilings and elegant interiors reflect the building's rich heritage. Enjoy a leisurely drink in the 1953 Lobby Lounge, sample authentic Italian cuisine at La Dolce Vita, or simply soak up the atmosphere of a property that has welcomed dignitaries and international guests for decades. Combining historic grandeur with attentive, personalised service, the hotel provides a comfortable and characterful base from which to discover Xi'an.
Day 5: The Terracotta Warriors & Tang Dynasty Heritage
Today, visit the Terracotta Warriors, one of China's most significant archaeological discoveries. Unearthed in 1974, the site contains thousands of life-sized terracotta soldiers created to guard the tomb of China's first emperor. Spend time exploring the excavation pits and learning about the history behind this extraordinary find.
Later, visit the Big and Small Wild Goose Pagodas, two of Xi'an's most recognisable landmarks. Dating back to the Tang Dynasty, the pagodas reflect the city's historic role as a crossroads of cultures and trade routes.
Where to stay
Sofitel Legend People's Grand Hotel Xian (2 nights)
Alternative Places to Stay Nearby
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At a Glance
Day 6: Along the BundSpend time exploring the Bund, Shanghai's famous waterfront promenade. Lined with art deco and neoclassical buildings, this historic stretch offers a striking contrast between the city's colonial-era architecture and the modern skyline across the Huangpu River.
Day 7: Through the Gardens & Lanes of Old ShanghaiBegin the day in Fuxing Park, one of the best places to observe local life in Shanghai. Watch residents gather for dancing, music, exercise and social activities in a park that has evolved from its origins as a private Ming Dynasty garden.
Continue through the Former French Concession, where elegant avenues and historic residences reveal another chapter of Shanghai's past. Explore the neighbourhood's tree-lined streets and learn about the influential figures who once called the district home.
From here, head to Xintiandi, where restored traditional buildings now house cafés, boutiques and restaurants, creating a blend of old and new Shanghai.
Later, visit Yuyuan Garden, a classical Chinese garden dating from the Ming Dynasty. Wander through its pavilions, ponds, bridges and rockeries before exploring nearby Yuyuan Bazaar, where traditional architecture, food stalls and local shops create a lively atmosphere in the heart of the old town.
Day 8: Journey HomeTransfer to the airport for your onward flight home.
Where to stay
Peninsula Shanghai (2 nights)
Alternative Places to Stay Nearby
Fly home from Shanghai
Our tailor made journeys include:
- Your dedicated Travel Sepcialist who will take care of arrangements
- Private international airport transfers in destination and your own private, English-speaking local guides
- Unique experiences, hand-picked by our Journeys team
- Entrance to must-see local sites
- Dedicated 24/7 team providing in-country support and guidance
When to visit
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- M
- J
- J
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- S
- O
- N
- D
With scorching summers, cold winters, temperate springs and pleasant autumns, Beijing and its surrounding area experiences four distinct seasons. During the summer months, the mercury can reach over 40°C, bringing monsoon rains and extreme humidity, despite being the peak season for travel. From November through to March, northern winds whip through the city, seeing temperatures tumble to as low as -20°C in January, the coldest month. Springtime is windy yet pleasant, although sandstorms from Mongolia sweep through at this time of year making outdoor sightseeing uncomfortable. The Autumn months are the perfect time to travel, with fewer tourists and the most clement weather for exploring the city.
Price Guide: (PP based on double occupancy and excludes international flights). *Displayed price is indicative only and does not include local, taxes, fees or charges that may apply and would need to be paid by you in destination as part of your bespoke Scott Dunn holiday. Where applicable, after your itinerary is finalised, the taxes, fees and charges applicable to your holiday will be shared with you by our Travel Specialists.
| Departing |
Price from*
|
Deposit from * | Enquire |
|---|---|---|---|
| November 2026 | £4,900 | £700 | plan your trip |
| December 2026 | £4,900 | £700 | plan your trip |
| January 2027 | £4,600 | £700 | plan your trip |
| February 2027 | £4,600 | £700 | plan your trip |
| March 2027 | £4,900 | £700 | plan your trip |
| April 2027 | £4,900 | £700 | plan your trip |
| May 2027 | £4,900 | £700 | plan your trip |
| June 2027 | £4,900 | £700 | plan your trip |
| July 2027 | £4,900 | £700 | plan your trip |
| August 2027 | £4,900 | £700 | plan your trip |
| September 2027 | £4,900 | £700 | plan your trip |
| October 2027 | £4,900 | £700 | plan your trip |
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November 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
£4,900
Deposit from*£700
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December 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
£4,900
Deposit from*£700
-
January 2027
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
£4,600
Deposit from*£700
-
February 2027
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
£4,600
Deposit from*£700
-
March 2027
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
£4,900
Deposit from*£700
-
April 2027
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
£4,900
Deposit from*£700
-
May 2027
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
£4,900
Deposit from*£700
-
June 2027
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
£4,900
Deposit from*£700
-
July 2027
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
£4,900
Deposit from*£700
-
August 2027
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
£4,900
Deposit from*£700
-
September 2027
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
£4,900
Deposit from*£700
-
October 2027
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
£4,900
Deposit from*£700
Experiences on this tour
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![Hike at Jinshanling Great Wall of China]()
View ExperienceJinshanling Hike at The Great Wall
Rising from the sea in the east and stretching over 5,000 miles to the deserts of China’s far west, the Great Wall is one of the most awe-inspiring feats of human engineering. An enduring symbol of China’s dynastic past, its ancient stones whisper tales o
We design each itinerary around you, so this suggested itineraryis a starting point that we can tweak or transform into something completely bespoke to you. Call us on 020 8682 5060 to start planning your holiday.
