Ultimate China
Beijing, Xian, Chengdu, Yangtze River & ShanghaiThis classic itinerary provides a brilliant introduction to China, from the almighty Great Wall of China to the fascinating Terracotta Army. During your trip you’ll visit all the key highlight destinations including Beijing, Xian, Chengdu and Shanghai with private guiding throughout to ensure you make the most out of your adventure, uncovering the culture and history.
At a glance
This classic itinerary takes in all of China's main highlights and world famous cultural sites.
This itinerary includes visits to The Terracotta Army, 3 Gorges Dam, Great Wall of China and a Panda Sanctuary, ticking off many of China's most famous sites.
Private guiding has been included throughout the trip so ensure that you get have the chance to uncover the unique history and culture of this fascinating country
The itinerary has a really nice pace and features three nights along the Yangzte River providing a great excuse to sit back and relax
Journey highlights
-
This classic itinerary takes in all of China's main highlights and world famous cultural sites.
-
This itinerary includes visits to The Terracotta Army, 3 Gorges Dam, Great Wall of China and a Panda Sanctuary, ticking off many of China's most famous sites.
-
Private guiding has been included throughout the trip so ensure that you get have the chance to uncover the unique history and culture of this fascinating country
-
The itinerary has a really nice pace and features three nights along the Yangzte River providing a great excuse to sit back and relax
- Ultimate itinerary:A harmonious blend of authenticity and superlative luxury, our Ultimate Journeys are designed for the discerning traveller, providing unparalleled insider access and exclusive luxury private experiences
Our tailor made journeys include:
- Your dedicated Travel Consultant who will take care of arrangements
- Private international airport transfers in destination
- 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
- Complimentary access to My Scott Dunn – industry-leading travel app providing pre-departure information and in-journey support
When to visit
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
In China the weather has four distinct seasons - a pleasant warm spring, a hot rainy summer, a comfortable cool autumn and a cold winter. The hottest time in China comes in July and August, with more than 10 days at temperatures above 35 C. The coldest time is from the late January to early February. The spring from March to May is recommended as the best time to travel to China. Summer which also sees heavy rainstorms late in the season is surprisingly the peak season.
Price Guide: (per person based on double occupancy and includes international flights)
| Departing |
Price from*
|
Deposit from * | Enquire |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | GBP £9,200 | GBP £1,400 | plan your trip |
| February | GBP £9,200 | GBP £1,400 | plan your trip |
| March | GBP £48,400 | GBP £7,300 | plan your trip |
| April | GBP £87,700 | GBP £13,100 | plan your trip |
| May | GBP £87,700 | GBP £13,100 | plan your trip |
| June | GBP £87,700 | GBP £13,100 | plan your trip |
| July | GBP £48,400 | GBP £7,300 | plan your trip |
| August | GBP £48,400 | GBP £7,300 | plan your trip |
| September | GBP £87,700 | GBP £13,100 | plan your trip |
| October | GBP £87,700 | GBP £13,100 | plan your trip |
| November | GBP £48,400 | GBP £7,300 | plan your trip |
| December | GBP £9,200 | GBP £1,400 | plan your trip |
-
January
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.
GBP £9,200
Deposit from*GBP £1,400
-
February
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.
GBP £9,200
Deposit from*GBP £1,400
-
March
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.
GBP £48,400
Deposit from*GBP £7,300
-
April
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.
GBP £87,700
Deposit from*GBP £13,100
-
May
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.
GBP £87,700
Deposit from*GBP £13,100
-
June
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.
GBP £87,700
Deposit from*GBP £13,100
-
July
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.
GBP £48,400
Deposit from*GBP £7,300
-
August
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.
GBP £48,400
Deposit from*GBP £7,300
-
September
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.
GBP £87,700
Deposit from*GBP £13,100
-
October
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.
GBP £87,700
Deposit from*GBP £13,100
-
November
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.
GBP £48,400
Deposit from*GBP £7,300
-
December
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.
GBP £9,200
Deposit from*GBP £1,400
- plan your trip
Itinerary
Fly to Beijing
Beijing
Starting in Beijing, you’ll have three nights here to take in all the city has to offer. With your private guide you’ll have the chance to visit the impressive Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven and Imperial Summer Palace taking you through the incredible history of this city.
Of course, no trip to China, let alone Beijing, would be complete without a trip to the Great Wall of China. We have included an early morning trip for you, as this will be the best time to capture the beauty of this world-famous site with the benefit of having limited others that you'll be sharing the experience with.
Accommodation: Peninsula Beijing ( 3 nights )
Xian
From Beijing you’ll take the high-speed train to Xian that will take just over four hours. Xian, the ancient capital, is where you’ll be able to view another world-famous site, the incredible life size Army of Terracotta Warriors standing guard over the tomb of Emperor Qin Shihuang. During in your time in Xian alongside the Terracotta Army, again with your private guide, we have included a trip to the Islamic Quarter which is a fascinating district in Xian and really reflects the multiculturalism of the city as the start of the Silk Route.
Accommodation: Sofitel Legend People's Grand Hotel Xian ( 2 nights )
Chengdu
Then it is on to Chengdu where you will have one night. Located in the heart of Panda territory, Chengdu is the best place to view these magnificent bears. As the bears are at their most active at the start of the day, we have included an early morning visit to the Giant Panda Breeding Research Institute, one of the world’s leading research centres on the breeding habits of Pandas.
Accommodation: The Temple House Hotel ( 1 night )
Shanghai
Lying on the estuary of the Yangtze River, Shanghai is the centre of China’s trade and industry. European-style architecture, traditional Chinese buildings and sleek modern developments all co-exist in this cosmopolitan metropolis. There is so much to do and see here, from the French Concession area with its quiet colonial parks and neighbourhoods, the Yu Gardens featuring traditional Ming dynasty water gardens and of course the beautiful Bund along the Huangpu River has the celebrated strip of Art Deco towers. We have again included an expert private guide for you here to make the most of your time in one of China’s most fast paced and cosmopolitan cities as well as an evening foodie tour so you can discover the city's delicious and varied cuisine.
Accommodation: Peninsula Shanghai ( 2 nights )
Call us on 020 3993 8476 to start planning your holiday.
Experiences included in this itinerary
-
![Temple of Heaven Beijing]()
Read moreBeijing Religion and Philosophy
Explore Beijing’s rich variety of religions and philosophies as you travel from Confucius Shrines to Tibetan Buddhist temples, Taoist temples to Muslim mosques and uncover the strength of traditional beliefs held by the worshippers.
-
![Dumpling]()
Read moreDumpling-Making Class at The Hutong
Learn how to knead and roll dough, create fillings and utilize natural dyes from fresh vegetables to make colourful dumpling wraps.
-
![Shanghai Dumplings]()
Read moreEvening Foodie Experience
Spend an evening exploring the flavours of Shanghai in a visit to a private home, small, family-run restaurants and local shops. Wander the streets on foot, meet the local people and taste some traditional dishes to get under the skin of the city.
-
![Dumplings in Beijing]()
Read moreForbidden City and Hutong Family Homemade Lunch
Beijing balances its ancient history with its 21st century lifestyles and this experience is a chance to explore both of these with a visit to the ancient Forbidden City and a chance to meet a local family and join them for lunch in their home.
-
![Hutongs in the Evening Beijing]()
Read moreHutong Evening Foodie Tour By Tuktuk
Get a taste for the flavours of Beijing as you spend an evening touring neighbourhood family-run restaurants in a tuktuk before ending the night at a local craft beer brewery. Feast on local delicacies as you mingle with the residents of the hutongs.
-
![Hike at Jinshanling Great Wall of China]()
Read moreJinshanling Hike at The Great Wall
Get away from the crowds as you trek a remote section of the Great Wall of China with a guide, along crumbling ramparts and past watchtowers with exceptional views over the surrounding rugged countryside.
-
![Xian - Xian]()
Read moreOld City of Xian and The Big Goose Pagoda
Enjoy historic Xian with your guide, learning about its city walls and visit the world famous Wild Goose Pagoda.
-
![Saint Ignacio Cathedral Shanghai]()
Read moreReligious Sites of Shanghai
Step into Shanghai’s rich cultural and religious melting pot as you explore its Buddhist, Christian, Jewish and Taoist sites and uncover a diverse myriad of religions practised in this cultural crossroad.
-
![Saint Ignacio Cathedral Shanghai]()
Read moreShanghai's Religious Trail
Step into Shanghai’s rich cultural and religious melting pot as you explore its Buddhist, Christian, Jewish and Taoist sites and uncover a diverse myriad of religions practised in this cultural crossroad.
-
![Locals enjoying Tai Chi in Shanghai]()
Read moreTai Chi in Shanghai
Get a glimpse into the ancient art of Tai Chi as you begin your day with a lesson from a master, and enjoy an hour of practice in one of the Shanghai’s parks, looking out over the city’s skyline.
-
![Terracotta Warriors]()
Read moreTerracotta Warriors of the Qin Dynasty
The Terracotta Warriors of the Qin Dynasty was a hugely significant discovery in the 1970s. The warriors are fascinating and well worth exploring with a private guide.
-
![Visit the Mutianyu Great Wall - Beijing]()
Read moreVisit The Great Wall of China at Mutianyu
Enjoy a half day tour to The Great Wall of China. This visit will take you to Mutianyu and although further from the city it offers a much more natural Wall experience as it is less visited, enabling one to appreciate the stunning countryside.
-
![Tiananmen square - Tiananmen Square and More]()
Read moreVisit Tiannamen Square & The Forbidden City
Enjoy a half day tour of Beijing's most well-known landmarks. Start with a trip to Tian'ammen Square before heading onto The Forbidden City, a former imperial palace which was the residence to twenty-four different Chinese Emperors.
-
![Temple of Heaven - Visit to The Temple of Heaven]()
Read moreVisit to The Temple of Heaven & The Summer Palace
Visit The Temple of Heaven and The Summer Palace on this full day tour. The Temple of Heaven is one of China's most iconic sacrificial monuments meanwhile The Summer Palace, a World Heritage Site, was built as a luxurious royal garden for royal families.
-
![Great Wall - Walking aorund the Great Wall of China]()
Read moreWalking around the Great Wall of China
Works started on the Great Wall of China as early as 200 B.C and it now stretches from Shanhaiguan by the Yellow Sea to Jiayuguan in the Gobi Desert. Sections of wall have been restored and repaired, offering fantastic walking opportunities.
-
![Old City Wall Xian]()
Read moreXi’an by Jeep
Uncover the secrets of two of Xi’an’s most enigmatic sites as you explore the mysterious cave dwellings of the loess rock formations and the extraordinary Terracotta Warriors.
Your Hotels
When to visit
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
In China the weather has four distinct seasons - a pleasant warm spring, a hot rainy summer, a comfortable cool autumn and a cold winter. The hottest time in China comes in July and August, with more than 10 days at temperatures above 35 C. The coldest time is from the late January to early February. The spring from March to May is recommended as the best time to travel to China. Summer which also sees heavy rainstorms late in the season is surprisingly the peak season.
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 3993 8476 to start planning your holiday.
Why Scott Dunn?
At Scott Dunn, we live and breathe travel. An insatiable appetite to discover the world runs through everything we do. We relish the planning and revel in the detail. We know it’s the smallest touches that make the biggest difference, and we stop at nothing to make every trip not only exceptional but totally unique.
- Every itinerary is crafted from scratch, based around exactly what’s important to you
- Packed full of unique experiences, hand-picked by our journeys team
- Expert local guides enrich your experience in every destination
- Your own dedicated Travel Specialist who will take care of every detail of your trip
- We have a 24/7 team providing in-country support and guidance
- We offer flexibility and financial protection to give you total peace of mind