Ultimate China

This 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.

1. Fly to Beijing

2. Days 1-4: 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: Waldorf Astoria Beijing (3 nights)

3. Days 4-6: 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)

4. Days 6-8: Shanghai

   On disembarking your cruise you will be met by your private guide who will transfer you to Yichang airport in order to connect to your onward flight to Shanghai where you will spend your last few nights of your trip. 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.

   Accommodation: Peninsula Shanghai (2 nights)

5. Days 8-9: Chengdu, China

   Then it is on to Chengdu where you will have one night. On arrival we have included a short introduction to the city and of course can recommend some fantastic restaurants for you to try here on your evening here. 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. In the afternoon you’ll then continue to the train station to meet your onward high-speed train to Chongqing where you will board your Yangzte Cruise Ship.

   Accommodation: Shangri-La Chengdu (1 night)

6. Fly home from Shanghai

Beijing, Xian, Chengdu, Yangtze River & Shanghai