China: The Grand Tour

China Grand Tour – Itinerary Overview

This comprehensive tour of China explores Beijing’s iconic landmarks, the Terracotta Warriors in Xian, the stunning landscapes of Guilin and Yangshuo, and the pandas of Chengdu. Enjoy a Yangtze River cruise, visit the Three Gorges Dam, and conclude your journey in the vibrant city of Shanghai.

Itinerary

Day 1: Fly to Beijing

• Overnight flight from London (regional connections available) with British Airways. Alternative flight options available. (N)

Day 2: Beijing

• Arrive and transfer to the Peace Hotel (or similar) for 2 nights.
• Afternoon visit to the Temple of Heaven.
• Welcome dinner at a Peking duck restaurant. (D)

Day 3: Beijing

• Morning visit to Tiananmen Square & Forbidden City.
• Explore the historic Liulichang district and hutongs.
• Optional: Evening acrobatics show. (B, L)

Day 4: Great Wall

• Drive to Jinshanling, a quieter and dramatic section of the Great Wall.
• Stay overnight at Dhawa Jinshanling Hotel. (B, L, D)

Day 5: Xian

• Optional: Morning visit to the Great Wall.
• Return to Beijing and take a high-speed train to Xian.
• Stay 2 nights at Grand Noble Xian. (B)

Day 6: Terracotta Warriors & Xian

• Visit the Terracotta Warriors & Tang Bo Art Museum, with a Chinese calligraphy lesson.
• Explore the Muslim Quarter & Great Mosque.
• Optional: Tang Dynasty music performance & dinner. (B, L)

Day 7: Chengdu

• Morning high-speed train to Chengdu.
• Visit the Giant Panda Research Base.
• Stay 1 night at Sheraton Lido Chengdu.
• Optional: Sichuan opera performance. (B)

Day 8: Fly to Guilin

• Fly to Guilin and stay overnight at Sheraton Guilin. (B)

Days 9-10: Yangshuo

• Cruise down the Li River past dramatic limestone peaks.
• Arrive in Yangshuo, explore West Street, and stay 2 nights at Yangshuo Resort (or similar).
• Day 10: Leisure time to enjoy Yangshuo’s riverside charm. (B)

Day 11: Chongqing & Yangtze Cruise

• Take a train to Chongqing and board the Victoria Jenna (or similar) for a 3-night Yangtze River cruise. (B, D)

Days 12-13: Yangtze River Cruise

• Cruise through the breathtaking Three Gorges region.
• Enjoy shore excursions & onboard entertainment. (B, L, D)

Day 14: Yichang & Fly to Shanghai

• Disembark in Yichang, fly to Shanghai, and stay 2 nights at Central Hotel. (B, L)

Day 15: Shanghai

• Morning visit to Jade Buddha Temple & Yu Garden.
• Tea tasting at Huxinting Teahouse.
• Afternoon tour of Shanghai Museum with an expert guide.
• Walk along The Bund before a farewell dinner. (B, D)

Day 16: Fly to London

• Transfer to the airport and fly back to London. (B)

Meal Key:
(B) – Breakfast | (L) – Lunch | (D) – Dinner | (N) – No meals provided

This itinerary offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration, scenic beauty, and unforgettable experiences across China’s most iconic destinations.