Diverse Destinations
Suggested 4-Day Itinerary
| Day | Highlights |
|---|---|
| 1-4 Beijing | Experience rich history: the Great Wall, Forbidden City... |
1. Choose Where to Go
1) Beijing — Explore China's Imperial Past
With our knowledge of China and feedback from our clients, the following five destinations are recommended for first-timers. Each one brings something different: ancient culture, stunning landscapes, city life, or even a close-up with China's beloved pandas.
If it's your first time in China, Beijing is the ideal starting point, where ancient dynasties, iconic landmarks, and vibrant local life all come together.
The Great Wall and Forbidden City are must-sees. To make your visits a fresh twist, try visiting the Forbidden City in Hanfu. It's photogenic and offers a deeper cultural feel.
For a new experience in the Great Wall, you could expect a drone-delivered experience (a fun blend of tradition and tech) at Badaling. Or head to Jinshanling for a sunset picnic on a quieter, more scenic stretch.
You could also get a feel for daily life with a guided hutong walk, where Beijing's old neighborhoods still breathe.
If you travel with kids, spend a day at Universal Beijing Resort, or enjoy some fun and educational activities like tai chi in the park, calligraphy, and a local family visit in the hutongs.
Beijing is also where you can experience China's futuristic lifestyle, from smart home demonstrations to a ride in an autonomous vehicle.
See more from our 11-Day China Family Tour.
2) Shanghai — China's Window to the Future
Shanghai is where China looks ahead. It is a city of dazzling skylines, global flavors, and vibrant contrasts between the old and the new.
Hop on a ferry to cross the Huangpu River. You will see the historical architecture on the Bund as well as the modern skyscrapers opposite, giving you a distinctive contrast between modern life and the post-imperial past.
We have specially designed an in-depth Bund culture discovery walking tour for those who want to learn more interesting stories about the Bund and old Shanghai.
You will walk a route that seldom tourists will find by themselves, see the most original bricks, and hear some interesting stories that you'll never find in history books.
To feel the city's softer side, we recommend walking through the tree-lined streets of the French Concession, where Art Deco villas, boutique cafés, and local life blend seamlessly.
If your schedule allows, extend your tour to Hangzhou or Suzhou to see water towns and classical Chinese gardens.
3) Xi'an — Walk Through 2,000 Years of History
If you're drawn to China's ancient roots, Xi'an is unmissable. As the capital of 13 dynasties and the starting point of the Silk Road, it offers a deep dive into the foundations of Chinese civilization.
The Terracotta Warriors are the city's most iconic highlight, but we can take your visit a step further. With access to a lesser-known museum near the site, you'll get a rare close-up of the first batch of restored warriors.
Step into a real conservation lab, where under the guidance of professional restorers, you'll work with authentic Qin-era fragments and try your hand at piecing together a mini terracotta warrior.
DAY 1 Beijing Arrival
Welcome to majestic Beijing! To ensure your arrival is stress-free, your private tour guide will meet you in the arrivals hall and transfer you to your hotel in a private car. Your luggage and hotel check-in will be taken care of.
Hotel options:
Novotel Beijing Peace
Crowne Plaza Beijing Chaoyang U-Town
DAY 2 The Temple of Heaven and the Forbidden City
Breakfast & Lunch
Start your journey at the Temple of Heaven, a dignified complex of religious buildings, symbolizing the relationship between Earth and Heaven. There you will see local people doing morning exercise in their unique ways. Lunch is served in a popular local restaurant with authentic local food. Your guide will help you to order the dishes you like.
Walk through Tian'anmen Square to explore the mysterious Forbidden City. Being the largest imperial palace in the world. Get off the ordinary sightseeing route in the Forbidden City. Listen to the interesting stories of the famous personalities that are not told by typical tour guides.
The Temple of Heaven
