Grand China Tour

This 21-day China tour takes you through the country’s most iconic destinations, blending cultural heritage with natural wonders. Start in Beijing, where you’ll visit the Forbidden City, the Great Wall, and more. Explore Xian’s Terracotta Warriors, experience the spiritual sites of Lhasa in Tibet, and meet pandas in Chengdu. Discover the stunning landscapes of Zhangjiajie and the picturesque beauty of Guilin and Yangshuo. End your journey in Shanghai, where tradition and modernity merge. This immersive itinerary offers a perfect mix of history, nature, and authentic experiences across China.

PRICE PER FERSON
FROM £6,950
DURATION
21 DAYS / 20 NIGHTS

The Best Time To Visit

April to May - September to October

The best time to visit China largely depends on the regions you plan to explore, but generally, the spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) months are considered ideal.

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Regions You’ll Visit

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Our Suggested Day By Day Itinerary

This tour can be fully-personalized and upgrades are available.

Day 1: Departure

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Day 2: Arrival in Beijing

Upon arrival at Beijing Capital Airport, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel, The Orchid Hotel Beijing, where you can settle in and rest after your long flight. This is a great time to relax and prepare for your upcoming adventures. The day is free for you to rest and adjust to the local time zone, ensuring you’re ready to explore the next day.

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Day 3: Beijing

Start your first full day in China with a guided tour of the Forbidden City, one of the largest palace complexes in the world, which served as the imperial residence for nearly 500 years. The history and architecture of the Forbidden City will leave you in awe. Afterward, head to the Temple of Heaven, an iconic symbol of Beijing, where emperors used to perform rituals. Following your tour, you’ll stroll through Tiananmen Square, the largest public square in the world, before stopping at a local restaurant for a delicious lunch. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Beijing Roast Duck dinner, one of the city’s most famous dishes.

  • Board Includes:
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner

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Day 4: Beijing

Your day begins with a walk through Beijing’s Hutongs in the Dongcheng District. These traditional narrow alleyways are lined with old courtyard houses, offering a glimpse into the life of historic Beijing. Afterward, visit the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, one of the most picturesque and well-preserved parts of the wall. Take the round-trip cable car to the top and enjoy the panoramic views. You’ll also have time for lunch at a local restaurant, experiencing traditional Beijing flavors. The remainder of the day is free for you to relax or explore the city on your own.

  • Board Includes:
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch

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Day 5: Beijing to Xian

Today, you’ll visit the Summer Palace, where you can take a scenic boat ride on Kunming Lake and explore the beautiful Garden of Virtue and Harmony. This peaceful retreat from the city offers a glimpse into the royal life of the Qing Dynasty. Afterward, you’ll transfer to the Beijing West Railway Station for your high-speed train ride to Xian. The journey takes about four hours, and upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to the luxurious HUALUXE Xi’an Tanghua, your home for the next few days.

  • Board Includes:
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch

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Day 6: Xian

In Xian, you’ll immerse yourself in the city’s rich history, starting with a visit to the Terracotta Warriors, one of China’s most significant archaeological sites. You’ll also have the chance to make your own clay warriors at a local cave dwelling. Next, visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a symbol of Xian’s Buddhist heritage. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant before exploring the Muslim Quarter, where you can taste traditional street food and learn about the region’s cultural blend. The evening is free for you to explore at your leisure.

  • Board Includes:
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch

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Day 7: Xian to Lhasa

Today, you’ll take a flight from Xian to Lhasa, the capital of Tibet. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to the Shangri-La Hotel Lhasa, where you’ll enjoy a deluxe room with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The rest of the day is free for you to relax and acclimate to the high-altitude environment of Lhasa.

  • Board Includes:
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch

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Days 8-10: Lhasa

Over the next three days, you’ll explore the spiritual heart of Tibet. Begin with visits to several important monasteries, including Drepung Monastery and Sera Monastery, where you can learn about Tibetan Buddhism and witness monks in their daily rituals. You’ll also visit Norbulingka, the summer palace of the Dalai Lama. A walking tour through the Old Barkhor Street offers a chance to experience the vibrant local culture. No trip to Lhasa is complete without seeing the Potala Palace, the iconic symbol of Tibet. On the final day in Lhasa, enjoy a relaxing picnic by the serene Yomdrok Lake, surrounded by snow-capped mountains.

  • Board Includes:
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch

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Day 11: Lhasa to Chengdu

Today, you’ll take a flight from Lhasa to Chengdu, known for its spicy cuisine and relaxed lifestyle. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to the Diaoyutai Boutique Hotel Chengdu, where you’ll stay in a Premier Room. The rest of the day is free for you to explore or relax at your hotel.

  • Board Includes:
  • Breakfast

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Day 12: Chengdu

In Chengdu, your day begins with a visit to the Chengdu Panda Breeding and Research Center, where you can see China’s most famous residents in a natural habitat setting. Afterward, you’ll experience local life in a Chengdu park, where you can engage in traditional activities like tai chi or calligraphy. Later, enjoy a meal of authentic Sichuan food at a local restaurant. The evening is free for you to explore the city further.

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Day 13: Chengdu to Leshan

Today, you’ll take a private transfer to Leshan, where you’ll visit the giant Leshan Buddha, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest stone Buddha statue in the world. You’ll also enjoy a scenic cruise to get a view of the statue from the water. Afterward, explore Leshan’s food scene, trying regional specialties. Return to Chengdu in the evening.

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Day 14: Chengdu to Zhangjiajie

Today, you’ll take a flight to Zhangjiajie, famous for its dramatic landscapes and natural beauty. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to the Vantu·ANNICA Resort, located near Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. Your room offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Spend the day exploring Tianmen Mountain, famous for its natural rock arch known as Tianmen Cave. You’ll also experience the thrilling glass walkway.

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Day 15: Zhangjiajie

For the next few days, you’ll visit Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, where you can ride the Bailong Sightseeing Elevator for panoramic views of the towering sandstone pillars. Explore Tianzi Mountain and Yuanjiajie, famous for its “Hallelujah Mountains,” which inspired the floating mountains in the movie Avatar. You’ll also visit Baofeng Lake and Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon, where you can walk across the famous glass bridge.

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Day 16: Zhangjiajie to Guilin

After a morning at Zhangjiajie, you’ll take a train to Guilin. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to the CIAO Hotel Guilin, where you’ll stay in a room with a beautiful landscape view. In the afternoon, visit the Reed Flute Cave, a stunning natural limestone cave with colorful lighting and impressive stalactites and stalagmites.

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Day 17: Guilin to Longsheng

Take a private transfer to Longsheng today, where you’ll explore the Longsheng Rice Terraced Fields, one of the most beautiful agricultural landscapes in China. You’ll visit a local minority village, where you’ll learn how to make bamboo-tube rice. Hiking from Ping’an Village to the Ancient Zhuang Village offers stunning views of the terraces.

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Day 18: Guilin to Yangshuo

Today, you’ll take a Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of karst mountain formations. After reaching Yangshuo, you’ll have the chance to explore the West Street and discover rural China in the surrounding countryside, away from the more touristy areas.

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Day 19: Yangshuo to Shanghai

You’ll take a flight from Guilin to Shanghai, where you’ll be transferred to The Yangtze Boutique Shanghai. After settling in, explore Shanghai’s famous landmarks, including the Bund and the Shanghai Tower. Enjoy a meal at a popular local restaurant known for its Shanghai-style cuisine.

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Day 20: Departure from Shanghai

On your final day in China, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight home, with memories of a journey through the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of China.

Arrive home on day 21.

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End of Tour

Included:

  • International Flights
  • Domestic Flights
  • All transfers between airports, railway stations, hotels and scenic spots
  • Accommodation for 20 nights
  • Admission fees to all monuments
  • English speaking driver and guide
  • Meals as mentioned in the itinerary
  • Airport meet & greet in all airports
  • Service charge & government taxes
  • Tibet Permit

Not Included:

  • Gratuities for services and guides
  • Expenses on personal nature
  • Optional excursions
  • Personal & medical insurances
  • China entry visa fees
  • Anything else not listed in the itinerary

Tailor Your Tour - Potential Highlights

  • Upgrade or change your hotels
  • Add or remove attractions
  • stay longer in some locations
  • Let us make it perfect for you.

If you love this tour but want to change some details our team will tailor this tour to match your interests. With our in-depth knowledge we will provide you with the best advice on every detail of the tour.

Unsure Where To Start?

Let’s talk about your Earth Trip

Our travel specialists are seasoned explorers with deep local insights. Whether it’s uncovering hidden gems or planning immersive cultural experiences, we design trips that go beyond the ordinary. Get in touch today!

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Speak to our China travel expert today

Aleem Raheem

Speak to our China travel expert today

Aleem Raheem

Tailor Your Tour - Potential Highlights

  • Upgrade or change your hotels
  • Add or remove attractions
  • stay longer in some locations
  • Let us make it perfect for you.

If you love this tour but want to change some details our team will tailor this tour to match your interests. With our in-depth knowledge we will provide you with the best advice on every detail of the tour.