Your journey begins as you arrive in Beijing, where a local guide will meet you at the airport. You'll be driven to your hotel in a private vehicle, allowing you to relax after your flight. The rest of the day is yours to do as you please – whether it's unwinding at the hotel or taking a short walk around the neighborhood.

Accommodation: Beijing Novotel Peace Hotel or similar (4-Star)

Overnight: Beijing

After a leisurely breakfast, head to the grand Tiananmen Square, one of the largest public squares in the world. Just nearby, step into the Forbidden City, an enormous imperial palace that once housed the emperors of China. As you walk through its vast courtyards, you’ll be surrounded by traditional Chinese architectural beauty—rich red walls and golden roofs that stand as a testament to the country's royal past. Learn about the lives and customs of the ancient Chinese emperors before heading to Jingshan Park, where you'll be treated to a breathtaking view of the Forbidden City from above.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Beijing Novotel Peace Hotel or similar (4-Star)

Overnight: Beijing

After breakfast, visit the grand Temple of Heaven, where emperors once prayed for bountiful harvests. As you stroll through the vast grounds, admire the temple's stunning circular architecture. You might also see locals practicing Tai Chi, singing traditional songs, or engaging in sword dancing.

Later, embark on a 2-hour drive outside Beijing to reach the magnificent Great Wall. Explore the Mutianyu section, known for its tranquility and preservation. Ride a cable car up to the wall, then take a leisurely hike along the ancient structure, enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and watchtowers.

In the evening, return to your hotel for a restful night after a full day of exploration.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Beijing Novotel Peace Hotel or similar (4-Star)

Overnight: Beijing

Explore the beautiful Summer Palace this morning, a stunning retreat filled with serene lakes, lush gardens, and elegant pavilions. After your visit, you’ll be transferred to the train station to board the bullet train bound for Xi'an, the ancient capital of China. As the train whizzes by at speeds of up to 300 km/h, watch the changing landscapes unfold outside your window on this 1,216 km journey.

Around 4.5 to 6 hours later, you'll arrive in Xi'an. Your local guide will greet you and take you to your hotel, leaving you with the rest of the day to relax or explore the city at your leisure.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Eastern House Boutique Hotel or similar (4-Star)

Overnight: Xi'an

Today, take a trip to the famous Terracotta Army, located about an hour's drive from Xi'an. Marvel at the life-sized clay soldiers, horses, and chariots, all standing in perfect formation as they guard the tomb of the Qin dynasty's first emperor. This remarkable army, created to accompany the emperor in the afterlife, offers an unforgettable glimpse into ancient China's craftsmanship and history.

Afterward, head back to downtown Xi'an and explore the bustling Muslim Quarter. Here, you can sample a variety of local dishes, many of which are influenced by the region's Muslim culture, and enjoy some of Xi'an's unique food specialties.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Eastern House Boutique Hotel or similar (4-Star)

Overnight: Xi'an

The day begins with a mesmerizing performance at the Drum Tower, where the sounds of ancient bells and chimes fill the air, adding a historical touch to the morning. Next, visit Gao's Courtyard, a charming spot where you can dive into the art of calligraphy and try your hand at writing traditional Chinese characters with a brush.

After a satisfying lunch at a local eatery, hop aboard a high-speed train for a 4-hour ride to Chengdu, the city known for its giant pandas. Upon reaching your destination, a local guide will be waiting to take you to your hotel, where you can relax and unwind for the night.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Xizang Hotel Chengdu or similar (4-Star)

Overnight: Chengdu

Today, you’ll visit the Chengdu Panda Base, a place dedicated to the protection of these lovable creatures. Watch as pandas of different ages enjoy their bamboo meals, nap in the shade, or play around in their natural-looking habitats. It's a great opportunity to see how these rare animals are raised and learn about the efforts being made to help them thrive.

Next, proceed to Wenshu Monastery, the largest Buddhist temple in Chengdu. Explore its peaceful courtyards, discover the ancient pagoda, and wander through the halls that have been home to prayer and meditation for centuries. Finish your visit with a moment of calm as you sip tea in the monastery’s tea house, letting the peaceful surroundings help you unwind.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Xizang Hotel Chengdu or similar (4-Star)

Overnight: Chengdu

After a leisurely breakfast, head out to explore the Jinsha Site Museum, home to fascinating relics from the ancient Shu Kingdom, including jade, gold, and ivory artifacts. Enjoy the immersive 4D movie, "Dream Back to Jinshan," which offers a glimpse into the social life of this long-lost civilization.

Then, leave Chengdu behind and board a bullet train bound for Chongqing. The 2-hour ride will whisk you to the city, where a transfer will take you straight to the dock. Here, you’ll board your river cruise ship and prepare for your journey down the Yangtze River. After settling into your cabin and attending a safety briefing, relax as the ship departs and begins its voyage.

Meal: Breakfast

Accommodation: Victoria Katarina or similar

Overnight: Yangtze River Cruise

Start your day with an early morning coffee or tea, and join the Tai Chi session to stretch your body while enjoying the peaceful river surroundings. Afterward, head to the buffet for a hearty breakfast, ready to embark on the day’s adventures.

In the morning, enjoy a shore excursion to Fengdu, known for its "Mt. Shuanggui," a place steeped in local legends. For those interested in delving deeper, you can opt for an additional visit to the famous "Ghost City" (optional tour at an extra cost, payable directly to the ship).

Later, indulge in a leisurely lunch aboard the ship before the afternoon’s activities.

In the evening, the Captain will host a welcome reception, offering a chance to meet fellow travelers. Then, enjoy a buffet dinner as you continue to take in the views. For the evening entertainment, you may choose to attend the "Romance of the Three Kingdoms" show (optional and extra, payable directly to the ship).

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

Accommodation: Victoria Katarina or similar

Overnight: Yangtze River Cruise

Start the day with early morning coffee or tea, followed by a Tai Chi session. After breakfast, enjoy a excursion to White Emperor City (optional, additional cost payable to the ship).

As the ship cruises through Qutang Gorge, take in the stunning views of towering cliffs and calm waters. Then, continue through Wu Gorge, renowned for its picturesque landscapes.

In the afternoon, head to Goddess Stream for a tranquil shore excursion, enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

In the evening, join the Captain's Farewell Banquet, followed by a lively cabaret performance by the ship’s crew, celebrating the diverse cultures along the river.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Victoria Katarina or similar

Overnight: Yangtze River Cruise

After breakfast, set off to visit the world-renowned Three Gorges Dam, the largest hydropower project on Earth. Once the tour is over, you'll disembark from the ship and be met by your guide, who will take you to the train station for your next journey to Shanghai. Upon arrival in Shanghai, your guide will transfer you to your hotel where you'll settle in for the night.

Meal: Breakfast

Accommodation: Central Hotel Shanghai or similar (4-Star)

This day is packed with iconic sights in Shanghai. Begin at the Bund, a stunning promenade that stretches along the Huangpu River, where you'll see impressive colonial architecture from the early 20th century. Across the river, the futuristic skyline, including the Oriental Pearl Tower, offers a striking contrast.

Next, step into the serene Yu Garden, a beautiful example of classical Chinese landscaping. Afterward, wander through the lively Yuyuan Bazaar, perfect for picking up unique souvenirs. At a local silk workshop, observe the intricate process of silk production, a craft that has been refined over centuries.

Later, immerse yourself in the wealth of culture at the Shanghai Museum, showcasing over 140,000 precious historical artifacts. To cap off your day, stroll through the charming streets of the French Concession, a district known for its blend of old-world elegance and modern flair, before heading back to your hotel.

Meal: Breakfast

Accommodation: Central Hotel Shanghai or similar (4-Star)

Overnight: Shanghai

After checking out of your accommodation, you'll be taken to the airport where you'll proceed with your departure. With memories of a fantastic journey, it’s time to say goodbye to Shanghai and begin your journey home.

Meals: Breakfast