Classic China
Uncover the heart of China on this immersive Small Group tour, limited to just 18 guests. From the legendary Great Wall to the imperial grandeur of the Forbidden City, you’ll step into centuries of history. In Xi’an, stand in awe before the Terracotta Warriors, then take a slower pace through Beijing’s hutongs by rickshaw, where a local family welcomes you for an exclusive, hands-on dumpling-making experience. Visit a traditional jade workshop and explore the dynamic contrasts of Shanghai, where ancient traditions sit alongside a soaring skyline. From quiet alleyways to iconic wonders, this journey reveals China through its stories, flavours and unforgettable people.
- 17 Apr 2027 – 25 Apr 2027
from $7,669.70 pp twin share * - 15 May 2027 – 23 May 2027
from $8,289 pp twin share * - 26 Jun 2027 – 04 Jul 2027
from $7,647.20 pp twin share * - 24 Jul 2027 – 01 Aug 2027
from $8,264 pp twin share * - 28 Aug 2027 – 05 Sep 2027
from $8,289 pp twin share * - 18 Sep 2027 – 26 Sep 2027
from $7,669.70 pp twin share * - 09 Oct 2027 – 17 Oct 2027
from $8,289 pp twin share *
* Prices and category availability are subject to change without notice.
Itinerary
- Day 1 – Say Nĭ Hăo to China:
Transfer to your Beijing hotel where you’ll meet your Travel Director and Small Group for dinner at a local restaurant. - Day 2 – Discover the Icons of Beijing:
Delve into Beijing’s imperial heritage, beginning at Tiananmen Square, the world’s largest public space. Enter the UNESCO-listed Forbidden City through the south gate, once the home of emperors and their households for over 600 years. Discover its ancient traditions and history before enjoying time at leisure for lunch. Later, visit the serene Temple of Heaven, another UNESCO-listed site, where Ming and Qing emperors prayed for harvests and guidance. This evening, you’ll enjoy a Regional Dinner featuring Beijing’s iconic Peking Duck. - Day 3 – Journey to the Great Wall:
Leave Beijing behind and walk in the footsteps of emperors along the Great Wall of China at Juyongguan, a monumental structure first built in the 5th century BC and stretching thousands of miles across the north. Take in sweeping views from its ancient ramparts before continuing to the Sacred Way, where stone guardians line the path to the Ming Tombs, burial site of 13 Ming emperors. Later, visit a jade workshop and watch skilled artisans carve this revered stone into intricate designs. This evening, choose an Optional Experience to witness a thrilling Kung Fu performance, blending age-old martial arts with modern stagecraft. - Day 4 – Explore Beijing:
Ease into the day with a rickshaw ride through the narrow lanes of Beijing’s traditional Hutong neighbourhoods. Join a local family for a home-cooked lunch and gain a deeper insight into the everyday lives of the locals. Then, visit a tea house to see the traditions and techniques behind Chinese tea-making. This afternoon, fly to Xi’an, where you may choose to explore the vibrant night food market and emerging craft beer scene, or opt for a dumpling dinner, complete with a demonstration revealing the skill behind these regional favourites. - Day 5 – Uncover Xi’an’s Treasures:
Kick off your morning by marvelling at one of China’s greatest archaeological discoveries, the Terracotta Warriors with your Travel Director. Explore the vast underground army built to guard China’s first emperor in the afterlife. For lunch, enjoy a traditional noodle meal packed with regional flavours. Later, visit a local village to explore the unique cave dwellings still used by some residents today – a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience that offers a rare insight into rural life. This evening is yours to enjoy as you wish. Perhaps choose to attend a Tang Dynasty performance, complete with dinner and historic pageantry. - Day 6 – Onwards to Shanghai:
Start your day by joining a Local Specialist for a peaceful morning Tai Chi lesson and gaining insight into this graceful martial art. Later, step inside a local home for a Small Group Exclusive, hands-on dumpling-making experience where you’ll learn traditional techniques before sitting down to enjoy your creations over lunch. This afternoon, fly to Shanghai and check into your Stays with Stories hotel. The evening is yours to explore the city at your leisure. - Day 7 – Experience Shanghai:
Take in the sights of Shanghai on a morning city tour with your Travel Director, beginning with a stroll along the iconic Bund, known for its colonial elegance and striking modern design. Next, visit a local silk factory to learn about this ancient craft, then enjoy free time in the Old Town to explore its bustling laneways and savour lunch at your own pace. Later, ascend 88 floors to the top of Jin Mao Tower and take in panoramic views of the glittering city skyline before returning to your hotel to unwind, or opt for an out-of-this-world dining experience at the futuristic Spacelab restaurant. This evening, be captivated by the jaw-dropping artistry of the Shanghai Acrobatic Show – a thrilling finale to your day. - Day 8 – Shanghai Your Way:
Enjoy a free day in Shanghai with the option to explore more of the city’s rich cultural layers. You may choose to visit the acclaimed Shanghai Museum and learn about the city’s Jewish heritage in the former Ghetto. Alternatively, discover the ancient water town of Zhujiajiao – often called the ‘Venice of Shanghai’ – with its winding canals, stone bridges and charming shops, followed by lunch. You might also explore the classical beauty of Yu Garden alongside the museum’s fascinating exhibits. This evening, gather with your fellow travellers for a final dinner, savouring a delicious menu as you reflect on your journey through China. - Day 9 – Farewell Shanghai:
Your journey through China comes to an end today. Enjoy a smooth departure with airport transfers arranged according to your flight details.
Highlights
- Venture to the legendary Great Wall and imperial Forbidden City.
- Stand in awe before the Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an.
- Enjoy an exclusive, hands-on dumpling-making experience with a local family.
Uncover the heart of China on this immersive Small Group tour, limited to just 18 guests. From the legendary Great Wall to the imperial grandeur of the Forbidden City, you’ll step into centuries of history. In Xi’an, stand in awe before the Terracotta Warriors, then take a slower pace through Beijing’s hutongs by rickshaw, where a local family welcomes you for an exclusive, hands-on dumpling-making experience. Visit a traditional jade workshop and explore the dynamic contrasts of Shanghai, where ancient traditions sit alongside a soaring skyline. From quiet alleyways to iconic wonders, this journey reveals China through its stories, flavours and unforgettable people.
Inclusions
- An expert Travel Director and professional Driver.
- Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted.
- All porterage and restaurant gratuities.
- All hotel tips, charges and local taxes.
- Must-see sightseeing.
- Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing.
FAQs
- Novotel Peace
- The Kunlun Jing An
- Wyndham Grand Xi’an South
How long is this journey?
This itinerary runs for 9 days and 8 nights.
When can I travel?
Departures are currently scheduled between 17 Apr 2027 and 17 Oct 2027, subject to live availability.
Are there different departure options?
Yes, multiple departures may be available depending on your preferred travel period.
Are discounts available?
Seasonal or loyalty discounts may be available on selected departures at the time of enquiry.
What is generally included?
Inclusions typically cover guided touring and selected experiences, with exact details listed in the itinerary.
Provided by: Trafalgar ToursFine Print
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