Roundtrip China - present, past and future. Beijing-Xian-Shanghai

A Journey Through Time: Explore China's Past, Present, and Future

Discover the enduring legacy of China's first emperor in Xi’an, where an awe-inspiring army of over 8,000 life-sized clay soldiers stands guard over his eternal rest. Known as the Terracotta Army, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a breathtaking glimpse into ancient artistry, military precision, and imperial grandeur. Xi’an itself is a treasure trove of history, boasting landmarks like the towering Big Wild Goose Pagoda, the ancient City Wall, and the vibrant Muslim Quarter with its rich culinary traditions.

From the historical wonders of Xi’an, your journey continues to Beijing, the political and cultural heart of modern China. Walk through the centuries at the majestic Forbidden City, stand in awe of the grand Tiananmen Square, and hike along the iconic Great Wall. Witness how tradition blends seamlessly with innovation in this dynamic capital, from ancient temples to modern architectural marvels like the Bird’s Nest Stadium.

Finally, step into China’s future in Shanghai, a city that captures the spirit of modernity like no other. Admire the soaring heights of the futuristic Lujiazui skyline, including the Shanghai Tower and the Oriental Pearl TV Tower. Stroll along the Bund, where colonial-era architecture meets the glistening Huangpu River. Explore the chic neighborhoods of Xintiandi and the French Concession, brimming with trendy boutiques, art galleries, and world-class dining. At night, immerse yourself in the electric energy of the city as its neon-lit streets come alive with activity.

Highlights:
♦ Beijing - Tian’an Men Square and the Forbidden City
♦ Xian - the Terracotta Warriors, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda
♦ Shanghai - the Bund and the iconic contrast of Shanghai’s modern Pudong skyline and the historic colonial architecture

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Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Beijing
Arrive in Beijing and make your way to the hotel for check-in to Dong Fang Hotel Beijing 3* or similar. Spend the rest of the day at leisure to relax or explore the local area at your own pace. -/-/-

Day 2: Exploring Beijing
Begin your day with breakfast before heading to Tian’an Men Square, the historic site where the People’s Republic of China was founded. From there, explore the Forbidden City (excl. exhibitions), the largest and best-preserved imperial palace in the world. After lunch at a local restaurant, visit the Temple of Heaven, a masterpiece of Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture, and end your day with a traditional tea ceremony. Return to the hotel for the evening, with dinner at your own leisure. B/L/-

Day 3: The Great Wall and Summer Palace
After breakfast, visit the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, a stunning testament to China’s engineering marvels, surrounded by scenic landscapes (excl. cable car). Enjoy lunch at a local Chinese restaurant before heading to the Summer Palace, the imperial family’s former retreat. Its beautifully decorated courtyards and views of Kunming Lake offer a serene and cultural experience (excl. boat, theatre and Longevity Hill). Return to your hotel for a restful evening, with dinner on your own. B/L/-

Day 4: Hutongs and High-Speed Train to Xi’an
Start the day with a tour of Beijing’s historic Hutongs, where you can immerse yourself in the traditional culture of these narrow alleyways. Enjoy lunch with a local family or at a nearby restaurant before transferring to the railway station to board the high-speed train to Xi’an, train ride: 5-6 hours. Upon arrival, meet your local guide and transfer to your hotel for check-in. Aurum international hotel 3.5* or similar. Dinner will be at your own arrangement. B/L/-

Day 5: Discovering Xi’an’s Wonders
Enjoy breakfast before visiting the world-famous Terracotta Warrior Museum, home to the incredible army of life-sized clay soldiers that have stood guard for centuries. The silent army and its place in Chinese culture represent a wonderful highlight of any tour. Afterward, learn more about the craftsmanship at a terracotta figure-making factory. After lunch, visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda (excl. climb the tower), a well-preserved structure from the Tang Dynasty and one of the oldest surviving structures of its kind in China. Later stop by a jade factory to witness the intricate artistry of jade carving. Return to your hotel for the evening, with dinner at your leisure. B/L/-

Day 6: Ancient Xi’an and Overnight Train to Shanghai
Begin the day with a visit to the ancient City Wall of Xi’an, dated 600 years of Ming Dynasty, best preserved of its kind in China (excl. cycling). Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the Muslim Quarter, where you can sample local snacks and explore bustling markets. Visit the Great Mosque, a unique blend of Islamic and Chinese architecture, before transferring to the railway station for an overnight train to Shanghai (15-16 hrs). B/L/-

Day 7: Welcome to Shanghai
Upon arrival in Shanghai, transfer to your hotel: Holiday Inn EXPRESS Shanghai Putuo 3* or similar. Breakfast. Start your exploration with a visit to Yu Garden, a tranquil oasis from the Ming Dynasty 400 years ago  located in the old city. After lunch, head to the Jade Buddha Temple (1882), known for its two exquisite white jade statues. Take a stroll along Nanjing Road, a lively shopping street with all of the immense energy, bright lights and spectacle of Shanghai condensed into one location.. End the day at The Bund, where the modern skyline of Pudong contrasts beautifully with the colonial architecture across the river. Transfer back to the hotel and evening on your own. B/L/-

Day 8: A Glimpse of Old and New Shanghai
Travel to Zhujiajiao Water Town, often referred to as the “Venice of China,” where serene canals and ancient bridges offer a peaceful escape. After lunch at a local restaurant, explore the historic Former French Concession, a charming district with tree-lined streets and boutique shops, before visiting a silk factory to learn about China’s ancient silk-making traditions. Return to your hotel for the evening. B/L/-

Day 9: Departure from Shanghai
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before checking out. Whether you’re heading to the airport for your return flight or continuing your adventure in China or beyond, take with you the unforgettable memories of this journey through China’s past, present, and future. B/-/-

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Visa to China: Until December 31, 2025, tourists and business travelers from the following 27 countries and territories do not need a visa to enter China, and can stay for up to 15 days: Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, South Korea, Spain, Switzerland.

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Price Includes:
7 nights in selected hotels in double/twin with private facilities and 1 overnight train on soft-sleeper in 4 Cabin from Xi’an to Shanghai,excl. luggage check-in service
Meals as per itinerary (B=breakfast/L=lunch/D=dinner)
All transfers mentioned in the program in customary air-conditioned vehicle
2nd class seat on the high-speed train from Beijing to Xi’an,excl. check-in luggage service
Current entrance fee (first entry
subject to change) for tourist attraction mentioned in the program
Sightseeing mentioned in the program incl. guide and driver services
Experienced local English speaking tour guide
24 hours local English speaking hotline and VAT

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Not Included:
Flight or other transport to Beijing and from Shanghai
Transfer from airport to hotel on Day 1 and transfer from hotel to airport on day 9
Meals not mentioned and drinking
Additional entrance fees
Tipping: USD 6 per person per day for guide & USD 3 per person per day for driver
Eventual visa and vaccinations
Insurance
Personal expenses

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Additional Services:
Pre-accommodation in Beijing and post-accommodation in Shanghai: on request
Transfer (flight arrival 8:00-22:00) from Beijing Capital Airport (PEK) to hotel in Beijing per person: 65 EUR (2 persons);135 EUR (1 person) / from Beijing Daxing Airport (PKX) to hotel in Beijing per person: 105 EUR (2 persons);210 EUR (1 person)
Transfer (flight departure 10:00-22:00) from hotel in Shanghai to Shanghai Pudong Airport (PVG) 65 EUR (2 persons);110 EUR (1 person)
1st class seat on the train from Beijing to Xi’an: 70 EUR
Whole cabin on the night train from Xi’an to Shanghai: 115 EUR per person (2 persons)

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