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8-Day Private China Tour: Beijing, Xi'an & Shanghai
| Day | Destination | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 1–4 | Beijing | Explore imperial history, savor local cuisine, and enjoy scenic classical gardens |
| 5–6 | Xi’an | Terracotta Warriors, walks along the ancient city walls, and vibrant local markets |
| 7–8 | Shanghai | The Bund promenade, panoramic skyline views, and flexible, customizable urban experiences |
From
$1,949.00 USD
TravelTidesChina: Your Personalized Journey Through China
Discover China with TravelTidesChina, a specialist in customized inbound China tours designed by experienced local travel experts. We create thoughtfully curated itineraries that showcase China's iconic landmarks, rich history, and authentic local life-crafted entirely around your interests, travel pace, and budget.
Highlights
- Hidden Imperial Discovery: Go beyond the central axis of the Forbidden City to explore rarely visited halls with your private guide, gaining deeper historical insight while avoiding the crowds.
- Great Wall Icon Experience: Walk along the top-ranked Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, strolling through watchtowers and enjoying sweeping mountain views.
- A Taste of China: Savor crispy Beijing roast duck, learn dumpling making with a local family in Xi’an, and sample authentic Shanghai street snacks.
- Terracotta Army Secrets: Discover the untold stories behind the Terracotta Warriors and create your own miniature figure in a traditional cave-dwelling workshop.
- Ancient City Wall Journey: Cycle or walk atop Xi’an’s ancient City Wall for a unique perspective and echoes of the city’s long history.
- Shanghai Stories Revealed: Uncover hidden tales of the Bund’s 1920s golden age and ascend Shanghai Tower for striking views of the modern skyline.
- Tailored Shanghai Finale: Enjoy a half-day fully customized experience, whether relaxing, exploring art and fashion, discovering local culture, or shopping for meaningful souvenirs.
- Please note: Based on a private tour for 2 people. Price varies depending on program, travel date, number of people and chosen hotel. Custom designed personal tour. Prices subject to change.
Day 1: Arrival in Beijing
Private Welcome Service
Upon landing in Beijing, your TravelTidesChina private guide will be waiting to welcome you in the arrival hall. A comfortable private vehicle and professional driver will be ready to transfer you directly to your hotel. From the very first moment, we focus on making your arrival smooth, relaxed, and memorable - setting the tone for an unforgettable journey through China.
Day 2: Beijing
Forbidden City Exploration & Hutong Life
Begin the day at Tian’anmen Square, a powerful symbol of modern China. Step next into the Forbidden City, the world’s largest and best-preserved imperial palace complex, with over five centuries of history. While most visitors follow the main axis alone, your private guide will lead you to 12 carefully selected sites, revealing stories and architectural details often missed by larger groups.
At lunch, savor the iconic Beijing Roast Duck. Watch the chef’s refined carving technique, taste the perfectly crisp skin, and learn the traditional way to enjoy this famous dish.
In the afternoon, slow down in Beijing’s historic hutong alleyways. Wander through narrow lanes, observe local life, and experience the charm of traditional courtyard neighborhoods.
Day 3: Beijing
Temple of Heaven & Mutianyu Great Wall
Start your morning at the Temple of Heaven, where emperors once prayed for harmony between heaven and earth. Arriving early allows you to witness local residents practicing tai chi, martial arts, and morning exercises - an authentic slice of daily life rarely seen by visitors.
In the afternoon, travel to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, celebrated for its scenic mountain setting and well-preserved structure. Though located about 2.5 hours from downtown Beijing, the sweeping views and peaceful atmosphere make the journey truly worthwhile.
Day 4: Beijing to Xi’an by High-Speed Train
Summer Palace
Spend the morning exploring the Summer Palace, an exquisite imperial garden once used as a seasonal retreat from the heat. Its tranquil lakes, elegant pavilions, and landscaped hills offer insight into the leisure life of China’s emperors.
Later, board a high-speed train bound for Xi’an. This modern rail journey provides a fascinating contrast between China’s ancient heritage and its cutting-edge technology.
Day 5: Xi'an
Terracotta Warriors & Traditional Cave Dwelling
In the morning, uncover the secrets of the Terracotta Army, an underground force dating back to 206 BC. Your guide will bring this archaeological wonder to life with stories behind the warriors, their creation, and their enduring mysteries.
Next, visit a traditional cave dwelling once used by local craftsmen. Learn about this unique lifestyle and try your hand at making a mini terracotta warrior.
Return to the city to explore the Ancient City Wall, which has protected Xi’an for over 600 years. Walk along the ramparts for panoramic city views or choose to cycle around the wall for a more active experience.
Day 6: Xi'an to Shanghai by Flight
City Highlights
Continue discovering Xi’an’s rich past with visits to the Xi’an History Museum and the Little Wild Goose Pagoda. Then head to the lively Muslim Quarter, where winding alleys are filled with irresistible aromas and local Muslim specialties waiting to be tasted.
In the afternoon, transfer to the airport for your flight to Shanghai. Upon arrival, your Shanghai guide will meet you and escort you to your hotel, allowing you to rest and recharge.
Day 7: Shanghai
Bund Heritage & Shanghai Tower
Go beyond surface-level sightseeing on the Bund with an in-depth cultural exploration. Travel back to the 1920s and uncover stories from Shanghai’s golden age as you step inside historic Bund buildings and learn about their architectural and cultural significance.
Later, ascend Shanghai Tower—the tallest building in China. From its observation deck, enjoy sweeping views of the city skyline and glimpse the future of modern China.
Half-Day Personalized Experience
After days of exploration, this flexible half-day allows you to end your journey your way. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, cultural depth, shopping, or a unique local experience, your private guide will customize the plan around your interests in Shanghai.
Day 8: Shanghai Departure
TravelTidesChina Farewell Service
At the appropriate time, your TravelTidesChina private driver and guide will be waiting in your hotel lobby to escort you to the airport. From check-in assistance to guidance through security, we take care of every detail so you can enjoy a smooth, stress-free departure and begin your journey home with ease.
Made to order
- Choose from a range of places to stay, from impeccable five-star hotels to equally outstanding boutique ones.
- Tailor your trip to include a wide variety of activities, from the must-see's to the lesser-known, local experiences, and even the exclusive ones you may not know about.
- With no fixed dates or set schedules, you can explore on your terms.
- Whether you're celebrating one of life's big moments or looking to fulfill a personal journey, we always work with you to ensure we're creating a trip-of-a-lifetime.
What's included
- Private air-conditioned business car with big windows and ample space
- English speaking local guide
- Activities, hotels, and meals listed in the itinerary
- Flights/trains between itinerary cities
- 24/7 helpline for while you are traveling
What's not included
- Your international airfare - please do let your expert know if you'd like to receive pricing from our Air Team
- Travel insurance, which we offer and can be purchased after you've booked your tour
- Visas (unless noted)
- Tips for services and experiences
- Excess baggage charges, and where applicable, baggage not included in your fare
- Personal charges such as laundry, phone calls, SIM cards or room service
- Early check-in or late check-out from hotels (unless otherwise specified)
- Additional sightseeing, activities and experiences outside of your itinerary
- Optional enhancements like room or flight upgrades, or local camera or video fees
- Passport fees, immunization costs, and local departure taxes (when applicable)
We listen: Share your travel goals and preferences, and we bring them to life.
We plan: Every detail of your itinerary is carefully arranged by our travel experts.
We refine: We collaborate with you to perfect your trip, even if plans change while traveling.
To help us create your personalized itinerary, please provide:
- Planned travel dates
- Number of travelers
- Duration of your trip
- Special interests or requests
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