Classic China Explorer: 10-Day Beijing, Xi'an, Chengdu & Shanghai Tour

Your first destination is the magnificent Mutianyu Great Wall, a less-crowded yet exceptionally beautiful section renowned for its stunning watchtowers and lush, forested scenery. To maximize your time and comfort, a round-trip cable car ride is included, whisking you up to the best-preserved parts of the wall. As you walk along the ancient battlements, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the serpentine structure winding over rolling hills. The atmosphere here is both powerful and serene, allowing for incredible photos and a profound sense of connection to China's imperial past. For the adventurous, the optional toboggan ride down offers a thrilling and fun way to descend.

After descending from the Great Wall, you will enjoy a delicious lunch at a carefully selected local restaurant, where you can sample authentic regional specialties.

In the afternoon, return to the city and transition from ancient wonder to modern masterpiece with a photo stop at the iconic Beijing National Stadium, universally known as the Bird's Nest. This architectural marvel, designed for the 2008 Summer Olympics, is even more impressive up close. Your guide will share fascinating insights into its design and symbolic significance, allowing you to capture stunning photographs of its intricate steel latticework against the backdrop of the Beijing skyline.

Your journey begins with a visit to one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of the 20th century - the magnificent Terracotta Warriors. After breakfast, your personal guide and driver will escort you approximately one hour outside the city to this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discovered by local farmers in 1974, this incredible underground army features thousands of life-sized soldiers, horses, and chariots, each with unique facial expressions and positions, created to protect China's first emperor in the afterlife. Stand in awe before the three main excavation pits, where the sheer scale and remarkable craftsmanship of these ancient artifacts will leave you breathless. Your expert guide will share fascinating stories about their creation, discovery, and the ongoing archaeological work that continues to reveal new wonders.

Return to the city for a delicious lunch of local specialties before experiencing Xi'an's magnificent Ancient City Wall. This is the most complete city wall surviving in China, dating back to the Ming Dynasty. Walk or cycle along its wide ramparts (bike rental included), enjoying unique panoramic views of both the historic city center and modern urban developments. The 14th-century wall stands 12 meters tall and stretches nearly 14 kilometers around the old city, offering a perfect perspective of Xi'an's fascinating blend of ancient and contemporary.

As evening falls, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Muslim Quarter, a captivating network of ancient streets filled with food stalls, shops, and the historic Great Mosque. Sample local delicacies like yangrou paomo (crumbled flatbread in mutton soup), savory persimmon cakes, and various kebabs while experiencing the area's rich cultural heritage. Your tour concludes with an exterior view of the beautifully illuminated Bell and Drum Towers, which stand as magnificent symbols of ancient Xi'an against the night sky. 

Enjoy a comfortable high-speed train journey to Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan province. The approximately 3-hour ride offers scenic views as you travel southwest from Xi'an.

Upon arrival, your driver will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to explore at your own pace. You may choose to wander through the city's charming alleys, sample famous Sichuan snacks, or simply relax and soak in the laid-back atmosphere of this vibrant city.

This leisurely day provides the perfect transition to your Chengdu adventure, allowing you to unwind after your journey and prepare for the exciting experiences ahead in the panda homeland.

After breakfast, your driver will transfer you to the airport for your morning flight to Shanghai. Upon arrival in this vibrant metropolis, you'll be greeted and transferred to your centrally located hotel.

The remainder of the day is yours to explore China's most dynamic city at your own pace. We highly recommend starting your Shanghai discovery with a visit to the famous Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, followed by a stroll along The Bund. Here you'll witness the spectacular contrast between historic colonial architecture and the futuristic skyline of Pudong.

This leisurely afternoon allows you to settle into Shanghai's unique rhythm - whether that means shopping at luxury boutiques, sampling local delicacies, or simply soaking in the cosmopolitan atmosphere. Your guide will be happy to provide personalized recommendations to ensure you make the most of your first evening in Shanghai.

Discover the perfect blend of ancient charm and modern grandeur on your final full day in Shanghai. Your journey begins with a visit to the enchanting Qibao Ancient Town, a preserved water town nestled within the modern city. Stroll along cobblestone paths flanked by traditional Ming and Qing dynasty architecture, crossing over ancient stone bridges that span peaceful canals. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of its old street, where you can sample an array of local delicacies from sweet glutinous rice cakes to savory braised pork, while exploring shops selling intricate handicrafts and traditional Chinese artworks.

Continue your cultural exploration at the classical Yu Garden, a masterpiece of the Ming Dynasty that represents the pinnacle of Chinese landscape design. Wander through this serene oasis of peaceful pavilions, intricate rockeries, gnarled trees, and tranquil ponds, each element carefully arranged to create perfect harmony. Adjacent to the garden, explore the bustling Yuyuan Bazaar with its array of souvenir shops and snack stalls, where you can experience the vibrant energy of old Shanghai.

As evening falls, experience the iconic Bund waterfront, where you'll witness the spectacular contrast between historic colonial architecture and the futuristic skyline of Pudong. Then, embark on a memorable ferry cruise across the Huangpu River, offering unparalleled views of both sides of Shanghai's magnificent waterfront. Your journey culminates at the Oriental Pearl Tower, where you have the option to ascend to one of its observation decks for a breathtaking panoramic view of the illuminated city spread out beneath you. This carefully curated day showcases Shanghai's perfect fusion of ancient heritage and modern innovation, creating a fitting finale to your China adventure.