China Discovery

Your trip of a lifetime in China starts today! We have a welcome meeting planned for this evening, where you will meet your group and trip leader for the first time. Then head out to freely discover the best of Beijing's food and nightlife!

Today we will discover the biggest highlights of Beijing, including the Tiananmen Square and Drum Tower. Dive into the traditional backstreets of China's iconic capital city and take in the one-of-a-kind atmosphere. Finish the day enjoying a perfect view of the Forbidden City from Jingshan Park, with a free night ahead!

Step back into China's ancient past as we go hiking inside the Great Wall of China, one of the Seven Wonders of the World! Today we'll be exploring the Mutianyu section of the wall, famed for its stunning mountain views and well-preserved ruins. Enjoy some free time afterwards to optionally ride a cable car or go tobogganing, before we head back to Beijing and board our overnight train to Xi'an.

This morning we will arrive in Xi'an and take a guided tour around the Army of Terracotta Warriors, commissioned by China's first ever emperor. With over 8,000 clay soldiers, this giant historical site is unlike anything you have ever seen before! Later, we'll explore the lantern-lit streets of Xi'an's Muslim Quarter, filled with unique souvenirs and sensational street food.

Explore Xi'an at your own pace this morning, whether you feel like experiencing more of the town or taking an optional cycling excursion along the ancient fortress walls. Then we'll take a bullet train to Chengdu, one of China's most exciting destinations for a taste of traditional culture! This evening is all yours to discover Chengdu's authentic restaurants and vibrant nightlife - first drinks on us!

Enjoy a free morning in Chengdu, or take an optional trip to the Giant panda Breeding Centre to see China's most iconic residents! Later, we'll explore the best of Chengdu, from the People's Park to Kuan Zhai Alley, where you can find teahouses around every corner.

This morning we'll leave Chengdu behind for Yangshuo, a stunning riverside city surrounded by dramatic emerald peaks. Yangshuo offers the best of both worlds to travellers, from nature escapes to live music and bar-hopping. Enjoy a free evening to explore the bustling night markets, or grab some drinks with your mates.

Today we're escaping into the heart of Yangshuo's countryside with a cycling tour along the river, led by a local guide. Catch glimpses of everyday life in China as we pedal past, before enjoying a delicious lunch with a view at a restaurant in the village. Back in Yangshuo's main city area, this evening is free for you to relax and explore.

With so much to see and do, enjoy a free day to experience Yangshuo however you like. Whether you feel like going for a hike, enjoying a chilled day, or immersing yourself in the culture with some exciting optional activities, today's all about choosing your own adventure.

This morning we'll take a bullet train to the waterfront city of Guangzhou. Later, we'll explore the scenic gardens of Yuexiu Park, before learning all about the history of unmissable spots like Chen Clan Academy and Shamian Island. Tonight's your chance to dig into more delicious food and nightlife, or take an optional cruise along the Pearl River!

Get ready for a special once-in-a-lifetime experience as our adventure takes us into the sleepy mountains of Yongding, where we will be staying inside towering, ancient fortress buildings called 'Hakka Tulou'. Exclusive to this region of China, these rounded castles look like something out of a fantasy movie!

Enjoy a relaxed start to the morning inside this unique stay. Then we'll meet up as a group to take a tour around the Hakka Cultural Village, where we will immerse ourselves in the local ambience and learn all about Yongding's rich history. From here you can freely wander around the traditional teahouses and antique shops inside this World Heritage site, or explore the beautiful nature right outside.

Today we're travelling further north in China, as our journey takes us from the Yongding countryside to the glistening city lights of Shanghai, a megacity that never sleeps. Fusing together East and West, historic and urban, Shanghai makes an electrifying first impression!

We'll begin the day exploring the breathtaking contrasts of Shanghai, from its enchanted Old Town to a riverside area called The Bund: famed for its melting pot of architectural styles. Then this afternoon is free for you to discover more of Shanghai, whether you feel like exploring the shops and cafes of the Former French Quarter, or visiting the famous Jade Buddha Temple. This evening, join us for one final night out on the town to celebrate an unforgettable trip! Let's toast to the memories we've made with a drink included. 

Our adventure ends today and travellers are welcome to depart at any time. For assistance in planning onward or return travel, your trip leader can help.