From CAD 1,515 Was CAD 2,020
Guarantee
Small Group
Light
Rating
(20 reviews)
Experience Overview
Get a taste of historical China on this culture-stuffed adventure. Travel from Shanghai to Beijing, taking in iconic attractions such as the Great Wall of China (one of the Seven Wonders of the World!) and the Terracotta Warriors along the way. In between the well-known sights, you'll delve beneath the surface, visit the ancient town and traditional garden in Wuxi City, snack through the Muslim Quarter in Xi’an and watch the sun setting on the Great Wall. In just eight days, you’ll have the perfect introduction to the highlights of China.
Highlights
- Take on one of the most popular trips in China, packed full of experiences that will give you a great insight into China in just a short time.
- Be dazzled by Shanghai’s neon lights and the stunning night skyline. Then, get a peek into what life was like in ancient times with a visit to the incredibly scenic Huishan Ancient Town and one of the finest examples of traditional Chinese gardens – Jichang Garden.
- Spend the night in a charming, family-run guesthouse near the Great Wall of China – a great opportunity to experience local life – and take the chance for a short sunset hike over one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
- Explore Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City in Beijing with a local leader who knows all the history, tips and tricks for this fascinating and historic area.
- Witness the incredible sight of the Terracotta Army – buried for over 2000 years, this fantastic historical wonder is an excellent example of the genius and artistic prowess of man.
Trip Details
Product Code: 1697
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: Private Vehicle,Public Bus,High Speed Train,Subway
Guide Language: English
Supplier Code: CBSD
Starts: Shanghai, China
Finishes: Beijing, China
Duration: 8 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical rating:
Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (3),Accommodation: Hotel (6 nights),Guesthouse (1 night)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD 1515 (CAD 189 /day)
Itinerary
Ni Hao! Welcome to China. Your adventure begins in Shanghai with a welcome meeting at 4 pm. If you arrive early, there is much to see and do in this frenetic city. Blending 21st-century architecture with old-world character, Shanghai pulses with the beat of new China. After your meeting this afternoon, you’ll head out for a leader-led walking tour on the bund – the perfect spot to see the nighttime skyline light up when the sun descends. Tonight, why not get a taste of Shanghai’s eclectic food scene, grab your group and ask your leader for the best recommendations for dinner.
Optional Activities:
- Shanghai - Shanghai Propaganda Poster Art Centre (entrance fee) (25 CNY)
- Shanghai - Yuyuan Garden (entrance fee) (40 CNY)
- Shanghai - Shanghai Museum (entrance fee) - Free
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Get ready for your first bullet train experience this morning. A half-hour train ride will take you to Wuxi – once a prominent water town and now a booming city. Follow your leader on a walking tour through the Huishan Ancient Town Scenic Area and explore the cultural relics, historic sites and Xihui scenic area full of gorgeous gardens. Wander through the Huishan historic and cultural streets almost like travelling back in time. Take some epic snaps, learn about the traditional life here and then visit the Jichang Garden – one of the finest examples of traditional Chinese gardens, listed as a protected national heritage site in 1998. Head back to Shanghai in the afternoon. The evening is yours to enjoy at your own pace – why not grab a drink in one of the rooftop bars in Shanghai and look out over the bund.
Included Activities:
- Wuxi - Huishan Ancient Town
- Wuxi - Jichang Garden
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Hop on the bullet train to Xi’an this morning – the capital of Shaanxi Province and the largest city in northwest China. Once the imperial centre and start of the Silk Road, Xi'an is now a vibrant, modern city dotted with many historical sites and a great place to explore. When you arrive, join your leader on a walking tour, passing the iconic Bell and Drum Towers – according to legend, the Bell Tower was built to restrain the pesky dragons that were causing devastating earthquakes. See the Muslim Quarter and wander past the shops, markets, and the Great Mosque. Sample some street snacks from local carts and see why this area is known for its food! For dinner tonight, maybe try some tantalising local specialties such as pao mo (lamb broth with flat bread), hand-pulled noodles and meat skewers.
Included Activities:
- Xi'an - Muslim Quarter Walking Tour and Snack Sampling
Optional Activities:
- Xi'an - Great Mosque (entrance fee) (25 CNY)
- Xi'an - Bell & Drum Towers (entrance fee) (50 CNY)
- Xi'an - City Wall bike hire (45 CNY)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, you’ll journey outside Xi’an and visit what is undoubtedly one of the man-made wonders of the world – the Terracotta Warriors. Learn about this incredible archaeological find, discovered after being buried for 2000 years, and take your time getting to know the 1000 warriors (each individually sculpted, with a different costume, height and facial expression). These clay statues depicting soldiers, horses and chariots were commissioned by the emperor Qin Shi Huangdi as part of his mausoleum after he ascended to the throne in 264 BC. Later, return to Xi’an and enjoy a free evening at leisure. Why not head to the Tang Paradise walking street near the Big Wild Goose Pagoda – this is an eclectic part of the city, full of light and sound and perfect for some local nightlife.
Included Activities:
- Xi'an - Terracotta Warriors Tour - leader led
Optional Activities:
- Xi'an - Tang Dynasty Show (290 CNY)
- Xi'an - Big Goose Pagoda (entrance fee) (80 CNY)
- Xi'an - Little Wild Goose Pagoda (50 CNY)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today is a big day of travelling, so grab some snacks and a good book for the journey. You’ll transfer to the railway station, then board the high-speed train to Beijing. Watch the landscape change from farmland and villages to industrialised cities and take the opportunity to get to know your fellow travellers along the way. When you arrive in Beijing, board a private vehicle and drive into the countryside, where you’ll spend the night in a family-run guesthouse right inside the scenic area near the Great Wall of China! Tonight it’s highly recommended that you go for a short hike to the Wall for an unforgettable sunset. You’ve made it to one of the Seven Wonders of the World!
Included Activities:
- Great Wall - Sunset
Accommodation:
- Guest house (Number of Nights: 1)
Today is an exciting day as you’ll visit a section of the Great Wall of China – an ancient wonder of the world and this country’s iconic site. Spend some time exploring, take plenty of photos and learn the history of this mighty landmark. An incredible piece of engineering, the wall stretches 6000 km west of Beijing. It was initially constructed to protect Chinese empires from invaders from the north. Even though it failed, it's still one of the country's most remarkable achievements and an iconic destination. Hike along the top of the Wall for about 2 hours, along a section less visited by tourists and one of the most original section of the Wall - don't be surprised if you even feel you are the only ones on the Wall. Take in the scenery of the structure snaking through the hills almost endlessly into the distance. After, say goodbye to the epic site and head for Beijing – the capital and last stop of your trip.
Included Activities:
- Great Wall - Jinshanling section
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Make your way to the centre of Beijing this morning and explore Tiananmen Square – supposedly the largest downtown square in the world and the symbolic centre of Chinese power. Framed by the Gate of Heavenly Peace, Mao's Mausoleum and the Great Hall of the People, it's a place of pilgrimage for Chinese tourists who consider it to be the heart of their nation. It's from here that you'll enter the enormous Forbidden City, which was built more than 500 years ago and has been off-limits to commoners for almost all that time. You’ll explore the halls and courtyards and witness the grandeur of the Imperial Chinese court during the Ming and Qing dynasties. In the afternoon, enjoy some free time to explore on your own. Maybe check out the Temple of Heaven before getting together with your fellow travellers for a farewell dinner. There's no better way to celebrate the end of your journey than with a meal of Beijing duck (and maybe a drink or two).
Included Activities:
- Beijing - Forbidden City
- Beijing - Tiananmen Square
Optional Activities:
- Beijing - Temple of Heaven (entrance fee) (40 CNY)
- Beijing - Hutong family visit (150 CNY)
- Beijing - Lama Temple (entrance fee) (25 CNY)
- Beijing - Acrobat show (ticket) (290 CNY)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
As there are no activities planned today, your China adventure comes to an end. There's so much to see and do in Beijing, so if you’d like to stay an extra few days, just speak to your booking agent.
Similar Experiences
Highlights of China
15 Days from CAD 1,539
Premium China
12 Days from CAD 4,965
Essential China
11 Days from CAD 3,800
China Uncovered
9 Days from CAD 1,129
China Family Holiday
12 Days from CAD 3,160
Beijing to Hong Kong Adventure
12 Days from CAD 2,675
Walking the Charms of China - Privately Guided
11 Days from CAD 5,075
Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Todd - Traveled, March 2024
China Highlights not quite as long as stated on the web site in my opinion. But, this trip is fantastic with the highlight for us being the Great Wall. You visit an area of the wall that is three hours outside of Beijing. With the views of something out of a movie. Truely break taking in every way. We would recommend arriving a few days early as there is a lot to see in Shanghai. And the food on the trip was outstanding.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/27/2024
Janice - Traveled, March 2024
We really enjoyed the China Highlights trip! Highly recommend for the small group size: 16 people max per tour (ours only had 10 people). Go during the off season, it's much less crowded. Our tour leader was very fluent in both Chinese and English. We had a great time.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/28/2024
Kathryn - Traveled, March 2024
This is a wonderful quick trip of China with a packed itinerary! It’s great fun and a great introduction to the country. Our guide William made everything easy and fun (including meal times for the vegetarians)! I recommend this trip to anyone who wants an introduction to China!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/23/2024
Anne - Traveled, March 2024
Perfect way to see China and see and learn of the history. Our guide made the trip so easy and was accommodating to everyone’s needs. Plenty of exercise food and rest.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/26/2024
Elliott - Traveled, March 2024
If you've never travelled to China before, or never travelled solo, then this trip is absolutely perfect. It's a fantastic and well-timed adventure through the sights, history, food and culture of an enormous and fascinating country. It attracts a mix of people from across the world meaning you'll be guaranteed to share the experience with an interesting group of people from all backgrounds.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/17/2024
Joanne - Traveled, December 2024
An excellent first taste of China and its customs, food, local transport, sights and history. This trip has it all, although I’d suggest booking more time in Shanghai and Beijing pre/post trip. The Great Wall was my highlight but the overall experience was one I’ll never forget.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/03/2024
Carly - Traveled, June 2023
Jay our tour leader for our China tour was phenomenal, and made our first trip to China one to remember! I’d love to return to China again thanks to Jays insights !
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/13/2023
Brandie - Traveled, July 2024
This tour was jam packed with activities and very fast paced. William did an amazing job of getting us where we needed to go and helping us access extra activities. He also introduced us to many great regional foods. We loved everything! I hope to bring my husband back to travel with William again.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/13/2024
Brent - Traveled, July 2024
The Intrepid China highlights tour hits all the high notes and leaves you wanting more. All the big ticket items are covered as well diving into local Chinese life. Great for the adventurous and active. This tour provides a wonderful introduction into this incredible country.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/13/2024
Alec Gordon - Traveled, July 2024
Intrepid China Highlights is an excellent “quick” tour - great inclusions, great food & excellent accommodation
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/12/2024
Jane - Traveled, July 2024
A fast paced action packed adventure. Non stop sightseeing lead by a passionate and highly knowledgeable host who expertly navigated us through the wonders of both ancient and modern China!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/13/2024
Carrie - Traveled, June 2024
I loved China! This trip covers the ‘must do’s’ - apart from Pandas! My advice is to arrive at least a day before and book several days after the trip ends to make the most of your time there. By the end, you will understand how to travel/get about on your own. To me it felt safer than London. Just do it!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/24/2024
Hayley - Traveled, June 2024
This trip was incredible. It was jam packed and very full on but that's what you want in a short holiday . A chance to see as much as you can . I only advise everyone not to pack any large aerosols such as deodorant , even in checked in luggage as these will be confiscated at the train stations in china as it is like an airport . Even smaller aerosols sometimes get taken away so try and pack roll ones / creams . I even had a shower gel confiscated because it looked like an aerosol even though it was not . The whole trip was amazing and words can not describe how incredible the great wall of china is , it was absolutely breathtaking . Anyone thinking of booking this trip with intrepid should not hesitate . Peter our tour guide went out of his way to teach us various Chinese words and enhance our knowledge in everywhere we went . He often gave us a stream of jokes to go with it .
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/24/2024
Elizabeth - Traveled, March 2024
China Highlights was a fabulous way to see much of China in 8 days. It was an intense week yet gave me everything I was looking for. If there was a longer tour (not available at the time of my travel) I would suggest spending more time, yet this 8-day tour fitted with my travels and I loved it.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/19/2024
Wendy - Traveled, March 2024
The Intrepid China Highlights tour was a fantastic experience. I thoroughly enjoyed my time on this tour. The tour enabled me to see the wonderful sights China has to offer. It was run extremely efficiently and has a wonderful variety of experiences. From ancient China to the modern China that it is today. I would have no hesitation in recommending Intrepid Tours, the Intrepid China Highlights tour and Kris Zhang, our tour guide.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/17/2024
Gabriel - Traveled, December 2024
I had one of the best time in my life! It was an amazing trip in China! I highly recommend this tour to others.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/03/2024
Robert - Traveled, December 2023
I would really recommend this tour. I have been to a lot of countries but this trip was by far the most memorable. The sheer size and scale of everything is unmatched and it was easy to get around on the underground in the major cities. The tour leader was very friendly and helpful and made the trip easy. Have already recommended it to our friends and family.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/21/2023
Paul - Traveled, October 2023
The trip was amazing, our guide was exceptional, and I felt we certainly saw the highlights of China and more! The pre-trip admin getting a visa is a bit of a faff but it's well worth the effort. I was expecting this to be great trip and on the whole it exceeded my expectations.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/31/2023
Jacob - Traveled, August 2023
This tour was my first solo travel experience and I would love to come back. I never understood how beautiful China was until I experienced it first hand, I’ll never forget the culture, art and nature I saw. My tour guide Long Ma was a true professional but also felt like travelling with a good friend!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/07/2023
Christine - Traveled, June 2023
One of the best trips I have been on. Our guide, Jay, went out of his way to accommodate our needs and was available at all times. He navigated us through the busy Forbidden City and Terracotta Warriors. He has since sent us groups photos taken at every major location. To my surprise the hard sleeper turned into one of the highlights as we interacted with locals. I am now keen to see more of China.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/08/2023
Share a personalized trip brochure!
Why book with us?
Best Rate Guarantee
Mytours.Travel makes sure you always have the best available rate
Best Selection
The best operators from around the world
Trusted Payments
Secure payments with Stripe
Expert Advice
Our expert agents will assist you in booking the perfect experience