Breathtaking China adventure through ancient cities & beyond

Excursions

Included excursions

Day 2: Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City and the Temple of Heaven

Today, discover the landmarks of Beijing. This excursion starts at Tiananmen Square, the heart of the city and one of the largest public squares in the world. Here you can marvel at the imposing architecture and the potent atmosphere, surrounded by historic monuments. Next, continue to the Forbidden City, the imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties, where you can explore the ornate halls, courtyards and gardens and gain an insight into the life of the Chinese emperors. Finally, you'll visit the Temple of Heaven, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and masterpiece of traditional Chinese architecture, where emperors once prayed for bountiful harvests. This is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the history and culture of China’s capital!

Day 3: Great Wall of China and Changling Mausoleum

This excursion takes you to two of the most impressive sights in the Beijing area: the Great Wall of China and the Changling Mausoleum. Start with a visit to the Great Wall of China, one of the 7 Wonders of the World and a symbol of Chinese engineering. You can walk along the majestic restored sections and enjoy the breathtaking views over the rolling countryside. Afterward, continue to Changling Mausoleum, the largest of the thirteen Ming tombs and the resting place of Emperor Yongle. Here you can explore the magnificent halls and learn about the fascinating history of the Ming Dynasty.

Day 6: The Terracotta Army (Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang)

A visit to the mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of China, is a fascinating experience that brings the country's rich history and culture to life. This UNESCO World Heritage Site near Xi'an is home to the world-famous Terracotta Army, an impressive collection of over 8,000 life-size clay soldiers guarding the emperor's tomb. On a walking tour of the various pits, you will learn more about the mysterious history of these monumental sculptures and the craftsmanship required to create them. The mausoleum itself, surrounded by a picturesque landscape, also offers interesting insights into the Qin dynasty and the first steps towards the unification of China.

Day 10: Yu Garden and Jade Temple, Nanjing Lu and The Bund

Today you will experience the cultural diversity and impressive architecture of Shanghai. Yu Garden, a beautiful classical Chinese garden, delights visitors with its ornate ponds, historic pavilions and lush plants. Your next stop is the Jade Buddha Temple, famous for its impressive jade Buddha statues that attract worshippers and visitors alike.

After exploring these cultural treasures, continue to the lively Nanjing Road, where you can discover a huge variety of shops, boutiques and restaurants. Your day ends at the Bund, a scenic waterfront promenade that offers breathtaking views of the Pudong skyline. Here, historic colonial architecture and modern skyscrapers combine to create an unforgettable backdrop.

Optional excursions

Day 2: Hutong rickshaw city tour of Old Beijing & acrobatic show

Discover old Beijing in a very special way as you glide through the winding streets of the hutongs in a traditional rickshaw and let yourself be enchanted by the lively hustle and bustle of the city. Experience the authentic atmosphere of Beijing off the beaten track. As a crowning finale, a breathtaking acrobatic show awaits you, which will inspire you with its skill and elegance.

Day 5: Visit to the Qiao Family Compound

Step into a world of bygone glory! The Qiao Family Compound is a masterpiece of Chinese architecture and a testament to the Qiao family’s former wealth. Explore the numerous inner courtyards, artistically-designed rooms and magnificent gardens. Be enchanted by the history of this powerful family and immerse yourself in the life of the Chinese upper class during the Qing Dynasty.

Day 6: Pingyao City Tour: Rishengchang, Ming and Qing Streets, Confucius Temple, City Wall and Xianya

Pingyao, a living time capsule from the Ming and Qing dynasties, invites you on a fascinating journey into the past. Explore the well-preserved city walls that enclose the Old Town and enjoy stunning views of the historic buildings. Visit the impressive Rishengchang Bank, once China's largest private financial institution, and learn about the fascinating history of Chinese banking. Stroll along Ming and Qing Street, a lively shopping street with traditional shops and craft shops. Immerse yourself in the world of Confucianism in the temple of the same name, an impressive complex with ornate buildings and beautiful gardens. Visit Xianya, the former government building and get a glimpse of the city's administration in ancient times.

Day 6: Chinese dumpling dinner & Tang Dynasty show

Dive into the world of the Tang dynasty! Savour a delicious Chinese dumpling dinner and then allow yourself to be enchanted by a breathtaking show with traditional dances and music. An unforgettable evening full of culture and culinary delights!

Day 7: Visit the Longmen Grottos

On this excursion you have the opportunity to discover a masterpiece of Buddhist art. The Longmen Grottos are home to thousands of Buddhist statues and reliefs carved into the rock over the centuries, the oldest of which come from the 5th century AD - a truly magical sight.

Day 8: Visit to a Shaolin Temple

Visit a Shaolin temple and experience the world of the kung fu masters. Watch impressive demonstrations and learn about the history and philosophy of this unique martial art.

Day 10: Visit Oriental Pearl Tower & evening cruise on the Huangpu River

Experience Shanghai at night to see its most beautiful side! Start your evening with a visit to the famous Oriental Pearl Tower; from the observation deck, you'll enjoy stunning panoramic views of the glittering metropolis. Then, continue your journey with a romantic cruise on the Huangpu River and let yourself be wowed by the fascinating mixture of traditional Chinese architecture and modern high-rise landscape as you admire the illuminated skyscrapers of Pudong alongside the historic buildings of the Bund.