Classic China

Day 1 (Door to Door)

In-flight

Enjoy your private car door to door transfer to your departure airport before your flight to Beijing.

Day 2

Arrive Beijing

We arrive in Beijing and are greeted by the Trafalgar Tour Director who will escort you to your hotel.
Hotel: Ritz-Carlton Beijing (D)

Day 3

Beijing sighseeing

Begin your visit to one of the world's great capital cities with an exploration of the world's largest public area-Tiananmen Square, home to the National Museum of China, the mausoleum of Mao Zedong and the soaring Monument to the Peoples' Heroes. Pass through the famed south gate to enter the magnificent Forbidden City, the imperial palace for more than 500 years. Continue your contemplation of Chinese culture in the splendid Summer Palace and its lovely gardens. This evening, savor a traditional Welcome Dinner of Peking duck. (BB) (L) (HD)

Day 4

Beijing sightseeing - The Great Wall

Travel outside the city and look down upon the Chinese countryside from your perch atop the Great Wall, which is actually a collection of fortifications built and rebuilt from the 5th century B.C. to the 16th century to repulse nomadic invaders like the Mongols. Then walk the Sacred Way past the tombs and memorials of the emperors of the Ming Dynasty. Back in Beijing, attend a lively show of acrobatics, kung fu and dance at the Red Theater. (BB) (L) (D)

Day 5

Beijing sightseeing - Xi'an (2)

Begin your day by greeting the famed Chinese pandas at the Beijing Zoo. Then embark on a unique tour by rickshaw through the old section of the city (the Hutongs). In one of these atmospheric neighbourhoods, join a local family for a Be My Guest Lunch in their home. This afternoon, depart Beijing and fly to the city of Xi'an. Upon arrival, check in to your stylish hotel and enjoy a sumptuous Highlight Dinner of traditional dumplings at a local restaurant. (BB) (BG) (HD)
Hotel: Sofitel Xi'an on Renmin Square (D)

Day 6

Xi'an sightseeing

The legendary army (nearly 7,000 strong) of Emperor Qin Shi Huang awaits you in his subterranean tomb. Marvel at the meticulously sculpted Terra Cotta Warriors and Horses in this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then get a panoramic view of the city from the old city wall, which protected Xi'an's inhabitants from marauding invaders. This evening, step back in time at a special Tang Dynasty Highlight Dinner, complete with local delicacies, music and dancing. (BB) (L) (HD)
Hotel: Sofitel Xi'an on Renmin Square (D)

Day 7

Xi'an - Hangzhou (2)

This morning depart Xi'an for gorgeous Hangzhou, which Marco Polo praised as being "the most charming and splendid city in the world. " Savor the charms of Lingyin Temple, the largest Buddhist monastery in the country, which at its peak in the 10th century housed more than 3,000 monks. On a guided tour, examine the temple's collection of intricately carved statues, graceful architecture and lovely paintings. (BB) (L) (D)
Hotel: Sofitel Hangzhou Westlake (D)

Day 8

Hangzhou sighseeing

Rise early to watch the mist hovering over the watery expanses of West Lake, which measures nearly four square miles and is surrounded by forested mountains. This morning, head out on the water for a cruise of one of China's natural treasures, marveling at the views of mountains, temples and islands. Later, visit a local Chinese tea plantation to learn about the importance of this traditional beverage in Chinese society. Then relax, sip a cup of fresh tea and soak up the atmosphere. This evening, you'll be mesmerized by "Impression West Lake," a spectacular show of light, water and dance created by the choreographer of the Opening Ceremony of the Beijing Olympics. (BB) (L) (D)
Hotel: Sofitel Hangzhou Westlake (D)

Day 9

Hangzhou - Wuzhen - Shanghai (2)

Make your way by motorcoach to Shanghai by way of the port of Wuzhen, nicknamed the "Venice of the East" for its elaborate system of canals. As you travel through town, you may see one of the traditional rice wine distilleries, colorful blue silk drying in the sun and the picturesque covered boats that ply the waterways of this ancient town. Continue to China's window to the future, the vibrant city of Shanghai, where you check in to your luxury hotel and enjoy dinner. (BB) (L) (D)
Hotel: Pudong Shangri-La Shanghai (D)

Day 10

Shanghai sightseeing

Spend the day exploring one of the most exciting cities in the world. Your tour begins in the former international settlement of the Bund on the banks of the Huangpu River. Get a taste of Old Shanghai at the Shanghai Municipal History Museum, dedicated to preserving some of the rich traditions of the past. And rise above it all for a panoramic view of the city from the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, the tallest building in Asia. Enjoy a traditional Dim Sum Highlight Lunch at a local restaurant. This evening, celebrate your last night in China with a performance by the world-renowned Shanghai Acrobatic Troupe. (BB) (HL) (D)
Hotel: Pudong Shangri-La Shanghai (D)

Day 11 (Door to Door)

Depart Shanghai

Say farewell to China as we transfer to Shanghai International Airport for your return scheduled flight back to the UK. On arrival at your UK airport, your driver will greet you and escort you to your waiting private car for your door to door transfer to your home. (BB)

Dates and prices

Destination Info