8 Days of History and City Lights in Beijing, Xian&Shanghai

Traveling through China’s most iconic cities in just over a week might sound ambitious—yet this well-organized tour makes it remarkably doable. Designed for those eager to experience Beijing’s imperial grandeur, Xian’s ancient warriors, and Shanghai’s gleaming skyline, this journey packs a punch without feeling rushed.

What we love about this tour is how it combines cultural highlights with authentic local experiences—like wandering through Yu Garden or trying the lively Muslim Street in Xian. Plus, the inclusion of key sites like the Great Wall at Mutianyu and the Terracotta Warriors ensures you get a genuine taste of Chinese history.

One thing to consider: the trip involves a fair amount of travel between cities—high-speed trains and flights—so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with moving around quickly. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or long leisure days, this might feel a bit intense. But for those who love a fast-paced, immersive itinerary, it’s a fantastic way to see China’s highlights with expert guidance.

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors who want a rundown of China’s ancient and modern marvels, all offered at a good value with knowledgeable guides.

Key Points

• Comprehensive coverage: Visits to Beijing, Xian, and Shanghai, covering key sites and iconic sights.
• Expert guides and drivers: Knowledgeable local guides enhance your understanding, while professional drivers ensure smooth transfers.
• Inclusion of travel and admissions: High-speed train tickets, flights, and entry fees are covered, adding convenience.
• Authentic experiences: From walking Tiananmen Square to exploring the Yu Garden and Bund, you’ll experience both history and modernity.
• Balanced pacing: Carefully scheduled days balance sightseeing with travel time, though it’s still quite busy.
• Good value for the price: For under $2,000, accommodations, most admissions, train, and flight costs are included, making this a well-rounded option.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

This 8-day China tour offers a well-structured combination of history, culture, and city sights that will appeal to first-time travelers or those with limited time. Starting in Beijing, you’ll be greeted with complimentary airport pickup, which sets a smooth tone. The choice of accommodations, the Wanda Realm Beijing, is a modern hotel known for comfort, and it’s conveniently located for sightseeing.

Exploring Beijing: The Heart of China’s Capital

Your first day involves settling in and getting a feel for China’s bustling capital. The tour kicks off with visits to Tiananmen Square—an unmissable spot where history is palpable—and the Forbidden City, which looms large with its sprawling palaces and history of emperors. The inclusion of the Summer Palace adds a scenic touch, especially with the cruise option if you visit in warmer months.

Traveling with guides who are fluent in English, you’ll gain insights into the significance of these sites. Reviewers often praise the guides’ knowledge, describing them as “very insightful” and “friendly,” which makes a big difference when navigating such vast sites.

Climbing the Great Wall at Mutianyu

Day 3 is dedicated to one of China’s most famous symbols—the Great Wall at Mutianyu. The section is less crowded than Badaling, offering a more relaxed experience and better photo opportunities. We loved the way the tour includes about three hours to explore the wall, giving ample time to walk sections, take photos, and soak in the views.

Afterward, the tour includes a visit to the Olympic Park with iconic structures like the Bird’s Nest and the Water Cube—great for outside photos and understanding modern China’s architectural ambitions.

Transition to Xian: The Ancient Capital

On Day 4, a high-speed train whisks you from Beijing to Xian. The ride itself, about 4-5 hours, is smooth and comfortable, and the experience of traveling by train adds a layer of efficiency and authenticity. The Temple of Heaven is your morning stop before departure; it’s interesting to see how this site represents China’s spiritual past.

In Xian, the Wyndham Grand hotel provides a comfortable base. The city is famous for its Terracotta Warriors, which dominate Day 5. The tour allows around three hours at this UNESCO World Heritage site, where you’ll see thousands of life-sized soldiers, horses, and chariots—an awe-inspiring sight that brings ancient Chinese army history vividly to life.

Reviewers note that the guides’ expertise helps explain the significance of these figures beyond just their appearance, enriching the visit. Nearby, Huaqing Palace offers insight into imperial leisure pursuits, while wandering Muslim Street introduces a lively, delicious, and culturally diverse part of Xian.

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From Xian to Shanghai: Urban Marvels

On Day 6, you’ll climb Xian’s historic City Wall—a chance to get a panoramic view of the city—before flying to Shanghai. The flight is part of the package, streamlining travel and saving time. The Jin Jiang Hotel provides a solid, centrally located base for the next two days.

In Shanghai, the tour hits all the major sights: Yu Garden and the Town Gods Temple for a glimpse into traditional Chinese aesthetics, and the Shanghai Museum, renowned for its collection of Chinese art. The French Concession offers a quieter, tree-lined contrast to the bustling city center, giving you a chance to see a different side of Shanghai’s history.

The finale is the Bund and Nanjing Road, where the city’s skyline dazzles with modern skyscrapers. We loved the opportunity to walk along the river, watching the city’s lights reflect off the water—an unforgettable sight.

The Practicalities and Value

This tour includes hotel stays, breakfasts, selected meals, transportation, and all major site admissions, making the overall experience very convenient. The hotels, like the Wanda Realm and Wyndham Grand, are well-rated, balancing comfort with location.

Transportation is handled via comfortable, professionally maintained vehicles, and the group size is capped at 15, ensuring a more personalized experience. The tour is priced at $1,784 per person, which we think offers good value, considering the inclusions such as flights, train tickets, admissions, and gratuities.

What’s Missing or to Consider

While the itinerary is comprehensive, it is quite busy—expect early mornings and some long days. For travelers who prefer more leisure time or a slower pace, this might feel a bit rushed. Also, since the tour involves a lot of moving around, it’s best suited for those in good health who are comfortable with frequent travel.

The tour does not include international airfare or visa fees, which are straightforward but are an extra consideration. Weather can also influence your experience, especially at outdoor sites like the Great Wall or Xi’an City Wall.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This 8-day journey is perfect for first-time visitors eager to see China’s top highlights without the hassle of planning each detail. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy structured itineraries and value the insights of experienced guides. If you want a balance of history, culture, and modern sights, all delivered efficiently and comfortably, this tour fits the bill.

If you’re traveling with family or friends who are curious about China’s past and present, it offers a good mix of activities and sightseeing. Just keep in mind the busy schedule—if you prefer a more relaxed pace or are traveling with very young children, this might require some adjustments.

The Sum Up

This 8-day tour of China’s major cities offers a carefully curated experience that highlights both ancient traditions and modern achievements. The combination of expert-guided visits, convenient transportation, and well-rated hotels provides value that’s hard to beat for the price. It’s a practical way to see China’s iconic landmarks, learn their stories, and enjoy some authentic local flavors along the way.

Travelers who thrive on a structured itinerary with a mix of history and city life will find this tour engaging and enriching. The knowledgeable guides and scenic highlights make it more than just a checklist—it’s a real opportunity to connect with China’s soul in a manageable, enjoyable way.

For those ready to explore one of the world’s most fascinating countries, this trip offers a solid foundation and a memorable adventure.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The tour covers hotel accommodations, breakfasts, 12 specially selected meals, high-speed train tickets from Beijing to Xian, a flight from Xian to Shanghai, admissions to major sites, gratuities, and transportation with professional drivers and guides.

Are airport transfers included?
Yes, complimentary airport pickups are provided at both Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK/PKX) on arrival, and drop-offs are arranged at Shanghai airports (PVG or SHA) at the end of the trip.

How many people are in the group?
The tour is limited to 15 participants, making it a small group experience that allows for more personalized attention.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, sunscreen, water, and cash are recommended. Since outdoor sightseeing is frequent, being prepared for variable weather is wise.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. The tour may involve long days and lots of walking, so it’s better suited for older children or teenagers.

Are vegetarian options available during meals?
While not explicitly stated, most tours accommodate dietary restrictions, but it’s best to confirm special meal requests beforehand.

Do I need a visa for China?
Visa requirements are not included in the tour price. Travelers should check their visa needs based on their country of origin before booking.

Is there free time during the tour?
Yes, for example, at Datang Everbright City in Xian and during some city walks, giving you a chance to explore independently.

Can I customize the itinerary?
This is a scheduled group tour, so modifications are limited. For personalized arrangements, consider discussing specific interests with the tour provider ahead of time.

This tour offers a well-rounded, immersive introduction to China’s most celebrated sights, with a good balance of guided insight and free exploration. It’s an excellent choice for travelers eager to see the highlights without the stress of planning every detail themselves.

You can check availability for your dates here: