Grand Tour of China

Description
Embark on our extensive 13-day grand tour of China and experience some the country’s main attractions and cultural experiences. From the wonders of its imperial past and beautiful, heavenly landscapes, to its charmingly inquisitive giant panda and the beating heart of urban modernity, the new face of contemporary China. Our comprehensive programme delivers a unique and captivating insight into the soul of this fascinating country. Take this wonderful opportunity to experience the hospitality and appeal of the many different faces of an ancient and unique culture. Visit the great cities responsible for China’s illustrious past and present, and cruise the mighty Yangtze to enjoy the spectacular scenery at a more leisurely pace.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Great Wall: Stroll along the restored Mutianyu section and see how the undulating wall disappears into the horizon in front of you.
Forbidden City: Discover the majesty of the walled imperial palace which was reserved for China’s royalty for centuries.
Terracotta Army: Pay homage to the immortal clay warriors unearthed after 2,000 years guarding China’s first emperor in the afterlife.
The Yangtze River: The longest river in Asia and third longest in the world, the Yangtze carries you on an eternal journey through China’s heartland.
Shanghai: A city of contrasts where China’s traditional past meets modern technology and futuristic design.
Included
TOUR GUIDE:
- Operated with local English or German-speaking guide
ACCOMMODATION:
- 9 nights' accommodation
- 3 nights in a five-star Yangtze cruise vessel in Twin Rooms with bath or shower/W.C
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1-3 Beijing:
Deluxe Hotel Category = Beijing Aisa Hotel or similar 5*
Day 4-5 Xi´an:
Deluxe Hotel Category = Grand Park Hotel or similar 5*
Day 6 Chengdu:
Deluxe Hotel Category = Dorsett Grand Hotel or similar 4*
Day 7-9 Yangtze River Cruise:
Deluxe Hotel Category = Victoria Cruise 5*
Day 10-12 Shanghai:
Deluxe Hotel Category = Golden Tulip Bund New Asia or similar 4*
MEALS:
- 12 Breakfasts
- 8 Lunches on days 2,3,5,7,8,9,10,11
- 2 Dinners on days 8, 9
TRANSPORT:
- Private transfer from Beijing Airport to hotel in Beijing
- Air-conditioned coaches throughout the tour
- 2nd class seat on the bullet train from Beijing – Xi’an on day 4 (No guides and Porterage not included)
- 2nd class seat on the bullet train from Xi’an – Chengdu on day 6 (No guides and Porterage not included)
- 2nd class seat on the bullet train from Chengdu – Chongqing on day 7 (No guides and Porterage not included)
- 2nd class seat on the bullet train from Yichang – Shanghai on day 10 (No guides and Porterage not included)
- Private transfer from hotel in Shangai to Shangai Airport
ENTRANCE FEES AND ACTIVITIES:
- All entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary; Forbidden City (excl. exhibitions), Temple of Heaven and tea ceremony on Day 2; Great Wall Mutianyu section tour, cable car ride, Cloisonné Factory tour and Summer Palace tour (excl. boat, theatre and Longevity Hill) on Day 3; Beijing's Hutongs tour on Day 4; Terracotta Warriors Museum tour and Big Wild Goose Pagoda visit (excl. climbing the tower) on Day 5; Dujiangyan Giant Panda Base visit on Day 7; Shennong Stream tour on Day 9; Three Gorges Dam tour on Day 10; Yu Garden visit, Jade Buddha Temple tour and Silk Factory visit on Day 11.
OTHER:
- Meet & Greet at Beijing International Airport on day 1
Excluded
- Ghost City Fengdu tour on Day 8 (payable on spot)
- White Emperor City on Day 9 (payable on spot)
- International flight tickets and airport taxes or China visa fees (if any)
- Travel Insurance
- Expenses of personal nature like tipping, laundry, telephone/fax calls, alcoholic/non- alcoholic beverages, camera/video camera fee at monuments, medical expenses or items not stated explicitly in the programme
- Any visit not mentioned in the programme
- Optional tours and activities
- Tips for guides and drivers
Know before you go
Comfortable and light clothing is best suited to travel in the warm months and warm clothing in the colder months in China. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or sparse clothing when visiting temples, religious or official buildings. Sun protection, sunglasses and a hat can be very useful during your stay.