6-Day Small Group Beijing Xi’an Tour

A Detailed Look at the 6-Day Small Group Beijing Xi’an Tour

Imagine spending nearly a week exploring China’s most iconic sights with a knowledgeable guide, comfortable transportation, and a well-balanced mix of history, culture, and entertainment. This 6-day tour from Beijing to Xi’an, priced at $1,219 per person, offers a comprehensive experience that covers everything from the majestic Great Wall to the famous Terracotta Warriors. With a small group of no more than 18 travelers, it promises a more personal and immersive journey than the typical large tour bus.

What makes this experience stand out is the attention to authentic details—like the chance to walk along a well-preserved section of the Mutianyu Great Wall, complete with a group toast of red wine — and the emphasis on cultural shows, such as a Tang Dynasty performance. The tour also includes five nights of accommodation, some meals, and a single internal flight that saves you time and adds convenience.

A few considerations are worth noting: this tour is quite structured, which means you’ll spend some days on a tight schedule. If you prefer a relaxed pace or want to explore lesser-known spots, this might feel a bit rushed. Also, the non-refundable policy could be a concern if your plans change unexpectedly.

Overall, if you’re looking for a well-organized, value-packed introduction to China’s highlights with expert guides and authentic experiences, this tour fits the bill. It suits travelers eager to see the major sites with the comfort of small-group camaraderie and knowledgeable guidance.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Walk the well-preserved Mutianyu section of the Great Wall and toast with red wine, making the experience memorable.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, friendly guides like Maggie and John get high praise for their insights and helpfulness.
• Rich Cultural Showcases: Enjoy performances such as acrobatic acts in Beijing and a Tang Dynasty show in Xi’an.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: From ancient imperial sites to the UNESCO-listed Terracotta Warriors, this tour hits all the major highlights.
• Convenient Logistics: Includes transportation, a flight between cities, and most meals—simplifying your planning.
• Limited Flexibility: The schedule is tight, with few free moments, which may not suit travelers seeking leisurely exploration.

Exploring the Beijing and Xi’an Experience in Depth

Starting in Beijing: A Classic Introduction

You begin your adventure in Beijing, where the tour guide will meet you at the airport. Expect a smooth transfer to your hotel, giving you a moment to settle in before diving into the city’s legendary sights. The first day is flexible, so you can rest or explore the neighborhood on your own—perfect for overcoming jet lag or getting your bearings.

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

The next morning kicks off with a visit to Tiananmen Square, the world’s largest urban square, where you’ll get a sense of the city’s scale and importance. Then, you’ll cross into the Forbidden City, home to imperial halls and treasures—an awe-inspiring glimpse into China’s dynastic past. The tour includes an a la carte welcome lunch featuring Peking Duck, a highlight for many; reviewers consistently praise the quality and authenticity of the food.

In the afternoon, the Temple of Heaven reveals the architecture where emperors worshipped for good harvests. The guide will explain its symbolic structures and historical significance, adding depth to your visit. The day ends with an acrobatic show at the Red Theater, a dazzling display of agility and artistry that exemplifies Chinese entertainment.

Day 3: The Great Wall and Hutong Experience

A trip to Mutianyu is a must. You’ll take a cable car up and down this stunning section of the Great Wall, which is renowned for its well-preserved towers and scenic views. It’s an experience that truly leaves a mark—standing on a monument built over 2,000 years ago, stretching into the distance, with panoramic vistas.

Following the Wall, you’ll stop at the Niaochao Stadium (Bird’s Nest) for photos—an iconic symbol of Beijing’s modern architectural prowess—and then explore the ancient Hutongs via rickshaw. Visiting a local family provides a tangible window into everyday life, a feature many travelers find enriching, as noted in reviews praising guides like Barry for setting up such authentic encounters.

Day 4: Summer Palace and Flight to Xi’an

The Summer Palace showcases traditional Chinese garden design—lakes, pagodas, and pavilions—perfect for lovers of scenery and history alike. After a morning with pandas (a favorite among many travelers), you’ll transfer to the airport for your flight to Xi’an.

Day 5: Terracotta Warriors and Cultural Show

In Xi’an, the Terracotta Army is the star of the show. You’ll explore the excavated pits full of life-sized warriors, each with unique expressions. The guided visit includes insights into their purpose and craftsmanship, making the experience more meaningful. Visiting the home of the first discoverer of the warriors adds an intimate, personal touch—something not often included in larger tours.

Later, you’ll visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, an important Buddhist site from the Tang Dynasty. The evening features a Tang Dynasty Music and Dance Show, a performance lauded for its artistry, and a Dumpling Dinner, a delightful way to end the day. Do note that during certain months, the show and dinner are not included due to theater closures, so check your travel dates carefully.

Day 6: Xi’an City Wall and Muslim Quarter

Your final day begins with a relaxed stroll through the City Wall Park, where you might try Tai Chi or observe locals going about their day. Cycling on the ancient wall is popular, though rental fees are not included. The Muslim Quarter offers a lively lunch with local snacks and a taste of Xi’an’s culinary culture.

Afterward, your guide will assist with transportation to the airport or train station, depending on your departure plan. The flexible end to the trip allows for easy connections to your onward travel.

The Practical Side: Transportation, Guides, and Value

This tour’s inclusion of a one-way flight from Beijing to Xi’an is a notable advantage. It saves hours of travel and allows you to spend more time absorbing each city’s essence. The small group size fosters a more intimate experience, with many travelers remarking on how guides like Maggie, Candy, and Selina made a difference—being knowledgeable, friendly, and eager to help.

Transportation is via air-conditioned vehicles, ensuring comfort during long drives and site visits. The guides are professional English speakers, which matters greatly for appreciating the sites’ stories and historical context. Entrance fees are included at all major sites, so you won’t have to worry about additional costs unless you choose to rent bikes or buy souvenirs.

Meals are thoughtfully planned, with breakfast and some lunches included, featuring authentic Chinese cuisine. While the tour does not include shopping or factory visits, it emphasizes cultural and historical sites—a good choice for travelers seeking genuine experiences rather than retail stops.

Authenticity and Special Experiences

Numerous reviews praise guides like Candy and Selina for sharing interesting facts and making the days enjoyable. The group-toasting on the Great Wall and the clay warrior workshop in Xi’an** are highlights that set this tour apart from more generic packages.

Considerations for Travelers

The non-refundable policy requires commitment, so plan ahead. Also, the schedule can be quite full, with little free time, which may not suit those seeking a relaxed pace. The tour’s structure is designed to cover the essentials efficiently, so if you’re curious about deeper exploration or off-the-beaten-path sites, you might want a more flexible itinerary.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided introduction to Beijing and Xi’an’s most memorable sights. It’s perfect for first-time visitors eager to see iconic landmarks without the hassle of planning each detail. History buffs, culture lovers, and those who appreciate authentic performances and local flavors will find it especially rewarding.

It’s also well-suited for those who value small group settings for a more personal experience, with guides who are both knowledgeable and friendly. If you’re on a budget but want to see China’s highlights with comfort and convenience, this tour offers solid value — especially considering the included flights, entry fees, and some meals.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many people are in the group?
The tour caps at 18 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers five nights of hotel accommodation, transportation, the internal flight from Beijing to Xi’an, most entrance fees, some meals including breakfast and lunches, and guided tours.

Are airport transfers provided?
Yes, pickup is included at Beijing Airport, and assistance with departure transfers in Xi’an is available but not included in the price.

Can I customize the itinerary?
This is a set scheduled tour. Changes or private arrangements may require additional fees; check with your travel consultant for options.

Is gratuity included?
No, tips to guides and drivers are recommended but not included.

What is the best time of year for this tour?
While the tour runs year-round, note that during January, February, March, and December, the Tang Dynasty show and dumpling dinner are not included due to theater closures.

Do I need a visa for China?
Yes, a valid Chinese visa is required for entry, and passport details are needed to book.

Are meals vegetarian or flexible?
Most meals are included, and you can request vegetarian options. The meals are authentic Chinese cuisine, including Peking Duck and local specialties.

How is the pace of the trip?
It’s quite full, with busy days visiting multiple sites. Expect early mornings and some long days, but also moments of leisure.

What if I want to extend my stay?
Extensions can be arranged—just contact your travel provider ahead of time to customize your plans.

Final Thoughts

This 6-day small group tour offers a balanced blend of history, culture, and sightseeing with the added comfort of expert guides and seamless logistics. Travelers who appreciate well-organized trips with authentic experiences and a focus on major highlights will find it hard to beat the value. Its structured nature makes it perfect for first-timers or those eager to tick off China’s must-see landmarks without the fuss of independent planning.

While it’s framed around classic sites, the inclusion of entertainment and personal touches—like wine on the Great Wall—adds a memorable flavor. The guides earn high praise for their knowledge and friendliness, often transforming what could be just a sightseeing day into a true cultural encounter.

In summary, if you’re after an efficient, enriching, and enjoyable introduction to Beijing and Xi’an, this tour offers a satisfying and value-packed experience. It’s especially suited for those who prefer small groups, guided insights, and authentic highlights over DIY or luxury options.