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

Discover China’s Icons in 8 Days: Beijing, Xian & Shanghai

Imagine walking through the vast Tiananmen Square, marveling at the grandeur of the Forbidden City, and then climbing the ancient stones of the Great Wall at Mutianyu—all in a single trip. For just $1,784 per person, this 8-day journey offers a well-rounded look at some of China’s most famous landmarks, combining history, culture, and stunning vistas. Led by knowledgeable guides and traveling in a small group of no more than 15, you’ll find yourself truly immersed in the Chinese experience.

What we love about this tour is how smoothly it balances sightseeing with comfort. The high-speed train between Beijing and Xian means you spend less time in transit and more time exploring. Plus, the visits to Xian’s Terracotta Warriors and the Shanghai skyline are highlights that stay with you long after the trip ends. However, a consideration is the quick pace; if you’re looking for a slow, in-depth exploration, this might feel a bit rushed.

This tour suits travelers eager to see the essential sights with a reliable, guided approach—perfect if you want a mix of history, culture, and modern cityscape, all in a manageable timeframe. It’s especially appealing if you prefer small groups for a more personalized feel and value expert guidance.

Key Points

• Concise but comprehensive: Covers Beijing, Xian, and Shanghai with highlights at each stop.
• Expert guides enhance understanding and make navigation easier.
• High-speed rail and flights optimize travel time and maximize sightseeing.
• Authentic experiences like the Forbidden City, Terracotta Warriors, and Shanghai’s Bund.
• Comfortable accommodations and included meals add value and convenience.
• Small group size ensures a more personal, engaging experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect

Days 1-3: Beijing – A Glimpse of Imperial China

Your adventure kicks off with a welcome transfer at either Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) or Daxing (PKX). You’ll stay at the Wanda Realm Beijing — a comfortable, well-rated hotel that provides a good base for exploring the city.

On Day 2, the real history begins. Visiting Tiananmen Square early in the morning, you’ll stand on the site of numerous pivotal moments in Chinese history. Just nearby, the Forbidden City awaits — a sprawling palace complex that was once home to emperors. Expect to spend around 3 hours here, soaking in the architecture, artifacts, and stories that bring imperial China to life. We loved the way the guide explained the symbolism behind the ornate buildings; it added depth to what might seem just impressive architecture.

Later, the Summer Palace offers a peaceful escape with its sprawling gardens and lakes. Included in the tour is a boat cruise during winter, which is a lovely way to see the grounds from a different perspective. The guide’s insights about the Emperor’s summer retreat made the visit especially meaningful.

Day 3: The Great Wall & Olympic Park

The highlight of Beijing for many is walking the Mutianyu Great Wall. The tour allocates roughly 3 hours here, giving you ample time to hike, take photos, and appreciate the scale of this ancient marvel. We appreciated the well-maintained pathways and the opportunity to avoid the crowds that sometimes flock to this section. The view from the wall’s ramparts is nothing short of spectacular, with sweeping vistas over the mountains.

In the afternoon, you’ll visit the Olympic Park, outside the Bird’s Nest stadium and Water Cube. While outside visits are included, the guided commentary helps you understand the significance of these structures, which symbolize China’s modern rise. The outside-only viewing means no inside tour, but the photo opportunities are excellent.

Days 4-5: Xian – From Imperial Splendor to Terracotta Warriors

Traveling by high-speed train, you’ll leave Beijing in the morning and arrive in Xian. The train ride itself is comfortable, and the ticket is included in the price, making the journey seamless.

Once in Xian, you’ll explore the Terracotta Warriors, arguably China’s most famous archaeological site. Many travelers find the scale and number of the figures astonishing, and the guide’s explanation about the army’s purpose and craftsmanship adds context. We loved the way the guide pointed out the differences in armor and facial features, making each warrior feel like a unique individual.

Other highlights include Huaqing Palace, famous for its hot springs and legends of Emperor Xuanzang, and Muslim Street, where the mix of aromas, sights, and sounds offers a taste of local life and cuisine. The Bell & Drum Tower Square and the Big Wild Goose Pagoda round out the culture. The tour allows about an hour at each site, giving enough time to soak in the atmosphere and snap photos.

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Day 6: Xian to Shanghai – City Walls and Flight to the Future

Before heading to the airport, you’ll walk along Xian’s ancient city wall at Yongning Gate — an impressive remnant of the city’s defensive walls. Climbing the wall gives a sense of the old city’s scale and defensive strategy.

Then, it’s onward to Shanghai via a flight included in the tour. The flight is short and hassle-free, with no guide onboard, but the included tickets streamline your transition. Once in Shanghai, the hotel — Jin Jiang Hotel — offers a comfortable base for exploring the city’s famous sights.

Days 7-8: Shanghai – The Modern Marvel

Your final days are packed with iconic sights. We loved wandering Yu Garden, a classical Chinese garden filled with peaceful ponds and intricate architecture. The Town Gods Temple nearby adds a lively local market vibe, perfect for a quick street-food snack or souvenir shopping.

The Shanghai Museum offers fascinating exhibits that highlight China’s artistic achievements, while the French Concession showcases a different side of Shanghai — tree-lined streets and historic architecture that evoke a more relaxed, colonial-era feel.

Finally, a walk along the Nanjing Road for shopping and the Bund with its stunning skyline views caps off your trip. The guides provide insightful commentary, helping you appreciate the blend of old and new that makes Shanghai so unique.

The Practicalities and Value

The tour’s inclusion of hotels, breakfasts, and key attraction tickets means you won’t be surprised by hidden costs, which is a big plus for budget-conscious travelers. The small group size (limited to 15) is a major advantage, allowing for more personalized attention, easier interactions, and a more relaxed pace.

Transportation is well-organized — from comfortable, professional vehicles to efficient high-speed train and flight arrangements. This focus on logistics minimizes stress and maximizes your sightseeing time.

The tour is priced at $1,784, which, considering accommodations, transportation, and entrance fees, offers good value. You get a rundown of China’s major cities, with expert guides to bring the history and culture alive, making every stop more meaningful.

One point to consider is the pace — the itinerary is quite full, with early mornings and back-to-back sightseeing. If you prefer a slower, more leisurely trip, you might find this schedule a bit hectic, but for those eager to see a lot in a short time, it’s ideal.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers seeking a structured, guided tour that hits all the major highlights without the hassle of planning each step. It’s suited to those interested in history, culture, and modern cityscapes, and who want a taste of both ancient China and its contemporary urban life. The small group setting makes it appealing for those who prefer a more intimate, engaging atmosphere, and the included transportation and tickets offer convenience and peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

This 8-day tour offers a balanced mix of history, architecture, and city life. The guided approach, combined with comfortable logistics and authentic experiences, makes it an excellent option for travelers who want to see China’s most famous sights without sacrificing comfort or ease.

While the schedule is fast-paced, the knowledgeable guides and thoughtfully selected sites ensure you walk away with a genuine understanding of each location’s significance. For those looking to explore China’s highlights efficiently and comfortably, this tour provides a smart, well-organized way to do it.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is each sightseeing stop?
Most sites are allocated about 1-3 hours, depending on the location, allowing enough time to see the highlights without feeling rushed.

Are all entrance fees included?
Yes, the tour covers admissions to key attractions like the Palace Museum, Summer Palace, Terracotta Warriors, and Shanghai Museum.

What transportation is used between cities?
You’ll travel via high-speed train from Beijing to Xian and by flight from Xian to Shanghai, all included in the price for a smooth journey.

Is accommodation included?
Yes, the package includes 7 nights in comfortable hotels — Wanda Realm Beijing in Beijing, Wyndham Grand Xian South in Xian, and Jin Jiang Hotel in Shanghai.

Are meals included?
You get in-hotel breakfasts daily, plus 12 special meals highlighted in the itinerary, giving you a taste of local cuisine.

What is the group size?
Limited to 15 participants, ensuring a more personal and engaging experience.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Travelers under 18 must be with an adult, and it’s not suitable for wheelchair users; children under 6 may need a booster seat.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if plans change.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, sunscreen, water, and cash are recommended.

Are there any restrictions on pets or smoking?
Pets, smoking, alcohol, and drugs are not allowed during the tour.

This tour offers a genuine chance to experience China’s most celebrated sights with expert guidance and thoughtful logistics. It balances the need to see a lot with the comfort of small-group travel, making it a compelling choice for anyone eager to explore China’s dynamic blend of history and modernity.

You can check availability for your dates here: