Beijing & Shanghai: 6 days Visa-Free in China!

Beijing & Shanghai: 6 Days Visa-Free in China!
Price: $3,599 per person
Location: Northern China, China
Duration: 6 days
Highlights include Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, a boat ride on Kunming Lake, Ming Dynasty Tombs, hutong culture, and Shanghai’s vibrant cityscape.

What We Love About This Tour
First, the chance to visit two of China’s most iconic cities in one seamless trip is a real perk. The itinerary hits major highlights without feeling overwhelming, giving you a thorough taste of both ancient and modern China. We especially appreciate the inclusion of authentic local dining experiences, which often stand out more than the sightseeing itself — you’ll get to savor Beijing duck and Shanghai specialties in genuine settings.

Second, the expert guides make a huge difference. Their knowledge and friendly demeanor help turn busy days into engaging stories and meaningful encounters. Plus, the all-inclusive nature of the trip — from hotels and transfers to entrance fees and meals — makes planning easier and your experience more relaxed.

A possible consideration: this tour is fairly packed, with full days of sightseeing, so it might feel rushed if you prefer slow, wandering explorations. Also, the flight from Beijing to Shanghai is straightforward but adds a moment of transit that travelers should plan for.

This trip is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive intro to China’s highlights in a short time, with a good mix of culture, history, and city life. It’s ideal for those who appreciate guided tours to streamline the experience, and for anyone eager to dive into local flavors and authentic sights.

Key Points

Comprehensive experience: Covers major sights in Beijing and Shanghai in just 6 days.
Authentic culinary experiences: Enjoy local dishes at food stalls and restaurants.
Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides help bring history and culture to life.
Seamless logistics: All transfers, entrance fees, and accommodations are included, reducing stress.
Cultural balance: Combines historical sites, local neighborhoods, and modern cityscapes.
Flexible booking: Keep your plans fluid with a “reserve & pay later” option.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Review of the 6-Day Beijing & Shanghai Tour

Starting Strong in Beijing: History and Heritage

The journey begins with a warm meet-and-greet at Beijing airport, where your guide, often a local expert, will assist with luggage and hotel check-in. From there, the city’s most famous landmark, Tiananmen Square, becomes your first stop. Standing in the world’s largest public square, you’ll feel the weight of history, from political rallies to national celebrations. Your guide will paint the scene of its significance, making the space feel alive rather than just a photo op.

Next, the Forbidden City offers an awe-inspiring peek into China’s imperial past. With over 8,700 rooms, this sprawling palace complex was home to 24 emperors. The guides often share stories about the lives of these rulers, making the sprawling structures more relatable. As you wander through courtyards and halls, you’ll notice the meticulous craftsmanship and symbolism woven into every detail.

Lunch is a highlight, often featuring Peking duck, a culinary symbol of Beijing. The tour emphasizes authentic dining experiences — rather than tourist traps — so expect to savor the crispy skin and tender meat in a local restaurant. Many travelers mention how this meal is a memorable taste of the city’s culinary heritage.

In the afternoon, your visit takes you to the Summer Palace, a UNESCO site famous for its tranquil lakes, lush gardens, and classical architecture. The boat ride on Kunming Lake offers a relaxing perspective of the extensive grounds, giving a sense of the grandeur once enjoyed by imperial families. The combination of beautiful landscapes and historical buildings makes this a peaceful yet enriching experience.

Exploring the Depths of Beijing: Ming Tombs & Hutong Culture

On your third day, the focus shifts to Ming Dynasty Tombs, a collection of serene mausoleums where emperors like Yongle are buried. The underground palace chambers are often highlighted in reviews as both impressive and informative, offering insight into imperial burial customs and Ming architecture. Guides tend to add color with stories about the emperors and the significance of the tomb sites.

Following this, a half-day tour of Hutongs introduces you to Beijing’s traditional neighborhoods. Navigating narrow alleyways by rickshaw or on foot, you’ll see how locals live amidst centuries-old structures. Many travelers find this part especially charming because it offers a glimpse into everyday life, contrasting sharply with the grandeur of the palaces and memorials.

Dinner options showcase Beijing’s culinary staples, often highlighting local specialties. Reviewers frequently mention the deliciousness of these meals and how guides help locate authentic eateries away from tourist traps.

Transition to Shanghai: Modern Marvels and Classic Charm

On day four, it’s time to fly to Shanghai. The flight is quick — about two hours — and your guides streamline the process, handling luggage and airport transfers. Once in Shanghai, the Bund awaits — a lively waterfront promenade with stunning views of the city skyline, including the famous Oriental Pearl Tower and other skyscrapers. The nighttime vistas here are often described as breathtaking, with illuminated buildings reflecting off the Huangpu River.

Dinner in Shanghai often features local food, with guides recommending dishes like xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) or shengjianbao (pan-fried buns). These are must-try items for anyone wanting to indulge in authentic flavors of the city.

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Discovering Shanghai’s Contrasts: Gardens and Traditional Streets

The next day, the Yuyuan Garden offers a peaceful retreat amid the city’s hustle, with classical landscape design, intricate rockeries, and pavilions. It’s a great place for photos and soaking up centuries-old architecture. Nearby, Chenghuangmiao temple and the streets of Wukang Road combine old-world charm with modern boutiques and cafes, giving a taste of Shanghai’s eclectic character.

Throughout the tour, guides continue to be praised for their local knowledge and ability to answer questions, making each stop more meaningful.

Wrap-up and Departure

On the final day, you’ll have free time until your guide escorts you to the airport. Whether you want to revisit a favorite spot or just relax, the flexible schedule helps you enjoy your last moments in this vibrant country.

Practicalities and Value

This tour strikes a good balance between sightseeing and comfort. The all-inclusive package means you won’t worry about extra costs for entrance fees, transportation, or meals — a big plus for travelers who prefer a hassle-free experience. The private guides and drivers keep the pace manageable and personalized, which is especially helpful when navigating busy urban environments like Beijing and Shanghai.

At a price of $3,599 per person, the value hinges on how much you appreciate guided travel, authentic local experiences, and convenience. For the price, you get well-chosen accommodations, reliable transfers, and expert guidance, which together save time and reduce stress. Many reviews highlight how guides make the experience more insightful, often sharing stories that you wouldn’t find in a guidebook.

However, keep in mind the itinerary is quite full — if you want to wander more slowly or explore lesser-known parts of each city, you might find yourself wishing for more free time.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This trip is ideal for travelers who want to see the highlights of Beijing and Shanghai in one well-organized package. It’s perfect if you value guided insights, delicious food, and efficient logistics. It’s also well-suited for first-timers eager to get a comprehensive introduction to China’s capital and financial hub without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

If you’re someone who loves authentic meals, enjoys learning from expert guides, and appreciates a balance of history and modernity, this is a great fit. Travelers who dislike overly fast-paced tours or who prefer to explore independently might find this schedule too structured.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, the tour is designed for individuals, couples, and small groups. The guide will ensure everyone feels included, and the private guide and driver provide a personalized experience.

Are meals included, and what type of food can I expect?
Breakfast is included each morning, and specific meals such as Beijing duck and local Shanghai dishes are part of the experience, allowing you to enjoy authentic Chinese flavors.

What are the main highlights I’ll see?
You’ll visit Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Ming Dynasty Tombs, and explore Shanghai’s Yuyuan Garden, The Bund, and Wukang Road.

How is transportation arranged during the tour?
All transfers between sites, airports, and hotels are handled by private drivers. Flights between Beijing and Shanghai are included, with guides assisting throughout.

Is it a physically demanding tour?
The tour involves walking through large sites and some uneven surfaces, but guides usually pace activities based on the group’s needs. Expect full days of sightseeing.

Can I customize this tour?
Yes, the itinerary can be tailored based on your interests and schedule. You can also keep your plans flexible with the “reserve & pay later” option.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some peace of mind if your plans change unexpectedly.

To sum it up, this 6-day visa-free tour offers a thoughtfully balanced itinerary, combining must-see sites with local experiences and delicious food. It’s perfect for those wanting a guided, hassle-free introduction to China’s bustling capital and cosmopolitan city. With expert guides, seamless logistics, and authentic cultural touches, it provides good value for travelers eager to grasp the essence of Beijing and Shanghai in a short time. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply eager to see iconic sights, this trip delivers a memorable and enriching taste of China.

You can check availability for your dates here: