Days 1-2: UK - Shanghai

Fly overnight to the cosmopolitan city of Shanghai, also known as the ‘Paris of the East’ and transfer to the hotel before our welcome dinner of traditional Shanghai cuisine.

Day 3: Wuzhen Day Tour

Travel by coach to the ancient canal town of Wuzhen where we enjoy a leisurely stroll to absorb the atmosphere of this centuries-old Chinese town. Home to an intricate system of canals, old wooden waterside houses, arch stone bridges, narrow cobblestone streets and an abundance of local handicrafts, Wuzhen is renowned for its old-world charm and picturesque setting. We visit the Taoist Temple, which was the former residence of Mao Dun, a master of contemporary Chinese literature and browse through little stores. Return to Shanghai.

Day 4: Shanghai

Sightseeing today includes a stroll through the beautiful Yu Gardens and the Old Town as well as a visit to the Shanghai Museum. We also walk along the famous Bund with its colonial architecture and explore the restored Xintiandi area with its unique 1920’s style shikumen buildings. Later we indulge in some shopping along Nanjing Road. In the evening, enjoy a cruise on the panoramic Huangpu River, where the historic Bund and the futuristic Pudong come face-to-face.

Day 5: Xian

Enjoy the morning at leisure before flying to the former ancient capital of Xian. Enjoy a traditional Shui Jiao dumpling meal in the evening.

Day 6: Xian

Visit one of the most important archaeological discoveries of the 20th century – the Terracotta Warriors, followed by a walk along the Ancient City Wall. In the evening we enjoy a performance of Tang Dynasty dancing.

Day 7: Xian – Beijing

Visit the Little Wild Goose Pagoda and the renowned Shaanxi Museum which is home to thousands of priceless relics. We also walk through the lively Muslim Quarter to visit the Great Mosque and explore the Islamic food markets. Later, fly to Beijing and visit the unique Temple of Heaven. Our evening meal includes the local delicacy, Peking Duck.

Day 8: Beijing

Sightseeing today includes a stroll through Tiananmen Square, past Chairman Mao’s Mausoleum to the treasure-filled Forbidden City, the largest and best preserved collection of ancient buildings in China. Enjoy a fascinating Chinese Acrobatic show in the evening.

Day 9: Beijing

Walk on the Great Wall to appreciate the history of China’s most iconic attraction and then tour the exquisite Summer Palace.

Day 10: Beijing – UK

Transfer to Beijing Airport and fly to the UK, arriving home later the same day filled with many happy memories.

Tour departs Saturday and returns Monday