China & Yangtze River Cruise - Private - 11 Days

Your adventure in China begins upon your arrival in Beijing. Our private driver will greet you at the airport, easily identifiable by a sign with your name. You'll be escorted to your accommodation in the vibrant heart of the city, where ancient history and modern development converge. As the capital of China, Beijing boasts iconic landmarks, lively markets, and a rich cultural legacy. You can choose to explore the city at your own pace or unwind at the hotel after your journey.

Your guide will meet us in your hotel lobby to begin the day. We will first visit Tiananmen Square, a key site in modern Chinese history. From there, we will explore the iconic Forbidden City, once the imperial palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties. Next, we will hike to Jingshan Park, where we can enjoy a panoramic view of the Forbidden City from the summit of Coal Hill.

After a traditional Chinese lunch, we will drive to the Temple of Heaven, an exceptional example of classical Ming architecture. Later, you will have the opportunity to shop at the Panjiayuan Antique Market and a local tea store. On our return drive to your hotel, you can discuss your plans for the evening with your guide, including options for a night show or a traditional Peking duck dinner.

Today, we'll visit the iconic Great Wall of China, heading to the Mutianyu section. You can opt to hike this historic marvel or take a scenic cable car ride to explore at your own pace. We'll enjoy a traditional Chinese lunch at a local restaurant before returning to the city.

On our way back to Beijing, we'll visit a jade carving factory to observe skilled artisans at work. We'll also make a brief photo stop at the famous Bird's Nest and Water Cube, both remarkable structures from the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

Begin the day by packing up at a relaxed pace and checking out. We will start our journey with a visit to the Drum Tower area for a leisurely rickshaw tour through the Hutongs—an insightful way to experience the local lifestyle of Beijing. Afterwards, we will explore the Summer Palace, renowned as the largest and best-preserved imperial garden in China.

Enjoy a tranquil boat ride on Kunming Lake, offering charming views of this historical retreat. Following a traditional Chinese lunch nearby, we will board a high-speed train to Xi'an. Upon arrival, a transfer service with a local guide will escort you to your hotel.

In the morning, we will collect you for a visit to the awe-inspiring Qin Terracotta Warriors, an essential stop on any visit to Xi'an. Afterwards, participate in a pottery workshop to learn about crafting pottery figurines. A traditional Chinese lunch will be provided nearby.

In the afternoon, we will explore the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, where you can enjoy the North Plaza fountain show. Then, we'll visit the Ancient City Wall, one of the oldest and best-preserved city walls in China, offering a unique perspective of history. We will arrange bicycles or a sightseeing car to travel around the wall.

We will then return you to your hotel. For the evening, we highly recommend the Tang Dynasty Show for a cultural experience.

Today, we check out of our accommodation and board a high-speed train for a scenic five-hour journey to Chongqing. Upon arrival, we'll transfer to the bustling Chaotianmen Wharf. Here, we'll check in for our Victoria cruise, which will set sail at 9:00 p.m. Enjoy the beginning of your cruise adventure as we spend the night on board.

Today, we embark on a captivating journey along the Yangtze River. Our itinerary includes the chance to explore the remarkable Fengdu Ghost City, known for its ancient temples and unique statues depicting Chinese mythology and the afterlife. This shore excursion is optional and can be arranged, allowing you to delve into the intriguing local legends.

Next, we visit Shibaozhai, a towering 12-storey red pavilion perched on a rocky hill. This site provides a fascinating glimpse into Qing Dynasty architecture.

Continuing our voyage, we'll sail through the breathtaking Qutang and Wu Gorges, renowned for their dramatic cliffs and lush scenery. You'll have the opportunity to enjoy a serene boating trip along the Goddess Stream, soaking up the stunning natural beauty of the area.

For those interested in China's rich historical narrative, an optional excursion to the White Emperor City is available. This ancient site offers splendid views of nearby Baidi Mountain and holds significance in Chinese poetry and history.

Please note: The schedule for shore excursions and docking locations is subject to seasonal changes, water levels, and climate conditions, which may affect the itinerary without prior notice. The daily programme will be provided onboard. A service fee of RMB150 per passenger is payable to the river guide and cruise crew, not included in your fare. Personal expenses such as internet access, laundry services, and bar charges are not included.

Join our cruise, complete with opportunities for optional shore excursions. Discover the mystical Fengdu or explore the impressive Shibaozhai. You have the choice to visit the historic White Emperor City as well. As we sail through the dramatic Qutang and Wu Gorges, enjoy a boating trip on the Goddess Stream, surrounded by breathtaking scenery.

Disembark at Maoping cruise terminal for a shore excursion to the remarkable Three Gorges Dam, an engineering marvel and the world's largest hydroelectric power station. Afterwards, we’ll transfer you to the passenger centre in downtown Yichang. From there, board a high-speed train to Shanghai. Upon arrival, your Shanghai tour guide will meet you at the station and assist with your transfer to the hotel.

Start your day with a visit to the Jade Buddha Temple, known for its exquisite jade statues. Continue to explore the exterior of the iconic Oriental Pearl TV Tower, enjoying a stroll along the Riverside Promenade nearby. We'll also visit a silk museum to discover the intricacies of silk production. Lunch will be at a local Chinese restaurant.

Afterwards, we'll venture to Yuyuan Garden, a quintessential example of traditional Chinese landscaping in the heart of Shanghai. Conclude the afternoon with a leisurely walk along the historic Bund, offering splendid views of the city's skyline. Return to the hotel for some downtime.

In the evening, we highly recommend attending the renowned ERA Acrobatic Show, a standout in Shanghai's vibrant entertainment scene.

Enjoy a free day at your leisure before your journey home. When you're ready to depart, we will ensure a smooth transfer to the airport. If you wish to experience the renowned Maglev train ride to Pudong Airport, we can arrange that for you, offering a unique glimpse of cutting-edge transport technology. Alternatively, we can drive you directly to the airport.