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Follow in the footsteps of the ancients – up the ornate steps of the Forbidden City and to the ramparts of the Great Wall, snaking its way across the rolling countryside, and through the winding ancient alleys of Beijing’s hutongs to learn about Chinese traditions over a home-cooked lunch.
Follow in the footsteps of the ancients – up the ornate steps of the Forbidden City and to the ramparts of the Great Wall, snaking its way across the rolling countryside, and through the winding ancient alleys of Beijing’s hutongs to learn about Chinese traditions over a home-cooked lunch.
Launch your discovery of China in its cultural heart. Transfer to your Beijing hotel where you'll meet your Travel Director for a Welcome Reception drink and local appetisers this evening.
Delve into Beijing's rich imperial heritage, beginning your encounter with the remnants of centuries-old dynasties in the world's largest public space, Tiananmen Square. Tread in the footsteps of emperors, passing through the south gate to the UNESCO-listed Forbidden City, the imperial palace for emperors and their households for over five centuries. Immerse yourself in the ancient rituals, traditions and history of this palace complex before lunch. Continue to the tranquil Temple of Heaven, another UNESCO Heritage Site, once visited by the emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties to pray for good harvests and divine guidance. This evening, the salty, sweet flavours of succulent Peking Duck take centre stage during a Regional Dinner.
We leave the city behind, bound for the iconic Great Wall of China at Juyongguan. Standing on its ramparts, we look down on the Chinese countryside which its walls successfully defended against marauding nomadic invaders. Watch it snake thousands of miles into the distance as you imagine how these man-made fortifications were built and rebuilt from the 5th century B.C. to the 16th century. Then, walk the Sacred Way past the imposing stone statues that guard the Ming Tombs and remains of 13 emperors of the Ming Dynasty.
A leisurely start to our morning sees us embark on a rickshaw tour around the ancient narrow alleyways of the courtyard Hutong residences. We Connect With Locals, joining a family for a delicious meal of traditional Chinese cuisine at a Be My Guest lunch, followed by a visit to a tea house, where a Local Specialist prepares and serves tea, explaining the historic tea-making ritual. This afternoon, we’ll indulge in a relaxing foot massage at the Foot Reflexology Centre.
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast, Be My Guest
Optional Experience
Legend of Kung Fu Show
The Legend of Kung Fu Show is a mix of traditional martial arts and modern theatre. It is presented by a group of marvellous Kung Fu artists from all over China whose average age is only 17 but they have studied Chinese Kung Fu for many years. The story tells of a young boy who dreams of becoming a Kung Fu master and attaining enlightenment. He takes the path of a monk in which he must face many obstacles both from this world and his own mind to overcome his fears and to become a true master of Kung Fu. During the 80-minute show, the artists do not speak but perform daring acrobatics and Kung Fu dance but there are English subtitles above the stage explaining the story line. Transfers to and from the Red Theatre are included. NB. The price shown is in Chinese Yuan Renminbi.
Adult Price: ¥350.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 5
Travel to Xi'an
We fly to Xi'an, which reveals its role as the ancient departure point of the Silk Road. Visit the Great Mosque, one of the oldest, largest and best-preserved mosques in China. According to historical records it was built in 742 during the Tang Dynasty and is a combination of Islamic art and traditional Chinese architecture.
Trip Summary Accomodation IconHotel - Wyndham Grand Xi'an South
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Optional Experience
Tang Dynasty Show with Dinner
Enjoy a sumptuous Tang dumpling banquet followed by a wonderful performance of ancient music and dance which has graced the region for centuries. The show consists of 8 parts filled with vibrant costumes, colourful dances and traditional music. Under the ruling of the Tang Emperors from 618 to 907, China became the most powerful and prosperous country in the world. During this time the economy, politics and military strength reached an unprecedented level which influenced the culture of its neighbouring countries. It was during this flourishing and peaceful period that exquisite Tang imperial feasts with music and dance emerged and developed. Step back in time and enjoy the delightful hospitality and performances of the Tang Dynasty. The price shown is in Chinese Yuan Renminbi.
Adult Price: ¥400.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 6
Uncover Xi'an's Treasures
Visit a local primary school (during school-term) to exchange a few Chinese and English words with the children and teachers. Trafalgar will donate some much-needed supplies as part of your school visit and MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Next, descend into Emperor Qin Shi Huang’s subterranean tomb to see his terracotta army for the afterlife, another UNESCO-listed site. For lunch, enjoy a traditional meal of Chinese noodles, then continue with a visit to a Jade factory, the favoured stone of emperors and more precious to the Chinese people than gold.
This morning, your choice of activities gives you an opportunity to mimic the graceful movements of a skilled T’ai Chi Local Specialist, or consider joining a cycle tour around part of the ancient City Wall of Xi'an. We Dive Into Culture at a local restaurant, watching a demonstration in the art of making dumplings, with an opportunity to sample these for lunch. Savour the juicy flavours of these boiled, steamed and fried treats, transporting you back to ancient China, before transferring to the airport for our flight to Shanghai. Ascend to the 88-storey Jinmao Tower for panoramic views of the skyscrapers that loom over the most populous city on earth.
Trip Summary Accomodation IconHotel - The Kunlun Jing'An
Stroll down Shanghai’s famous ‘Bund’ with a Local Specialist, admiring the neoclassical colonial buildings that have lined this city’s renowned waterfront since the early 1900s. Learn how this marshland was transformed into one of the world’s most important trading hubs. Then, continue to the winding streets and vibrant markets of Old Shanghai to discover the how the customs and traditional lifestyle of this area have remained relatively unaltered. Enjoy some free time for lunch and shopping in the Old Town before we Dive Into Culture during a visit to a silk museum. This evening, indulge in a performance by the Shanghai Acrobatic Troupe.
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Day 9
Shanghai Your Way
Spend a day exploring the Paris of the East on your terms - shop for delicate Chinese ceramics, or consider joining an Optional Experience to Zhujiajiao, an ancient water town founded more than 1,700 years ago. In its heyday, Zhujiajiao was a bustling market town. Today, old historical buildings such as rice shops, banks, spice stores and even a Qing Dynasty post office can still be found as you stroll down its ancient streets and wander across the many stone bridges that crisscross its canals. This afternoon, you'll have some free time at leisure before joining your travel companions for a Farewell Dinner.
In the morning, drive to Zhujiajiao, an ancient water town in the suburbs of Shanghai. With a history that goes back more than 1,700 years, the town is the best preserved among the four ancient towns of Shanghai. Today, historical buildings such as rice shops, banks, spice stores and even a Qing dynasty post office can still be found. The town is also blessed with small rivers shaded by willow trees, bubbling streams and traditional houses with ancient courtyards. The town has 36 bridges built during the Ming and Qing Dynasties, differing in shape, style and structure; from wooden to stone and marble. Take a paddle boat ride along the water to admire the distinct bridges, and then enjoy some free time to stroll through the narrow alleys and small food shops. The town is also famous for its cuisine, particularly green soy beans and Zarou (lotus roots) as well as homemade candy and braised pork leg. There will be an opportunity to try some local food during the included lunch, before returning to Shanghai. NB. The price shown is in Chinese Yuan Renminbi.
Adult Price: ¥450.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 10
Farewell Shanghai
Our mystical encounter with China at its end, take a transfer to Shanghai Airport for your onward flight.
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
All optional experiences for this trip
Book with your travel director when you travel
Available on day 4
Legend of Kung Fu Show
The Legend of Kung Fu Show is a mix of traditional martial arts and modern theatre. It is presented by a group of marvellous Kung Fu artists from all over China whose average age is only 17 but they have studied Chinese Kung Fu for many years. The story tells of a young boy who dreams of becoming a Kung Fu master and attaining enlightenment. He takes the path of a monk in which he must face many obstacles both from this world and his own mind to overcome his fears and to become a true master of Kung Fu. During the 80-minute show, the artists do not speak but perform daring acrobatics and Kung Fu dance but there are English subtitles above the stage explaining the story line. Transfers to and from the Red Theatre are included. NB. The price shown is in Chinese Yuan Renminbi.
Adult Price: ¥350.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 5
Tang Dynasty Show with Dinner
Enjoy a sumptuous Tang dumpling banquet followed by a wonderful performance of ancient music and dance which has graced the region for centuries. The show consists of 8 parts filled with vibrant costumes, colourful dances and traditional music. Under the ruling of the Tang Emperors from 618 to 907, China became the most powerful and prosperous country in the world. During this time the economy, politics and military strength reached an unprecedented level which influenced the culture of its neighbouring countries. It was during this flourishing and peaceful period that exquisite Tang imperial feasts with music and dance emerged and developed. Step back in time and enjoy the delightful hospitality and performances of the Tang Dynasty. The price shown is in Chinese Yuan Renminbi.
Adult Price: ¥400.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 9
Half Day Zhuijiajiao Experience with Lunch
In the morning, drive to Zhujiajiao, an ancient water town in the suburbs of Shanghai. With a history that goes back more than 1,700 years, the town is the best preserved among the four ancient towns of Shanghai. Today, historical buildings such as rice shops, banks, spice stores and even a Qing dynasty post office can still be found. The town is also blessed with small rivers shaded by willow trees, bubbling streams and traditional houses with ancient courtyards. The town has 36 bridges built during the Ming and Qing Dynasties, differing in shape, style and structure; from wooden to stone and marble. Take a paddle boat ride along the water to admire the distinct bridges, and then enjoy some free time to stroll through the narrow alleys and small food shops. The town is also famous for its cuisine, particularly green soy beans and Zarou (lotus roots) as well as homemade candy and braised pork leg. There will be an opportunity to try some local food during the included lunch, before returning to Shanghai. NB. The price shown is in Chinese Yuan Renminbi.
Adult Price: ¥450.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
All Optional Experiences
The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
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Trip details
Trip details
What's included
Trip Summary Accomodation Icon
9 nights
Accommodation
Trip Summary Meals Icon
17 Meals
1 Welcome Reception, 1 Be My Guest, 1 Farewell Dinner, 9 Breakfasts, 1 Regional Dinner, 4 Lunches
Trip Summary Transport Icon
On-trip Transport
All transport shown
The Trafalgar difference
Connect with Locals
Visit and have lunch with a local family in their home in one of Beijing's hutongs and gain a fascinating behind-the-scenes glimpse into their lifestyle.
Dive into Culture
Discover the traditions and techniques of dumpling making, indulging in an opportunity to sample them.
Dive into Culture
Indulge in a foot massage at the Foot Reflexology Centre.
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®
In Xi'an, you'll get to know the students and teachers at a local primary school, where Trafalgar donates much-needed supplies. Find out how your visit helps support their education in the local community.
Sightseeing highlights
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Explore Beijing, Xi'an and Shanghai
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Visit Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, the Great Wall of China, the Sacred Way in Beijing, the Terracotta Warriors in Xi'an and the 'Bund' waterfront and Jinmao Tower in Shanghai
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See local people practicing T'ai Chi in the morning and the Shanghai Acrobats
Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
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Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
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Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
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Flights from Beijing to Xi'an and Xi'an to Shanghai.
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Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
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Optional Experiences and free time
Live, unedited & independent traveler reviews
Classic China trip reviews
Our guests are at the heart of everything we do, their feedback fuels our innovation, inspiring us to improve continuously and craft Simply The Best vacations. That's why we ask each of our guests to leave a third-party verified, independent review after every trip. As testament to our commitment we have been given the Trusted Service Award from Feefo, recognising we deliver exceptional experiences as rated by real guests.
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Trip Rating
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5
It was well panned. The were appropriate accommodations, great food and entertainment. The tour guide was professional and well informed.
We had an excellent guide. In a country where English is not spoken widely, having a responsible bi-lingual guide was key. My family of 5 enjoyed our tours, excursions, meals, and sight-seeing outings.
The trip was terrific! We enjoyed seeing the Great Wall, the Terra Cotta Soldiers, and Shanghai from the Jinmao Tower. While we expected great things in Beijing and Shanghai, Xian was a treasure. Don't pass up the opportunity to ride bikes on the City Wall in Xian. The optional trip to the "Watertown" in Shanghai should be a required element.
The travel director, as well as the local specialist in Xi’An provided excellent service and made the tour a memorable trip. Their quiet, efficient organisation of day-to-day activities in a gentle, caring manner was great and always well appreciated. A special mention of our Classic China travel director, Kevin: he went the extra mile and provided a wealth of information. The hotel accommodation varied from comfortable to excellent and all the hotels had five star locations. All the meals provided by both tours were of the highest quality. The transport (couch, internal flights and car) was extremely well organised and the drivers were all first-rate.
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Trafalgar Classic China - a must for any traveller's bucket list
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5
The itineraries of both Classic China and Hong Kong-Macau tours were outstanding and the optional experiences added excellent value. The pace was fast enough to fit in all the daily activities, but never rushed.
Trafalgar Classic China and Hong Kong-Macau 2019 Feedback The Classic China and Hong Kong-Macau tours were our first organised tours and they exceeded our expectations in all respects. From the moment we arrived in China, we were in awe with the rich Chinese cultural history, as well as the impressive modern developments in China. The itineraries of both tours were outstanding and the optional experiences added excellent value. The pace was fast enough to fit in all the daily activities, but never rushed. The tour group for Classic China consisted of 20 group members. We were fortunate that it was a diverse, but very respectful group and punctual as we never had to wait for any group members after free time. For the Hong Kong Kong-Macau extension, we were only 3 members and again we had a great time. The hotel accommodation varied from comfortable to excellent and all the hotels had five star locations. All the meals provided by both tours were of the highest quality. The transport (couch, internal flights and car) was extremely well organised and the drivers were all first-rate. The travel directors. Kevin for Classic China and Anna for Hong Kong-Macau, as well as the local specialists, Tiger in Xi’An and Tino in Macau, made the tours a memorable trip. Their quiet, efficient organisation of day-to-day activities in a gentle, caring manner was great and always well appreciated. A special mention of our Classic China travel director, Kevin: he went the extra mile with all sorts of additional little surprises, provided a wealth of information and entertained us excellently for 10 days. Thank you Kevin – you are the best! It was a memorable trip with many highlights – these were a few top ones on our list: •Beijing: Forbidden City •Beijing: Great Wall – Juyongguan – the Great Wall was indeed great – a very humbling experience •Beijing: Temple of Heaven – Tai’Chi demonstration and lesson by Kevin •Beijing: Meeting Mr. Liu Yunjiang, the champion cricket trainer during our Beijing Be My Guest Hutong Lunch and thanks to Kevin for translating Mr. Liu’s very entertaining anecdotes •Beijing: Foot massage •Beijing: Optional Summer Palace and Giant Panda in Beijing Zoo •Xi’An: Optional Tang Dynasty Show with dinner, including surprise birthday cakes for two of our group members and a backstage visit after the show •Xi’An: A variety of night-time musical performances in the beautifully lit street behind the hotel – we spent almost 4 hours there! •Xi’An: Calligraphy lesson at Art Museum •Xi’An: Village school – we enjoyed the visit and interaction with the children very much •Xi’An: Terracotta Warriors and museum was impressive – excellent local specialist, Tiger provided a wealth of information •Shanghai: Buying an Erhu (Chinese violin) in Shanghai Old Market with an impromptu very accomplished Erhu player demonstrating to me on how to play and his wife, beautifully dressed in a red traditional Chinese dress, softly sang with him •Shanghai: Optional ancient water town, Zhuijiajiao, visit •Hong Kong: Dim Sum lunch on second floor of Jumbo Floating Restaurant – the three of us had the whole floor to ourselves for a private lunch •Hong Kong: Optional City and Harbour Night Cruise with the dinner in ‘Bubba Gump’ restaurant at Victoria Peak •Macau: Very enjoyable day and we also visited the Macau museum (not on the itinerary) – excellent local specialist. Tino made the day very special Thank you Trafalgar – we can recommend both these tours as a must for any traveller’s bucket list!
Flights: Prices include internal airfares and taxes for flights: Beijing to Xi'an and Xi'an to Shanghai.
Unless otherwise stated, trip prices are per person, land only, based on double occupancy and reflect applicable discount. Discounts are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice.
Trip prices are correct at the time of the products going live, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking. All trip information is correct at time of trips going live, however are subject to change - please confirm all details at time of booking.
Twin-share option not available for trips to South America, Costa Rica, Mexico, Alaska, Hawaii, South Africa, Kenya & Tanzania, Botswana, Zambia or for any holiday & cruise combination, or in Asia and Eastern Mediterranean except Highlights of Turkey (without cruise) & Best of Turkey. It's also not available on Small Group trips. Guided Vacations included in this restriction are Newfoundland and Labrador (DNLA). Does not apply to trips operated by Inspiring Journeys & our Mini-stays.
For trips that are part of our Guaranteed Room Share, please note that there is a no smoking policy in all shared rooms. Solo travel is not accepted on guided Family Experiences holidays unless traveling as part of a family group.
Travel to Europe often requires an overnight flight. Please arrange your flights to arrive on or before day 1.
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Active Trip Details
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What is an Active Trip? This is an "Active" lifestyle itinerary, with walks and hikes most days. Hikes will range from easy/moderate to strenuous. No technical climbing skills are required but a reasonable level of fitness is required to make the trip more enjoyable. Understanding that not all people want to hike at the same pace or even on the same trail we will, where possible, host map orientation and then let everyone disperse to enjoy the trails best suited to them. What to Pack Guests should bring lightweight hiking shoes or boots, broad brimmed sun hats, sunglasses, layered clothing, reusable water bottle(s), a hiking day pack and hiking poles (optional)
Weather & Altitude While the itinerary is laid out below, we are at the mercy of the weather and so reserve the right to adjust the program as necessary. Please keep in mind that the higher elevations and possible variations in weather and temperature can increase the perceived level of difficulty of our activities. Elevation ranges up to 9,000 feet for Utah’s Mighty Five and up to 11,000 feet for California High Country Adventure.
Everyone reacts differently to altitude and so if you do have any health issues you should check with your doctor that this trip is suitable for you.