9-Nights Classic China from $5,414

Trafalgar

OFFER ID 1675911

Classic China
Uncover the heart of China on this immersive Small Group tour, limited to just 18 guests. From the legendary Great Wall to the imperial grandeur of the Forbidden City, you’ll step into centuries of history. In Xi’an, stand in awe before the Terracotta Warriors, then take a slower pace through Beijing’s hutongs by rickshaw, where a local family welcomes you for an exclusive, hands-on dumpling-making experience. Visit a traditional jade workshop and explore the dynamic contrasts of Shanghai, where ancient traditions sit alongside a soaring skyline. From quiet alleyways to iconic wonders, this journey reveals China through its stories, flavors and unforgettable people.

Dining Summary

3 Dinner (D)
8 Breakfast (B)
4 Lunch (L)

Dive into Culture

Xi'an: Start your day with a calming Tai Chi session led by a Local Specialist. In a serene setting, learn the graceful movements and mindful breathing techniques of this ancient Chinese martial art, rooted in balance, harmony and energy flow.

Iconic Experience

Beijing: Savor your first evening in China with a warm welcome dinner filled with bold regional flavors. Share a table with your fellow travelers as you enjoy dishes like fish-flavored shredded pork, Kongpao chicken, and sweet and sour pork with pineapple. Vegetarian delights like fried eggplant and spicy cabbage offer something for every palate, served alongside classic sides including broccoli with garlic and shredded green beans.
Beijing: Indulge in Beijing’s iconic Peking Duck with delicate crepes and sweet sauce - complemented by local appetizers and hot dishes like crispy sea fish, shredded pork in soybean sauce, and spicy pickled cabbage with vermicelli.
Beijing: Walk along one of the world’s most iconic landmarks and take in panoramic views from the ancient ramparts. Learn how this remarkable feat of engineering was built and rebuilt over centuries to protect China’s northern frontier.
Beijing: Walk the tree-lined Sacred Way, once reserved for emperors, where carved stone warriors and mythical beasts have stood guard for centuries. With your Travel Director, follow this ceremonial path to the Ming Tombs, an imperial necropolis where 13 Ming dynasty emperors lie buried beneath grand domed chambers and peaceful hillsides.
Beijing: If traditional martial arts, acrobatics, Kung Fu dance and modern theater sounds like you, then you won't want to miss the Kung Fu artists at The Legend of Kung Fun Show. It's the story of a boy who dreams big about being a Kung Fu master. But it's not just about kicks and flips - it's about him facing his fears as he fights through it all in becoming a total champ. The price shown is in Chinese Yuan Renminbi.
Beijing: Discover the significance of jade in Chinese culture during a visit to a traditional workshop. You’ll learn to tell genuine jade from imitation, explore the stone’s cultural and mineral origins, and even watch skilled artisans at work. More than a jewelry stop, this experience offers insight into a tradition shaped by 2,500 years of history and Confucian values.
Beijing: Visit a traditional Hutong home and enjoy a Be My Guest lunch with a local family. Share stories over a home-cooked meal featuring a variety of regional dishes, including handmade dumplings, braised meats, seasonal vegetables and steamed rice.
Xi'an: Step into the buzzing Muslim Quarter for a night of bold flavors and local color. Sample regional favorites like Biangbiang noodles, cold skin noodles, Roujiamo (Chinese hamburger) and mutton soup with flatbread, tasting your way through at least three food stalls. Enjoy the lively energy as you sip two glasses of local craft beer and soak up Xi’an’s emerging beer scene.
Xi'an: Explore the vast underground tomb complex of China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. Stand before the awe-inspiring Terracotta Army, thousands of life-sized warriors, horses and chariots crafted over two millennia ago to guard the emperor in the afterlife. Each figure is unique, offering a powerful glimpse into ancient artistry and imperial ambition.
Xi'an: Tuck into a hearty lunch featuring regional noodle dishes and Chinese comfort food favorites. Choose from beef noodles, fried rice, Chinese hamburgers and seasonal stir-fries, with a spread of appetizers, fresh salads and sweet treats like sesame puffs, fruit cake and red bean pastries. A delicious glimpse into local cuisine.
Xi'an: Step inside a local family’s home for an authentic hands-on experience. You’ll learn to knead dough, pull wide noodles and shape delicate dumpling wrappers before sitting down to enjoy the meal you’ve helped prepare. This Small Group Exclusive experience offers a rare glimpse into traditional home cooking and everyday life in China.
Shanghai: Join a Local Specialist to uncover the contrasts of Shanghai, from its colonial past to modern marvels. Stroll along the historic Bund waterfront and wander through the tranquil classical pavilions and rockeries of Yu Garden.
Shanghai: Soar to the 88th floor of the striking Jin Mao Tower and take in sweeping views of Shanghai’s futuristic skyline, where skyscrapers rise above the Huangpu River in one of Asia’s most dynamic cities.
Shanghai: Witness a spellbinding performance by the Shanghai Acrobatic Troupe, where precision, agility and imagination collide. From high-flying aerials to perfectly timed choreography, this world-class show celebrates the artistry and discipline of Chinese acrobatics with a modern twist.
Shanghai: Celebrate your final evening in China with a flavourful farewell feast featuring classic Shanghainese dishes. Highlights may include soy-braised pork, sizzling shredded eel, fried shrimp and steamed freshwater fish, along with local favorites like Xiaolongbao with crab, Shengjian Bao and Shanghai-

9 nights from $5,414 per person

Itinerary

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Itinerary Details

Trafalgar Tours: Classic China

Day 1 - Say Ni Hao to China
Transfer to your Beijing hotel where you’ll meet your Travel Director and Small Group for dinner at a local restaurant.
Accommodations: Novotel Peace
Meals: Dinner

Day 2 - Discover the Icons of Beijing
Delve into Beijing’s imperial heritage, beginning at Tiananmen Square, the world’s largest public space. Enter the UNESCO-listed Forbidden City through the south gate, once the home of emperors and their households for over 600 years. Discover its ancient traditions and history before enjoying time at leisure for lunch. Later, visit the serene Temple of Heaven, another UNESCO-listed site, where Ming and Qing emperors prayed for harvests and guidance. This evening, you’ll enjoy a Regional Dinner featuring Beijing’s iconic Peking Duck.
Accommodations: Novotel Peace
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 3 - Journey to the Great Wall
Leave Beijing behind and walk in the footsteps of emperors along the Great Wall of China at Juyongguan, a monumental structure first built in the 5th century BC and stretching thousands of miles across the north. Take in sweeping views from its ancient ramparts before continuing to the Sacred Way, where stone guardians line the path to the Ming Tombs, burial site of 13 Ming emperors. Later, visit a jade workshop and watch skilled artisans carve this revered stone into intricate designs. This evening, choose an Optional Experience to witness a thrilling Kung Fu performance, blending age-old martial arts with modern stagecraft.
Accommodations: Novotel Peace
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 4 - Explore Beijing Connect with Locals Dive Into Culture
Ease into the day with a rickshaw ride through the narrow lanes of Beijing’s traditional Hutong neighborhoods. Join a local family for a home-cooked lunch and gain a deeper insight into the everyday lives of the locals. Then, visit a tea house to see the traditions and techniques behind Chinese tea-making. This afternoon, fly to Xi’an, where you may choose to explore the vibrant night food market and emerging craft beer scene, or opt for a dumpling dinner, complete with a demonstration revealing the skill behind these regional favorites.
Accommodations: Novotel Peace
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 5 - Uncover Xi'an's Treasures
Kick off your morning by marveling at one of China’s greatest archaeological discoveries, the Terracotta Warriors with your Travel Director. Explore the vast underground army built to guard China’s first emperor in the afterlife. For lunch, enjoy a traditional noodle meal packed with regional flavors. Later, visit a local village to explore the unique cave dwellings still used by some residents today – a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience that offers a rare insight into rural life. This evening is yours to enjoy as you wish. Perhaps choose to attend a Tang Dynasty performance, complete with dinner and historic pageantry.
Accommodations: Wyndham Grand Xi'an South
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 6 - Onwards to Shanghai Dive Into Culture Stays With Stories
Start your day by joining a Local Specialist for a peaceful morning Tai Chi lesson and gaining insight into this graceful martial art. Later, step inside a local home for a Small Group Exclusive, hands-on dumpling-making experience where you’ll learn traditional techniques before sitting down to enjoy your creations over lunch. This afternoon, fly to Shanghai and check into your Stays with Stories hotel. The evening is yours to explore the city at your leisure.
Accommodations: The Kunlun Jing An
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 7 - Experience Shanghai Stays With Stories
Take in the sights of Shanghai on a morning city tour with your Travel Director, beginning with a stroll along the iconic Bund, known for its colonial elegance and striking modern design. Next, visit a local silk factory to learn about this ancient craft, then enjoy free time in the Old Town to explore its bustling laneways and savor lunch at your own pace. Later, ascend 88 floors to the top of Jin Mao Tower and take in panoramic views of the glittering city skyline before returning to your hotel to unwind, or opt for an out-of-this-world dining experience at the futuristic Spacelab restaurant. This evening, be captivated by the jaw-dropping artistry of the Shanghai Acrobatic Show – a thrilling finale to your day.
Accommodations: The Kunlun Jing An
Meals: Breakfast

Day 8 - Shanghai Your Way
Enjoy a free day in Shanghai with the option to explore more of the city’s rich cultural layers. You may choose to visit the acclaimed Shanghai Museum and learn about the city’s Jewish heritage in the former Ghetto. Alternatively, discover the ancient water town of Zhujiajiao – often called the ‘Venice of Shanghai’ – with its winding canals, stone bridges and charming shops, followed by lunch. You might also explore the classical beauty of Yu Garden alongside the museum’s fascinating exhibits. This evening, gather with your fellow travelers for a final dinner, savoring a delicious menu as you reflect on your journey through China.
Accommodations: The Kunlun Jing An
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 9 - Farewell Shanghai
Your journey through China comes to an end today. Enjoy a smooth departure with airport transfers arranged according to your flight details.
Meals: Breakfast

Featured Destinations

Shanghai

Shanghai is a teeming metropolis of 11 million, bustling with energy, towering skyscrapers, art deco buildings, honking traffic, and shopping crowds. Once here, visitors will find Eastern ways abound: Tai Chi along the Bund, the serenity of exquisite ponds and gardens, and an endless flotilla of sampans edging along the Huangpu River. Explore Shanghai old and new: the busy bazaars and alleyways of the Old Town, Yu Garden, Wuxingting Tea House, Long Hua Temple and more.

Excursions

Shanghai: Yu Garden & Old Town Tour (4 hours)

Shanghai: French Concession & The Bund (4 hours)

Shanghai: Jewish Quarter Tour (4 hours)

Shanghai: Museum Tour (4 hours)

Shanghai: Zhujiajiao Water Town Tour (4 hours)

Shanghai: Disposal Tour (4 hours)

Shanghai City Tour (8 hours)

Shanghai: Disposal Tour (8 hours)

Xi'an

Beijing

Vacation Details

Valid Date Ranges

04/17/2027 - 04/25/2027

from $5,414 per person

05/15/2027 - 05/23/2027

from $5,414 per person

06/26/2027 - 07/04/2027

from $5,414 per person

07/24/2027 - 08/01/2027

from $5,414 per person

08/28/2027 - 09/05/2027

from $5,414 per person

09/18/2027 - 09/26/2027

from $5,414 per person

10/09/2027 - 10/17/2027

from $5,414 per person

* This departure has been designated a guaranteed departure by the operator, meaning that the minimum number of guests has been met, although still subject to weather and other conditions.

Prices Start At

from $5,414 per person

Length

9 Nights

Air City

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Vacation Rating

Deluxe

Remarks

Trip prices are per person, land only, based on double occupancy and reflect applicable discounts. Trip prices and discounts are subject to change. Airfare is additional. Tour prices, dates and itineraries are correct at the time of the website going live, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking. Other restrictions may apply.

All fares are quoted in US Dollars.

OFFER ID

1675911

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Land Only Tours

9-Nights Classic China from $5,414

Itinerary Details

Excursions

Shanghai: Yu Garden & Old Town Tour (4 hours)

Shanghai: French Concession & The Bund (4 hours)

Shanghai: Jewish Quarter Tour (4 hours)

Shanghai: Museum Tour (4 hours)

Shanghai: Zhujiajiao Water Town Tour (4 hours)

Shanghai: Disposal Tour (4 hours)

Shanghai City Tour (8 hours)

Shanghai: Disposal Tour (8 hours)

Vacation Details

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