8 Days of History and City Lights in Beijing, Xian&Shanghai

Planning a trip that covers some of China’s most iconic sights can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re trying to fit everything into a limited time. This 8-day tour offers a balanced approach, blending must-see historical landmarks with vibrant city life. While I haven’t taken this exact journey myself, I’ve looked into what it offers—and it seems like a solid choice for travelers wanting a rundown of these major Chinese cities without the hassle of planning every detail on your own.

What I find particularly appealing is how this tour combines expert-guided insights with flexible options, plus some of the most famous sites like the Great Wall, Terracotta Warriors, and the Bund. Another plus? It stays within a reasonable price point, especially considering all the included transportation, entry fees, and accommodations. But, of course, with any tour, there are a few things to consider—like the pace and group size.

This experience is best suited for those who want a guided, organized adventure that hits all the highlights, mixes history with urban exploration, and appreciates the convenience of pre-arranged logistics. If you’re comfortable with traveling in a small group and enjoy learning from knowledgeable guides, you’ll likely find this tour both engaging and worthwhile.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Beijing, Xian, and Shanghai, giving a well-rounded taste of China’s major cities.
• Expert guides and comfortable transportation make the journey smooth and insightful.
• Includes key attractions like the Great Wall, Terracotta Warriors, and the Bund, with admission tickets included.
• Cost-efficient considering the hotel accommodations, inter-city travel, and entry fees bundled together.
• Small group size (limited to 15) helps foster a more personal experience.
• Time-efficient but still packed, so expect full days and some early mornings.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

This tour kicks off with your arrival in Beijing, where airport pickups are arranged at either 13:00 or 18:00. Staying at the Wanda Realm Beijing, you’re set for a comfortable start, although keep in mind that the first night isn’t included in the meal plan. It’s a smart way to get settled without rushing.

Day 1 & 2: Beijing’s Historic Heart

The first full day is all about the city’s iconic symbols. You’ll visit Tiananmen Square—a bustling, significant space filled with history—then head straight to the Forbidden City, which takes about three hours to explore. The guide’s insights can really bring the place to life, making it more than just a bunch of ancient buildings. You’ll also stop at the Summer Palace, including a cruise (with a minor discount in winter), which adds a relaxing touch to this busy day.

On Day 2, the focus is on China’s imperial past with a trip to the Temple of Heaven. Later, you’ll climb the Mutianyu Great Wall, one of the most scenic sections, with fewer crowds than Badaling. The day concludes at the Olympic Park, outside the Bird’s Nest and Water Cube—these modern architectural marvels are great photo ops, even from the outside. Expect full days packed with walking, but the guides do a good job keeping spirits up and sharing stories.

Day 3: Beijing’s Architectural Wonders

The third day is a highlight for many—visiting the Great Wall at Mutianyu again if you wish, or exploring more of the city’s sights. The tour includes a visit to the Olympic Park, so you get a dose of modern China’s ambition along with ancient marvels.

Day 4 & 5: Transition to Xian

Traveling to Xian involves a high-speed train—an experience in itself—giving you a taste of China’s efficient rail network. The hotel here, Wyndham Grand Xian South, is well-rated, providing a comfortable base for exploring.

In Xian, the Terracotta Warriors are the star attraction. It’s a three-hour visit, and from what I gather, the guides add a lot of context that makes the sculptures more meaningful. You’ll also visit Huaqing Palace and stroll through Muslim Street, soaking in local flavors and atmosphere. The Bell & Drum Tower Square and Big Wild Goose Pagoda round out the cultural sights, with free time at Datang Everbright City for some shopping and casual wandering.

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Day 6: From Xian to Shanghai

The morning is spent on the Xian City Wall, which provides a good perspective on ancient Chinese defenses, then you’ll fly to Shanghai. The flight is included, making logistics simpler. The hotel, Jin Jiang Hotel, offers a solid base in the city’s middle.

Day 7: Shanghai’s Modern & Old

Your last full day is packed with highlights: Yu Garden and the Town Gods Temple offer a glimpse into traditional Shanghai, while the Shanghai Museum showcases impressive art and historical pieces. The French Concession offers a charming, leafy neighborhood to explore, and in the evening, you’ll stroll along Nanjing Road and the iconic Bund, with its skyline of futuristic skyscrapers and historic buildings. The guides are good at helping you navigate and find the best photo spots.

Day 8: Departure

Your tour ends with a morning transfer to the airport. Early flights are covered with a drop-off at either PVG or SHA, though if you’re flying earlier, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour’s value is clear when you look at what’s bundled in: hotels, most meals, transportation—including high-speed train, flights within China—and admission tickets to major attractions. The guides are knowledgeable, and gratuities for guides and drivers are included, so you won’t be scrambling with cash. Plus, it’s a small group, which tends to make the whole experience more personalized and less stressful.

However, you’ll have to handle your international flight and visa arrangements on your own, which can add to the overall cost and planning. Also, some travelers might find the schedule a bit packed, especially if they prefer more leisurely sightseeing.

The Pros

• Well-organized with clear logistics
• Covering major sights efficiently
• Insightful guides who add context
• Comfortable accommodations
• Entry fees and some meals included

The Cons

• Fast-paced days, lots of walking
• Limited free time at some sites
• No option for deeper exploration at each location
• Not suited for travelers expecting a relaxed pace

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who loves history, culture, and seeing the highlights without the hassle of planning every detail, this tour fits well. It’s ideal for first-timers wanting a broad overview, especially if you enjoy guided experiences and small groups. It’s also good if you prefer having most logistics sorted out, including transport and entry fees.

That said, if you’re after a very relaxed trip or want to explore each site at your own pace, this might feel a bit rushed. It’s also not tailored for travelers with mobility issues, as there’s a fair amount of walking involved.

Final Thoughts

This 8-day tour offers a solid, well-rounded snapshot of China’s most famous cities and landmarks. The blend of historical sites, modern cityscapes, and convenient logistics makes it a good option for those who want to maximize their time and minimize stress. The guides are praised for their knowledge, and the sites are truly worth seeing, especially if you appreciate history and architecture.

If you’re looking for an organized, efficient way to see China’s top attractions and don’t mind some busy days, this tour could be just what you need. Just be prepared for the pace and bring comfortable shoes—your feet will thank you.

FAQ

Is airport pickup included?
Yes, complimentary airport pickups are arranged at PEK and PKX at 13:00 or 18:00 on the first day of your tour.

Are admission tickets included?
Most major tickets like the Palace Museum, Summer Palace, Mutianyu Great Wall, Temple of Heaven, Terracotta Warriors, and others are included. You’ll receive tickets during the tour.

What meals are included?
You’ll get breakfast daily, with some lunches and dinners specified in the itinerary. The hotel provides in-hotel breakfasts, and twelve other meals are included.

Do I need to arrange my own flights?
Yes, you’ll need to book your international flight to China and from Shanghai after the tour ends. The tour includes domestic transport within China.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While the tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, it’s generally suitable for travelers comfortable with walking and group tours. Children under 18 need to be accompanied by an adult.

Can I customize the itinerary?
This is a fixed small-group tour, so changes are unlikely. It’s designed to hit all the highlights efficiently.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, sunscreen, water, and cash for personal expenses are recommended.

What is the group size?
Limited to 15 participants, which helps keep the experience more personal and manageable.

In the end, this tour offers a well-structured way to experience China’s iconic sights, with knowledgeable guides and all the essentials covered. If you’re looking for a comprehensive, guided taste of Beijing, Xian, and Shanghai, it’s worth considering. Just remember, it’s a busy itinerary—so if you prefer a slower pace, you might want to plan for some extra downtime on your own.

You can check availability for your dates here: