Classic China Itinerary

Travel to China and uncover the treasures of Shanghai from the ground level on a guided walking tour of the city. Look towards the heavens to take in the glimmering, strangely shaped skyscrapers re-shaping the skyline. Relax in peaceful Yuyuan Gardens before marvelling at the agility and flexibility of the Shanghai Acrobats at a performance.

Journey to a tranquil water town and get a taste of old-world China. By boat, weave along the many canals that give this region the title of ‘Venice of the East’. Appreciate centuries-old architecture and bridges that are valuable time capsules of a past era.

Arrive in Xi’an, an important cultural centre brimming with temples, museums and galleries. Walk or cycle along the historic city walls for incredible views of this ancient region. Delve into Chinese history and visit the iconic Terracotta Warriors, the Bell and Drum towers, the Muslim Quarter as well as the Big Goose Pagoda - an impressive structure built to house Buddhist scriptures. Stop by Xi'an Huiling, an Intrepid Foundation-supported project for people with intellectual disabilities, before devouring a tasty Chinese Muslim meal.

Explore Beijing's Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City, once the home of China's great imperial rulers. Marvel at the monumental Great Wall of China, an extraordinary feat of engineering spanning 6,000 km. Enjoy a mouth-watering Peking duck dinner, then work off the feast with a wander through ancient hutongs. Perhaps visit the Summer Palace, snare a bargain at the markets or hire a bicycle and join the locals pedalling around the city. Why not attend an evening Beijing opera performance before this adventure ends.