Explore China: 10-Day Beijing to Shanghai Tour with Great Wall Visit

Are you ready to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime experience that takes you through two of China’s wealthiest cities? This Beijing to Shanghai ten-day trip is a friendly mix of modern living and cultural nostalgia guaranteed to hook you. Be it the astonishing grandeur of the Great Wall or the lively Shanghai streets, this itinerary will captivate you. Start from the local customs, machining landmarks, sampling cuisines, and the fast sodium of the country. With the scary stairs of the Forbidden City or walking by the amazing Bund, this trip will offer you a rich understanding of China’s multi-faceted culture and history. Remember to pack your bags with plenty of clothes, as the vast spatial differences will keep you showering with clothes you haven’t worn! You are promised mind-blowing scenic views alongside city views that are sure to be printed in your memory in the best way possible.

What does this 10-day Beijing to Shanghai tour itinerary include?

For the duration of this itinerary, which spans 10 days, some of the best touristic locations will be visited, including the Great Wall and the Terracotta army alongside the Forbidden City phenomenon. With the help of guides, you will also be able to immerse yourself in the local culture by attending a myriad of traditional events and artisan workshops and sampling various dishes. This tour package also includes excursions to Shanghai and Beijing, where you can witness the cultural evolution and technological advancements alongside them. With the help of experienced guides, traveling around China will become easier as means of transportation, such as high-speed trains, will be provided alongside accommodations, ensuring comfort.

Day-by-day breakdown of the tour package

Day 1: Arriving in the Culture-Packed Beijing

While checking into your Beijing hotel, you’ll be surrounded by the boisterous environment of a city filled with a rich culture to explore. Once settled in, prepare your taste buds for the welcome dinner, where you will be served the best-known traditional Chinese delicacies.

Day 2: An Adventure at The Great Wall and Ming Tombs

Starting from the iconic Ming Tombs, you will explore a wide variety of Asian history before heading towards the Great Wall. Zooming out of the Ming Tombs, expect additional rich artifacts and mesmerizing views of China.

Day 3: Exploring The Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square

Regarding regal beauty, nothing quite captures the charm of ancient China like the Forbidden City alongside Tiananmen Square. Grand courtyards and intricately crafted halls will take you by surprise as you roam through Beijing’s center.

Day 4: Visiting Xi’an via High-Speed

Get ready to board a high-speed train to Xi’an, where an enchanting evening will await you, filled with street food and market exploration.

Day 5: An Encounter With The Terracotta Army And Local Markets

Marvel at the Terracotta Army, which was identified as one of the most notable archaeological findings during your exploration at Xi’an. Make the exploration more enjoyable by visiting the local spinning markets alongside the army.

Day 6: Tour Around Xi’an Before Heading Toward Shanghai

On this day, after you have explored the stunning Muslim Quarter and Xi’an’s ancient city walls, board a train toward Shanghai. Shanghai is a wonderful blend of the old and the new.

Day 7: Explore the Marvels of Shanghai

You can visit Yu Garden, Jade Buddha Temple, and Bund. While doing this, remember to admire the wonderful reimagination of the city’s history as it evolves in the present.

Day 8: Time to Depart

As the culturally and historically rich experience ends, take your time out in the morning to relax as everything shifts toward departures.

Key attractions and highlights in Beijing, Shanghai, and other stops

Beijing-Specifically Highlights

The Great Wall of China (Mutianyu Section)

Reason to visit: It is one of the most recognizable structures in China and a UNESCO Heritage Site. Compared to others, Themutianyu remains largely intact and offers remarkable sightseeing opportunities.

Key Details

Length: 2.5 miles, around 4 kilometers for the Mutianyu section.

You can also take a cable car and visit several watchtowers.

The Forbidden City

Reason To visit: It is an architectural hope and a thriving bond of China’s royal history, as it was initially the palace for Ming and Qing emperors.

Key Details:

In the area of more than 180 acres.

It comprises over 1000 structures, the Hall of Supreme Harmony being one of them.

Tiananmen Square

Reason to visit: It has cultural and historical significance and is among the largest squares in the world.

Key Details:

The area of 109 acres is what makes up this square.

Surrounding landmarks, such as the Monument to the People’s Heroes and the National Museum of China, are also prominent.

Shanghai Highlights

The Bund

Reason to visit: Displays Shanghai’s colonial period constructions along the waterfront and stunning city views on this promenade.

Key Details:

Stretch Length: Around 2.4 kilometers, translating to a decent 1.5 miles.

Looks over the Huangpu River along with the Pudong skyline.

Yu Garden

Reason to visit: It is one of the oldest gardens innovated during the Ming Dynasty and provides a view from the rest of the city while visiting Shanghai.

Key Details:

It has a total area of around 5 acres divided into six segments.

The Exquisite Jade Rock and Grand Rockery are some of the highlights in this section.

Jade Buddha Temple
Reason for Visit: This temple is often depicted as a peaceful and calm place filled with two intricately carved jade Buddha statues. They have both spiritual and architectural significance.

Key Aspects:
1. Main attraction: The Sitting Buddha, carved out of jade stone imported from Burma.
2. Founded in 1882.

Additional Stops and Attractions
1. Terracotta Army (Xi’an)
Reason for Visit: It is an archaeological site with thousands of life-size terracotta soldiers, horses, and chariots made over 2000 years ago.

Key Aspects:
1. Found In 1974.
2. Total count of statues: Above 8000.

2. Lijiang River Cruise (Guilin)
Reason for Visit: This is known for its dramatic karst topography and is a spectacular way to view China’s natural beauty.

Key Aspects:
1. Distance covered by cruise: Approximately 52 miles or 83 kilometers.
2. The time taken is generally between four to five hours.

This gives you an overview of significant historical events, cultures, and natural beauty during your tour, reflecting the various regions and ethnic diversity of China.

Transportation options between cities, including high-speed trains

When moving between cities in China, I suggest you try the high-speed train network as it is practical, relaxing, and reaches nearly all areas. “Gaotie,” as the high-speed rail system is called, links significant cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Xi’an with speeds reaching 350 kilometers per hour (about 217 miles per hour). It isn’t just an effective form of travel; it is one of the best forms of travel in terms of reliability, as the trains depart from the stations at different times of the day.

Aspects of high-speed trains include:

• Speed: 250-350 km/h (155-217 mph).
• Classes: Second-class, first-class, and business-class seats.
• Advance Booking: Tickets must be bought less than thirty days before travel and more than one day before. Ideally, they can be ordered online or purchased at train stations.

Other means of transport, such as domestic airplanes or long-distance buses, can also be used, but high-speed trains are preferred as they are on time and go to the city’s center, saving time.

How can I customize this Beijing to Shanghai tour package?

There are multiple ways to cater the tours to your desired preferences:

• Travel Class Selection: Opt for either economy, business, or first-class seats in the TGV, which provide varying levels of luxury.
• Accommodations: Depending on your financial capability and personal choices, you can select between a standard, deluxe, or luxury hotel.
• Itinerary Add-ons: You can add additional locations to your travel itinerary, such as historical and cultural sights in the cities you will visit.
• Guided Tours: Ask for a guide who specializes in the location to facilitate the experience at the specific sights.
• Flexibility in Timing: Depending on your requirements, the date and the itinerary can be changed accordingly.

Make sure to discuss your customized travel plans with the travel advisor!

Options for private tours vs. group tours

When selecting between group tours and private tours, I consider three main aspects: pricing, degree of customization, and overall experience. With private tours, I decide the itinerary and the pace, making it ideal for people with specific interests, ones wanting convenience and more intimacy. They are great for families, couples, or smaller groups looking to get stirred, but exclusivity does come with a price.

On the other hand, traveling as part of a larger group doesn’t cost much and allows one to mingle with strangers. These tours are always on a set schedule and a given route, which works for me if I enjoy a bit of organization to the trip and don’t mind meeting other people. This, in turn, affects my decision as to which group is more important to me, whether it is self-centeredness and personal space or low rates and company.

Possibilities for adding extra days or attractions

Extending the duration of your trip or adding another attraction may enhance your travel, especially if you have more time to unwind and explore the attraction in question. To build on that, here are a few tips that stem from travel advice:

1. Cultural Landmarks and Local Experiences

If your time allows, consider taking some of the tours that include emblematic buildings or attempting some of the local customs that would enhance the quality of your visit. For instance, if you are in a historically significant city, staying an extra day would allow you to visit museums and historical sites or even participate in a local event.

2. Outdoor Adventures and Nature

Extra days may also be spent participating in activities such as wildlife viewing, hiking, or even exploring national parks for those passionate about nature. However, one should always consider the season, as it plays a significant role in the nature-based activities one should undertake. Summer is excellent for trekking, while snow sports are better suited for winter.

3. Relaxation and Leisure

An extra day to spend at a quiet beach, a resort, or a spa gives you a chance to relax. This is especially useful when your main trip is tiring or involves a lot of activities.

4. Aspects to Consider

• Travel Time: To avoid disrupting your schedule, it is advisable to check journey time to reduce travel time. Adding multiple destinations within a 2-4 hr range would help alleviate excessive transit hours.
• Budget: Consider the costs for accommodation, meals, and even entry to attractions.
• Seasonal Conditions: Check the weather prediction and the area’s conditions to ensure the desired activities can be executed in any season.
• Visa or Entry Requirements: Check for extra documentation or fees to cross borders.

Selecting the proper additions guarantees a good equilibrium between the degree of activities undertaken and the amount of rest taken, ensuring that one’s trip requirements are met.

Flexibility in choosing accommodation and dining options

My travel experience is incomplete without exploring various accommodation and dining options that suit my budget. Knowing this, I always visit sites like Booking, Airbnb, and TripAdvisor to find the most competitive prices and the best ratings before booking. Considering the factors of location, facilities available (Wi-Fi, parking, or kitchen), cancellation terms, and customer ratings, I assist in finding the most suitable accommodation. I depend on local food suggestions, dietary restrictions, and the distance from my accommodation. This way I can adjust my plans on the go while making sure reliability and satisfaction is not compromised.

What are the must-see attractions on this China tour?

If you ever find yourself in the magnificent country of China, there are several locations you would not want to miss, given how exquisite they are in terms of culture, scenery, and history. First up, we have the Great Wall of China. This monumental structure, probably one of the most well-known across the globe, is accompanied by stunning views of the nearby mountains and is historically significant. Next, ancient Beijing’s imperial culture can be enjoyed in the Forbidden City, surrounded by several pavilions. Moreover, the majestic Terracotta army in Xi’an is also an ancient masterpiece worth the visit. Nature lovers should visit Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, widely known for its tantalizing sandstone pillars, alongside the stunning Li River in Guilin. If you want to see remarkable skyscrapers, head to the Bund in Shanghai. These sites all show how incredible China is in their unique way.

Exploring the Great Wall of China and Forbidden City in Beijing

Seeing the Great Wall and the Forbidden City in Beijing is breathtaking and an exciting display of China’s historical past. It was a surreal feeling being present in such a location, which has been the epitome of power for ages as I walked along the Great Wall, and the scope and scale of the wall were utterly breathtaking. I was left astonished at the architectural beauty of the Forbidden City, with its highly detailed sculptures and intricate paintings on the gates, walls, and halls. As I entered the imperial palace, I could almost sense the presence of former royalty, with the ancient structures providing insight into a different era. These landmarks indeed mirror the rich heritage and cultural essence of Beijing.

Discovering Shanghai’s Bund and Yu Garden

Completing a visit to Shanghai would never be complete without a trip to The Bund and Yu Garden, for they bring together rich history and exquisite culture most eloquently. The Bund is located on the west side of the Huangpu River, and it flaunts the lovely view of colonial buildings and the skyscrapers in the Pudong area, which contemporaneously reflect the city’s architectural development over the period. It is a 1-mile long promenade that serves as a reminder that Shanghai was one of the early 1900s. A famous architectural structure there is, for instance, the Customs House with its impressive clock tower or the HSBC Building with its marvelous decor. The most appropriate time to explore this area is in the evening when the lights of the Bund reflect on the eccentric buildings and brighten up the entire view.

Yu Garden is a wondrous site in China that allows visitors to delve into classical Chinese gardening. The garden covers an area of roughly 5 acres and is embellished with traditional architectural landmarks, including Pavilions, Rockeries, Ponds, and Yusheng. Its Grand Rockery, made of yellow stones and 14 meters tall, and its dragon wall display intricately carved artistic designs. Yu Yuan Bazaar is nearby, and it comprises shops, local food stalls, and traditional artifacts, allowing one to delve into the rich Chinese culture. For anyone visiting Shanghai, these sites are a perfect blend of modernism and history, whether it is appropriate for taking a casual stroll or spending time in Yu Garden.

Optional excursions to Xian or Hangzhou

How do I get around during the Beijing to Shanghai tour?

The transportation on the Beijing-Shanghai tour is effortless and convenient. The fastest and most convenient way to travel between these big cities is by taking high-speed trains, which offer a few hours of travel and a breathtaking view. Metro systems, taxis, or ride-hailing apps work well for local commuting in each town. Several guided tours also provide private transportation, so visiting the essential places is simple.

High-speed train travel between major cities

I remember traveling between Beijing and Shanghai on high-speed trains, which was efficient and easy. They are swift and complete the journey in about four and a half hours. Likewise, trains are punctual, and organizing the trip is convenient for tourists. The spacious cab has plenty of comfortable, well-appointed seats, and all the amenities are clean and hygienic. Online registrations, or those done at the station, are commonly accepted, but I suggest you reserve your spot in advance to get your preferred time. Added value to the travel experience are the views from the window, especially near the landscape; I enjoyed the whole trip.

Local transportation options within Beijing and Shanghai

Both major cities are well connected, and transportation is readily available, so you should not struggle to navigate Beijing and Shanghai.

Beijing

1. Subway: The subway system in Beijing is administered by the Beijing Mass Transit Railway Operation Corporation; it is estimated that Beijing Subways is the cheapest and most accessible mode of getting around Beijing; the services include a total of 25 lines and more than 460 stations. For this reason, its coverage consists of the most engaging sites, main business centers, and residential places. The price of tickets varies between ¥3 and ¥10 for rides. The operating hours are also paramount, with the metro operating from around 5 am to 11 pm.
2. Buses: Beijing’s bus services are plentiful, with over 1,000 routes, including night services. The minimum fare is just ¥2, and these routes often complement areas that might not be easily reachable via the subway.
3. Taxis and Ride-Hailing: The price of taxis is generally based on a meter. Buses will have a base fare of about ¥13 for the first 3 kilometers, after which additional travel of up to 15km will exceed an additional Yen of around ¥2.3. Ride-hailing apps, mainly Didi, are also in operation, and their services are quite cheap.
4. Bicycles and Scooters: Short-range commutes can also be done via public bicycles, which are readily available thanks to services like Mobike and Hellobike. Scooters and e-bikes are also in circulation and can be rented through mobile apps.

Shanghai

1. Metro: The city is well connected through the metro. With over 19 lines and 500 stations, Shanghai has secured the place of the highest metro network globally. Again, tickets will be distance-based but can be purchased from ¥3. With the hours being relatively the same, the operating times are set to start at 5 a.m. and end at 11 p.m.
2. Buses: The multipurpose bus system is a great contributor. It has over 1,400 routes and a base fare of ¥2. Many buses employ electronic payment methods for easy accessibility.
3. Maglev Train: This is the quickest option to the Pudong International Airport from Longyang Road Station, covering the distance in just eight minutes and a whopping speed of 431 kilometers per hour. A one-way ticket will be priced at ¥50 if purchased in its entirety; however, if a customer is an airline passenger, they will only need to pay ¥40.
4. Taxis and Ride-Hailing: Children of Shanghai have a base fare of ¥14 for the first 3 kilometers with a further charge of ¥2.5 for every succeeding kilometer. A good alternative also exists, considering the popularity of ride-hailing applications, such as Didi and Meituan.
5. Shared Bikes: These are ideal for short distances, considering proper bike services and Meituan bikes for the measly price of ¥1 every 30 minutes.

Both cities mentioned previously offer options for online payments, such as Alipay and WeChat Pay, and metro cards, like the Beijing Yikatong Card and the Shanghai Public Transportation Card, which eliminate any hassle when traveling.

Airport transfers and tour guide assistance

For trips to and from the airport, I highly suggest pre-booking a private car service or ordering a car through an app such as Didi. There are also airport shuttle buses in both cities, Beijing and Shanghai. The price usually ranges from $15 to $30, depending on the route. Getting a Taxi is also possible, but be mindful of the base fares: ¥14 in Shanghai and ¥13 in Beijing. Sometimes, the nighttime surcharge and tolls may increase the fare.

For those who need tour guidance, many certified guides can be reserved from travel agencies or apps, including Ctrip or Klook. These guides will most likely assist you in designing a day-based tour while ensuring you understand the area’s history and culture. Remember that your guide knows your language fluently, has a guide qualification, and offers custom-made trips to suit your timetable.

What should I know about booking this 10-day China tour?

It’s essential to check the itinerary for your 10-day China tour package to ensure that it covers the necessary destinations and activities you have in mind. For instance, it would be key to check if the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, or the terracotta army tour are included in the package. Also, check if costs such as accommodation, transportation, or food are part of the package to avoid unforeseen costs. Also bear in mind the group size to reduce the need for personal attention, smaller groups are more likely to provide you with that service. Verify against the cancellation and refund terms; check if the tour has a guide who speaks English. Booking via a reputable platform or agency will help ensure the trip is as smooth as possible.

Best time to visit and seasonal considerations

The ideal time to take a trip depends heavily on the locations you wish to travel to and the activities you want to do. Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are decent options since the weather is comfortable and there are fewer people. For instance, the Great Wall and Forbidden City are perfect to visit during spring or fall since the weather won’t be extremely hot like in the summer or cold like in the winter. In addition, if you wish to explore the Terracotta Army, these seasons are ideal as the temperature will allow for a comfortable experience. Some other events, such as the cherry blossom season in spring or the color of the foliage in autumn, impact your trip. It is also worth considering the regional differences; certain regions can have heavy rain or extreme temperatures in certain seasons, so I’ll keep that in mind.

Visa requirements and travel documents

A rule i always abide by is to ensure I have the correct travel documents and visas before I go for an international trip. Many countries require you to take a visa beforehand so travelers need to keep that in mind. Typically, applying for a visa requires you to go on their website, fill out an application, send them a recent passport-size photo, and finally, a valid passport with at least 6 months remaining after your intended stay. Some countries need a proper itinerary, proof of accommodation, and evidence of enough funds during the trip.

For instance, United States nationals typically need a Type L tourist visa when traveling to China. In such a case, since these specific types of Chinese visas are granted briefly and are for tourism purposes, the applicant must provide several details. These include the following:

• A passport with at least 6 months of validity and one blank visa page.
• A completed visa application form (available on the Chinese Embassy website).
• A recent passport-sized photo that meets specific requirements (plain white background, no hats or glasses).
• Proof of round-trip flight tickets and hotel bookings.
• A visa processing fee of approximately $140 for standard processing (though fees may vary for expedited services).

Some countries still provide visa-free entries or exemptions for short stays, which usually depend on conditions of reciprocity policy. You must check what is necessary and take it from the official embassy and other trusted international websites. Also, as policies change, you should carry all significant travel documents such as your health insurance (if necessary), passport and passport copies, visa, emergency contacts, and other stuff required to go on with your trip smoothly.

Pricing and what’s included in the tour package

The cost for this tour package has been fixed at $2500 for each individual, and it comes with a detailed list of amenities. Here is what is included in this package:

• Accommodation: Sleep at hotels rated four stars or above and enjoy breakfast daily.
• Transportation: Airport and inter-city transfers, all within luxury coaches, are also included in the package.
• Guided Tours: A qualified tour guide fluent in English will conduct all tour activities and attractions.
• Entry Fees: You will be permitted entry in all the places mentioned in the itinerary, and there will be no hidden fees.
• Meals: Only a few lunches and dinners with the local cuisine will be served according to the plan.
• Support Services: For urgent matters and any queries, rest assured you can contact us anytime throughout the trip.

Not Included:

• International airfare.
• Travel insurance (highly recommended).
• Personal expenses, such as souvenirs and tips for guides or drivers.

This specific tour offers a mix of comfort, exploration, and money-saving opportunities while being as intricate as possible. The prices are for double-sharing occupancy, but additional fees will be charged if a single traveler accompanies. However, customizations, alterations, and other facilities are available.

How does this tour compare to other China tour packages?

This service is distinguished from other China tour packages by its design and the degree to which it is well suited to the tourist. Unlike most tours around China, which generally feature several major sites designed for viewing, this arrangement combines sightseeing of significant attractions with lesser-known sights to enhance cultural understanding. The tour ensures that the vacationer is at ease and gets comprehensive all-around support, which includes a selection of high-quality local foods. Moreover, distinguishing this tour is the capacity for enhancement, customizations, and tailored experience, making this tour suitable for a range of travelers.

Advantages of a Beijing to Shanghai itinerary

A Beijing and Shanghai trip lets you enjoy incredible historic sights while dominating urban cityscapes. To start the journey, you will visit China’s historical landmarks, such as the Great Wall and the Forbidden City. One can also venture onto the next section of the plan, which includes traveling to Shanghai via the high-speed rail connection. It is a part of the journey as it showcases advanced infrastructure. On arrival in Shanghai, you can witness a rapid transformation as the cultural heritage blends with the modern lifestyle. You can witness this drastic change from the Bund to the Pudong region. All these developments ensure that the trip is moderated and structured for a better experience. All these aspects aid in more fully experiencing China’s developmental progress.

Comparison with shorter or longer China tours

As you contemplate between the insight-filled three to five-day shorter tour or a longer one, keep your travel goals, timing, and interests in mind. These tours are either Beijing or Shanghai-centric while avoiding the other cities to save time. For people who lack the time, this i10 Ids6s30usic funny lhhHv3n pusxi f7n confined approach works owing to how it enables one to visit the Great Wall and the Forbidden City located in Shanghai or the Yu Garden and the Bund in Beijing. However, it allows one to delve deeply into China’s history and provide practical knowledge about its ancient and modern marvels.

If you prefer longer excursions, this can easily be solved for you as they often last between 10 to 15 days. Due to the prolonged time, more places can be included, in turn allowing the itinerary to cover a broader spectrum of China’s cultures and traditions, explaining the history of the terracotta soldiers in Xi’an, cruises across the Li River in Guilin, or even witnessing Chengdu’s adorable Panda bears.

To summarize, this Beijing to Shanghai Travel itinerary is suited for first-time tourists and those who wish to see the two cities within a short period. It provides ease and attention for those who wish to take shorter tours, while it provides extended tours for those wanting to take an in-depth tour of China’s culture. In any case, be it short or long, timing and one’s traveling goals will assist in picking the best one.

Value for money and experiences offered

Regarding travel, depending on how far you wish to extend your budget, one up to three hundred dollars is ideal for a round trip with a mid-range hotel for a night’s stay. If you want something more cost-effective and time-saving, a high-speed train is perfect as it provides scenic views and saves on airfare for a one-way ticket. However, flights are faster, within two to three hours. But from experience, these have longer wait times, and airports involve transfers to your destination.

The Forbidden City, the Great Wall, and the Bund are some of the places that enrich history and culture in an invaluable manner because of having had the opportunity to explore them. As a bonus, a reasonable fee of 50-150 dollars enhances the service provided, including charges for entry and in-depth explanations offered by professionals, which increases comprehension and ease for the user. Proper arrangements make it confident that whether the visit is a brief one or part of a tour including Xi’an or Guilin, every cent spent is guaranteed to lead to remarkable and worthwhile events.

References

Beijing

Shanghai

Forbidden City

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the main highlights of this Beijing tour?

A: This private China tour includes visits to iconic landmarks such as the Mutianyu Great Wall, Temple of Heaven, Summer Palace, and the Forbidden City in Beijing. You’ll also explore Shanghai’s highlights, including the Shanghai Museum and Nanjing Road.

Q: How do we travel between Beijing and Shanghai?

A: You’ll experience China’s modern transportation by taking a high-speed train from Beijing to Shanghai, allowing you to see the countryside while traveling comfortably and efficiently.

Q: Is there a day trip to the Great Wall included?

A: The tour includes a day trip to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, which is less crowded and offers beautiful views. Your local guide will provide insights into the history and significance of this iconic landmark.

Q: What kind of accommodations are provided during the tour?

A: The tour includes comfortable accommodations in well-located hotels in both Beijing and Shanghai. Specific hotel details can be provided upon request, and upgrades may be available based on your preferences.

Q: Is there free time included in the itinerary?

A: The itinerary includes free time to explore independently or rest. Typically, after scheduled activities, you’ll have the rest of the day free, allowing you to discover local cuisine or shop at your leisure.

Q: What is included in the tour price?

A: The tour price generally includes accommodation, transportation (including the high-speed train), entrance fees to attractions, services of a professional local guide and driver, and some meals. To get the best price for your private China tour, it’s best to check the detailed inclusions when booking.

Q: Can the itinerary be customized?

A: As this is based on a private tour, the itinerary can often be customized to suit your interests. You can discuss options with your travel expert, such as adding a Yangtze River cruise or extending your stay in either city.

Q: What should I know about the local guides?

A: Your tour includes professional local guides in both Beijing and Shanghai. These knowledgeable escorts will provide insights into the local culture, history, and attractions. They can also assist with recommendations for your free time and help you navigate language barriers.

Q: How far in advance should I book this tour?

A: It’s recommended to book at least 30 days before your desired travel date, especially during peak seasons. This allows time to secure the best accommodations and ensure availability for all activities. However, last-minute bookings may be possible, so it’s worth checking with the tour operator.

Q: Can the tour be extended to include other destinations in China?

A: Absolutely! Many travelers choose to extend their stay or add other destinations. Popular options include Xi’an to see the Terracotta Warriors or a trip to Guilin for its stunning landscapes. Discuss your interests with your travel expert to create the perfect itinerary.