The 8-day Central China Highlights Tour is one of the best compact tours for a first introduction to China, its history, and its culture. You will visit just three cities, but that’s enough to leave you with a deep impression of the country – and vivid memories of some of its most iconic sights.
The journey begins in the nation’s capital, Beijing, where you’ll explore the legendary Forbidden City, climb the Great Wall of China, and visit many other sites that have shaped China's centuries-old history. You’ll then travel to Xi'an, the former capital of several great empires and home to the world-famous Terracotta Army. The tour concludes in Shanghai, a city that has evolved over the past two centuries from a small coastal town into the world’s largest port. Here, you’ll experience the seamless blend of classical Eastern architecture and soaring modern skyscrapers, including some of the tallest in China.
Take a look at the full itinerary, photos of key attractions, and program details – and discover why the Central China Highlights Tour is the best way to see China’s classic sights in a short amount of time.
Tour itinerary:
Upon arrival, your guide and driver in Xi'an will pick you up and transfer you to your hotel for a rest.
Note:
The rate is valid from 15 April 2025 until 31 December 2026, except for the holidays in China (Labor Day 1-5 May 2025, National Day 1-8 October 2025, Chinese New Year 15-25 February 2026, Labor Day 1-5 May 2026, National Day 1-8 October 2026).
Price includes:
- 7 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast based on twin sharing;
- English-speaking guide for each city;
- A/C tourism coach (5-seat car for 1–2 pax, 7-seat car for 3–4 pax);
- Entrance fees for the sites listed in the program;
- Domestic flights with economy seats: Xi'an-Shanghai;
- Bullet train with second-class seats: Beijing-Xi'an.
Price doesn't include:
- International flights;
- Any lunch or dinner;
- Tips to local guide and driver;
- Overweight luggage on domestic flights.