10-day Central China Panorama Tour – a well-balanced journey that showcases China’s most iconic cultural landmarks alongside its unique natural wonders. This itinerary is ideal for travelers seeking to explore the Middle Kingdom’s most celebrated historical sites as well as the breathtaking landscapes that have inspired poets, artists, and filmmakers.
Your adventure begins in Beijing, the nation’s political and historical heart. Here you will discover the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven, the Great Wall of China, and the ancient hutongs – the city’s colorful alleyways. From there, you will travel to Xi’an, home to the legendary Terracotta Army, magnificent pagodas, and the lively Muslim Quarter. The journey then continues to Zhangjiajie, a national park that rose to worldwide fame after featuring in the movie Avatar. You will ascend Tianzi Mountain, explore Helong Park, and cross a thrilling glass bridge. The tour concludes in Shanghai, a vibrant metropolis where historic quarters coexist in perfect harmony with futuristic skyscrapers.
The 10-day Central China Panorama Tour is the ultimate choice for those wishing to experience China in all its grandeur – from its ancient past to its dynamic present. Explore the full itinerary and start planning your unforgettable adventure.
Tour itinerary:
In the evening, take a walk along Qianmen Street, a popular pedestrian area known for its traditional architecture and lively atmosphere.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 2 hours
In the afternoon, drive to the Shichahai Hutong area and explore the traditional courtyard residences of old Beijing by rickshaw - a historical mode of transportation. End the day with a walk through the Houhai Lakes area, which is part of the same historic district.
Note: The Forbidden City is closed on Mondays; alternative sites may be visited instead.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 8–9 hours
In the afternoon, drive to the Summer Palace, the former imperial retreat used during the hot summer months. Walk through its landscaped gardens and pavilions and take a boat ride on Kunming Lake to complete your visit.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 8–9 hours
Continue to the Silk Market, known for its wide selection of goods - from clothing and accessories to souvenirs. Later, transfer to the train station and board a high-speed train to Xi’an (2nd class seats, 1,134 km, 4h 11m). Upon arrival, meet your local guide and transfer to the hotel. Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 3 hours
Return to the city and visit the South Gate of the Ancient City Wall - the most complete city wall that has survived in China and one of the largest ancient military defense systems in the world.
In the afternoon, explore the Muslim Quarter, known for its bustling food stalls, local bazaars, and historic mosques. Among them, the Great Mosque is the most famous and widely visited.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 7–8 hours
Duration of sightseeing tour: 4 hours
Duration of sightseeing tour: 7–8 hours
In the afternoon, take a cable car up Tianmen Mountain and descend by bus. The mountain is known for "Heaven’s Gate" - a massive natural archway stretching 131 meters high and 57 meters wide. Visitors can reach the summit by one of the world’s longest cable cars or by climbing 999 steps to the arch. Tianmen Mountain also offers panoramic views, lush forests, and dramatic cliffside walkways.
Later, transfer to the airport for your flight to Shanghai (1,115 km, 2h 30m). Upon arrival, meet your local guide and transfer to the hotel for a short rest. In the evening, visit the historic French Concession before returning to the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 7–8 hours
Duration of sightseeing tour: 7–8 hours
Price includes:
- All transfers: 1–2 pax by sedan-type car, 3–7 pax by minivan/van, 8–16 pax by 20-seat bus;
- Accommodation based on double/twin room sharing, breakfasts included;
- English-speaking local guide;
- Entrance fees to sights as per itinerary;
- High-speed train Beijing – Xi’an (second class);
- Economy-class domestic flights Xi’an – Zhangjiajie – Shanghai;
- Government taxes and fees.
Price doesn't include:
- International flight tickets before and after the tour;
- China visa fees;
- Overweight charges on domestic flights;
- Full board (lunches and dinners);
- Personal travel insurance;
- Tips for local guides and drivers.
Note: The rate is valid from 15 April 2025 to 31 December 2026, except during public 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).
Prices, per person
Accommodation
Comfort: Qingxinyuan Best Western Hotel
Lux: Neodalle Zhangjiajie Wulingyuan