from £631.00
Beijing to Xian - also available in reverse
Or call 0871 230 0040
*Calls cost 10p per minute plus network extras
Day 1: Beijing
Upon arriving in Beijing, make your way to the 9 Dragons Youth Hostel, where you'll be staying for the evening before the tour proper begins. You'll have the day to start getting acquainted with this busy and bustling capital city at your own leisure, depending on what time you arrive and how much sightseeing you feel like getting in.
Day 2: Beijing
Today you will have the day to explore the major sites of Beijing. Starting at Tiananmen Square, explore the worlds largest open air square, visit Forbidden City where the Emperors lived for over 500 years. Wander through the hutong area of NanLuoGuXiang. Finish off the day with a walk along Wangfujing pedestrian mall, then head to the Donghuamen night markets.
Day 3: Beijing to the Great Wall
The Great Wall awaits! Today you'll visit Simatai, where you'll find some more authentic, non-renovated parts of the Great Wall. There'll also be plenty of time to hike along a section of the wall to explore and soak up the scenery. Tonight, we stay out close to the Wall, and you can choose to join the group for a fantastic local meal.
Days 4-6: The Great Wall to Qingdao
Returning to Beijing, we catch the bullet train to the beachside town of Qingdao, where you'll be staying the next three nights. Upon arrival, you're free to start sightseeing as you wish - or just kick back and relax! Over the next two days, you'll be able to explore Qingdao at your own pace, see the sights and learn more of area's history, while the drinkers among you won't want to miss the Qingdao Beer Factory Tour, home of China's most famous beer, Tsingtao. You'll also get to visit the top of Laoshan Mountain, a famous Buddhist site.
Days 7-8: Qingdao to Qufu
After the morning in Qingdao, - It's time to move on to Qufu, the home town of the ancient philosopher, and one of the most important and influential figures in Chinese culture, Confucius. Arriving in the afternoon, Over the next two days, visit all the historic city sites with tours and assistance from your guide, or at your leisure. This is a great town in which to get a feel of the 'real' China - no skyscrapers here, just a beautiful village atmosphere.
Day 9: Zhengzhou
You'll travel to this picturesque regional capital city in the morning, and spend the afternoon getting acquainted with the area at your own pace. This is a great spot to relax in and really wind down in preparation for your final few busy days of the trip.
Day 10: Shaolin Village
Set off early in the morning for Shaolin, home of the famous Kungfu Monks! You'll have the chance to learn this ancient art for yourself, visit Shaolin Temple, or wander around the amazing surrounds, taking in the breathtaking views.
Day 11: Luoyang
Today, you will spend the day visiting the awe-inspiring Luoyang Grottoes, sitting on the side of a beautiful valley
Days 12-14: Luoyang to Xi'an
Your final three days will be spent in the impressive walled city of Xian. The tour will make its way from Luoyang, before arriving in Xian in the afternoon. On your second day your guide will take you on a tour to the incredible Terracotta Warriors, recently uncovered after 2000 years. You will also have time to visit any of the sites you may have missed so far, such as the Bell and Drum Tower or the Muslim Quarter. In the evening, why not have one last get together with your travelling companions before you all part ways. On the final day, you're free to continue sightseeing or move onto your next destination whenever you wish. Your trip leader can help arrange transport back to Beijing, Shanghai or any other cities.
Days 12-14: Luoyang to Xi'an
Your final three days will be spent in the impressive walled city of Xian. The tour will make its way from Luoyang, before arriving in Xian in the afternoon. On your second day your guide will take you on a tour to the incredible Terracotta Warriors, recently uncovered after 2000 years. You will also have time to visit any of the sites you may have missed so far, such as the Bell and Drum Tower or the Muslim Quarter. In the evening, why not have one last get together with your travelling companions before you all part ways. On the final day, you're free to continue sightseeing or move onto your next destination whenever you wish. Your trip leader can help arrange transport back to Beijing, Shanghai or any other cities. STA180
Or call 0871 230 0040
*Calls cost 10p per minute plus network extras
