Your tour of China begins today with your flight to Beijing!

“Ni hao” and welcome to China! That China is one of the most populous countries on earth becomes clear today in Beijing, a metropolis of more than 20 million inhabitants. At the airport, your guide gives you a warm welcome and helps you get your bearings and buy your metro ticket. You then travel easily by public transport to your accommodation – the quickest way to get around and start your tour without delay. Alternatively, a taxi is available, or you can book a private airport transfer in advance. Depending on your arrival time, an early check-in is a good idea so that you can move straight into your room (optional, bookable in advance). Take the opportunity to rest after the journey and settle into your comfortable 5-star hotel. In the evening, you meet for an exclusive welcome dinner in a renowned local restaurant. Look forward to the famous Peking duck, one of the best-known dishes of Chinese cuisine. In a relaxed atmosphere, you get to know your small group and get in the mood for the days ahead. 3 nights in Beijing. (D) (Distance: approx. 40 km; driving time: approx. 1.5–2 hrs)

3 nights · Double room · With breakfast Sunworld Dynasty Hotel welcomes you in the heart of the Chinese capital in the famous Wangfujing district, one of China’s most traditional and best-known shopping areas. The hotel combines Chinese tradition with modern architecture and offers a large indoor pool, a spa and wellness centre and a fitness centre. Three restaurants serve international and Chinese specialities. The modern rooms have TV, air conditioning, safe and free toiletries.

Immerse yourself in Beijing’s glorious imperial era and discover the most important legacies of the imperial dynasties. After breakfast, your explorations begin with the Forbidden City (UNESCO World Cultural Heritage), the former residence of the Chinese emperors. Admire the vast palace complex and the impressive architecture that formed the political centre of the country for centuries – your guide gives you fascinating insights into the history and significance of this extraordinary place. You then reach Coal Hill in Jingshan Park. From its summit, there is an impressive panoramic view over the roofs of the Forbidden City and the expanse of Beijing – a change of perspective that makes the dimensions of the complex particularly clear. Next, you head into the historic hutongs, whose narrow lanes shape Beijing’s traditional cityscape. On a walk through these old neighbourhoods, your small group experiences a quieter atmosphere away from the main roads and gets an authentic impression of old Beijing in streets that are partly preserved in their original state. A special highlight is a visit to a long-time hutong resident. Over a cup of tea, you get talking and gain a direct insight into everyday life and the changes these neighbourhoods have experienced over the years. Afterwards there is some free time to stroll through the lanes, linger in one of the small cafés or deepen your first impressions at your own pace; your guide will be happy to give you tips. In the afternoon, you return to your 5-star hotel and end the day in pleasant surroundings. (B) (Distance: approx. 20 km; driving time: approx. 1–1.5 hrs)

Your day begins with a visit to the Summer Palace (UNESCO World Cultural Heritage). The vast complex is considered one of the most beautiful imperial gardens in China: paths lead along Kunming Lake past artful pavilions, bridges and historic buildings, and the harmonious combination of nature and architecture gives a vivid impression of imperial garden art. From here you drive into the mountainous surroundings of Beijing to the Great Wall at Mutianyu (UNESCO World Cultural Heritage). This section lies somewhat away from the more central access points and is much less crowded. Set in wooded hills, you experience the Wall in a pleasantly peaceful atmosphere. A cable car takes you up to a well-preserved section that winds impressively along the ridges, and you have plenty of time to explore and take in the view of the surrounding landscape. In the late afternoon, you round off your explorations in a special way: in a designated area of the Great Wall, you enjoy an afternoon tea with selected teas and small delicacies and reflect on the day’s impressions in this extraordinary setting. In the evening, you return to Beijing and can enjoy the amenities of your 5-star hotel. (B/S) (Distance: approx. 200 km; driving time: approx. 5 hrs)

Today you say goodbye to the capital and travel west. After the transfer to the station, you board the modern high-speed train and travel comfortably in 1st class to Xi’an – sit back and let the passing landscapes wash over you. In Xi’an, your programme begins with a visit to the Small Wild Goose Pagoda, a Buddhist structure more than 1,300 years old set in a well-kept park. In the afternoon, you turn to a central part of Chinese culture: in a calligraphy workshop, your small group gains an insight into the traditional art of writing and, under expert guidance, tries out brush and ink for yourselves. You are then taken to your 5-star hotel in Xi’an, where you can relax and end the day in comfortable surroundings. 2 nights in Xi’an. (B) (Distance: approx. 1,200 km; travel time: approx. 7.5 hrs, of which approx. 4.5 hrs by train)

2 nights · Double room · With breakfast Gran Meliá is located in the traditional Qujiang district in the historic heart of Xi’an. Inspired by the Tang dynasty, the 5-star hotel impresses with a design that stylishly combines tradition and modernity. Several first-class restaurants offer authentic Chinese cuisine and international specialities; an indoor pool, a lovely terrace and a high-quality gym provide relaxation. The spacious, elegant rooms are luxuriously appointed.

Today you explore the historically and culturally diverse past of the old imperial city of Xi’an. First, you visit the imposing ancient city wall, one of the best-preserved city fortifications in China – a walk on the mighty structure gives you a vivid impression of the city’s historical importance. You then discover the old town with its winding lanes, where tradition and everyday life meet. A special moment awaits you at Wolong Temple, one of the oldest Buddhist temples in the city. In the quiet atmosphere, you talk with a monk and gain authentic insights into the Chan tradition and life in a Buddhist monastery. You then dive into the contrasting Muslim Quarter (Huimin Jie). Around the Great Mosque, you experience a lively interplay of different cultures between small food stalls, shops and historic buildings. In the evening, you enjoy a traditional jiaozi dinner in a local restaurant: the artfully shaped dumplings are served in various versions and give a multifaceted insight into regional cuisine. (B/D) (Distance: approx. 25–30 km; driving time: approx. 1–1.5 hrs)

An impressive chapter of Chinese history awaits you today: you visit the famous Terracotta Army (UNESCO World Cultural Heritage), part of the mausoleum of the first emperor, Qin Shihuangdi. Thousands of individually designed clay warriors, horses and chariots were placed here more than 2,000 years ago and bear witness to the power and ambition of the first unified Chinese empire. At lunchtime, you try the regional speciality Biang Biang noodles in a restaurant – these freshly made, wide noodles are among Xi’an’s best-known dishes. In the afternoon, you fly south to Zhangjiajie. On arrival, you are taken to the Wulingyuan area, known for its extraordinary landscape of steep sandstone formations. At your 5-star hotel in Zhangjiajie, you have time to relax after the journey and look forward to the nature experiences ahead. 2 nights in Zhangjiajie. (B/L) (Distance: approx. 1,000 km; travel time: approx. 5.5–6 hrs, of which approx. 2 hrs by plane)

2 nights · Double room · With breakfast Set in the idyllic landscape around Zhangjiajie National Park, the hotel offers a relaxed atmosphere far from the hustle and bustle of the city. In the extensive grounds you will find a pool with a terrace and a great view of the unique landscape. The all-day dining restaurant serves authentic Chinese cuisine. The tastefully furnished rooms combine contemporary design with a high level of comfort.

Today is all about the unique nature of Zhangjiajie National Park (UNESCO World Natural Heritage). In the morning, a cable car takes you up Tianzi Mountain, from where you enjoy wide views over the characteristic sandstone formations – densely wooded peaks and steep rock pillars shape the landscape. You then hike through the so-called “Avatar” area: the striking rock formations inspired the film setting of “Avatar” and are among the park’s most famous sights. Along the way, your guide explains the geological features and local plant life, and every section of the trail opens up new views of the spectacular landscape. At midday, you refuel with a light packed lunch. The way back down to the valley is just as impressive: using the glass elevator via a special access (usually with shorter waiting times), you comfortably descend while enjoying more sweeping views of the rugged mountains. After this active day, relaxation is on the programme: in a local foot spa, you enjoy a traditional Chinese foot massage. You then return to your 5-star hotel. (B) (Distance: approx. 35 km; driving time: approx. 1–1.5 hrs)

One last time, you experience the impressive nature around Zhangjiajie: in the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon, a deep gorge with steep rock walls and dense vegetation, you walk across a spectacular glass bridge high above the valley and enjoy an extraordinary view of the canyon landscape far below. Later in the day, you say goodbye to the mountain region and fly to Shanghai, where modern China can be experienced in a special way. On arrival, you are taken to your 5-star hotel to settle in and get in the mood for your days in Shanghai. 3 nights in Shanghai. (B) (Distance: approx. 1,200 km; travel time: approx. 5.5 hrs, of which approx. 2.5 hrs by plane)

3 nights · Double room · With breakfast In a quiet location on historic Hengshan Road, surrounded by green avenues and colonial architecture, HUALUXE Shanghai Twelve at Hengshan welcomes you. High-quality restaurants with regional specialities offer stylish dining, and the indoor pool is ideal for relaxing after an eventful day. The tastefully designed rooms impress with clear design, high-quality materials and plenty of comfort.

Today you discover the multifaceted metropolis of Shanghai, where historic neighbourhoods and modern architecture combine in a special way. Your first stop is the Shanghai Tower, one of the tallest buildings in the world; from the observation deck you have a wide view over the modern skyline. With a little luck (depending on local conditions), you then witness an example of modern urban development: a drink delivered by drone right before your eyes. The precise, almost silent delivery from the air shows how naturally innovative technologies are already part of everyday life in Shanghai. Your exploration continues to the French Concession, a district with a special flair: tree-lined avenues, historic villas and small cafés shape the scene, with European and Chinese influences still visible today. You then turn to the old town with the famous Yu Garden, one of the most important examples of classical Chinese garden art. Between ponds, bridges and pavilions, a quiet, almost secluded world opens up in the middle of the city; around the garden, small lanes and shops invite you to discover traditional crafts and everyday life. In the evening, you stroll along the Bund, where historic colonial buildings face the modern skyline across the river. You end the day in a rooftop bar with a cocktail and a view over illuminated Shanghai. (B) (Distance: approx. 50 km; driving time: approx. 2–2.5 hrs)

Today you have time for your own discoveries in Shanghai: explore the diverse metropolis at your own pace, whether on another walk along the Bund, a museum visit or a stroll through one of the lively districts. Alternatively, you can join an excursion to the historic city of Suzhou (optional, bookable locally), famous for its classical gardens and extensive canal system. In the water village of Luzhi, a boat trip on the historic canals offers a slowed-down scene of old stone bridges and traditional houses; you also visit a local teahouse with a tea tasting. In the evening, you meet once more for a farewell dinner in a local restaurant, look back on the past days and say goodbye to your small group. (B/D) (Distance: approx. 20 km; driving time: approx. 0.5 hrs)

With a final breakfast at your 5-star hotel, you start the day at a relaxed pace and look back on the impressions of your journey. You then travel to the airport – by public transport, taxi or a pre-booked private transfer – and start your journey home, arriving the same day. (B)