11-Day Small Group China Tour to Beijing, Xi’an, Zhangjiajie and Shanghai

Traveling through China’s most iconic sights in just over a week sounds ambitious—and this 11-day small group tour promises to do just that. With a maximum of 18 travelers, it offers a balanced mix of guided sightseeing, culture, and comfortable transportation. From the sweeping vistas of the Great Wall to the bustling streets of Shanghai, it’s crafted for curious travelers eager for an authentic, well-organized adventure.

What we love most about this trip? First, the expert guides like Lily in Xi’an bring history to life with their local knowledge. Second, the stunning landscapes of Zhangjiajie, especially Hallelujah Mountain, are jaw-dropping. Third, the tour’s seamless logistics—covered by private transfers, included entrance fees, and some meals—make traveling between cities straightforward and hassle-free.

However, keep in mind that there’s no shopping detour, which is a plus for those who dislike factory stops, but might be a consideration if shopping is a highlight of your trips. This tour suits travelers who are eager to hit the major sights without the fuss of shopping or factory visits and appreciate good value for a comprehensive experience.

Key Points

• Max 18 travelers for a more personal experience
• Includes major highlights like the Great Wall, Terracotta Army, and Shanghai Bund
• Comfortable transportation with private guides and air-conditioned vehicles
• Cultural activities like Hutong rickshaw rides and Tang Dynasty shows
• Well-organized logistics with included entrance fees and some meals
• Price point offers good value for the comprehensive itinerary

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect on This 11-Day Adventure

Arrival in Beijing and First Impressions

Your journey begins at Beijing Capital International Airport, where an English-speaking guide meets you outside baggage claim. From there, the transfer to your hotel is smooth, giving you time to shake off jet lag. Rest assured, the rest of the day is yours—an important chance to adjust before the busy sightseeing starts.

Day 2: Exploring Beijing’s Heart and Culture

Your day kicks off with a stroll across Tiananmen Square, the world’s largest city square, filled with history and energy. Then, you dive into the Forbidden City, where you’ll marvel at its sprawling halls and treasure-filled pavilions—an experience made more engaging by insights from guides like Lily, who are praised for their thoroughness and friendliness. The included a la carte lunch at a nice restaurant is a real highlight, offering authentic flavors without the hassle of finding your own meal.

In the afternoon, the Temple of Heaven offers a peaceful contrast, with its unique architecture and significance in imperial rituals. The day rounds off with a Red Theater Acrobatic Show, an energetic display of Chinese talents, leaving you entertained and inspired.

Day 3: The Great Wall and Beijing’s Hidden Corners

A morning trip to Mutianyu Great Wall guarantees spectacular views and fewer crowds compared to other sections. The round-trip cable car makes the ascent easy, allowing you to focus on the breathtaking scenery. Standing on the wall and looking out over the undulating landscape is an experience the guides are proud to include, considering it a lifelong memory for many.

On the way back, a quick stop at Bird’s Nest, the Olympic Stadium, adds a modern touch to your trip. The afternoon offers a Hutong rickshaw tour, giving you a glimpse into old Beijing life and the chance to visit a local family—an authentic cultural experience appreciated by many travelers.

Day 4 & 5: From Imperial Gardens to Terracotta Warriors

After visiting the Summer Palace and seeing giant pandas in the morning, you fly to Xi’an. The flight is included, simplifying travel and saving time.

Your visit to the Terracotta Army is a standout. Guided by a knowledgeable local like Lily, you’ll explore pits filled with life-sized warriors and ancient weapons, and even try crafting a mini clay soldier yourself—a fun, memorable activity. Many reviews highlight guides’ expertise here, making the history come alive.

In the afternoon, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda offers a peaceful setting, and a Tang Dynasty Show with a dumpling dinner provides a lively cultural night out—though, notably, this is seasonal and may not be included in winter months.

Day 6: Walking the Ancient City Wall and Local Flavors

The day begins with a visit to Xi’an’s City Wall, where you might enjoy practicing Tai Chi with a master—a unique cultural touch. Cycling along the well-preserved ramparts offers panoramic views of the city, and the local Muslim Quarter beckons with its bustling street food scene, providing a taste of Xi’an’s diverse culinary heritage.

Days 7-8: Zhangjiajie’s Breathtaking Landscapes

After flying to Zhangjiajie, your itinerary focuses on the jaw-dropping Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, famous for inspiring the floating mountains of Avatar. Highlights include the Yuanjiajie Scenic Area, Hallelujah Mountain, and the Natural Great Wall in Yangjiajie. The Bailong Sight-seeing Elevator gets you quickly to mountain peaks with spectacular views.

Following this, the Grand Canyon’s glass bridge—claimed to be the world’s highest and longest—offers an adrenaline rush with stunning vistas. The Golden Whip Brook stream inside the park is perfect for tranquil walks, with guides emphasizing the overlapping peaks and lush forests.

Day 9: Tianmen Mountain and Flight to Shanghai

Your morning at Tianmen Mountain involves a ride on the longest cable car in the world, with panoramic views of the high peaks and cloud-draped forests. The experience is both exhilarating and scenic.

Post-visit, you’ll fly to Shanghai, where a local guide transfers you to your hotel. This smooth switch from natural beauty to urban excitement marks the start of your final city exploration.

Days 10 & 11: Shanghai’s Modern Marvels and Historic Charm

Your time in Shanghai includes visits to Shanghai Museum, showcasing ancient art, and the iconic Yu Garden, with its elegant pavilions and zigzag bridges—perfect for photos.

A farewell lunch in a nice restaurant kicks off the afternoon, followed by a stroll along the Bund—the city’s historic waterfront—and a Huangpu River cruise that offers stunning views of Shanghai’s skyline. The tour concludes with a free afternoon for last-minute sightseeing or shopping before heading home.

What Travelers Say About This Tour

The reviews highlight guides like Lily and Candy, who are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach. One reviewer notes that Lily was “exceptional,” and many appreciate how smoothly the logistics are handled, which allows them to focus on the sights rather than worrying about transport or tickets.

The viewing experiences—like the Great Wall, Zhangjiajie’s Hallelujah Mountain, and Tianmen Mountain—are consistently described as breathtaking, making the trip visually unforgettable. The inclusion of activities like rickshaw rides and clay soldier making adds authentic, memorable touches.

One traveler pointed out that the value for money was good given the extensive itinerary, private guides, entrance fees, and some meals included in the price. The only mention of a potential drawback was the absence of shopping stops, which is a positive or negative depending on your preferences.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

This 11-day tour is perfect for travelers who want a rundown of China’s highlights with a focus on culture and natural beauty. The small group size ensures more personalized attention, and the well-paced itinerary balances sightseeing with cultural activities.

It is especially suited for those who enjoy scenic landscapes, historical sites, and city life, all without the stress of planning logistics. The inclusion of authentic experiences—like visiting a local family in Beijing, trying clay warriors, or practicing Tai Chi—adds depth beyond just sightseeing.

However, it’s best for those comfortable with flying between cities and engaging in active outings like walking on the Great Wall or navigating cable cars.

Practical Details and Final Thoughts

At a price of $2,619 per person, this tour offers good value considering all the inclusions: private guides, entrance fees, some meals, and flights between key cities. The accommodations are based on twin-sharing rooms, which are typically comfortable, and the group size keeps things intimate without feeling crowded.

The tour operates year-round, but certain activities like the Tang Dynasty Show may be seasonally unavailable—so check the schedule if that’s a must-see on your list. The no shopping policy ensures your time is spent seeing sights rather than shopping stops, appealing to travelers seeking genuine cultural experiences.

The expert guides and well-planned itinerary contribute significantly to a smooth, enriching trip. The balance of natural wonders, historical sites, and modern cityscapes makes this tour a well-rounded introduction to China.

The Sum Up

This 11-day small group tour offers an excellent way to see some of China’s most famous sights without the stress of independent planning. It’s perfect for travelers who value knowledgeable guides, authentic cultural activities, and breathtaking landscapes, all at a fair price point.

Travelers who enjoy a mix of city exploration, historical sites, and natural beauty will find this tour hits all the right notes. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors eager to get a broad yet detailed taste of China’s diverse offerings.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, immersive, and visually stunning experience that balances comfort with adventure, this tour ticks most boxes.

FAQ

Is airport pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup at Beijing Capital International Airport, making your arrival hassle-free.

Are entrance fees included?
All major tourist site entrance fees are covered in the tour price, including the Forbidden City, Terracotta Army, Zhangjiajie parks, and others.

What meals are included?
Breakfast is included for 10 days, and 7 lunches are also covered, with some dinners included such as the Tang Dynasty show and dumpling dinner in Xi’an.

How many people are in the group?
The maximum group size is 18 travelers, allowing for a more personal experience with guides.

Can I customize or extend the trip?
The tour price is fixed, and additional customization isn’t mentioned. However, you can arrange your own airport transfers or extend your stay independently.

Is vegetarian food available?
Yes, vegetarian options are available; travelers are advised to specify dietary requirements when booking.

What is the best time to go?
While the tour runs year-round, some activities like the Tang Dynasty Show aren’t available in certain months—check with the provider for seasonal details.

This comprehensive tour blends the highlights, culture, and natural beauty of China into a well-paced, manageable adventure, perfect for those wanting to make the most of their first or repeat visit.