8-Day All-inclusive Private Tour to Beijing, Xi’an and Shanghai

Traveling through China’s most celebrated cities in just over a week sounds ambitious, but this 8-day all-inclusive private tour makes it both manageable and memorable. The experience promises a seamless journey, blending cultural highlights with comfortable travel modes, expert guides, and thoughtfully selected accommodations. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned China traveler, this tour offers a balanced mix of must-see landmarks and authentic local encounters.

What we love about this tour is the attention to detail—excellent guides who bring history alive, efficient transfers that maximize sightseeing time, and a carefully curated itinerary that hits every major highlight. The inclusion of some meals and entry tickets means fewer surprises along the way, allowing you to focus on soaking up the sights. Plus, staying at 5-star hotels elevates the experience, making the journey truly luxurious.

However, a possible consideration is the pace—eight days packed with travel and sightseeing might be quite full for those who prefer a more relaxed pace. Still, if you’re eager to cover the essentials and enjoy a guided, all-in-one adventure, it’s a fantastic option.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free introduction to China’s top cities, especially those who value guided insights, comfort, and efficiency.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience: Entrance fees, some meals, and accommodations are covered, reducing planning stress.
• Premium hotels: Stay in comfortable 5-star accommodations in each city, adding a touch of luxury.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance understanding of cultural sites and history.
• Efficient transportation: Travel between cities by high-speed train and flight saves time and energy.
• Authentic experiences: Visit iconic landmarks like the Great Wall, Forbidden City, Terracotta Warriors, and more.
• Engaging local culture: Enjoy rickshaw rides through Hutongs and explore lively bazaars.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Arriving in Beijing

Starting your adventure in Beijing, the tour kicks off with a warm greeting at the airport. Your guide will then escort you to your hotel, giving you the option to relax or explore on your own. This flexibility sets a relaxed tone after your journey and allows you to settle in before the busy days ahead.

Day 2: Beijing’s Historic Heart

Your day begins with a visit to Tiananmen Square, the world’s largest urban square. It’s not just vast but packed with history—think of it as the city’s political and cultural nucleus. The guide will share insights that bring the site alive, making it more than just a photo stop.

Next, you’ll explore the Forbidden City, the imperial palace filled with stunning halls, pavilions, and imperial treasures. The guided tour lasts about three hours, giving you ample time to appreciate the architecture and the stories behind each hall. Having a guide means you’ll get context that elevates your understanding beyond just gazing at old walls.

Lunchtime includes a complimentary à la carte meal at a well-regarded local restaurant, giving you a taste of authentic Chinese cuisine. Many reviewers have commented on the quality and variety of the food, which adds to the overall value.

In the afternoon, visit the Lama Temple, a blend of Han, Mongolian, and Tibetan architecture that has survived over 300 years. The serenity of the temple contrasts nicely with the bustling city, offering a spiritual pause. Later, the Temple of Heaven provides insights into ancient Chinese rituals, where emperors worshipped for good harvests.

Day 3: The Great Wall and Ancient Streets

A highlight of any China trip is the Great Wall, and this tour visits the historic Mutianyu section. The cable car ride up and down makes for a scenic, leisurely ascent, with plenty of time to walk along the battlements and enjoy panoramic views. One reviewer called standing on the wall “an exciting experience,” and it’s easy to see why.

Post-Wall, you’ll see the Bird’s Nest, the Olympic stadium, from outside—a quick photo op that’s worth the drive. Then, a rickshaw tour through Beijing’s historic Hutongs offers a glimpse into local life, with a chance to visit a family home—an authentic experience many find memorable.

Day 4: The Summer Palace and Travel to Xi’an

The Summer Palace, with its sprawling gardens and ornate pavilions, offers a peaceful escape and a glimpse into imperial leisure life. After exploring, you’ll take a high-speed train (about five hours) to Xi’an. Many travelers appreciate the efficiency of train travel, which allows you to see more of the countryside while saving time compared to flying.

Day 5: Terracotta Warriors and the Buddhist Monastery

The Terracotta Army is the star of this day. The museum features three excavated pits, each filled with thousands of life-sized warriors, horses, and chariots—an unforgettable sight. Reviewers note that visiting the home of the first discoverer and creating a mini clay warrior with a local artisan adds depth to the experience, making it more than just a sightseeing stop.

In the afternoon, your visit to the Big Wild Goose Pagoda offers a peaceful break amid the city’s hustle. The nearby Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City gives a lively taste of local culture, with traditional dress and bustling streets.

Day 6: Xi’an’s City Walls and Muslim Quarter

Walking or cycling along Xi’an’s City Wall offers a chance to see the city from above and observe local life below. Many travelers find the city wall to be a highlight, with some opting to rent bikes (not included) for a full experience.

The Great Mosque combines Chinese and Islamic architecture, a testament to Xi’an’s historical significance as a cultural melting pot. Nearby, the Muslim Quarter teems with vendors selling snacks, crafts, and souvenirs—perfect for a lively, sensory-rich exploration.

Later, a flight whisks you to Shanghai, where your guide will ensure a smooth transfer to your hotel.

Day 7: Modern Shanghai and Cultural Highlights

Start your day with a visit to the Shanghai Museum, home to ancient Chinese artworks and artifacts. The guide will help you navigate the impressive collections, providing context that makes the exhibits more meaningful.

Next, explore Yu Garden, a classical Chinese garden famous for its intricate bridges and pavilions. The guided tour here is complemented by a farewell lunch at a top restaurant, allowing you to savor authentic dishes.

In the afternoon, take a cruise along the Huangpu River, offering sweeping views of the city’s skyline—perfect for photo enthusiasts. The iconic Bund area provides a great spot for leisurely strolling and people-watching.

Finally, explore Tianzifang, a charming arts and crafts enclave with narrow alleyways filled with boutiques, cafes, and studios—a favorite among travelers for its creative vibe.

Day 8: Departure

After breakfast, your guide will transfer you to the airport, wrapping up this whirlwind but enriching journey. Many guests appreciate the seamless logistics, which let you focus on memories rather than transportation worries.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $2,169 per person, the tour packs in a lot of value. The costs cover hotel stays, transportation (including high-speed train and flights), entrance fees, and expert guides—all critical components for a comfortable and insightful experience. The inclusion of some meals and the convenience of private guides means fewer surprises and more personalized attention.

The carefully curated itinerary balances iconic landmarks with cultural experiences, making it ideal for first-time visitors who want a rundown without feeling rushed. The 5-star hotels elevate the stay and offer a restful retreat after busy sightseeing days.

Reviewers consistently praise the guides for their knowledge, with many remarking on how guides like Mr. Liu and other local experts brought history to life through engaging storytelling. The tour’s flexible pace and good organization help make a busy schedule feel more manageable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect if you’re looking for a well-organized, guided journey through China’s top cities. It suits travelers who value comfort, culture, and efficient logistics. If you want to see the Great Wall, Terra-cotta Warriors, and Shanghai’s skyline—all in one trip—this tour hits those marks.

It’s also ideal for those who prefer having a guide explain the significance of each site, rather than navigating on your own. Because transportation is handled seamlessly, it’s especially good for travelers who want to avoid the hassle of planning intercity travel or worrying about tickets and queues.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes. Although the minimum group size is two, it’s a private tour, so it can accommodate solo travelers who want a guided experience tailored just for them.

Are meals included?
Some meals are included, such as the welcome lunch in Beijing and the farewell lunch in Shanghai. Breakfasts are also part of the hotel stay, but other meals are optional and can be arranged with your guide.

What transportation modes are used?
Travel between Beijing and Xi’an is via high-speed train, while the Xi’an to Shanghai leg is by flight. Within cities, transport is by air-conditioned coach, ensuring comfort and efficiency.

How many days are dedicated to each city?
Beijing gets three full days, Xi’an two days, and Shanghai two days, with travel days in between. The schedule balances sightseeing with some free time for personal exploration.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all major site entrance fees are covered, including the Great Wall, Forbidden City, Terracotta Warriors, and others, allowing for a hassle-free visit.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Most definitely. The itinerary includes engaging sites that appeal to all ages, and the private guides make it easy to customize the experience if needed.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this tour is booked about 10 days ahead, but early planning is recommended to secure your preferred dates, especially during peak travel seasons.

Final Thoughts

This 8-day private tour offers an impressive, well-rounded introduction to China’s most celebrated cities. With expert guides, comfortable accommodations, and meticulously planned itineraries, it delivers a mix of history, culture, and modern vibrancy.

Travelers who appreciate organized, insightful trips with a touch of luxury will find this experience rewarding. It’s a fantastic way to tick off key attractions like the Great Wall, Terracotta Warriors, and the Bund, all while enjoying the convenience of private transportation and curated activities.

For those seeking a comprehensive, engaging, and hassle-free journey through China’s three iconic cities, this tour checks all the boxes—and then some.

Note: The experience is non-refundable, so it’s best suited for travelers committed to their plans. Whether you’re new to China or revisiting with a desire to see it all efficiently, this tour offers a solid foundation for an unforgettable adventure.