Step into a captivating journey through China, where ancient heritage and futuristic skylines come together in one seamless escape. This 8-night itinerary blends culture, history, and modern city life across two iconic destinations.
✨ Trip Highlights:
✅ Beijing – Begin in China’s historic capital, where imperial grandeur meets rich cultural traditions. Explore landmarks like the Forbidden City, walk along the Great Wall, and experience the city’s timeless charm through its temples, palaces, and local cuisine.
✅ Shanghai – Continue to China’s most cosmopolitan city, where futuristic skyscrapers rise beside colonial-era architecture. Stroll along the Bund, explore vibrant neighborhoods, and enjoy world-class dining, shopping, and nightlife.
From imperial wonders to modern marvels, this Beijing & Shanghai escape offers a perfectly balanced blend of history, culture, and contemporary city experiences.
Upon arrival in Beijing, you will be warmly welcomed by your driver and transferred comfortably to your hotel. After check-in, spend the remaining time relaxing, exploring nearby attractions, enjoying local cuisine, or unwinding at your own pace.
Overnight stay in Beijing
Mutianyu Great Wall - as one of the best-preserved parts of the Great Wall, the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall used to serve as the northern barrier defending the capital and the imperial tombs.
First built in the mid-6th century during the Northern Qi, the Mutianyu section is older than the Badaling section of the Great Wall. During the Ming dynasty,under the supervision of general Xu Da, construction of the present wall began, building over the previous wall. In 1404, a pass was built in the wall.In 1569, the Mutianyu Great Wall was rebuilt and till today most parts of it are well preserved. The Mutianyu Great Wall has the largest construction scale and best quality among all sections of Great Wall.
Dingling - one of the 13 Ming Tombs of the 13 emperors of the Ming Dynasty (1368 - 1644). From the Yongle Emperor onwards, 13 Ming Dynasty Emperors were buried in this area. You will visit Dingling, the tomb of the Wanli Emperor, which is the only one of the Ming Dynasty Tombs excavated.
Overnight stay in Beijing
Begin your day with a visit to Tiananmen Square, the largest public square in the world, located in the heart of the city. It has been the site of major national events, including the proclamation of the People’s Republic of China by Mao Zedong in 1949.
Continue to the magnificent Forbidden City, the former imperial palace of China from the mid-Ming to the end of the Qing Dynasty. For nearly 500 years, it served as the residence of emperors and the political and ceremonial center of Chinese governance.
Next, visit the Temple of Heaven, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where ancient emperors once performed sacred rituals to worship Heaven and pray for good harvests.
Conclude your day at the beautiful Summer Palace, originally built in 1750 and later reconstructed during the Qing Dynasty. Known as a serene summer retreat, it was famously used by Empress Dowager Cixi as her seasonal residence.
Overnight stay in Beijing
Upon arrival, will be picked up by your driver and transferred to your hotel for check-in and a short rest. Later, begin your exploration with a scenic Huangpu River Cruise, one of the best ways to experience the contrast of old and modern Shanghai, with stunning views of the historic Bund and the futuristic skyline of Pudong.
Continue to The Bund, the city’s iconic waterfront lined with grand colonial-era buildings that reflect Shanghai’s past as an international trading hub.
Next, stroll along Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, China’s premier commercial street, known for its vibrant atmosphere, shopping, and lively energy.
After the tour, enjoy a comfortable drop-off at your hotel, marking the end of today’s memorable journey.
Overnight stay in Shanghai
Start your day with breakfast at the hotel, then meet your guide and driver in the lobby to begin your city exploration.
Visit the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower, one of the tallest TV towers in the world. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from its transparent sightseeing gallery, offering a thrilling perspective of the Huangpu River beneath your feet.
Continue to the Shanghai History Museum, located beneath the tower. This comprehensive museum showcases over 6,000 years of Shanghai’s development through artifacts, exhibits, and cultural displays, covering key periods from ancient civilizations to the city’s modern transformation.
Next, explore the beautiful Yu Garden, a classical Ming Dynasty garden with over 500 years of history, featuring traditional pavilions, rockeries, ponds, and serene landscapes.
Stroll through Shanghai Old Town, where historic architecture and local traditions offer a glimpse into the city’s cultural heritage and everyday life.
Conclude your tour with a visit to the peaceful Jade Buddha Temple, originally built in 1882, known for its exquisite jade Buddha statues brought from Burma.
After the tour, return to your hotel with wonderful memories of Shanghai’s rich culture and history.
Overnight stay in Shanghai
After breakfast, set out on a scenic day trip to Zhouzhuang Water Town, often referred to as the “No.1 Water Town in China.” Known for its charming canals, ancient bridges, whitewashed houses, and black-tiled roofs, this well-preserved town offers a glimpse into traditional riverside life and is listed on UNESCO’s Tentative World Heritage list.
Begin your exploration at the iconic Twin Bridges Zhouzhuang (Shide and Yong’an Bridges), built between 1573 and 1619. These uniquely connected bridges resemble an ancient key when viewed from above and were famously depicted in artist Chen Yifei’s painting Memory of Hometown.
Continue to Shen's Residence, a grand Ming Dynasty mansion built by the legendary tycoon Shen Wansan. This historic home showcases traditional architecture and offers insight into the life of wealthy families of that era.
Enjoy some free time for lunch at your own expense before visiting Zhang's Residence, another well-preserved Ming Dynasty complex featuring numerous rooms and a classical private garden.
Later, immerse yourself in local culture with a hands-on experience of traditional Chinese Paper Cutting, a delicate and expressive folk art that reflects stories, heritage, and craftsmanship.
After a fulfilling day, return to Shanghai and transfer back to your hotel.
Overnight stay in Shanghai
Your driver will pick you up from your hotel in Shanghai and transfer you comfortably to the airport for your onward journey.
End of your memorable China tour—wishing you safe travels and a pleasant journey back home!
Meals: Breakfast
Departure Dates from Los Angeles:
Additional Prices From Other Cities:
- Washington DC: from +$99 per person
- Chicago: from +$99 per person
- Miami: from +$99 per person
- New York City: from +$149 per person
Inclusions:
Round trip flights with baggage
High Speed Train Tickets: Beijing ➜ Shanghai
Airport Transfers throughout the itinerary
Welcome and assistance by The Flights Guru representative upon arrival
3 night stay at the 4★ Mercure Beijing Downtown Hotel, Beijing
3 night stay at a 4★ Holiday Inn & Suites Shanghai Changfeng, Shanghai
All entrance fees listed in itinerary.
Daily breakfast throughout the itinerary
English-speaking local guides during all tours and activities
Bottled water provided during transfers and excursions on land
Fully air conditioned transfers throughout the itinerary
Based on 2 adults sharing
We always strive to confirm the hotels listed in the package you choose, but in rare cases where we can't, like-for-like alternatives will be provided.