Highlights
What you will see
Travel from imperial Beijing and ancient Nanjing to classical Suzhou, scenic Hangzhou and cosmopolitan Shanghai. The itinerary combines major UNESCO-style icons, guided city touring, West Lake cruise scenery, intercity high-speed rail and seamless flight logistics.
Itinerary
Day by day
Arrive in Beijing
Airport/railway station pick-up according to flight schedule, after the car transfer to your pre-booked Ctrip 4-diamond hotel, spend the rest of the day exploring this incredible city.
- TicketsNone
- MealsNone
Beijing
After breakfast today explore Beijing by car. The journey begins at the Temple of Heaven, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a masterpiece of Ming Dynasty architecture and imperial heaven-worship ceremonies. Visit the world’s largest city square, Tiananmen Square. Make your way across the road to the magnificent Forbidden City, a culturally historic landmark in China, which was the former residence of Chinese royalty for five centuries. Return to the Ctrip 4-diamond hotel.
- TicketsTemple of Heaven, Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City
- MealsBreakfast, Lunch
Beijing
By car in the morning, commence the day’s adventure by ascending an iconic section of the Badaling Great Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and experience one of the greatest engineering wonders of humankind. On the return journey, stop at the Bird’s Nest and the Water Cube for photos; these two buildings were highlights of the 2008 Olympic Games. Finally, return to the Ctrip 4-diamond hotel.
- TicketsThe Great Wall, Badaling Section
- MealsBreakfast, Lunch
Beijing – Nanjing
Today, take a high-speed train to Nanjing, one of China’s four great ancient capitals. Upon arrival, visit the Ming City Wall, one of the longest surviving city walls in the world, and take in its remarkable history and ancient fortifications. In the evening, stroll through the Confucius Temple area and soak up the dazzling atmosphere of the Qinhuai River night market, where the brightly lit riverside streets come alive with local culture, snacks, and vibrant evening scenery. Finally, return to the Ctrip 4-diamond hotel by car.
- TicketsMing City Wall, Ming City Wall Sightseeing Shuttle
- MealsBreakfast, Lunch
Nanjing – Suzhou
After breakfast, begin your exploration with Nanjing’s imperial past and revolutionary legacy, then unwind in the picturesque canals of Suzhou. Visit the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the final resting place of the founding emperor of the Ming Dynasty. Then drive to Dr. Sun Yat-sen’s Mausoleum to pay respects to the forerunner of China’s modern revolution. Afterwards, drive to Suzhou and relax along the picturesque canal at Shantang Street, soaking in the tranquil charm of this historic water-town setting. And return to the Ctrip 4-diamond hotel.
- TicketsMing Xiaoling Mausoleum, Dr. Sun Yat-sen’s Mausoleum
- MealsBreakfast, Lunch
Suzhou – Hangzhou
This morning begin at Tiger Hill, renowned for its leaning Yunyan Temple Pagoda and ancient legends. Next, visit the exquisite Master of the Nets Garden (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), which showcases the unique charm of Suzhou’s harmonious blend of architecture and nature. In the afternoon, drive to Hangzhou and check into a Ctrip 4-diamond hotel.
- TicketsTiger Hill, Master of the Nets Garden
- MealsBreakfast, Lunch
West Lake
Drive to West Lake for a boat cruise on West Lake in Hangzhou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated by poets and painters as a cultural landscape. Then visit a Longjing Tea Plantation and sample freshly picked green tea amid the lush green hills. Continue to the Silk Culture Exhibition Hall to learn about China’s long-standing silk trade. Afterwards, stroll through Hefang Street, soaking up its lively atmosphere, traditional shops, and local snacks. Finally, return to the Ctrip 4-diamond hotel.
- TicketsWest Lake Cruise
- MealsBreakfast, Lunch
Hangzhou – Shanghai
Check out from your hotel and drive to Shanghai, China’s most vibrant metropolis. Begin with a stroll along Wukang Road, admiring the historic villas and old-style architecture lining both sides. Afterwards, visit Nanjing Road, Asia’s premier shopping street, and soak up the lively atmosphere of its bustling shops, famous brands, and delicious food. You will be taken to your Ctrip 4-diamond hotel.
- TicketsNone
- MealsBreakfast, Lunch
Yu Garden
Commence your tour of Shanghai with a step into Yu Garden, a classical garden that showcases a fine example of Ming Dynasty private garden design. Ascend to the 88th floor of Jin Mao Tower and take in panoramic views of the Pudong skyline. Afterwards, explore Tianzifang, wandering through a maze of narrow lanes interwoven with creative studios and cafés, where you will find the essence of classic Shanghai. Finally, return to the Ctrip 4-diamond hotel.
- TicketsYu Garden, Jin Mao Tower
- MealsBreakfast, Lunch
Departure from Shanghai
Check out from the Ctrip 4-diamond hotel and end your tour with a private car transfer to the railway station or airport. For flight departures, you will be driven to the airport according to your flight time.
- TicketsNone
- MealsBreakfast
Accommodation
Comfortable stays along the route
Comfortable stays can be arranged along the route with well-located hotels and breakfast included.
A convenient hotel base can be arranged for the opening nights.
A comfortable base close to the main sightseeing area can be arranged.
Higher-category hotels can be arranged on request.
A relaxed final-night stay can be arranged before departure.
Inclusions / Exclusions
What is usually included
Included
- Private transportation as listed in the itinerary
- English-speaking local guide on sightseeing days
- Hotel breakfast during the trip
- Entrance tickets for planned attractions
- Trip planning support before confirmation
Not included
- International flights
- China visa fees
- Personal expenses and optional activities
- Travel insurance
- Meals not listed in the itinerary
Important information
Before you book
This route can be adjusted for private travel dates and group size.
Well-located hotels can be arranged according to your preferred level.
Final pricing depends on travel dates, hotel level and confirmed inclusions.
