Compare Ancient and Cosmopolitan 9 Days by China Links Travel

Day 1: London Heathrow to Beijing

You will take a scheduled flight from London Heathrow to Beijing with British Airways. Regional departures available on request.

Day 2: Arrive Beijing

Meal: Dinner

Upon arrival, you will be met by your guide and transferred to your hotel for a 3 night stay. In the afternoon you will have time to relax or take a walk in the surrounding area. Your guide will be pleased to advise on what you can do at your leisure. In the early evening your guide will escort you for dinner where you will meet your fellow group members.

Day 3: Beijing city tour

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

In the morning you will visit the Temple of Heaven – this was the place where the Ming and Qing emperors worshipped the god of heaven and prayed for good harvest for the year. Where you can observe the tradition of practicing Tai Chi in the courtyard. This will be followed by a stroll through Tiananmen Square, one of the largest city squares in the world. Finally, there will be a visit to the Forbidden City which served as the grand imperial palace for centuries.

Day 4: The Great Wall

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Today will begin with a visit to the Great Wall at Mutianyu, a post along the wall which offers all round stunning views and a less crowded atmosphere. Mutianyu was built in the mid-6th century and its rich history can be observed in its unique construction. In the evening there will be a sumptuous Peking Duck Dinner, a traditional delicacy and an absolute culinary must in Beijing!

Day 5: Beijing city tour and to Xian

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

In the morning you will visit the Summer Palace, which includes a grand collection of lakes, gardens and palaces where you can expect lovely views and walks. Afterwards, you will have a chance to enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the beautiful Kunming Lake. This will be followed by a stop at the Birds Nest Stadium and Water Cube, which hosted the memorable 2008 Olympics. Following an opportunity for photographs, the final stop of the day will be at the Hutongs. Here, you can expect a more personal insight into the everyday life of traditional Beijing citizens. Finally, you will catch a flight to Xian.

Day 6: Terracotta Warriors

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Today your guide will take you to visit the Terracotta Warriors, a stunning collection of ten thousand life size statues of the Chinese army made over two thousand years ago, yet preserved almost perfectly. This will be followed by a visit to the ancient city wall in Xian in the afternoon, which can be enjoyed through a peaceful stroll or a bike ride. It is the most complete city wall that has survived in China, it is one of the largest military defensive systems in the world. This evening you will try a dumpling dinner while enjoying the Tang Dynasty Show, a colourful performance of traditional music and dance.

Day 7: To Hong Kong

Meal: Breakfast

In the morning transfer to the airport for your flight to Hong Kong. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to the hotel, rest of the day is at leisure.

Day 8: Hong Kong city tour

Meal: Breakfast

Start your day with a half day island tour. Highlights include Victoria Peak with the must do tram ride up, Stanley Market, Repulse Bay and Aberdeen. The afternoon is free for you to explore or enjoy the hotel’s facilities.

Day 9: Fly Home o London Heathrow

Meal: Breakfast

You will have most of the day at leisure. In the evening, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to London Heathrow.