Best of China & the Yangtze River

14 Day Tour from Beijing to Shanghai


Vacation Overview

Ancient wonders. Modern cities. Timeless traditions. Like a classic Chinese dumpling, this tour of China is filled with flavor, zest, and delectable elements of surprise. From the hutongs of Beijing to the longtangs of Shanghai, you’ll savor every Far East experience you’ve ever craved, including a rickshaw ride through Beijing’s narrow alleyways, a walk along the Great Wall, and a 3-night cruise through the magnificent Three Gorges of the winding, wondrous Yangtze, Asia’s longest river. This truly hands-on vacation will teach you the ancient art of tea making, the calming practice of tai chi, and the delicate art of making traditional dim sum, the dumpling whose name means “to touch the heart.” Expect additional flutters when you enter the Forbidden City, stand before Xi’an’s Terracotta Army, and observe the daily habits of the native pandas of Chengdu.

Itinerary

 

Day 1 ARRIVE IN BEIJING, CHINA

Welcome to China! Hotel rooms are available for a mid-afternoon check-in.

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Day 2 BEIJING

Treasures of the Forbidden City Your full-day sightseeing starts with a visit to Tian’anmen Square. Next, explore the Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest palace complex in the world. After lunch at a local restaurant, visit the Summer Palace, a beautifully preserved imperial garden. Tonight, savor a special Peking duck welcome dinner.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
HISTORY & MYSTERY Visit the largest public square in the world at Tian’anmen Square. Translated, this Gate of Heavenly Peace carries great cultural significance as the site of many important events in China’s history, including the protests and 1989. The Forbidden City harkens back to China’s great emperors, showcases ancient Chinese architecture, landscaped gardens, and displays of rare art and artifacts.


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Day 3 BEIJING-GREAT WALL EXCURSION

Heaven’s Gates & the Great Wall This morning, visit the Temple of Heaven, founded in the 15th century. Then, head north to a village where the Great Wall of China is well preserved and walk along the wall for sweeping vistas. This mammoth fortress once stretched 4,000 miles across China’s barren northern terrain from the Bohai Sea to the Gobi Desert. Return to Beijing for some time at your leisure this evening.

ENHANCED FREE TIME
EXPLORE MORE You may wish to attend a performance of the Peking Opera, a traditional form of Chinese theater, or a kung fu show. This and more options throughout your tour are available for purchase with MyGlobus.


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Day 4 BEIJING-XI’AN

Hutongs & Hot Noodles Take a rickshaw ride through one of Beijing’s hutongs, the city’s ancient alleys. Enjoy a local noodle lunch before a short flight brings you to Xi’an this afternoon.

LOCAL FAVORITE
EPIC RIDE Travel by rickshaw through the ancient alleyways and courtyards of Beijing to take in the true culture of its hutongs and Siheyuan. Get an insight to the old lifestyle in these cultural icons of Chinese tradition.


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Day 5 XI’AN

Silent Sentinels Sightseeing begins with an enormous tomb of China’s first emperor Qin Shi Huangdi, accidentally discovered by local farmers in 1974. Marvel at the legion of Terracotta Warriors that has been guarding this burial site for 2,000 years. Later, visit the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, and Xi’an’s ancient City Wall, built in 1378.

ENHANCED FREE TIME
EXPLORE MORE Tonight, consider a performance of the Tang Dynasty dinner show, featuring a colorful assemblage of classical performances. This and more options throughout your tour are available for purchase with MyGlobus.


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Day 6 XI’AN-CHENGDU

The Many Faces of Chengdu This morning, transfer to the train station for your high-speed train to Chengdu, capital of Sichuan province and known for its flavorful food. Visit Jinli Cultural Street, a pedestrian street lined with ancient buildings featuring the architectural stylings from the late Qing dynasty. Also see People’s Park, where you may see local residents playing mahjong or practicing tai chi. Tonight, enjoy a Sichuan hot pot dinner followed by a face-changing performance.

LOCAL FAVORITE
CULTURAL GEM Bian lian (face changing) is a traditional Chinese technique in which performers use masks to reflect mood changes of their character. An important aspect of Sichuan opera, the faces change faster than your eye can detect, using secrets passed down from generation to generation.


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Day 7 CHENGDU

Beauty in Black & White Journey through the mountainous scenery to the Wolong Giant Panda Nature Reserve, home to over 170 pandas. Learn how this area protects and rehabilitates these beautiful animals. This afternoon and evening are yours to explore this city more.

ENHANCED FREE TIME
TIME & TRADITIONS Enjoy a free afternoon and evening in Chengdu. Your Tour Director will have expert advice on the best ways to relax and enjoy Chengdu. Your GlobusGO mobile app has directions and recommendations as well!


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Day 8 CHENGDU-CHONGQING (EMBARKATION)-YANGTZE RIVER CRUISE

Gorgeous Gorges of the Yangtze Take the high-speed train to Chongqing, China’s capital during World War II. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and visit the Three Gorges Museum. Enjoy some free time in the Ciqikou ancient town, also known as Little Chongqing, before boarding your ship for a 3-night cruise through the breathtaking Three Gorges of the Yangtze.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
NATURAL WONDERS Embark on an adventure on the Yangtze River along the most scenic section of this UNESCO World Heritage region of the Three Gorges. Breathtaking sights and legendary stories flow through the Qutang, Wu, and Xiling gorges gracing the middle reaches of this iconic river.


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Day 9 CRUISING: MOUNTAIN SHUANGGUI

Stories of the Song Dynasty Your shore excursion today takes you to Mountain Shuanggui, known for its picturesque scenery and featuring cliff brush writings dating to the Song dynasty. Return to your ship where the afternoon is at your leisure to enjoy a variety of onboard activities. This evening, your Captain hosts a welcome party and dinner.

ENHANCED FREE TIME
EXPLORE MORE You may choose to take an optional shore excursion to Fengdu, known by many in China as the “Ghost City,” to visit the mountaintop shrines.


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Day 10 CRUISING: QUTANG GORGE-WU GORGE-GODDESS STREAM

Narrow Escapes Early this morning, you may choose to start your day with a tai chi lesson on the sun deck or simply relax and enjoy the scenery. Later, sail downstream through the first and second of the three gorges – Qutang Gorge. After lunch, disembark your ship for a boat excursion down Goddess Stream. Along the way, see picturesque scenery and mysterious hanging wooden coffins.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
SPECTACULAR SERENITY Sail through the shortest but most dramatic gorge, and Wu, known for its quiet beauty and forest covered mountains. You can nearly touch the perpendicular walls rising from the riverbanks as your Captain negotiates this narrow gap.


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Day 11 CRUISING: (DISEMBARKATION) THREE GORGES DAM SITE-YICHANG-HANGZHOU

The Power of Water This morning, visit the awe-inspiring hydroelectric marvel of Three Gorges Dam Site, the largest dam of its kind in the world. After lunch in Yichang, board your flight to Hangzhou, one of China’s seven ancient capitals.

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Day 12 HANGZHOU-SHANGHAI

Timeless Traditions Start your tour of Hangzhou with a sampan cruise on West Lake, A UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then visit Linyin Temple, followed by a demonstration of the tea-making process and lunch at a local tea farm. This afternoon, settle in for a comfortable drive to Shanghai, China’s most populous city.

LOCAL FAVORITE
EPIC RIDE Flanked by temples, gardens, pavilions, and causeways, West Lake has inspired many artists and scholars for centuries. Enjoy the morning sun glowing on the water as you cruise on a sampan, a traditional wooden boat.


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Day 13 SHANGHAI

Dumplings & Dynasties This morning, stroll along the Bund, the city’s riverfront boulevard lined with historic buildings, banks, and trade houses. Then, visit Yu Yuan Gardens, dating back to the Ming Dynasty. This evening, your Tour Director hosts a special farewell dinner.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CULTURE & TRADITION At dinner, get a taste of xiaolongbao, Shanghai’s most famous dish. These tasty soup dumplings are handmade with at least 18 intricate folds to close the top. The broth is the star, so eat lovingly!


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Day 14 SHANGHAI

So Long, Farewell Your tour ends with breakfast this morning.

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Vacation Highlights

Special features included in this tour:

  • Guided city sightseeing in Beijing including visits to Tian’anmen Square and the Temple of Heaven
  • Welcome Peking duck dinner
  • Excursion to the Great Wall of China
  • Rickshaw ride through Beijing’s ancient hutongs with local noodle lunch
  • Visits to the Terracotta Warriors and the City Wall of Xi’an
  • Guided city sightseeing in Chengdu including Jinli Cultural Street
  • Traditional face-changing performance accompanied with Sichuan hot-pot dinner
  • Visit to the Wolong Giant Panda Nature Reserve
  • Three-night cruise through the Three Gorges on the Yangtze River with Victoria Cruises
  • Sampan cruise on West Lake
  • Tea-making demonstration with lunch at a local tea farm
  • Visit to Linyin Temple in Hangzhou
  • Visit to Yu Yuan Gardens and stroll along the Bund in Shanghai
  • Farewell dinner featuring Shanghai’s signature xiaolongbao dumplings
  • Intra-vacation flights as listed in the itinerary

Alternate shore and small-boat excursions may be substituted based upon Yangtze River conditions.

Hotels

Beijing

Crowne Plaza Beijing Chaoyang U-Town

Superior First-Class

Perfectly located in the Central Business District, the luxurious Crowne Plaza Beijing Chaoyang U-town fuses modern sophistication with classical Chinese touches.

Xi'an

Crowne Plaza Xi'an

Superior First-Class

Crowne Plaza Xi'an is centrally located within the tallest building in Xi'an, Shaanxi Xinxi Tower, with easy access to the city's historical sites. Professional, personalized and warm guest service plus attention to detail is the dominant culture of Crowne Plaza Xi'an.

Chengdu

Kempinski Hotel Chengdu

Superior First-Class

Newly remodeled guest rooms at Kempinski Hotel Chengdu provide opulent comfort with a refined flair. You may savor traditional German and Sichuan food in five chic restaurants and pubs. The Kempinski Hotel Chengdu enjoys a prolific location in the affluent south of the city and is an ideal place for business and leisure travellers.

Hangzhou

Sofitel Hangzhou WestLake

Superior First-Class

A short distance from the well-known "West Lake" and in the heart of the city, the Sofitel Hangzhou Westlake is the perfect spot for both business and pleasure. Metro Line 1 is merely a 5-minute walk away, and sightseeing attractions are within walking distance.

Shanghai

Crowne Plaza Shanghai

Superior First-Class

The downtown Crowne Plaza Shanghai is approximately 500 meters from Metro Lines 10 and 11, which provide easy access to many attractions. Enjoy a meal at any of the hotel's restaurants or unwind with a book in Charlie's Bar and the café. Your senses will be treated to an unparalleled experience.

Dates and Prices

View the following dates and prices to find just the right date for your vacation. Below you'll find the date the vacation starts and the date you'll return.  

Once you've selected your date, you'll move to the next step to get an airfare quote and to begin booking your vacation. When you book your flights with us, you'll find we offer competitive and hassle-free airfares, plus you'll receive free airport transfers for flights coordinated with vacation dates and you'll avoid strict Internet terms and conditions.

The price listed does not include your airfare from Canada. Once you click "Book Now", you will be able to receive an air quote.

Departure
Details
Tour
Start Date
Return
Date
Land/Cruise
Price Only
 Status
Victoria Sabrina 2026-03-27 2026-04-09
$7,448
Not Available
Popular Departure
Victoria Sabrina
2026-04-17 2026-04-30
$8,028
Book Now!
Popular Departure
Victoria Sabrina
2026-05-08 2026-05-21
$7,608
Book Now!
Victoria Sabrina 2026-06-05 2026-06-18
$7,608
Book Now!
Victoria Sabrina 2026-07-17 2026-07-30
$7,608
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Victoria Sabrina 2026-08-21 2026-09-03
$7,608
Book Now!
Popular Departure
Victoria Sabrina
2026-09-18 2026-10-01
$7,608
Book Now!
Popular Departure
Victoria Sabrina
2026-10-02 2026-10-15
$8,028
Book Now!
Popular Departure
Victoria Sabrina
2026-10-16 2026-10-29
$7,448
Book Now!
Popular Departure - due to itinerary and time of year, this departure historically sells out quickly. Early booking is encouraged.



Dates & Prices do not include international air travel.

Travel Terms & Conditions

The purchase of any travel services offered by Globus, constitutes a contractual arrangement between you and Globus, and represents your acceptance of the Terms & Conditions. Please ensure that you read carefully and understand the Terms & Conditions prior to booking. These Terms & Conditions cover Deposit & Final Payment information, Air-Inclusive Deposits & Final Payment, Revisions & Revision Fees, Air Arrangements, Participation, Travellers Who Need Special Assistance, Young Travellers, Smoking, Price Policy, Visas and Passports, Hotels & Accommodations, Baggage Allowance, Travel Documents, Not Included in the Land Price, Refunds, Service Inquires After the Vacation, Holidays, Safety, Photos & Pictures, Optional Excursions, and Responsibility.
View full Terms & Conditions


Important Notes

  • The “Starting at” or listed price is based on the lowest price available to book. Price is per person based on twin occupancy and any applicable port charges, non-commissionable taxes and fees and intra-vacation flight are included in the price shown. Any included overnight stay in Canada, applicable GST/HST is also included in the price shown. International airfare, however, is not included. If price is crossed out, the new price shown includes a limited time promotional offer(s). Please review current promotions or deals for additional information.
  • Vacation departures, itineraries and prices are subject to change.
  • A non-refundable, non-transferable deposit of $250 per person per vacation is required for Globus to reserve space for you. View full Terms & Conditions for limited exceptions.
  • Charges not included in the land vacation price: airfare to/from the start/end of your vacation; airline baggage fees including checked and/or excess baggage fees; Federal inspection fees for the Federal Customs and Immigrations; agricultural tax; GST/HST/PST or other per person taxes imposed by government entities; passports; visas and vaccinations; transfers; tips to your Tour or Cruise Director, Local Host, driver, Local Guides, and/or ships' crew; gratuities on ferries, trains, and cruise ships; laundry; telephone; minibar; alcohol, beverages, and food outside of the contracted menu as presented at a hotel or restaurant (these extra items will be billed to you before leaving the hotel, ship, or restaurant); additional excursions and activities not listed as 'included' in the itinerary; porterage at airports or train stations; Travel Insurance premiums; and all other items of a personal nature.

Booking your Vacation with Air

For air departure dates within 331 days, you'll be offered a choice of carriers and flight schedules as well as price points to choose from when selecting your flights. Your schedule will be provided to you at the time of booking (schedules are subject to change by carriers). Globus offers 2 air options: Flex Air and Instant Purchase Air. Flex Air allows flexibility if you want to make changes to your vacation schedule. Instant Purchase Air may offer additional airline options but has more restrictions. Some vacations may only offer one Air type option.

Guaranteed air-inclusive prices: air is only available to passengers travelling from Canada (with some exceptions from the United States, depending on the selected itinerary). An additional $300 per person non-refundable air deposit is required for Flex Air booked in conjunction with any land vacation (i.e. air-inclusive vacation). Air can only be booked by Globus in conjunction with a vacation package. Instant Purchase Air requires air payment in full at time of booking (i.e. air-inclusive vacation) plus a non-refundable service fee of $80 per person. Once booked, Instant Purchase Air is non-refundable, and non-changeable. Once your airfare is confirmed and Globus has received your full air and land deposit, your air-inclusive vacation price is guaranteed.

Air-Inclusive Vacations — Applicable Taxes & Fees

Air inclusive price quotes will include all government-imposed taxes and fees applicable at the time of booking and will be shown as a Total Amount. Additional airline fees for baggage may apply. At the time of booking your air-inclusive vacation online, carrier Websites will be provided to check baggage fees, or you can visit www.iflybags.com for up-to-date baggage pricing/restrictions. The total airfare price, the base airfare price, and the applicable government taxes and fees are broken-out line-by-line and shown while booking online and on the invoice after your travel is booked. For return travel from some countries, international travellers are required to pay entry and/or exit fees at the airport. These fees will be collected by the local government and are payable by the traveller at time of travel. Your confirmation booking information will contain information about these fees.