China Tours & Trips 2020
Filter to find perfect
DEPARTURE DATES
Style
Style
Small Group Tour Small groups are usually defined as between 10 and 24 travelers, often less. If you're the kind of person who enjoys more intimate experiences and personal service this is a good choice. All else being equal you will pay a premium for this style vs a larger group tour.
Private Guided Private tours give you the undivided attention of a guide, and often involve special access to sites and unique experiences not available to larger groups. This is a great option for families, couples, and small friend groups. Expect to pay a bit more for the extra service.
Self Guided Tour A travel company plans your itinerary and arranges all the logistics including lodging, local activities, and transportantion. You have the flexibility of a solo trip while still getting the convience and time savings of expert planning. Get 90% of the benefits of a tour, without a guide.
Group Tour Groups are between 25-60 people, typically ~30-40. Usually there will be many opportunities to split off and enjoy meals and excursions in smaller groups. This is the most economical way to travel, saving up to 40% versus booking the same itinerary yourself.
River Cruise These vessels are smaller than most ocean cruisers, limiting which amenties are available. Passenger counts can vary. One of the biggest advantages of a river cruise is the ability to dock at smaller ports and local villages.
Small Ship Cruise Small ship cruises usually have a max passenger count of 500. The primary purpose of these trips is to spend time off the vessel in local ports (e.g. Mediterranean) or experiencing nature (e.g Galapagos or Antarctica). Cabins can vary from budget to luxury.
Large Ship Cruise This is the "floating city" experience, with multiple ways to enjoy your vacation aboard the ship as much as on land. Ships are multiple floors, provide several activities, culinary, and shopping options. They often make fewer stops and have less time available for shore excursions.
Retreats Similar to a self guided tour but staying in one location only with activities and day outings included as a part of the stay.
Price
Duration Dropdown
Travelers Age
Lodging Level
Lodging Level
Camping Typically involves most nights sleeping in tents (sometimes permanent tented sites) or in rustic cabins and lodges.
Basic - 2 star You'll stay in no-frills, but clean and comfortable, hotels or guesthouses. A 'Basic' trip might also involve a few nights of camping.
Value - 3 star Mid-range budget with accommodations ranging from comfortable lodges, guesthouses, and homestays to three star hotels.
Premium - 4 star 3 to 4 star western hotel equivalents. While not all lodging will be 'luxury' they will be quite comfortable by western standards.
Luxury - 5 star The highest level of comfort and service. All accomodations are in four or five star hotels, boutique lodges or high-end homestays.
Physical Level
Physical Level
Very Easy Minimal walking - motor vehicles available for all major parts of trip.
Easy Normal generally flat walking in urban or suburban environments.
Moderate Walking or physical activity half to most of day - no carrying equipment.
Strenuous All or most of day hiking or biking, hills included.
Extreme Very challenging all day hiking and backpacking carrying significant equipment.
Theme
Attractions & Cities Visited
Activities & Interests
Travel Style
Travel Style
Flexible schedule A lot of free time, with very few inclusions. Ideal for independent and/or low-key travelers and cruisers.
Full schedule For those looking to maximize their sight seeing time. You thrive on a packed day’s schedule from 8 am to 6pm, with some (but limited) free time. Most activities and meals included.
Balanced schedule You will have solid amounts of both free time and structured time with some activities and meals included.
Flight & Transport Inclusions
Solo Friendly
Solo Friendly
Good for Singles Trips that specifically cater to travelers looking to meet other singles.
No Single Supplement Trips where single supplement is usually not required for solo travelers.
Supplier (Company)
Countries Visited
Continents Visited
Rivers & Seas Visitied
Stride Gives Back Stride Gives Back This trip visits a destination impacted by climate change. When you opt in to the Travelstride Gives Back program, we will donate 10% of our net revenue to organizations that help mitigate climate change in these destinations and across the globe. Learn more
Bangkok to Singapore

- Discover a different side of Kuala Lumpur – away from the skyscrapers – on a half-day street food tour through the alleyways, uncovering flavours you need to be a local to know.
- Dive into a nature lover’s paradise at Khao Sok National Park, exploring, hiking, relaxing, and cruising by longtail boat on a limestone cliff-circled lake.
- Taste Thai traditions while learning how to cook authentic dishes with your host, during a village visit in Krabi.
- Encounter the fusion of cultures that gives Penang a unique atmosphere; walk down the backstreets where colonial buildings, tumble-down shops and hawker-filled alleyways meld with cool street art.
- Find a slice of paradise on an included sea kayaking trip through the stunning inlets, caves and hidden lagoons of the Ao Thalane mangrove forests.
- By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, EcoThailand Foundation. Donations help educate school children on important environmental issues like climate change, nature appreciation, conservation and sustainability.
Essence of China with Yangtze River Cruise
- Day 1 (Wed) – Arrive Beijing
- Arrive in Beijing the capital of the People’s Republic of China. You are welcomed at the airport and escorted to the hotel. Day 2 (Thu) – Tiananmen Square
Classic China
- 1 Welcome Reception (WR)
- 9 Breakfast (B)
- 4 Lunch (L)
- 1 Regional Dinner (RD)
- 1 Be My Guest (BMG)
- 1 Farewell Dinner (FD)
- Beijing: Visit and have lunch with a local family in their home in one of Beijing's hutongs and gain a fascinating behind-the-scenes glimpse into their lifestyle.
- Beijing: Indulge in a foot massage at the Foot Reflexology Centre.
- Xi'an: Discover the traditions and techniques of dumpling making, indulging in an opportunity to sample them.
- Xi'an: In Xi'an, you'll get to know the students and teachers at a local primary school, where Trafalgar donates much-needed supplies. Find out how your visit helps support their education in the local community.
- : Explore Beijing, Xi'an and Shanghai
- : Visit Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, the Great Wall of China, the Sacred Way in Beijing, the Terracotta Warriors in Xi'an and the 'Bund' waterfront and Jinmao Tower in Shanghai
- : See local people practicing T'ai Chi in the morning and the Shanghai Acrobats
- : An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
- : Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
- : All porterage and restaurant gratuities
- : All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
- : Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
- : Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
- : Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
- : Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
- : Optional Experiences and free time
- : Flights from Beijing to Xi'an and Xi'an to Shanghai.
North China Getaway

- China is a land of contrasts. From soaking up the bright city lights of Shanghai’s waterfront to exploring the unearthed Terracotta Warriors outside of Xi’an, you’ll get to see it all for yourself!
- Spend two nights at the base of the Great Wall in a locally run guesthouse, and follow in the footsteps of soldiers from hundreds of years ago when you trek the lesser-visited Gubeikou to Jinshanling section.
- This adventure offers plenty of opportunity to get active among the wonders of China. Explore city laneways on walking tours, climb the steps of the Yellow Mountain, trek the Great Wall and cycle countryside lanes in Hongcun.
- Two overnight trains means you'll maximise your time in each destination, get to know your fellow travellers over a game of mahjong, and have a real sense of the vast size of the country.
- We’re all about authentic experiences, so go local every step of the way with an experienced local leader, public transport, and family-run guesthouses and lodgings wherever possible.
China Discovery
- Day 1 (Wed) – Arrive Beijing
- Arrive in Beijing the capital of the People’s Republic of China. You are welcomed at the airport and escorted to the hotel. Day 2 (Thu) – Tiananmen Square
China Family Holiday

- Though not quite visible from space, the Great Wall of China is still massive! Wander this iconic monument and learn about its history
- Travel back in time to the era of China’s powerful Emperors in Beijing while you and your family explore the halls and courtyards of the Forbidden City
- Experience whizzing through the Chinese landscape on futuristic bullet trains
- The kids will enjoy meeting the pandas in Chengdu on a once-in-a-lifetime encounter. Watch these adorable creatures at play, get to know the super-cute red ones, and learn about important conservation work
- Uncover the secrets of Chinese food in a cooking class in Yangshuo
- Wrap up this eye-opening adventure in Hong Kong – a fast-paced explosion for the senses that’s an exciting mix of old and new, East and West
China Highlights

- This is our most popular trip in China and one of the top trips from the entire Intrepid range. The trip may be quick, but it is packed full of experiences that will give you a great insight into China in a short time.
- In addition to the main highlights in the big cities of Beijing, Xi'an and Shanghai, you'll get a glimpse of small-town life in Xitang and a taste of the countryside when we stay near the Great Wall.
- Our small group size allows us to explore destinations on foot together, eat in authentic local restaurants, travel by subway and train, and escape the tourist traps - all under the expert guidance of a passionate local leader.
- Spend the night in a charming, family-run guesthouse near the Great Wall. Learn how to make dumplings for dinner and see this iconic structure without the masses.
- Stay overnight in Xitang, a water town just outside of Shanghai. Imagine a way of life lost long ago as you explore the narrow alleys and canals after the daytrippers go home.
- Like everything it does, China’s ancient history is on an epic scale. No matter how many guide books you have read, nothing truly prepares you for the grandeur and immensity of sights like the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square and the Terracotta Army (or thousands of local tourists at the Forbidden City!).
China Experience

- This is one of our most comprehensive trips in China, covering huge distances and taking in key destinations from north to south with plenty of variety in experiences and sights along the way
- Zip through the country from north to south on its efficient high-speed rail network.
- Take through the iconic scenery of the Yangzi River as you meander through the dramatic Three Gorges on a three-day cruise
- No matter how many guide books you have read, nothing truly prepares you for the grandeur and immensity of historic sights like the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Leshan Big Buddha and the Terracotta Army. However, the country's modern man-made sights refuse to be outdone, and you can see the modern equivalence of those ancient feats in the skyline of Hong Kong and the Yangzi River's Three Gorges Hydroelectric dam
- Get up close to giant pandas in Chengdu and learn about the preservation work required for this ancient species.
- Beyond adorable, endangered giant pandas, Chengdu is one of our favourite cities in China. Find out why our travellers end up falling in love with this emerging travel hotspot here: intrepidtravel.com/adventures/chengdu-china-travel-guide
- Escape the cities to discover China's natural beauty. Trek up the misty forests of Emei Shan for a stay in a monastery, waking to the sound of drums and prayers in the morning Buddhist ritual.
- Cycle through the Chinese countryside with backdrops that resemble paintings – the picturesque limestone karsts of Yangshuo, for example, grace the walls of conference rooms and Chinese embassy's around the world
Explore China

- Explore the Longmen Grottoes and wonder at the thousands of Buddha statues carved directly from the limestone cliffs, including the 17-metre-high Vairocana.
- Take a spectacular walk along the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall and see towers that date back to the Ming dynasty about 600 years ago.
- Fall in love with Chinese food during a vegetarian feast at a Buddhist temple, a home-cooked lunch with a family in rural Xi’an, a Beijing (Peking) duck dinner, and more.
- Check out the mind-blowing Terracotta Army, then head to a local’s house for lunch and some insight into how life has changed since farmers discovered the vast mausoleum.
- Immerse yourself in Tibetan culture with a two-day stay in Xiahe, an autonomous Tibetan region with a deeply ingrained Buddhist tradition centred around the legendary Labrang Monastery, without having to apply for a permit for Tibet.
China Real Food Adventure

- Get your hands floury and gain a unique insight into one of China's most revered culinary arts – noodle-making – at a local couple’s apartment.
- Dine on classic Chinese dishes like kung pao chicken and dumplings and learn how to make them during cooking classes with local chefs.
- Meet producers and locals at spice markets, a family-owned tea plantation in Leshan, and along the Muslim Quarter tasting trail in the heart of Xi’an.
- Explore many of China’s most famous sites such as the Terracotta Warriors, Tiananmen Square and Great Wall and see Giant Pandas at a breeding and research centre.
- Embrace the tastes of China's most important food regions – from Peking duck in Beijing, to the Muslim-influenced food of Xi'an, the spicy flavours of Sichuan hotpot and dumplings in Shanghai.
Majestic China & Yangtze River 14 Days 12 Nights
- Visit the Great Wall, which is one of the man-built architectures
- Visit to the world-famous and historic Tiananmen Square
- Explore Yichang,the cultural and economic center of the western Hubei Province
- Explore the Three Gorges Dam Site, located in the middle of the Xiling Gorge
- Enjoy a memorable excursion to cruise along the serenely beautiful gorges of the Yangtze
- Visit the extraordinary Shibaozhai pagoda
- Enjoy the tour to witness the famous "Terra Cotta Warriors"
- Visit the Shanghai Museum and view the exhibits of ancient Chinese art.
Real China

- Eat your way through China from Beijing duck to Sichuan pepper, and challenge yourself with authentic local delicacies like silk worms, spicy rabbit head and beer fish.
- Walk the walk on the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, watching the stones snake as far as the eye can see. If you’d like, you can even toboggan back down!
- Join your locally-based guide to see highlights like the Terracotta Warriors in Xi'an, be wowed by the Temple Street night markets in Hong Kong and chill out sipping tea with residents in People’s Park in Chengdu.
- Watch rolly polly baby pandas playing, munching bamboo and generally doing their cute ol' thing at the Panda Breeding Centre.
- Take a scenic cycling tour through farms and villages in Yangshuo’s karst-dotted countryside. Every turn in the road brings you to another postcard-perfect spot before riding to Moon Hill and taking a short hike that leads to panoramic views of the area.
China: Great Wall Hike, Bike & Kung Fu

- Take a longer hike along unrestored sections of the Great Wall away from the tourist hordes, admiring the views of winding mountain ranges and endless horizons.
- Discover local life near the Great Wall when staying at a family-run local guesthouse, sitting down to a delicious home-cooked meal each evening.
- Find your zen while learning kung fu from a local master. Learn the basic principles and common misconceptions of this martial art while being guided through moves and practices.
- Explore the Forbidden City and then cycle around Beijing on a bike tour that takes you through parks, temples and winding alleyways.
- Learn the ways of Chinese daily life and culture, stopping by for home-cooked meals with families during your adventure. There’s no better way to get under the skin of a place than speaking to those who call it home.
China Sampler
- With only 16 guests or fewer, you’ll have a better vantage and more time at the Terra Cotta Army.
- Feel the ancient rhythms of Xian as you explore the Muslim market with an engaging, savvy resident.
- Delve into the traditional ways of China when you meet tea farmers at their home near Hangzhou.
- An intimate stroll along historic Pingjiang Road is the best way to appreciate the splendor of Suzhou’s centuries-old Song Dynasty architecture.
Imperial Jewels of China

- Explore cosmopolitan Shanghai, imperial treasures like the Great Wall and Forbidden City in Beijing, and cruise the wildly beautiful Three Gorges region of the legendary Yangtze.
- Visit the Great wall of China and explore its winding pathways and marvel
- Visit Shibaozhai Temple, a 12-story pavilion built in 1650 along the Yangtze.
- See Old Shanghai and travel along the elegant Bund, stopping to admire some of its historic buildings and city views.
In order to see Travelstride Select deals you must sign in. We’ve negotiated with many of the world’s best travel companies to save you money! Get the best experiences, save up to $700 per person, and be a hero to your travel companions!
We respect your privacy and take great care to protect your information. By joining you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.
With FREE membership you:
- Save up to $700 per person!*
- Access private deals and offers
- See personalized trip recommendations
- Save favorite trips
Top China Attractions & Experiences
Top China Experiences
Standing face-to-face with thousands of life-sized, Terra Cotta Warrior statues excavated from the vast necropolis of China’s First Emperor in Xi’an
Taking a long walking tour of the Great Wall of China
Sailing down the Li River from Guilin through an incredible landscape of sheer cliffs and peaks, resembling a dreamy ink-brushed scroll
Reaching two fabled oases on the Silk Road: Urumqi (China’s Timbuktu) and Kashgar, site of one of Asia’s largest outdoor markets and camel bazaars
Experiencing the uniqueness of Beijing
Circumnavigating the entire city wall of Xi’an by bicycle, then exploring the city within
Cruising through the remains of the Three Gorges on the Yangtze River and visiting the huge hydroelectric dam that partially submerged them
Visit Apricot Valley, one of the most beautiful forests in the world
Top China Attractions
12,295 China Tour Reviews - Summary 88% Recommend
All China tours, river cruises, and adventure trips. Find the best guided trips and expert planned vacation and holiday packages in China. Average rating of 4.3 for all China trips.
98 trips from 162 tour companies with 12,295 reviews
More China Guided Tours
Now you can find, compare, and share trips from 1,000+ operators and expert trip planners. Unlike most travel agencies and websites that only show options from large companies that pay big commissions, we show you all the options we can gather, and we’re adding more all the time. We want you to have all the available information to find your perfect trip, no matter who it’s with. Whether you’re looking for a short weekend getaway or a multi-country expedition, you can find it on Travelstride. About us.




...to foster a community connecting travelers to wonderful places, people, & experiences. Learn more.
Got itClick to send a new magic link to your inbox.
Welcome back!
By signing in, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use
- Bookmark trips you like
- Share with your travel companions
- Track price changes
- Access private discounts on trips you save
TripFinder is a member-only feature. Dont worry, its free!
With a membership you:
- Save up to $700 per person!*
- Access private deals and offers
- See personalized trip recommendations
- Save favorite trips
Just use the email address and password provided in the email we sent.
With your free membership you:
- Save up to $700 per person!*
- Access private deals and offers
- See personalized trip recommendations
- Save favorite trips
By signing in, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use
Your travel guide dog
I’m on it!