China Tours & Trips 2020
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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
Delhi to Kathmandu

- Bigger and more beautiful than any photo can capture, the Taj Mahal is a triumph of Mughal architecture that promises to inspire even the most seasoned travellers.
- Learn to whip up some central Indian staples during a cooking demonstration at home with friends in Orchha; the perfect opportunity to experience an authentic slice of Indian family life.
- See pilgrims praying and bathing along the ghats of the sacred Ganges River during an unforgettable sunrise cruise in Varanasi – one of India's holiest cities.
- Stay in a lodge and wake to the calls of the jungle in Chitwan National Park, then embark on a safari in search of rhino, deer, monkeys, and a wide array of birdlife.
- Spend a memorable night at a Madi Valley Homestay – an Intrepid project that provides sustainable incomes and encourages local communities to conserve the wilderness and wildlife around them.
Flavors of China & the Yangtze
- Beijing : Sightseeing with a Local Guide including headsets; visit Tian’anmen Square, the Forbidden City, Great Wall, and Temple of Heaven; hutong tour by rickshaw; Peking Duck welcome dinner
- Xi’an : Sightseeing with a Local Guide including headsets; visit the Terracotta Warriors and Dayan Pagoda; noodle-making demonstration; “Tang Dynasty” dinner show; calligrapy class
- Chengdu : Sightseeing with a Local Guide; visit the Giant Panda Research Base
- Chengdu–chongqing : Travel by bullet train
- Yangtze river : Three-night cruise through the Three Gorges including a walking tour in Shibaozhai, a boat excursion on Goddess Stream, and a tour of the Three Gorges dam site
- Hangzhou : Sightseeing with a Local Guide; visit the Lingyin Temple and Fei Lai Feng; walking tour along Hefang Street; cruise on West Lake
- Shanghai : Sightseeing with a Local Guide including headsets; visit Yu Yuan Gardens, a silk factory, and the Shanghai Museum; xiaolongbao lunch; walking tour of the French Concession; farewell dinner
- This tour through China has everything you could want in a China vacation: visits to ancient sites, thrilling experiences, opportunities to learn about the culture, authentic cuisine, and more
- Start in Beijing, end in Shanghai, and overnight along the way in Xi'an, Chengdu, Hangzhou, and aboard a 3-night Yangtze River cruise
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.
Flavors of China & the Yangtze with Hong Kong
- Beijing : Sightseeing with a Local Guide including headsets; visit Tian’anmen Square, the Forbidden City, Great Wall, and Temple of Heaven; hutong tour by rickshaw; Peking Duck welcome dinner
- Xi’an : Sightseeing with a Local Guide including headsets; visit the Terracotta Warriors and Dayan Pagoda; noodle-making demonstration; “Tang Dynasty” dinner show; calligrapy class
- Chengdu : Sightseeing with a Local Guide; visit the Giant Panda Research Base
- Chengdu–chongqing : Travel by bullet train
- Yangtze river : Three-night cruise through the Three Gorges including a walking tour in Shibaozhai, a boat excursion on Goddess Stream, and a tour of the Three Gorges dam site
- Hangzhou : Sightseeing with a Local Guide; visit the Lingyin Temple and Fei Lai Feng; walking tour along Hefang Street; cruise on West Lake
- Shanghai : Sightseeing with a Local Guide including headsets; visit Yu Yuan Gardens, a silk factory, and the Shanghai Museum; xiaolongbao lunch; walking tour of the French Concession; farewell dinner
- Hong kong: Sightseeing with a Local Guide; take a cable-car up Victoria Peak; visit the dried seafood market; walking tour of the Mongkok neighborhood; travel on the Star Ferry & Double Decker Tram; Host service during your stay
- This tour through China has everything you could want in a China vacation: visits to ancient sites, thrilling experiences, opportunities to learn about the culture, authentic cuisine, and more
- Start in Beijing, end in Hong Kong, and overnight along the way in Xi'an, Chengdu, Hangzhou, Shanghai, and aboard a 3-night Yangtze River cruise
China Adventure
- Beijing: This crispy Peking Duck will crown your Beijing experience, and ruin all the Chinese eateries back home – simultaneously.
- Beijing: Time for some serious bucket list ticking! Visit the Sacred Way and the Great Wall (Mutianyu) to finally see what the fuss is about.
- Beijing: See Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City and 798 Art Precinct for an arty take on this spellbinding city.
- Beijing: Ride through the narrow streets of Beijing like a native, then stop off for lunch with a local family.
- Beijing: A rainbow feast of Insta-ops! With ornate gardens, colourful dragon boats and Oriental art around every corner.
- Xi'an: Time for a bit of ‘adulting’ as we marvel at Ancient Chinese art and try to create our own calligraphy sample.
- Xi'an: Of all the weird and wonderful sights in China, this epic work of art is still a fave. Don’t forget your camera!
- Xi'an: This ancient city wall was built by the Ming Dynasty to keep troublemakers out. Nowadays they’ll let anyone in. Luckily for us...
- Shanghai: Grab your Contiki crew and explore this hot mess of a city. See the God Temple and the glittering skyline with the Shanghai Tower.
- Shanghai: Ready for the smoothest outing of your entire life? This one’s to dye for. If it's not too materialistic, that is…
- Chengdu: Learn more about these furry cuties in an ethical environment.
Essence of China with Yangtze River Cruise
- Day 1 - Arrive Bali
- Arrive this afternoon on the island paradise of Bali. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Day 2 - Bali
- Day at leisure to relax and pursue independent
Classic China
- 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
Annapurna Circuit Trek

- Ascend to the clouds and reach an altitude of 5416 metres as you cross the Thorung La Pass along the Annapurna Circuit. Testing your mind and body, this is one hell of an accomplishment.
- Uncover a different side of the Himalayas, trekking past terraced rice fields, oak and rhododendron forests, there’s a diverse array of nature that awaits in the Annapurna region.
- Learn about life in Nepalese mountain communities, get to know locals and meet other trekkers while you stay in teahouses in the small communities along the way.
- Discover Nepal’s compact capital in Kathmandu. With a limited amount of time spent here to discover its bazaars and temples, why not extend your stay beforehand to get a real feel of Nepalese culture.
- Spend time in the peaceful haven of Pokhara after your trek has finished. Relax with your small group on the banks of Phewa Lake and take in the mountainous surrounds that you have conquered!
China Discovery
- Day 1 - Arrive Bali
- Arrive this afternoon on the island paradise of Bali. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Day 2 - Bali
- Day at leisure to relax and pursue independent
Best of China with Yangtze Cruise
- 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.
- Chengdu: Learn about Sichuan cuisine at a cooking class in Chengdu and taste some of your creations.
- Great Wall of China: Visit the Great Wall of China to marvel at the historical and physical prominence of this renowned landmark.
- Beijing: Gain insights into this fascinating city during a sightseeing tour of Beijing. See the Great Hall of the People and Tiananmen Square before stepping through the south gate of the Forbidden City.
- Beijing: Hop on a traditional rickshaw and weave through Beijing's ancient alleyways.
- Fortifications of Xian: Visit the tomb of Emperor Qin Shi Huang and see the terracotta warriors.
- Xi'an: Visit a jade factory to admire the "imperial gem" and marvel at the mineral's historic value.
- Chengdu: During your orientation of Chengdu, visit People’s Park and experience the energy of Jinli Old Street.
- Enjoy an introductory orientation of Chongqing prior to boarding your river cruise.
- Visit the cliff-top temple Shibaozhai.
- Fengdu Ghost City: See the mystical Ghost City of Fengdu and visit its shrines, temples and monasteries dedicated to the afterlife.
- Yangtze: Cruise on a small motorboat through the magical landscape of the Goddess Stream.
- Shanghai: Join your Local Specialist for a sightseeing tour of Shanghai. See the famous Bund waterfront and Yu Garden.
- Shanghai: Enjoy a performance by the world-famous Shanghai Acrobatic Troupe.
- Shanghai: Visit Jin Mao Tower and take in panoramic views of Shanghai from 88 floors up.
- Shanghai: Join a Local Specialist for a walking tour through the Shanghai French Concession and Xin Tian Di district.
- 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.
- Chengdu: At the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, learn how your visit contributes to their conservation efforts to rescue and protect the endangered giant panda of which fewer than 2,000 remain.
- Explore Beijing, Xi'an, Chengdu and Shanghai
- Visit the Great Wall of China, Tiananmen Square and Forbidden City in Beijing, the Terracotta Warriors in Xi'an, the Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding in Chengdu, and the 'Bund' waterfront, Jade Buddha Temple and Jinmao Tower in Shanghai
- See local people practicing T'ai Chi in the morning, the Three Gorges Dam and the Shanghai Acrobats
- Cruise the Yangtze River and the Three Gorges
Essential China

- Beijing's Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square and Jingshan Park Giant pandas at Chengdu's Breeding & Research Centre
- One of the best-preserved parts of the Great Wall of China at Mutianyu
- The famous Terracotta Warriors of Emperor Qin, near Xi'an
- Shanghai's Bund waterfront area and French Concession
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.
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 wok 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
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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
7,480 China Tour Reviews - Summary 85% 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 4.2 for all China trips.
116 trips from 162 tour companies with 7,480 reviews
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