Highlights of the Yangtze

Combining the major historic sights of Beijing and the former capital Xian, with the beautiful, dramatic scenery of the Yangtze River. Note: due to the ongoing work of the world’s largest dam project, much of the scenery along the Yangtze will disappear forever over the next few years. So don’t delay your visit!

Full Itinerary

Day 1 - Heathrow/Beijing
Non-stop overnight flight on Air China.

Day 2 - Beijing
Upon arrival at Beijing airport, you will be transferred to the Novotel Xinqiao for the next 3 nights. After check-in, you will have some time at your own leisure, before a welcome dinner in a local restaurant. (D)

Day 3 - Beijing
After breakfast, depart for a full day sightseeing, including a walk through Tiananmen Square, one of the largest squares in the world. You will then spend the rest of the morning in the Forbidden City where the Ming and Qing Dynasty emperors and empresses lived and ruled from 1420 to 1924. After lunch, you will visit the Temple of Heaven, where the Emperors worshipped for a good harvest. Return to your hotel for a short rest before departing for dinner and the Peking Opera. (B,L,D)

Day 4 - Beijing
After breakfast, another full day of sightseeing including the Great Wall at Badaling. In the morning you will walk along the beautiful Sacred Way guarded by stone statues of the emperors’ officers and animals, dating from the 15th century. After lunch, drive to the Great Wall at Badaling. Approximately two hours will be spent at the Great Wall, along which you will be able to walk and climb or travel by cable car (optional, price not included). Peking duck dinner in a local restaurant. (B,L,D)

Day 5 - Beijing / Yichang
Morning visit to the Summer Palace. Afternoon flight to Yichang (ticketed locally). Board Yangtze cruise boat after dinner. (B,L,D)

Day 6-9 - Yangtze River Cruise
A relaxing 4 night journey along China’s longest waterway. A number of stops will be made en route to visit historical sites and picturesque villages. (B,L,D)

Day 10 - Chongqing / Xian
Disembark the boat in Chongqing. Fly to Xian (ticketed locally) and transfer to the Royal Xian Hotel for 2 nights. (B,L,D)

Day 11 - Xian
After breakfast in the hotel drive to the Terracotta Warrior Museum. The visit usually begins with a presentation film explaining the period of history during which the Terracotta Warriors were constructed. A visit of about two hours will be spent studying the thousands of Terracotta Warriors and their chariots. After lunch, visit the Wild Goose Pagoda and the City Wall. Dinner followed by the Tang Dynasty show. (B,L,D)

Day 12 - Xian /Beijing
Morning at leisure. Afternoon flight to Beijing (ticketed locally). Transfer to the Novotel Xinqiao for overnight stay. (B,L,D)

Day 13 - Beijing / Heathrow
Air China flight to Heathrow, arriving same day.

Supplements: Single supplements available on request

What's included
• An English speaking local guide for tour element only (including transfers). Yangtze cruise ship staff will look after your onboard requirements and excursions • All entrance fees as appropriate • Air-conditioned transportation • Twin or double bed & private bathroom (Cruise boat accommodation is compact but facilities. and service are of a high standard) • Meals included as detailed: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L), Dinner (D), No Meals (RO). Breakfast is usually a Western-style buffet in your hotel

Please Note
Local conditions can and do change, sometimes at short notice and it is possible that we may be advised to change the programme or runnings of any excursions or tour, including accommodation, sometimes without prior notification. Alternative but similar hotels may be used at certain times of the year. Local domestic airport taxes are not included and are payable locally (approx £10).