Overview
Itinerary
Welcome to China!
Hotel rooms are available for a mid-afternoon check-in.
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. (B/L/D)
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.
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. (B/L)
FREE TIME TIPS - EXPLORE MORE: You may wish to attend a performance of the Peking Opera, a traditional form of Chinese theater, or a kung fu show.
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. (B/L)
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.
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. (B/L)
FREE TIME TIPS - EXPLORE MORE: Tonight, consider a performance of the Tang Dynasty dinner show, featuring a colorful assemblage of classical performances.
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 with 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. (B/D)
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.
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 at yours to explore this city more. (B/L)
FREE TIME TIPS - 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 this afternoon. Your GlobusGO mobile app has directions and recommendations as well!
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. (B/L/D)
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.
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. (B/L/D)
FREE TIME TIPS - 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.
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 for a boat excursion down Goddess Stream. Along the way, see picturesque scenery and mysterious hanging wooden coffins. (B/L/D)
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.
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. (B/L)
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. (B/L)
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.
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. (B/D)
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!
So Long, Farewell
Your tour ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
Trip Inclusions
- We've packed everything you need for the perfect tour—from hand-selected hotels and dining to the friendly expertise of Globus Tour Directors and Local Guides, to seamless transportation between destinations and VIP access to the world's most iconic sites!
- 13 Breakfasts, 10 Lunches, 6 Dinners
- 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. - Yangtze River: Victoria Sabrina:
The newest and largest Victoria Cruises ship, the Victoria Sabrina has been built to the highest standards for energy conservation, environmental protection, and the smoothest ride possible, with cabins designed for maximum passenger comfort. - 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.
- Airport transfers at your arrival and departure destination are not included in the price of the tour.
- Itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and specified internal flights. International flights not included.
- Alternate shore and small-boat excursions may be substituted based upon Yangtze River conditions.
Globus includes all must-see sites, with special VIP access that lets you skip to the front of the queue. Read more
Globus has the recipe for a great vacation. Savour the flavours of Asia through its regional cuisine. Read more
Travel with professional Tour Directors and Local Guides who share their vast knowledge of Asia. Read more
Globus' selection of hotels in unforgettable places ensure you stay right in the heart of each destination. Read more
Globus takes care of the components that make your tour unforgettable, so just sit back and relax. Read more
Experience Asia like an insider with Local Favourites that you wouldn't find touring on your own. Read more
Cabins
Download Brochure
Globus Worldwide (2025-26)
Dates & Pricing
USD
Welcome Back Credit
GJ Loyalty Discount
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Inquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Globus. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
