Essentials of Imperial China

Upon arrival, your driver welcomes you at the airport and transfers you to your hotel. Take advantage of this free time to rest or start exploring Beijing at your own pace. Between modern skyscrapers and traditional hutongs, the capital immediately plunges you into the unique atmosphere of imperial and contemporary China. Overnight stay in Beijing.

Start the day at Tiananmen Square, then visit the majestic UNESCO-listed Forbidden City. At midday, share a warm, friendly moment making dumplings with a local family. In the afternoon, explore the hutongs by rickshaw and on foot in the heart of these traditional alleyways. Overnight stay in Beijing.

This morning, set off to discover the Great Wall of China at Badaling, one of its most iconic sections. Walk along its ramparts and admire the mountain views. In the afternoon, visit the Summer Palace, a former imperial retreat surrounded by peaceful gardens and lakes. Overnight stay in Beijing.

In the morning, visit the Temple of Heaven, where emperors prayed for good harvests, then discover the Lama Temple, an important site of Tibetan Buddhism. Continue to the 798 Art Zone, a showcase of contemporary creation. In the evening, board a comfortable overnight train to Xi'an (soft sleeper, 4 people per compartment). Night on board.

Upon arrival, your English-speaking guide takes you to the must-see site of the Terracotta Army, an impressive assembly of life-sized soldiers. In the afternoon, explore the Muslim Quarter and visit the Great Mosque, one of the oldest in China, before strolling through its lively alleys. Overnight stay in Xi'an.

This morning, explore the City Walls of Xi'an, among the best-preserved in the country. Then learn the ancient art of Chinese calligraphy during a dedicated workshop. Early in the afternoon, take the high-speed train to Suzhou. Welcome by your guide and check-in at your hotel. Overnight stay in Suzhou.

Explore the UNESCO-listed Classical Gardens of Suzhou. Visit the Lion Grove Garden and the Humble Administrator's Garden, perfect examples of harmony between nature and architecture. Continue with a stroll along the ancient Pingjiang and Shantang streets, steeped in charm and history. Overnight stay in Suzhou.

Begin the day with a visit to a silk workshop, showcasing traditional Suzhou craftsmanship. En route to Shanghai, stop at the water village of Luzhi. A boat ride along its picturesque canals immerses you in a romantic atmosphere. At the end of the day, check in to your hotel. Overnight stay in Shanghai.

Your day starts on The Bund, offering spectacular views over Pudong. Next, discover Xintiandi in the heart of the former French Concession, then dive into Shanghai's Old Town, amidst lively alleyways and markets. Optionally, ascend the Shanghai Tower for a panoramic view. Overnight stay in Shanghai.

Enjoy a free morning for last-minute discoveries or shopping. After check-out at noon, transfer to the airport for your return flight. This trip to China will have shown you Beijing and its palaces, Xi'an and its Terracotta Army, Suzhou and its gardens, as well as the dynamism of Shanghai.