History & Urban Splendor
14-Day Private China Itinerary
A carefully curated introduction to China’s cultural heart, from imperial capitals and ancient cities to one of the world’s most extraordinary modern metropolises.
Your Journey at a Glance
Everything you need to know at a glance. Detailed pricing and practical travel information are provided further down the page.
Journey Overview
- Duration: 14 Days • 13 Nights
- Travel Style: History • Culture • Urban Discovery
- Ideal For: Travellers seeking China’s rich history, ancient cities and cultural heritage beyond the classic route.
- Best Time: April–June • September–October
- Route: Shanghai (2) → Beijing (3) → Datong (1) → Pingyao (2) → Xi’an (2) → Chongqing & departure (3)
Route Map
Journey Information
- From €4,650 per person (based on two guests sharing. Lower per-person pricing available for larger private groups)
- Private departures available year-round
- Small group departures also available
- Fully customizable itinerary
- Flexible international arrival & departure airports
Days 1–2 | Shanghai
China’s Cosmopolitan Gateway
Your journey begins in Shanghai, a city where colonial architecture, futuristic skylines and lively neighbourhoods reveal the many faces of modern China.
Stroll along the iconic Bund, explore the tree-lined avenues of the French Concession, wander through the classical gardens and traditional architecture of Yu Garden, and experience the contrast between historic temples such as Jing’an Temple and the city’s contemporary districts, including vibrant Xintiandi.
As evening falls, admire Shanghai’s spectacular skyline from the Huangpu River on a cruise, offering a memorable perspective on one of the world’s most dynamic cities.
Depending on your interests, the second day can also include a privately arranged excursion to nearby Suzhou, Hangzhou or the ancient water town of Zhujiajiao before continuing to Beijing.
Days 3–4 | Beijing
The Heart of Imperial China
Beijing offers an extraordinary introduction to China’s imperial heritage, where grand ceremonial spaces, centuries-old palaces and vibrant neighbourhoods tell the story of the country’s past and present.
Explore Tiananmen Square and the magnificent Forbidden City before continuing to the Temple of Heaven, one of the finest masterpieces of Ming architecture.
Beyond its historic landmarks, Beijing also reveals a dynamic contemporary identity. Discover the renowned 798 Art District, where former industrial buildings have been transformed into galleries, studios and creative spaces.
Conclude the day by wandering the atmospheric hutongs, where narrow alleyways, traditional courtyard houses and lively local restaurants offer an authentic glimpse into everyday life in the Chinese capital.
Day 5 | The Great Wall
China’s Greatest Monument
No journey through China would be complete without experiencing the Great Wall, one of the world’s most remarkable engineering achievements and an enduring symbol of the country’s history.
Rather than following a fixed route, we carefully select the section that best matches your interests, fitness level and the season of your visit.
Whether you prefer the beautifully restored scenery of Mutianyu, the sweeping ridgelines of Jinshanling or the historic significance of Badaling, each offers a unique perspective on this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Depending on your preferences, we can also combine multiple sections into a single day for a more varied experience.
For travelers seeking a greater challenge, quieter and more adventurous stretches of the Wall can also be incorporated into the journey, offering a rewarding experience away from the visitor areas.
Days 6–8 | Discovering Shanxi
Alongside China’s iconic highlights, these carefully selected destinations offer a deeper perspective on the country’s history, introducing remarkable places that many first-time visitors never have the opportunity to experience.
Datong
Buddhist Heritage Beyond the Classic Route
Datong rewards those willing to venture beyond the traditional itinerary. Visit the UNESCO-listed Yungang Grottoes before exploring the city’s beautifully restored historic centre, where ancient walls, temples and lively streets reveal one of northern China’s most rewarding cultural discoveries.
Pingyao
China’s Best-Preserved Ancient City
Step back in time as you wander through Pingyao’s remarkably preserved streets, traditional courtyard residences and centuries-old city walls. Once one of China’s most important financial centres, the city remains one of the country’s finest windows into imperial urban life.
Mianshan
A Hidden Mountain Sanctuary
Just an hour from Pingyao lies Mianshan, a spectacular mountain landscape of cliffside temples, ancient monasteries and forested valleys. Rarely included on first-time itineraries, it offers a peaceful contrast to China’s historic cities and one of Shanxi Province’s best-kept secrets.
Days 9–10 | Xi’an
The Cradle of Chinese Civilization
As the eastern terminus of the Silk Road and capital of numerous dynasties, Xi’an occupies a unique place in Chinese history, where centuries of cultural exchange helped shape one of the world’s greatest civilizations.
Discover the world-famous Terracotta Army before exploring the impressive Ancient City Walls, among the best-preserved in China and a lasting symbol of the city’s imperial past.
Stroll through the vibrant Muslim Quarter, where bustling markets and local delicacies reflect Xi’an’s rich multicultural heritage, before visiting the enchanting Great Mosque, a remarkable blend of traditional Chinese architecture and Islamic design.
As evening falls, the beautifully illuminated streets of the old city reveal yet another side of Xi’an, creating a memorable atmosphere that perfectly concludes your exploration of one of China’s most fascinating historic capitals.
Days 11–14 | Chongqing & Departure
China’s Most Extraordinary Megacity
Your journey concludes in Chongqing, where dramatic hillsides, soaring skyscrapers and the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers create one of China’s most spectacular urban landscapes.
Explore the city’s iconic viewpoints, vibrant neighbourhoods and celebrated food culture, discovering the energy and dynamism that have made Chongqing one of the country’s most captivating metropolises.
Beyond its futuristic skyline, Chongqing also reveals a lesser-known historical dimension through its extensive network of wartime tunnels and bunkers, offering a fascinating insight into the city’s role as China’s wartime capital during the Second Sino-Japanese War.
On the final day, return to Shanghai to connect with your international flight home, bringing to a close a carefully curated introduction to China’s remarkable history, culture and urban transformation.
Ready to Make It Your Own?
Every Ink Voyages itinerary is designed as a starting point rather than a fixed tour. Whether you’d like to spend more time in a particular destination, include additional experiences or adjust the pace of your journey, we’ll tailor every aspect to suit your interests and travel style.
Journey Overview
What’s Included & Pricing
Every Ink Voyages journey is individually tailored to your preferences. The information below is therefore intended as a general guide. The final inclusions and pricing will be confirmed in your personalised Travel Services Contract, prepared specifically for your itinerary.
Starting from
€4,650 per person
Based on two guests sharing. Lower per-person pricing available for larger private groups. Final pricing may vary depending on your travel dates and preferences.
Transportation
The journey combines China’s efficient high-speed rail network, domestic flights and private transfers to create a seamless travel experience between destinations.
- Private airport transfers upon arrival and departure
- Private transportation for all sightseeing and transfers throughout your journey
- Domestic high-speed train tickets (Standard Class)
- Domestic flights (Economy Class), including applicable taxes
Guiding & Experiences
- English-speaking guides and dedicated local support throughout your journey.
- All entrance fees and experiences included in your final itinerary
Accommodation
- Carefully selected accommodation chosen for its comfort, quality and value. Premium accommodation upgrades are available upon request.
- Daily breakfast
Travel Support
- Assistance with setting up the essential Chinese mobile apps before your journey
- Dedicated support from the Ink Voyages team before and throughout your trip, ensuring help is always just a message away.
What’s Not Included
As every Ink Voyages journey is tailored to your preferences, the items below should be considered a general guide. Any exclusions applicable to your itinerary will be clearly specified in your personalized Travel Services Contract.
- Chinese tourist visa (where required for your nationality – see our Tips & Tools | Visa Guidelines)
- International flights and applicable taxes
- Fuel costs and road tolls (for self-drive itineraries only)
- Optional excursions or activities not included in your final itinerary
- Meals and beverages not specifically included
- Personal expenses
- Travel and medical insurance (see our Tips & Tools | Travel Insurance)
- Gratuities for guides and drivers (entirely at your discretion)
- Any products or services not expressly listed under “What’s Included”
