Grand Tour of China & Yangtze Cruise 

Day Three: Great Wall of China & Summer Palace

This morning we visit a must when in China - the Great Wall. Surrounded by picturesque countryside, the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall that we visit is renowned both domestically and internationally and is praised as an outstanding section of the Great Wall. This afternoon, we head to the Summer Palace where the gardens bloom around the water and trees shade the narrow paths. This is an impressive display of man-made beauty built around Kunming Lake - an artificial body of water that required an army of over 10,000 laborers to complete.

• Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Day Four: Beijing's Hutongs & train to Xi'an

We begin today walking Beijing's intricate alleyways, known asHutongs. Several households nestled tightly with courtyards are a cherished way of life and a legacy for many generations. As well as an authentic way of life, the Hutongs offer a a great array of bustling street food stalls. We then transfer to the train station and take the high speed train to Xi'an.

• Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Day Five: Terracotta Warrior Museum

Today we visit the Terracotta Warrior Museum - a collection of terracotta sculptures depicting the armies of Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China. They were discovered by accident in 1974 by a farmer who was digging a well. The human sized figures were modelled after actual soldiers of the Qin Army in detail. Consisting of 8,000 life-size soldiers, 100 chariots and 600 horses, none of which are identical, the army was built to guard the remains of Emperor Qin Shihuang, housed in a massive mausoleum complex. We will also pay a visit to Big Wild Goose Pagoda -  one of the oldest surviving structures of its kind in China which has been brilliantly preserved.

• Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Day Six: Xi’an – Chengdu

This morning we board a high speed train to Chengdu to spend a leisurely afternoon in People's Park. Boasting a lake, gardens, teahouses, and monuments, it’s the best place to observe the lives of locals. We head to Narrow and Wide Alley to witness traditional courtyards.

• Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Day Seven: Dujiangyan Panda Base

Today we witness China's universally adored mascot - the Panda. We head to Dujiangyan Panda Base for an up-close look at the Panda's playful antics and after lunch, learn about vital conservation efforts aimed at safeguarding their future. Once here, we head to the pier to embark on the vessel that is waiting for us for a leisurely river cruise downstream to Yichang.

• Breakfast & Lunch Included

Day Eight: Yangtze River

This morning we wake up on board the ship and continue to cruise down the mighty Yangtze River. We set sail through a journey of time to explore the banks that some of the earliest Chinese cultures existed. The river has been essential for China's agriculture, transportation and development of the country's economy. At a different pace to the tour so far, we can relax on board and take in the dramatic scenery, and admire the history and heritage of the Yangtze. We stop off at Fengdu Mount Shuanggui Scenic Region for an excursion, for a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural significance. Known for its serene landscapes and rich history, this destination provides a captivating experience for all who visit.

• Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Day Nine: Yangtze River

We continue sailing today, passing through the extraordinary Three Gorges of the Yangtze River, where natural grandeur meets historical significance and each gorge offers something unique. This stretch of the Yangtze River, known for its dramatic scenery and cultural treasures, offers an unforgettable experience for all who traverse its waters. A highlight of today will be the Shennv Stream, which is nestled in the awe-inspiring Wu Gorge and one of the most captivating tributaries of the Yangtze River. Renowned for its serene beauty and mystical ambiance, this hidden gem offers a unique and intimate encounter with nature and local culture.

• Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Included

Day Ten: Yangtze River

Today we visit an engineering masterpiece - the Three Gorges Dam. Straddling the mighty Yangtze River in Hubei Province, this is a true testament to human ingenuity and ambition. As the world's largest hydroelectric power station, this colossal structure has transformed the landscape and lives of millions. The Three Gorges Dam stretches 2,335 meters (7,660 feet) across the Yangtze River and stands 185 meters (607 feet) high. Constructed with 27.2 million cubic meters (35.6 million cubic yards) of concrete, it’s an awe-inspiring example of modern engineering.

Day Eleven: Shanghai

Today we enjoy a full day exploring Shanghai. Our first stop will be the impressive Yu Garden. Located in the old city centre, the gardens are a wonderful example of classical design. Constructed 400 years ago in the Ming Dynasty, the colossal city of Shanghai has sprung up around this older relative but left it to grow old peacefully, providing a fascinating contrast between old and new. Shanghai's iconic skyline located on the river bank, named the Bund, boasts modern architecture, where as across the river, there is another contrast of oriental buildings.

Day Twelve: Free day in Shanghai

Today we can relax and explore the city of Shanghai at our own pace. The largest city in China, Shanghai's charm is a blend of eastern and western cultures.

• Breakfast & Dinner Included

Day Thirteen: Flight home

Today we enjoy a final breakfast together before we transfer back to the airport for our flight home.

• Breakfast Included