Xian & Shanghai Extension
Discover the ideal combination of centuries-old heritage and cutting-edge modernity on this short tour of Xi’an and Shanghai. Journey aboard high-speed and overnight trains, visit iconic sites including the Terracotta Warriors, stroll through classical gardens and striking contemporary cityscapes, and enjoy a traditional Tang Dynasty show. This itinerary provides a diverse and engaging introduction to China’s history and its dynamic present - perfect for travelers looking for a compact but culturally enriching experience.
Day 1: Beijing - Xian
Departure to Xian. Xian city tour
Take a morning high-speed train from Beijing to Xi’an, enjoying a smooth and scenic ride through the Chinese countryside. On arrival, meet your local guide and transfer to your hotel for check-in. Later, set out on an introductory tour of Xi’an, the historic gateway to the ancient Silk Road. Depending on your arrival time, you may explore landmarks such as the remarkably well-preserved City Wall, the vibrant Muslim Quarter, or the Bell and Drum Towers area. In the evening, attend a Tang Dynasty Music and Dance Performance, featuring elegant costumes, traditional instruments and classical choreography, served alongside a delightful dinner.
Overnight in Xian. Meals: dinner.
Day 2: Xian
Terracotta Army. Departure to Shanghai
After breakfast, set out to visit one of the greatest archaeological finds of the 20th century: the Terracotta Army. Explore the immense excavation halls where thousands of life-sized soldiers, horses and chariots stand guard over the mausoleum of China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. Gain insight into the site’s history, the remarkable craftsmanship involved, and the ongoing restoration efforts that have brought this UNESCO World Heritage treasure to light. Afterwards, return to Xi’an for some free time or optional visits before your driver takes you to the railway station. In the evening, board the overnight sleeper train to Shanghai, a classic travel experience with private berths and a unique opportunity to see China from a different viewpoint.
Overnight on the train. Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Day 3: Shanghai
Arrival in Shanghai. Shanghai city tour
Arrive in Shanghai, the most vibrant and forward-looking city in China. Meet your guide at the station and set off on a sightseeing tour. Begin at the Shanghai Museum, famous for its outstanding collections of ancient bronzes, ceramics, calligraphy and classic Chinese furniture. Continue to People’s Square, the administrative and cultural centre of contemporary Shanghai. Later, enjoy a walk along the Bund, the city’s emblematic riverfront lined with grand colonial-era buildings, offering striking views of Pudong’s modern skyline and its impressive skyscrapers.
Overnight in Shanghai. Meals: lunch, dinner.
Day 4: Shanghai
Explore Shanghai
Begin the day in Old Shanghai with a visit to one of the city’s traditional Chinese gardens, such as the Yu Garden, celebrated for its graceful pavilions, tranquil ponds and classic Ming-style design. Wander through the nearby bazaar district, a lively area filled with craft stalls, tea houses and local shops. Afterwards, shift to the city’s modern side with a visit to the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, one of Shanghai’s most iconic structures, where you can enjoy sweeping views from its observation platforms. Finish your tour with a stroll along Nanjing Road, the city’s most famous commercial avenue, lined with boutiques, cafés and bright neon displays.
Overnight in Shanghai. Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Day 5: Shanghai
Departure
Your tour concludes after breakfast. Your driver will meet you in the hotel lobby and transfer you to Shanghai Airport in time for your flight home or onward travel.
Tour Schedule
Day 1: Beijing - Xian
Departure to Xian. Xian city tour
Take a morning high-speed train from Beijing to Xi’an, enjoying a smooth and scenic ride through the Chinese countryside. On arrival, meet your local guide and transfer to your hotel for check-in. Later, set out on an introductory tour of Xi’an, the historic gateway to the ancient Silk Road. Depending on your arrival time, you may explore landmarks such as the remarkably well-preserved City Wall, the vibrant Muslim Quarter, or the Bell and Drum Towers area. In the evening, attend a Tang Dynasty Music and Dance Performance, featuring elegant costumes, traditional instruments and classical choreography, served alongside a delightful dinner.
Overnight in Xian. Meals: dinner.
Day 2: Xian
Terracotta Army. Departure to Shanghai
After breakfast, set out to visit one of the greatest archaeological finds of the 20th century: the Terracotta Army. Explore the immense excavation halls where thousands of life-sized soldiers, horses and chariots stand guard over the mausoleum of China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. Gain insight into the site’s history, the remarkable craftsmanship involved, and the ongoing restoration efforts that have brought this UNESCO World Heritage treasure to light. Afterwards, return to Xi’an for some free time or optional visits before your driver takes you to the railway station. In the evening, board the overnight sleeper train to Shanghai, a classic travel experience with private berths and a unique opportunity to see China from a different viewpoint.
Overnight on the train. Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Day 3: Shanghai
Arrival in Shanghai. Shanghai city tour
Arrive in Shanghai, the most vibrant and forward-looking city in China. Meet your guide at the station and set off on a sightseeing tour. Begin at the Shanghai Museum, famous for its outstanding collections of ancient bronzes, ceramics, calligraphy and classic Chinese furniture. Continue to People’s Square, the administrative and cultural centre of contemporary Shanghai. Later, enjoy a walk along the Bund, the city’s emblematic riverfront lined with grand colonial-era buildings, offering striking views of Pudong’s modern skyline and its impressive skyscrapers.
Overnight in Shanghai. Meals: lunch, dinner.
Day 4: Shanghai
Explore Shanghai
Begin the day in Old Shanghai with a visit to one of the city’s traditional Chinese gardens, such as the Yu Garden, celebrated for its graceful pavilions, tranquil ponds and classic Ming-style design. Wander through the nearby bazaar district, a lively area filled with craft stalls, tea houses and local shops. Afterwards, shift to the city’s modern side with a visit to the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, one of Shanghai’s most iconic structures, where you can enjoy sweeping views from its observation platforms. Finish your tour with a stroll along Nanjing Road, the city’s most famous commercial avenue, lined with boutiques, cafés and bright neon displays.
Overnight in Shanghai. Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Day 5: Shanghai
Departure
Your tour concludes after breakfast. Your driver will meet you in the hotel lobby and transfer you to Shanghai Airport in time for your flight home or onward travel.
Included
- Accommodation 4*
- English speaking tour guide
- Private car
- Entrance tickets as per itinerary
- Tang Dynasty Singing and Dancing Show
- Train tickets 2nd class: bullet train Beijing - Xian, 4-berth compartments Xian-Shanghai
- Meals as per the program
Not included
- 1st class overnight train upgrade - $145 per person
- Excursions and meals not listed in the itinerary
- Tips