The Essentials of Chine
From the Great Wall to karst peaks, a journey to the heart of the Middle Kingdom and its millennia-old dynasties.
Duration
14 days
From
€1,999/pers.
Ideal seasons
Mar, Apr, May, Sep, Oct, Nov
Style
Guided tour
Comfort
classique
Travelers
Couple, Family, Solo, senior, groupe
The spirit of travel
A multi-faceted empire!
A country in full development, Chine is increasingly opening up to the world by welcoming hundreds of thousands of travelers each year. Tourists and locals alike flock to discover its exceptional historical heritage, shaped by millennia of history and ancient traditions. From city to city, let's travel through the ages by visiting the flagship sites that have made the Empire of the Middle renowned internationally. Between imperial dynasties and rapid modernity, each region reveals a different face of this country of a thousand contrasts, where futuristic skyscrapers stand side by side with ancestral temples and breathtaking karst landscapes.
From the walls of the Forbidden City to the terraced rice fields of Guangxi, passing through the preserved ethnic villages of Guizhou and Hunan, Chine reveals itself to be much richer and more diverse than one often imagines.
The "Essentials of Chine" circuit can be adapted to your preferences, your travel budget and your availability.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Visit of the Forbidden City
Visit of the Forbidden City in Beijing, one of the country's emblems, overlooking the most visited square in the world, Tiananmen Square. A large complex composed of different palaces and apartments, these buildings were constructed during the Ming era in the 15th century. 72 hectares will welcome you for an unparalleled visit at the heart of the power of ancient dynasties. On site we will see numerous imperial treasures, notably Chinese works of art such as paintings, bronzes, ceramics and other exceptional creations.
After the visit, climb the Coal Hill (Jingshan) to admire a spectacular 360° panoramic view over Beijing. End the day with a stroll through the typical alleyways of the old Hutong district, true testimony to traditional Beijing life.
On the Great Wall of Chine
Pékin → Grande Muraille À Mutianyu
In the morning, we hit the road to visit what is surely the most symbolic monument of China, the Great Wall! We head to the Mutianyu section. Less crowded than the Badaling site, the Mutianyu stretch with its 22 watchtowers is the longest to have been entirely restored. It is also one of the easiest to walk through, and you will be able to stroll along the fortifications that wind through the superb landscapes of Northern China's mountains, and thus discover the architectural jewel of medieval China.
We take the cable car for the ascent.
Grande Muraille À Mutianyu → Ming Tombs
On the way back to Beijing, stop to visit the magnificent Summer Palace, former imperial residence renowned for its gardens and its vast lake.
Last photo stop outside the Olympic Stadium to admire two architectural icons: the Water Cube and the Bird's Nest.
From Beijing to Xi'an
In the morning, your driver (without guide) will take you to Beijing West train station to board your high-speed train, scheduled for 9:55 AM (ref: 9:55 AM–2:05 PM).
Upon arrival, a driver will be waiting for you on the platform to transfer you directly to your hotel, without guide.
Rest of the day free to relax or explore the surroundings at your own pace.
Tip: the hotel is located in immediate proximity to the famous ramparts of Xi'an. Take the opportunity to enjoy a pleasant walk or rent a bike on site (approximately 45 yuan per person for 2 hours) to discover this imposing fortified wall that surrounds the old town.
Visit of the Terracotta Army
Departure with your English-speaking guide and driver heading towards the famous Terracotta Army site, built to protect the tomb of China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huangdi (approximately 1 hour drive). On site, impressive discovery of 6000 life-size clay warriors and horses, lined up in battle formation.
At the site exit, lunch available at a tea house, with tasting of different types of tea and introduction to the tea ceremony.
Return to the city in the afternoon and visit to the Muslim Quarter with the Grand Mosque.
Option: Dumpling Banquet dinner followed by Tang dynasty dance show at the Grand Tang Theatre – 340 yuan or 45 euros per person (with guide and transfers, to be paid on site).
Chengdu and free discovery of the city center
In the morning, transfer to Xi'an railway station with your driver (no guide) to take the high-speed train to Chengdu (ref. 10:55–14:37). Upon arrival, you will be greeted by your driver at the station and transferred to your hotel.
Free time to explore Chengdu at your own pace. Meals are at your own expense. 3.5*.
Tips: just a 10-minute walk from your hotel, you can visit Kuanzhai Alley, a lively historic neighborhood. People's Park is also accessible by metro from the hotel.
Giant Pandas of Chengdu & Leshan Grand Buddha
In the morning, meet your English-speaking guide and driver at 8:30 AM at your hotel. Depart for a visit to the Giant Panda Breeding and Research Base, one of the must-see sites in Chengdu.
In the afternoon, travel to Leshan to discover the famous Grand Buddha, an impressive statue carved into the cliff.
Terraced Rice Fields
In the morning, transfer to the train station with your driver (without guide), then departure by high-speed train to Guilin (ref. 08h16–13h16).
Upon arrival, welcome by your English-speaking guide and driver.
Drive towards the famous Longji terraced rice fields, located north of Guilin, around the Zhuang village of Ping'an. You will arrive at the foot of the village, which you will reach by local shuttle and then on foot (approximately 30 minutes of walking). Pack a small bag with your belongings for the night and leave your main luggage in the vehicle.
The Ping'an village, inhabited by the Zhuang ethnic group, nestles in the heart of a spectacular landscape of terraced rice fields, among the most impressive in the region. Climb to the top to enjoy an exceptional panoramic viewpoint.
Li River Cruise & Yangshuo Karst Landscapes
This morning, meet your driver and English-speaking guide, then head towards the karst peaks region south of Guilin, in the Yangshuo region, renowned for its karst peak landscapes (approximately 3 hours of driving).
Along the way, a short bamboo raft ride on one of the most beautiful stretches of the Li River, between Yangdi and Nine Horses Hill, passing through fishing villages, rice paddies and bamboo groves (approximately 1 hour 5 minutes of cruising). This landscape inspired the illustration on the Chinese 20 RMB banknote.
In the afternoon, visit the stunning viewpoint of the Xianggong Hill, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Climb to the summit for a panoramic view over the Li River.
Option : in the evening, possibility to attend the sound and light show "Liu San Jie" (340 yuan per person, ordinary seating with guide and transport, payable on site). This show is based on a very popular Chinese musical comedy, directed by filmmaker Zhang Yimou, and takes place on the Li River in a natural setting surrounded by karst mountains.
Free day in Yangshuo
Free day and meals in Yangshuo.
Our tips: rent a bike (available at the hotel or easily found on the street) to explore Yangshuo's landscapes and discover local rural life. Also take advantage of the hotel's swimming pool. In the evening, stroll freely along the famous West Street, lively and typical.
Shanghai Visit
Meet at 9am at your hotel for a day discovering Shanghai with your English-speaking guide, on foot, by metro, bus or ferry.
The day begins with a walk through Fuxing Park to observe the morning activities of Shanghai residents: tai chi, dances and singing in a lively atmosphere. You continue with a visit to the former French Concession and a stroll along the pedestrian street of Xintiandi, one of the most upscale neighborhoods in the city.
Then, discover the Yu Garden in the old city, before a pleasant walk along the Bund, famous for its view over the river and its early 20th century buildings. Cross the river towards the financial district to admire the skyscrapers. Option to climb Shanghai's tallest tower for a 360° panoramic view (option at 180 yuan/person, to be paid on site).
End of day, return to your hotel.
End of stay in Shanghai
Free day and meals before your transfer to the airport provided by your driver (without guide) for your return flight. The room must be vacated by 12:00 noon at the latest.
Price per person
Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Not included
- International incoming and outgoing flights to and from Chine
- The dinner + show option in Xi'an: 340 yuan per person
- The show in Yangshuo (340 yuan per person, to be paid on site)
- Meals and drinks to be enjoyed according to your preferences and your guide's recommendations
- Chinese visa fees
- Tips for Guides and Drivers
- Travel insurance, complementary activities, personal expenses
Included
- 3 train journeys: Beijing-Xi'an-Chengdu-Guilin by high-speed train (2nd class)
- Guilin-Shanghai by plane in economy class with taxes included
- Hotels in the mentioned room with breakfast
- Guides mentioned (D2, D5, D7, D8, D9 and D12)
- All transfers in private vehicle (except free days)
- Entrance fees for the visits and activities mentioned (excluding optional activities and supplements)
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
- Plus de 60 jours avant le départ : 40 % du prix total (acompte retenu)
- Entre 60 et 30 jours avant le départ : 50 % du prix total
- Moins de 30 jours avant le départ : 100 % du prix total
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
The information below applies to travelers who are nationals of the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland, and Canada traveling to China for tourism purposes. Since entry rules may change, we recommend verifying information with official authorities before your departure.
Passport
To enter China, your passport must be valid for at least six months after your entry date and contain at least two blank pages for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn, or altered pages).
Tourist stay without visa
China has extended its unilateral visa exemption program to numerous countries. Nationals of most European Economic Area countries, as well as Switzerland, benefit from a visa exemption for tourist stays. Canadian nationals are also eligible for this exemption following the recent expansion of the program.
Currently, this exemption allows a stay of up to 15 days upon entry to the territory, for transit or tourism purposes. The exact duration and conditions may vary depending on nationality; it is advisable to verify the provisions applicable to your passport before departure.
Authorities may also request:
an outbound ticket (return or onward flight),
proof of accommodation booking for the duration of your stay,
proof of sufficient financial resources.
Tourist visa (type L)
For travelers not eligible for visa exemption, or wishing to stay for a longer period, you must obtain a type L tourist visa from the competent Chinese embassy or consulate before departure.
The application file generally includes:
the completed visa application form,
a recent identity photograph meeting requirements,
the valid original passport,
proof of flight and accommodation booking,
any document evidencing sufficient financial resources.
Processing times may vary; it is recommended to submit your application several weeks before departure.
Entry registration card
Upon arrival in Chinese territory, foreign travelers must complete an entry registration card provided on board the aircraft or available at border posts. This document must be presented to immigration services when passing through passport control.
Furthermore, any foreigner staying in China must register with local authorities within 24 hours of arrival:
at a hotel, registration is completed automatically by the establishment,
if staying with a private individual, the traveler must visit the local police station to complete this registration.
Health and vaccinations
No vaccines are mandatory to enter China for travelers from the EEA, Switzerland, or Canada. However, certain vaccinations are recommended depending on the regions visited and length of stay:
hepatitis A and B,
typhoid,
Japanese encephalitis (for stays in rural areas),
rabies (for extended or adventure stays).
It is advisable to consult a doctor or international vaccination center at least four to six weeks before departure.
Traveling with children
Minors must hold their own valid passport covering the duration of the stay.
In certain European countries, when a minor travels without one of their parents, an exit authorization may be required according to the regulations of their country of residence.
Other nationalities
Entry conditions may vary depending on nationality. Affected travelers should inquire at the Chinese embassy or consulate of their country of residence.
To participate in our trips, it is strongly recommended to have evacuation assistance and foreign medical expenses coverage.
Your local agency encourages you to review the specific policy developed with our partner CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To subscribe to insurance, learn about coverage and rates, follow the link below.
CAP EXPLORER: The complete insurance solution designed for a worry-free trip!
Choose the plan that suits you best:
Explorer'Multirisque
Explorer'Annulation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer'Complémentaire Carte Bancaire
Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend subscribing to one of these plans.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these formulas, the detailed policy outlining all coverage and claims procedures is available on the insurer's website.
Your local agency will be aware of it, but only the participant is responsible for complying with the claims declaration procedures. The participant must therefore keep this policy with them throughout their trip.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
Visitors benefit from visa exemption for tourist stays, provided they hold a valid passport for at least 6 months after entry. Beyond exemption periods, a standard tourist visa can be obtained from the consulate. Conditions change regularly: check with your country's consular authorities for the rules applicable to your nationality before departure.
Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.
You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.
For a tailor-made quality trip, budget between 160 and 260 euros per day and per person, including accommodation, meals, internal transport and English-speaking guide. International flights (700-1100 euros return) are additional. Chinese high-speed trains are an experience in their own right.
Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.
Absolutely. We adapt each itinerary to suit our travelers' profiles. For families, we prioritize relaxed pacing, family-friendly accommodations, engaging and educational activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our local English-speaking guides know how to captivate children with age-appropriate anecdotes.
It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, budget and dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You refine every detail together until it's perfect. You confirm and travel with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your trip.
In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.
Payment is generally made in two installments.
Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) coverage that protects 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on the ground throughout your stay.
Let's talk about your adventure — Imperial North
Explorer of a Plural China, based in Yunnan
China impresses with its vastness, but it's often the details that leave the deepest mark: a forgotten village, an encounter, a market, a light over the mountains of Yunnan.
— Paul
