Chine Express
From the Forbidden City to the Terracotta Warriors, millennial Chine in 10 days
Duration
10 days
From
€1,087/pers.
Ideal seasons
Mar, Apr, May, Sep, Oct, Nov
Style
Guided tour
Comfort
classique
Travelers
Couple, Solo, With friends, senior
The spirit of travel
Today, Chine seems less and less distant.. and for good reason, you can fly Paris/Beijing in just 10 hours. Chine, this unique world, multicultural, at the crossroads of mountain peoples' migrations and caravan routes, continues however to preserve little-known treasures far from the main tourist routes. By crossing the Yunnan, a province with a thousand faces, we will meet ethnicities such as the Hani, the Dai, the Yi and the Bulang, each carrying ancestral traditions still very much alive. In short, this journey will take us to discover the heart of the Middle Empire. We will set out to discover its sublime landscapes and we will discover the most beautiful terraced rice fields in the world, carved into mountainsides by generations of farmers. From colorful markets to wooden villages perched on hills, each step reveals a different face of this region of a thousand contrasts. A journey to the ends of Chine and of a very confidential character, designed for those seeking authenticity rather than beaten paths.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Imperial Beijing
Day visit with your English-speaking guide using public transport (bus, metro or taxi).
In the morning, discover the Temple of Heaven, a masterpiece of imperial architecture. Continue to Tian An Men, Beijing's most famous square and a historic and political symbol of the capital. Then visit the Forbidden City, former residence of Chinese emperors and centre of imperial power. This vast complex is the largest and best-preserved traditional architectural ensemble in Chine.
On the way out, climb the Coal Hill, from where you enjoy a panoramic view of the city.
On the Great Wall of Chine
Meet with your driver (without guide) for an excursion to the Great Wall of Chine, Mutianyu section, with cable car included. This restored portion is part of the 6700 km of fortifications built to protect the Middle Kingdom from invasions from the North. It is inscribed on the World Heritage List.
On the return to Beijing, stop to visit the Summer Palace. Then pass by the Olympic stadium for a photo stop outside the Water Cube and the Bird's Nest.
Train to Pingyao
In the morning, transfer to Beijing North train station with your driver (without guide) to take your high-speed train to Pingyao (ref. 10:38–14:18). Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by your driver and transferred directly to your hotel.
In the afternoon, free exploration on foot of Pingyao's old town: visit the ancient Confucius Temple, the former Rishengchang Bank, the old government building and the city walls (entrance fee included).
Arrival in Xi'an
In the morning, transfer to the train station with your driver (without a guide) to take your high-speed train to Xi'an (ref. 09h56–13h11). Upon arrival, welcome by your new English-speaking guide and your driver, then direct transfer to your hotel.
In the afternoon, walk with your guide around the Bell Tower and Drum Tower, then stroll through the Muslim Quarter of Xi'an with a visit to the Great Mosque, founded in the 8th century.
Free time and meals.
Tip: located near the city walls, your hotel allows you easy access on foot. It is also possible to rent bicycles on site for a ride on the walls (approximately 45 yuan per person for 2 hours).
Visit of the Terracotta Army
Departure with your English-speaking guide and driver heading to the famous Terracotta Army site, designed to protect the tomb of China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huangdi (approximately 1 hour drive). Impressive discovery of over 6000 life-size clay warriors and horses, lined up in battle formation.
At the exit of the site, possibility to have lunch in a tea house, with tasting of different varieties of tea and introduction to the tea ceremony.
Return to Xi'an, with a visit to the city's second major attraction: the Great Goose Pagoda. This historic building dating from the 7th century was built under the Tang dynasty in honor of Empress Wende. Standing 64 meters high, the pagoda rises above the city, offering us a panoramic view from its summit. At the end of the visit, we stroll through its gardens.
Then we will visit the municipal museum and attend a beautiful calligraphy demonstration.
Option : "Dumpling Banquet" dinner followed by Tang dynasty dances show at the Grand Tang Theatre – 340 yuan per person (with guide and transfers, to be paid on site).
Departure for Shanghai
Guided tour of Shanghai: between traditions, historic districts and skyscrapers
Meet at 9am at your hotel for a day discovering Shanghai with your English-speaking guide, using public transport (walking, metro, bus or ferry).
The morning begins with a stroll through Fuxing Park, to observe the morning activities of Shanghainese residents: tai chi, dances and songs in a festive atmosphere. Then, head to the former French Concession with a walk along the pedestrian street of Xintiandi, one of the city's most elegant neighborhoods.
Continue your visit in the old town with Yu Garden, then a stroll along the Bund, famous for its river views and historic early 20th-century buildings. Next, cross the river to reach the financial district, where you can admire the skyscrapers and enjoy a 360° panoramic view from Shanghai's tallest tower (optional at 180 yuan per person, payable on site).
End of day, return to your hotel.
Free day in Shanghai
Free day and meals to enjoy the city at your own pace.
Safe travels and see you soon!
Free day and meals before your transfer to the airport, arranged by your driver (without guide), to catch your return flight.
Your room must be vacated by 12:00 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 flights arriving and departing from Chine
- The dinner + show option in Xi'an: 340 yuan per person
- 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 in 2nd class: Beijing-Pingyao-Xi'an-Shanghai
- Hotels in the mentioned room with breakfast
- English-speaking guides on days 2, 5, 6, 8
- All transfers by private vehicle (except free days)
- Entrance fees for the visits and activities mentioned (excluding the option 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
