6-Day Private China Highlights Tour from Nanjing: Beijing, Xi’an and Guilin

Experience the Best of China in Six Days with a Private Guided Tour

Taking a six-day journey through China from Nanjing offers a fantastic way to see some of the country’s most famous sights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. This private tour from Unique Beijing Tours combines the cultural marvels of Beijing and Xi’an with the breathtaking scenery of Guilin, all in a well-paced, carefully curated itinerary. Travel in comfort with private air-conditioned transport, enjoy expert guides at each stop, and have the flexibility to customize your experience — it’s a perfect mix of structured sightseeing and personal discovery.

What we love most about this experience is how smoothly everything is organized: flights, transfers, entrance fees, and even lunch are included, making it a hassle-free way to focus on the sights and stories. Plus, the guides are knowledgeable and eager to share insights, which really brings each location to life. One thing to consider is that this tour is fast-paced — if you prefer a more leisurely, in-depth exploration, you might find it a bit rushed, especially with multiple destinations in just six days. That said, it’s ideal for travelers eager to tick off major highlights in a short timeframe, or those with limited travel days who want a rundown of China’s top sights.

This tour suits adventurous travelers, first-timers wanting a structured yet authentic experience, and anyone who appreciates a good balance of culture, scenic beauty, and logistical convenience. If you’re ready to see China’s most iconic landmarks while traveling comfortably and efficiently, this tour might just be what you need.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Convenience: Flights, entrance fees, cruise tickets, and meals are covered, ensuring a smooth experience.
• Expert Local Guides: Guides offer insightful commentary and help you understand the significance of each site.
• Scenic Highlights: From the Great Wall and Forbidden City to the Li River and Moon Hill, the scenery is truly unforgettable.
• Authentic Experiences: Engage with local culture through markets, food, and traditional sites like the Muslim Quarter and Shichahai.
• Comfortable Transportation: Private air-conditioned vehicles and flights make travel between cities quick and comfortable.
• Flexible Endings: You can choose to conclude your trip in Guilin or return to Nanjing or Beijing, based on your plans.

A Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Days 1 & 2: Beijing’s Ancient Wonders and Modern Marvels

Starting in Beijing, the tour kicks off with a flight from Nanjing, which means you’ll spend less time in transit and more time exploring. The first day is packed with visits to major landmarks like the Temple of Heaven, where early morning locals do Tai Chi and dancing — a lively, authentic scene that sets the tone. Walking through the echoes of history around the Echo Wall and learning about imperial rituals at Yuanqiutan makes the experience feel tangible.

Next, the Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City are the highlights of the afternoon. The sprawling palace complex, covering 250 acres, is a visual feast of courtyards, halls, and gardens. You’ll get to walk through the Hall of Great Harmony and other key buildings, hearing stories about what life was like for emperors, courtiers, and officials. The guide’s commentary helps clarify the complex history behind these majestic structures, making the visit more meaningful.

In the late afternoon, a stroll around Shichahai Scenic Resort and Nanluoguxiang offers a relaxed way to absorb local life and browse shops and hutongs. This mix of imperial grandeur and local neighborhoods gives the tour a balanced view of Beijing’s contrasting facets.

Day 2 is equally action-packed, heading to the Mutianyu Great Wall, where you can choose between cable car rides and hiking. The Wall’s panoramic views are breath-taking, especially as you stand atop ancient battlements. The day continues with a visit to the Niaochao National Stadium near the Olympic Park—an impressive reminder of China’s modern achievements—and a trip to the Summer Palace, with its beautiful gardens and historic architecture, topped off with a walk along the world’s longest corridor.

Days 3 & 4: The Historical and Cultural Heart of Xi’an

Flying to Xi’an, you’re stepping into an ancient city famed for its terracotta warriors and historic walls. The Xi’an City Wall offers fantastic views of the city and a chance to ride bikes around the ramparts — a fun activity particularly appreciated by travelers looking to stretch their legs after days of sightseeing.

The Big Wild Goose Pagoda is next, a serene spot that holds sacred Buddhist relics. The guide’s stories about Monk Xuanzang bring the pagoda’s significance to life, providing context for its importance in Chinese Buddhism.

A visit to the Muslim Quarter introduces you to Xi’an’s diverse heritage. The lively market is perfect for sampling snacks and browsing stalls, with the guide ready to help with negotiations. It’s a lively, flavorful scene that showcases local culture beyond the typical tourist spots.

The highlight of day 4 is the Terracotta Warriors site, called the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” It’s easy to be awestruck by the thousands of life-sized soldiers, horses, and chariots buried for over two millennia. The museum’s three pits are well-preserved, and guides provide detailed stories about the discovery and significance of this archaeological marvel.

Days 5 & 6: Guilin’s Natural Beauty and Scenic Cruises

Flying to Guilin, you’re greeted by some of China’s most iconic landscapes. The Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo is undoubtedly the trip’s centerpiece. Expect to see towering karst peaks, lush farmland, and traditional villages, all set against crystal-clear water. The guide’s stories about the fairy-tale-like formations are especially engaging, and many travelers find themselves snapping endless photos of the scenery.

In Yangshuo, exploring West Street and the Ten-Mile Gallery adds a rural, artistic flavor. The Butterfly Spring Park and Moon Hill offer peaceful natural beauty and photo opportunities, making them relaxing yet visually stunning stops. The visit to the Big Banyan Tree adds a touch of local legend and romance, with the story of Liusanjie adding depth to the scene.

The final day in Guilin combines natural and historical attractions. Elephant Trunk Hill is a landmark for good reason — its shape resembles a giant elephant drinking from the river, and climbing to the top rewards you with sweeping views. Nearby, the Fubo Hill and Reed Flute Cave reveal Guilin’s natural artistry, with stalactites, carvings, and caves lit up in vibrant colors. The Seven Star Park and Putuo Mountain round out the trip with cultural and scenic richness.

Why Choose This Tour?

This 6-day private tour offers excellent value for travelers who want to see China’s major highlights without the hassle of booking individual flights, taxis, or entrance tickets. The inclusion of flights, cruise tickets, entrance fees, meals, and private guides means you can focus on enjoying each site rather than stressing over logistics.

The guided aspect ensures you get authentic stories and historical context, making the experience richer and more engaging. The private vehicle adds comfort and flexibility, allowing the guides to tailor the pace and focus on your interests. The option to end in Guilin or return to Nanjing or Beijing makes it adaptable to your broader travel plans.

However, keep in mind that the itinerary is quite full, and some travelers might find the days a little rushed, especially when trying to absorb all the information and take photos. If you prefer a slower, more in-depth experience at each site, this tour may feel a bit hectic. But for those wanting a rundown with maximum efficiency, it hits the mark.

The Value of This Tour

At roughly $2,186 per person, the price might seem high at first glance. But when you break it down, it includes nearly everything — flights, entrance fees, meals, accommodations, and guided tours — removing the typical hidden costs of independent travel. For first-time visitors or those short on time, this package delivers a lot of value, especially considering the quality of guides and the comfort of private transport.

Staying in four-star accommodations, if you opt for the upgrade, further enhances the experience with reliable comfort and amenities after long days of sightseeing. The tour’s flexibility to add or skip certain attractions, plus the personalized guidance, makes it adaptable even for travelers with specific interests or mobility considerations.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a well-rounded introduction to China’s highlights in a short period — those who enjoy guided sightseeing, scenic landscapes, and historical sites in a comfortable setting. It suits first-timers eager to tick off major landmarks with knowledgeable guides to deepen understanding.

Those with limited time will appreciate how the schedule maximizes each day without overly rushing. It’s also perfect for travelers craving a mix of culture, history, and nature, with enough flexibility to customize the end point.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or deeper exploration of specific sites, you might find this tour a bit fast-paced. It’s more about getting the big picture than in-depth immersion into local lifestyles or hidden corners.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but the pace is quite energetic, so those with mobility issues or young children may need to consider their stamina.

Are flights included in the price?
Yes, the tour covers economy class plane tickets between Nanjing, Beijing, Xi’an, and Guilin.

Can I end the tour in a city other than Guilin?
Absolutely. The tour offers the option to finish in Guilin or return to Nanjing or Beijing based on your plans.

What’s the typical group size?
This is a private tour, meaning only your group participates, providing personalized attention and flexibility.

Are meals provided?
Yes, breakfast is included daily, and five lunches are part of the package, often at local restaurants offering authentic cuisine.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, all transportation is via private air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a smooth ride between sites and cities.

How long are the sightseeing stops?
Most site visits range from about 30 minutes to 2 hours, giving enough time to see the highlights without feeling rushed.

What should I pack?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera are essentials. Some sites involve walking uphill or uneven terrain, so plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This 6-day private China highlights tour packs a lot into a short span, giving you a broad yet detailed look at some of China’s most remarkable sights. From the imperial grandeur of Beijing to the ancient walls of Xi’an, and the stunning karst landscapes of Guilin, each stop is thoughtfully included with expert guides and convenient transport.

Travelers who value efficiency, comfort, and authentic insights will find this tour offers excellent value, especially with all logistics handled for you. It’s a great choice for first-timers eager to see the essentials or seasoned travelers looking for a streamlined way to tick China’s top destinations off their list.

If you’re ready for a whirlwind adventure filled with history, scenery, and local flavor, this tour could be the perfect introduction to China’s many treasures.

References

• Viator 6-Day Private China Highlights Tour