14-Day Small-Group Tour to Beijing, Xi’an, Chengdu, Yangtze, Chongqing, Shanghai

Traveling through China in just two weeks might sound ambitious, but this 14-day small-group tour manages to pack in some of the most iconic sights and authentic experiences the country has to offer. From the history-laden streets of Beijing to the modern hub of Shanghai, and from the ancient Terracotta Warriors to a scenic cruise on the Yangtze River, this itinerary promises a comprehensive adventure. It’s well-suited for travelers who want a thoughtfully curated trip with knowledgeable guides, comfortable accommodations, and seamless logistics.

What we especially appreciate about this tour is the mix of cultural landmarks and local lifestyle — like exploring Beijing’s Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square, tasting authentic Peking Duck, and cycling on the Xi’an City Wall. Plus, the inclusion of a Yangtze River cruise with visits to Three Gorges Dam and Fengdu Ghost City offers a unique perspective on China’s natural and engineering marvels.

That said, one thing to consider is that the tour is quite full, with many sites packed into each day. For those who prefer a slower pace or more free time, this might feel a bit busy. However, for travelers eager to see a wide cross-section of China’s highlights with expert guidance, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s perfect for first-timers or seasoned travelers wanting a deep dive into China’s cultural and scenic riches, all wrapped into a well-organized package.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Covers major cities, UNESCO sites, and a Yangtze River cruise in just 14 days.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Candy receive praise for their responsiveness and insight.
• Balanced Mix of Sights: Combines historical landmarks, modern sights, local neighborhoods, and scenic cruises.
• Value for Money: Includes hotel stays, most meals, entrance fees, and internal flights—offering a lot of value for the price.
• Authentic Experiences: From trying Peking Duck in Beijing to practicing Tai Chi in Xi’an, the tour emphasizes genuine cultural engagement.
• Small Group Size: Max 18 travelers, providing a more intimate atmosphere and personalized attention.

Starting Off in Beijing

Your journey launches in the Chinese capital, where you’ll be greeted at Beijing Airport by your guide and driver. The convenience of airport pickup means your adventure begins smoothly, without the stress of navigating unfamiliar transport. After settling into your hotel, the rest of the day is free — perfect for resting or a gentle walk around your hotel neighborhood.

Exploring Beijing’s Historic Heart

On Day 2, the tour hits the ground running with visits to Tiananmen Square, the world’s largest urban square, and the Forbidden City, where you’ll wander through grand halls once reserved for emperors. The tour includes an authentic Peking Duck lunch at a reputable restaurant, with a value of CNY150, and a chance to appreciate the city’s culinary depths.

In the afternoon, the Temple of Heaven offers a glimpse into ancient Chinese architecture and the imperial rituals performed to ensure good harvests. An extra highlight is the evening acrobatic show at Red Theater, which travelers have described as a “wonderful” experience that rounds out the day.

Climbing the Great Wall

Day 3 is a highlight for many: a trip to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall. Standing on this iconic structure, with its sweeping views and preserved battlements, is a bucket-list moment. The cable car ride makes it accessible and the red wine toast on the wall is a memorable touch.

On the way back, a quick stop at the Bird’s Nest Olympic Stadium adds a splash of modern Beijing’s architectural flair. The day concludes with a rickshaw Hutong tour, allowing you to experience Beijing’s old alleyways and perhaps visit a local family — a perspective many travelers find charming and authentic.

Ancient and Modern in Xi’an

After exploring Beijing’s imperial sites, we fly to Xi’an, China’s ancient capital, known for the Terracotta Warriors. The visit to the Museum of Qin Terra-cotta Warriors is undeniably the tour’s star attraction. The vast pits and detailed warrior figures make you appreciate the scale and craftsmanship involved in this underground army. A unique aspect is the chance to visit the home of the original discoverer and even create a mini clay warrior with assistance — a hands-on highlight.

The Big Wild Goose Pagoda and walking through the Muslim Quarter enable you to explore Xi’an’s blend of history and local life. The Great Mosque adds an Islamic touch to the ancient cityscape, and the Small Wild Goose Pagoda completes the day’s historical immersion.

Chengdu and Pandas

Next, the tour takes you to Chengdu, famous for its adorable pandas. The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is a major highlight, and reviewers have praised the opportunity to see pandas feeding and playing. The guide’s tips enhance this experience, making it both fun and educational.

In the afternoon, the Jinsha Site Museum offers a peek into ancient Chinese civilization, and the lively Kuanzhai Alley allows for local street-food sampling and soaking up Chengdu’s relaxed vibe. For a taste of local culture, the tour includes time at Renmin Park, where lounging with tea and observing locals practice Tai Chi adds a genuine, unforced flavor.

From Chongqing to the Yangtze River

A high-speed train whisks you from Chengdu to Chongqing, where you visit the bustling Jiefangbei Square and then board a luxurious Yangtze River cruise. The cruise features visits to Fengdu Ghost City and scenic excursions through the Three Gorges — Wu, Qutang, and Xiling. Reviews highlight the cruise’s well-organized nature and the onboard activities that enrich the experience.

Highlights of the Cruise

The ship’s excursions include a stop at the Three Gorges Dam, an engineering marvel that’s as impressive as it is informative. The cruise also allows for relaxing days on deck, enjoying the river’s tranquility and scenery, with opportunities to watch cultural performances and partake in the onboard atmosphere.

Ending in Shanghai

Disembarking in Yichang, you take a bullet train to Shanghai, where the modern skyline and historic neighborhoods blend seamlessly. Highlights include the Shanghai Museum with its impressive art collection, the classical charm of Yu Garden, and a scenic cruise along the Huangpu River. The included farewell lunch and the chance to stroll along the Bund make for a fitting end to this whirlwind tour.

Throughout the trip, transportation is smooth and well-coordinated, including flights, high-speed trains, and private transfers. The tour maintains a comfortable pace with most days structured around key sites, yet it still allows some downtime — especially in Chengdu and Shanghai.

Accommodation quality is generally good, with hotels located conveniently in city centers, ensuring easy access to sights and local life. The Yangtze River cruise earns praise for its comfort and service, adding a touch of luxury to the adventure.

Priced at $3,179 per person, the tour offers excellent value considering the scope: seven internal flights/train rides, 13 nights of hotel stays, most meals, entrance fees, and guided experiences are included. Reviewers have called it “good value for money,” especially given the inclusion of unique activities like the clay warrior making and private guides.

What sets this tour apart is the emphasis on authentic experiences and culture. From practicing Tai Chi in Xi’an to tasting local street food in the Muslim Quarter, each stop offers a chance to connect with China’s diverse traditions. The guides, such as Candy, are frequently praised for their responsiveness and deep knowledge, making the tour educational as well as fun.

Reviewers mention the value of having expert guides who can answer questions and provide context that books alone can’t deliver. The focus on authentic sites and experiences, rather than commercial stops, ensures a genuine look at Chinese culture.

This 14-day tour is a well-rounded package for anyone eager to see China’s most famous landmarks and lesser-known cultural gems, all while enjoying the convenience of a guided group. It balances major sights with local flavor, making it ideal for first-time visitors or those wanting a rundown.

While the itinerary is packed, the inclusion of transportation, entrance fees, and most meals simplifies planning and creates a stress-free experience. Plus, the small group size means you’ll benefit from more personalized attention, especially from guides who genuinely care about sharing their knowledge.

If you value cultural authenticity, stunning scenery, and seamless logistics, this tour will suit you well. It’s especially appealing for travelers seeking a rich, multi-faceted journey through China that covers history, modernity, nature, and local life all in one go.

Is airport pickup included?
Yes, you are greeted at Beijing Airport upon arrival, making your start smooth and hassle-free.

Are flights between cities included?
The tour includes a one-way economy flight from Beijing to Xi’an and a high-speed train from Yichang to Shanghai. Other internal flights or trains are also covered.

What is the group size?
Most groups are limited to 18 travelers, providing a more intimate experience and better interaction with guides.

Are meals included?
Most breakfasts and some lunches and dinners are included, including a special Peking Duck lunch and farewell Chinese meal. Some meals are at local restaurants chosen by guides.

What sites are covered?
Major highlights include the Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Great Wall, Terracotta Warriors, Giant Pandas, Yangtze River cruise, and Shanghai’s top attractions.

Is there free time during the tour?
While the itinerary is busy, there are some opportunities for relaxation or independent exploration, especially in Chengdu and Shanghai.

Can I customize the trip?
The tour is fixed, but guides often provide local tips to enhance your experience. However, it’s best suited for travelers who want a structured schedule.

What should I expect in terms of accommodation?
Hotels are centrally located and of good quality, offering comfort after busy days of sightseeing.

This detailed review captures what makes this 14-day China tour a compelling choice for travelers eager for a broad, authentic adventure without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. It combines iconic sights, cultural activities, and scenic cruises into one seamless journey — ideal for those who want a complete, well-organized overview of China’s wonders.