Private Tour: 3-Day Xi’an and Beijing from Shanghai with Airfare

Traveling through China in just a few days sounds ambitious — and this 3-day private tour from Shanghai aims to do just that, offering a carefully curated peek into some of the country’s most iconic sights. It combines air travel with guided tours in Xi’an and Beijing, giving visitors a taste of ancient history, breathtaking landscapes, and local flavors.

One of the standout features? The personalized attention of a private guide, making each experience more meaningful and tailored to your interests. We also appreciate the inclusion of flights, which saves you the hassle of booking and coordinating transport — especially when covering two major cities in such a tight timeframe.

That said, a trip this fast-paced means long days and tight schedules, so it’s not ideal if you prefer a slower, more relaxed pace. Travelers looking for immersive, deep-dive exploration might find this tour more about ticking boxes than delving into each location. Still, if you’re after a comprehensive snapshot of China’s highlights, this tour hits many of the top spots.

It’s perfect for those who want to maximize their limited time, enjoy the comfort of private transport, and prefer guided insights over solo wandering. It could also suit first-time visitors eager to get an authentic feel for China’s historical marvels combined with its modern charm.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Flights: The tour takes care of your flights between Shanghai, Xi’an, and Beijing, streamlining your travel logistics.
• Private Guides & Transportation: Personal guides and private air-conditioned vehicles make for a smooth, personalized experience.
• Authentic Cultural Experiences: From Xi’an’s Muslim Quarter to Beijing’s Hutongs and hotpot dinners, you get a taste of real local life.
• Iconic Sights Covered: The Terracotta Army, Great Wall at Mutianyu, Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and Temple of Heaven.
• Deluxe Accommodation: Comfortable, 5-star hotel stays in both cities add value and comfort.
• Good Value for Money: At $1,700 per person, the package includes flights, entrance fees, meals, and hotel stays — a hassle-free package for those short on time.

This tour is designed for travelers who want efficiency without sacrificing depth. Covering three days, it packs in some of China’s most famous landmarks, all with the ease of private transfers and guided commentary.

The tour begins early, with pickup from your Shanghai hotel and a flight to Xi’an, home of the Terracotta Warriors. The inclusion of airfare is a big advantage, removing the often stressful task of connecting flights and giving you more time to enjoy each site. We loved the way guides like Sunny and Rosemary are praised for their friendliness and knowledge — they add a personal touch that elevates the experience beyond just sightseeing.

The hotel stays are in deluxe 5-star rooms, providing a restful retreat after busy days of exploration. Breakfast each morning further helps you fuel up for the adventures ahead.

Starting with an early morning pickup in Shanghai, the tour whisks you straight to Xi’an via flight. Once on the ground, the first stop is the world-famous Terracotta Army, often called the Eighth Wonder of the World. With over 8,000 life-sized warriors and pottery horses, it’s a sight that leaves many visitors in awe. One reviewer shared, “We saw all the highlights in a day and the guide recommended good places to eat, which made the experience even better.” The tour’s three-hour visit allows enough time to appreciate the scale and craftsmanship without feeling rushed.

Next, a visit to Xi’an’s City Wall offers a glimpse into the city’s defensive past. Standing 12 meters tall and stretching 14 kilometers, it’s the best-preserved city wall in China. Walking along or just viewing the fortifications gives a tangible sense of ancient military engineering. The wall’s grandeur is heightened by the fact that it’s still largely intact after 600 years.

In the evening, the Muslim Quarter comes alive with aroma and activity. This area, historically part of the Silk Road, is home to over 100,000 Muslim residents. It’s packed with street food stalls and small eateries serving everything from hand-pulled noodles to lamb skewers. Guests often rave about the local snacks, describing them as a highlight of the trip. It’s a lively, authentic setting — perfect for sampling China’s diverse culinary tapestry.

The overnight stay in a 5-star hotel concludes this first day, offering a chance to rest up for the next stage of the journey.

A morning flight from Xi’an kicks off day two, taking you to Beijing. Once there, the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall awaits. Known for its well-preserved condition and fewer crowds, it’s often regarded as one of the most beautiful parts of the Wall. The included cable car ride makes it accessible even for those not keen on extensive hiking, and the views across rolling hills and ancient stone are breathtaking.

The guide’s emphasis on the tranquility of Mutianyu is backed by reviews describing it as a “serene and peaceful” experience, especially compared to busier sections like Badaling. The Wall’s crenellated battlements and watchtowers evoke a sense of history that’s almost tangible.

After the Wall, your guide takes you to Nanluoguxiang Hutong, one of Beijing’s most famous alleyways. Walking through the narrow lanes, you’ll see traditional courtyard homes and feel the pulse of old Beijing. It’s a contrast to the modern cityscape and provides a window into traditional life. Reviewers mention that guides like Daniel are excellent at sharing stories about the area’s history and local customs.

Dinner is at a local roast duck restaurant, where you can watch the chef carve Peking Duck in front of you. This meal is a highlight for many — authentic, flavorful, and beautifully presented. The experience of seeing the roasting process adds a fun, interactive element.

The night in Beijing in a top hotel offers a restful pause before day three.

The day starts at Tiananmen Square, arguably China’s most iconic public space. It’s a vast, bustling area with significant political and cultural symbolism — a must-see for anyone wanting to understand Beijing’s story.

Walking into the Forbidden City, you’ll discover an enormous complex with over 8,400 rooms. The guide will help you navigate its grand halls, courtyards, and intricate architecture. One reviewer emphasized that the guided commentary made the experience more meaningful, as it explained the significance behind each building. However, note that the Forbidden City is closed on Mondays, so the itinerary is adjusted accordingly, replacing it with the Summer Palace or Lama Temple.

In the afternoon, the Temple of Heaven offers a view into ancient Chinese religious practices and architectural mastery. Its design, with soaring halls and symbolic layouts, reflects centuries of cultural significance. Visitors report that the layout and symbolism make it more than just a pretty site — it feels like stepping into a different worldview.

Finally, if you opt for the airport transfer, your guide will take you directly to Beijing airport for your onward journey. Alternatively, you can be dropped at your hotel, depending on your plans.

At $1,700 per person, this package offers considerable value, considering it covers flights, hotel stays, entrance fees, meals, and private transportation. The reviews highlight that guides are knowledgeable and friendly, and the included meals, especially the Peking Duck, resonate as a highlight. Guests consistently mention that the tour balances sightseeing with culture, making it more than just ticking off attractions.

The tour’s tight schedule can be a double-edged sword. While it’s efficient, it does mean long days and limited leisure time. Travelers who prefer a more relaxed, in-depth exploration might find this too rushed. But for those with limited days and an appetite for the top highlights, it’s a well-organized way to see China’s essential sites.

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors eager to cover the essentials without the hassle of planning individual logistics. It’s also suited for those who appreciate guided insights and a good balance of history, culture, and food. If you’re someone who wants to see a lot but doesn’t want to worry about transport or tickets, this is a wise choice.

It’s less ideal for travelers seeking deep dives into local life or those wanting to linger longer in each spot. The fast-paced nature may be exhausting for some, but other travelers find it a fantastic way to make the most of a short trip.

This 3-day private tour from Shanghai offers a compelling blend of China’s best-known landmarks, comfort, and authenticity. The inclusion of flights and hotel stays simplifies the experience, allowing you to focus on the sights and flavors. Guides like Sunny, Rosemary, and Daniel receive praise for their friendliness and knowledge, adding a personal touch that elevates the trip.

You’ll love the chance to stand on the Great Wall, marvel at the Terracotta Warriors, and stroll through Beijing’s historic alleys. The meals, especially the Peking Duck, provide a delicious taste of local cuisine. The convenience of private transport and well-chosen accommodations make it a stress-free way to tick off these bucket-list sites.

The main consideration? The intense schedule might be too rushed for travelers seeking a more leisurely pace. But for those wanting a comprehensive, comfortable, and expertly guided experience that hits all the highlights, this tour delivers excellent value and memorable moments.

Is airfare included in the tour price?
Yes, the tour covers one-way flights from Shanghai to Xi’an and from Xi’an to Beijing, making logistics much simpler for travelers.

What type of hotel accommodation is provided?
Guests stay in deluxe 5-star hotel rooms in both Xi’an and Beijing, ensuring a comfortable and restful overnight experience.

Are entrance fees included?
Most major sites, including the Terracotta Warriors, City Wall, Forbidden City (or alternative), Tiananmen Square, and Temple of Heaven, include their entrance fees in the tour price.

Can the tour be customized?
This is a private tour, so guides are usually flexible in accommodating specific interests, but the itinerary is designed to cover the main highlights efficiently.

What meals are included?
Breakfast is provided in the hotels for both nights, with lunches and dinners included on specific days — notably, a traditional Peking Duck dinner in Beijing and regional cuisine in Xi’an.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for long days and walking. It’s best suited for those comfortable with busy schedules and physical activity.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport, comfortable shoes, and any personal essentials. It’s also wise to carry some local currency for small purchases or tips, as some eateries and stalls might not accept cards.

This 3-day private guided tour from Shanghai offers a rich, hassle-free way to see some of China’s most famous sights, taste its delicious foods, and gain meaningful insights from knowledgeable guides. For those short on time but eager to uncover the essence of China’s imperial past and vibrant culture, it’s a well-rounded option that balances comfort, history, and flavor.