11 Days Essential China Escorted Tour
Duration:
10 Nights
From €3,720pp
18 April 2027
Step into the wonders of China, where ancient history and modern cities come together in one unforgettable journey. From walking the iconic Great Wall and discovering the Forbidden City to meeting adorable giant pandas and exploring vibrant Shanghai, this incredible tour showcases China’s rich culture, flavours and world-famous landmarks – all expertly guided by Cosmos.
Beijing ➡️ Shanghai
Day 1 – Arrive in Beijing
Day 2 – Beijing sightseeing
Day 3 – Great Wall of China & Beijing
Day 4 – Beijing – Xi’an (high-speed train)
Day 5 – Xi’an (Terracotta Warriors)
Day 6 – Xi’an – Chengdu
Day 7 – Chengdu (Giant Pandas)
Day 8 – Chengdu – Shanghai (flight)
Day 9 – Shanghai sightseeing
Day 10 – Shanghai
Day 11 – Depart Shanghai
Peace Hotel Beijing
The Beijing Peace hotel is well-known for its central location with easy access to many dining and shopping options as well as the sights of the city. Rooms are spacious with contemporary designs. The restaurants, bars and leisure facilities will guarantee a comfortable and convenient stay while exploring Beijing.
Grand Mercure on Renmin Square
Nestled within the historic confines of the Ming Dynasty city walls, the Grand Mercure Xian Renmin Square sits at the bustling heart of the city center, surrounded by historical landmarks and Xi'an's rich heritage. Refined rooms feature warm color schemes and essential amentities that enhances its' boutique historic charm.
Dorsett Chengdu Hotel
Situated in the historic Luomashi district, Dorsett Chengdu offers a prime location for travellers to have easy access to downtown's vibrant atmosphere. Rooms are inviting with their modern furnishings and intriguing Asian accents. Guests will enjoy panoramic views of the city during their comfortable stay.
Jin Jiang Tower Shanghai
Situated in the famous Huaihai Road shopping area, Jin Jiang Tower Hotel offers a memorable stay with its convenient location, unforgettable panoramic city views and excellent service. Your stay will be comfortable in the modern, spacious rooms with premium amenities. The hotel has many dining options, including a revolving restaurant with 360-degree views of Shanghai's skyline.
Day 1 – Arrive in Beijing
Welcome to China’s historic capital city. Hotel rooms are available for mid-afternoon check-in.
Day 2 – Beijing sightseeing
Meet your Tour Director and travel companions prior to morning sightseeing in Beijing. Begin at vast Tian’anmen Square, one of the largest public squares in the world, followed by a guided visit inside the Forbidden City, the former imperial palace of China’s emperors for over 500 years. The afternoon is at your leisure; consider joining an optional excursion to the Temple of Heaven. This evening, enjoy a welcome Peking duck dinner, a signature dish of Beijing.
Breakfast & Dinner
Day 3 – Great Wall of China & Beijing
The Great Wall of China once stretched 4,000 miles across China’s barren northern terrain from the Bohai Sea to the Gobi Desert. Head north to a village where the Great Wall is well preserved and walk along this iconic landmark to enjoy sweeping vistas.
Breakfast & Lunch
Day 4 – Beijing – Xi’an (high-speed train)
Today, board a high-speed train to Xi’an, the former ancient capital. One of the largest and wealthiest cities in the world when China dominated the silk trade, Xi’an today is an archaeological treasure trove. The remainder of the day is at your leisure.
Breakfast
Day 5 – Xi’an (Terracotta Warriors)
Sightseeing begins with one of the most extraordinary archaeological discoveries of the 20th century—the Terracotta Warriors. Accidentally uncovered by local farmers in 1974, this immense underground army was created to stand watch over the tomb of China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huangdi. Marvel at the legion of life-size clay soldiers, horses, and chariots that have been guarding the burial site for 2,000 years.
Breakfast & Lunch
Day 6 – Xi’an – Chengdu
Catch a bullet train to Chengdu, capital of Sichuan and home of the giant panda. Enjoy some time at leisure before dinner at your hotel.
Breakfast & Dinner
Day 7 – Chengdu (Giant Pandas)
Journey through the mountainous scenery to the Wolong Giant Panda Nature Reserve, home to over 170 pandas. Learn how this area protects and rehabilitates these beautiful animals. This evening is yours to explore Chengdu, renowned for its bold, flavorful cuisine. Try a bite on an optional excursion featuring Sichuan hot pot, followed by a traditional face-changing performance, an iconic culinary and cultural experience of the city.
Breakfast
Day 8 – Chengdu – Shanghai (flight)
Fly to Shanghai, China’s largest city and a global center of commerce and culture. The balance of the day is yours to explore this dynamic metropolis.
Breakfast
Day 9 – Shanghai sightseeing
Sightseeing today includes a stroll through the Old Town and beautiful Yu Yuan Garden, a place of peace and tranquility in this bustling city. Walk along the famous Bund with its colonial architecture, then enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
Breakfast & Lunch
Day 10 – Shanghai
Spend the day at your leisure, or join an optional excursion to Zhujiajiao Ancient Water Town. With a history of more than 1,700 years, this little town is the best-preserved among ancient towns in Shanghai, featuring graceful stone bridges over quiet canals, willow-lined waterways, and traditional courtyard homes. Tonight, join your Tour Director and traveling companions for a special farewell dinner featuring Shanghai’s famous xiaolongbao dumplings.
Breakfast & Dinner
Day 11 – Depart Shanghai
Your tour ends with breakfast this morning.
Breakfast
Alternative dates available departing Apr-May, Aug-Oct 2027 and Mar-Oct 2028, prices may vary
Regional departures available at a supplement
- Flights Inclusive from Dublin
- All Transfers
- Accommodation
- Breakfast daily, 2 lunches & 3 dinners
- Expert Tour Directors and Local Guides
- Admission Fees
- Excursions and activities as per the itinerary:
- Guided city sightseeing of Beijing including visits to Tian’anmen Square and the Forbidden City
- Welcome dinner featuring Peking duck
- Guided visit to the Great Wall of China with lunch
- Guided visit to the Terracotta Warriors with lunch
- Admission to Shenshuping Panda Center
- Guided city sightseeing of Shanghai including admission to Yu Garden and stroll along the Bund
- Farewell dinner featuring xiaolongbao dumplings
- High-speed trains from Beijing to Xi’an & Xi’an to Chengdu
- Intra-vacation flight from Chendgu to Shanghai
Prices are based on 2 people sharing*
Prices are correct as of 15 July 2026. Subject to availability & change*









