Tour Routing
Highlights
Travel with AVG Travels on the 10 Day Best China for Family holiday, ensuring safety, comfort, and an immersive cultural experience.
- Universal Beijing Resort – the fifth Universal Studios theme park in the world.
- The full day tour to Shanghai Disneyland – the first Disney magic kingdom in mainland China.
- Great Wall of China: Walk along the Juyongguan section, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering breathtaking views and historical significance. This section, located near Beijing, is one of the most well-preserved parts of the Great Wall.
- Shanghai Bund: Stroll along the Bund, showcasing Shanghai’s colonial history and modern skyline. Enjoy an evening cruise on the Huangpu River for stunning views of the historic waterfront and illuminated skyscrapers.
Itinerary
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Arrive Beijing, China
Welcome to Beijing – The majestic capital of China!
Upon arrival at Beijing Airport (PEK/PXX), you’ll be warmly greeted and transferred to your hotel for a well-deserved rest after your flight. Get ready to embark on a spectacular journey through China.
(please note that most flights arrive later in the evening).
Meals: In-flight meals
Accommodation: Tiantan Hotel Beijing 4* or similar
Encounter with Giant Pandas
Today, we begin with a visit to the Beijing Zoo to meet China’s national treasure – the giant pandas – and observe their adorable antics up close. Established in 1906, Beijing Zoo is China’s first modern zoo, spanning 86 hectares and home to over 500 rare animal species. The lush, tree-lined park blends Chinese and Western architectural styles and serves as a key research and conservation base for giant pandas, having successfully bred many panda cubs.
We’ll explore the pandas’ “luxurious residence”: The Panda House features both indoor and outdoor exhibits, replicating their natural habitat complete with bamboo groves, climbing structures, and pools. The facility houses several pandas, from irresistibly cute cubs to majestic adults. With luck, you might catch them munching on bamboo or playfully rolling around! Beyond pandas, the zoo showcases rare and exotic animals from across China and the world, ensuring an unforgettable experience for children. Next we will explore the charming Summer Palace, the largest royal garden in China. Notice the beautifully painted and covered walkway, the Buddhist Fragrance Pagoda, the lake and palaces, and a marble boat.
After lunch, we’ll embark on a pedicab tour through Beijing’s historic Hutongs. These alleyways originated in the Yuan Dynasty (13th century), with the term “hutong” deriving from the Mongolian word for “water well.” Most surviving Hutongs retain their Ming and Qing-era layouts, forming a labyrinthine network that pulses with old Beijing’s soul. Strolling along the gray-brick lanes with their tile-roofed houses, you’ll immerse in the authentic local lifestyle. We’ll step into a traditional Siheyuan (courtyard home) to see how ordinary residents live.
As dusk falls, opt to witness The Legend of Kung Fu, a breathtaking performance showcasing the depth and artistry of Chinese martial arts (Optional, at your own cost).
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Tiantan Hotel Beijing 4* or similar
Beijing
The Great Wall
Today’s excursion is one of the most anticipated of our trip – a visit to the Great Wall of China. Often recognized as one of the Seven Wonders of the World, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a staggering feat and a bucket-list destination. Enjoy the day with a hike with your family on the Great Wall. En route, visit one of Beijing’s most renowned jade factory to learn all about the history of the celebrated stone.
After climbing the Great Wall, have some lunch and visit a traditional tea house to enjoy a graceful tea ceremony performance and savor fine teas while learning about China’s profound tea culture. Try your hand at Chinese calligraphy – while a brief 15-minute demonstration can’t fully unveil the mysteries of this ancient writing system that evolved over millennia, the experience of dipping a brush in ink and writing the character “福” (fortune) on rice paper may indeed bring your child lifelong blessings. This meaningful moment will likely become a cherished memory they’ll carry forever.
End the day indulging in a meal made up of some of China’s most famous dishes, including the local delicacy Peking Duck.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Tiantan Hotel Beijing 4* or similar
Fun at Universal Studios
Today, you will spend an unforgettable day at Universal Beijing Resort, the fifth Universal Studios theme park in the world and home to two groundbreaking themed lands: The world’s first Transformers-themed zone, where you can join the Auto bots in an epic battle. The exclusive Kung Fu Panda Land of Awesomeness, a dreamlike world inspired by the beloved animated films. Don’t miss: The thrilling “Water World” stunt show, featuring jaw-dropping aquatic explosions, high-octane action, and spectacular special effects—a signature Universal Studios experience!
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Tiantan Hotel Beijing 4* or similar
Beijing
Shanghai
Enjoy your free morning and explore the bustling city at your own pace or instead, you may wish to take part in an optional excursion to enhance your experience.
Welcome to join our optional imperial tour. Set out with your guide to discover the iconic imperial treasures of Beijing. You’ll enter through the imposing walls of the palace complex, once the domain of the Ming Dynasty, for an exclusive tour of its courtyards and lanes. This area was considered by the emperor to be a dive place, and as such entry was exclusive to the imperial family and their court, hence the name, the Forbidden City (Optional, at your own cost). This is certainly not the case today: The Forbidden City also now houses the National Palace Museum – one of the most comprehensive museums in the world. Afterwards, you’ll board the innovative high-speed train to travel to Shanghai. 4 hours to run 1,200 km, amazing! Meet with your next local guide and transfer to hotel for a good night sleep.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Harbour Plaza Metropolitan Shanghai or similar
Optional tour: Forbidden City Tour
Explore the Forbidden City — an extraordinary imperial palace complex that served as the residence of Chinese emperors for nearly 500 years, spanning the Ming and Qing dynasties.
Covering 180 acres and comprising almost 10,000 buildings, the site is enclosed by imposing defensive walls and a wide moat. Renowned for its grand architecture, intricate wooden carvings, and opulent gold accents, the Forbidden City stands as a powerful symbol of China’s imperial legacy and enduring cultural heritage.
Shanghai
Begin your day at the Jade Buddha Temple, one of China’s most renowned Buddhist temples. Established in 1882, it houses two exquisite jade Buddha statues and blends elegant Song Dynasty architecture with serene Jiangnan-style courtyards—a peaceful retreat in the bustling city.
Next, visit the Bund, Shanghai’s iconic waterfront stretch along the Huangpu River. This 1.5-km promenade features 52 historic buildings dubbed the “Exhibition of World Architecture,” showcasing Gothic, Baroque, and Romanesque styles. By day, admire the contrast of colonial heritage and modern skyscrapers; by night, bask in the glow of dazzling lights. A must-visit for strolls, photos, or a Huangpu River cruise.
After this step into a Silk Workshop and witness the process of silk production while marveling at the works crafted from this luxurious fabric and choose some silk products if you wish, explore Nanjing Road, China’s No. 1 shopping street. This 5.5-km pedestrian avenue blends heritage brands, luxury boutiques, and mega malls—a paradise for shoppers.
End your day at Old City God Temple Market, a 600-year-old bazaarof Ming-Qing architecture and lively bazaars. Centered around the Zigzag Bridge, its tile-roofed alleys offer Time-honored snacks like xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), Folk crafts such as paper-cutting and clay figurine and Unique shops selling antiques, tea sets, and jewelry.
This evening, we’ll have the opportunity to get a glimpse of Shanghai’s dazzling skyline by joining the optional Huangpu River Cruise ride (at your own cost).
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Harbour Plaza Metropolitan Shanghai 4* or similar
Optional tour: Huangpu River Cruise
Shanghai — a city that never sleeps — is captivating by day and truly magnificent by night.
As evening falls, the city comes alive with dazzling lights best experienced on a scenic cruise along the Huangpu River, which divides Shanghai into two distinct worlds. On the west bank, marvel at the historic Bund, known as the “Gallery of World Architecture,” beautifully illuminated against the backdrop of the city. Across the river to the east, the modern skyline of Lujiazui glows with vibrant colours, showcasing Shanghai’s futuristic charm through its soaring skyscrapers and dynamic energy.
Shanghai
Today, spend your day to visit Zhujiajiao Water Town, one of China’s best-preserved ancient towns, often called the “Venice of Shanghai.” Wander along crisscrossing canals where traditional wooden boats glide past whitewashed houses with black-tiled roofs. Marvel at 36 stone bridges steeped in history, and let the aroma of local delicacies tempt your taste buds.
After lunch, head to Lujiazui Central Business District. Discover the “Manhattan of the East,” a symbol of China’s modernization. Gaze up at the iconic skyline trio: the 632-meter Shanghai Tower, 492-meter World Financial Center, and 420-meter Jinmao Tower. This global financial hub hosts over 2,000 institutions, including the Shanghai Stock Exchange and HSBC. Cap off the day with a high-speed elevator ride to the top of Jinmao Tower for breathtaking panoramic views of Shanghai.
The rest of the day is yours to spend as you please – relax or enjoy one of our optional tours – Shanghai ERA Intersection of Time Acrobatic Show (at your own cost). Dubbed “the must-see spectacle of modern Chinese acrobatics”, this award-winning production redefines circus arts with jaw-dropping feats.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Harbour Plaza Metropolitan Shanghai 4* or similar
Optional tour: Shanghai Chinese Acrobatic Show
Take your seat at the ERA Shanghai Acrobatic Show and prepare to be amazed by a spectacular display of skill, strength, and artistry.
Set within a state-of-the-art theatre, this world-class performance highlights China’s legendary acrobatic traditions through a series of breathtaking acts, blending precision, grace, and innovation in an unforgettable visual experience.
Shanghai Disneyland
Today’s highlight is a full day tour to Shanghai Disneyland. As the first Disney magic kingdom in mainland China, it uniquely blends classic Disney fairy tales with Eastern cultural elements. Exclusive Highlights include World’s largest “Enchanted Storybook Castle”, First-ever “Pirates of the Caribbean: Battle for the Sunken Treasure” ride, “Gardens of Imagination” featuring Disney-themed Chinese zodiac.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Harbour Plaza Metropolitan Shanghai 4* or similar
Depart Shanghai
Enjoy some free time in the morning before transferring to the airport for your departure flight. Reflect on the unforgettable memories you’ve made during your spectacular tour through China.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: In-flight
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Arrive home with cherished memories of your trip with AVG Travels.
