A China Experience

All flights

Experienced guides

Excursions & trips

Great memories

The quintessential experience, this introductory tour offers a glimpse of China’s glorious past, fascinating present and bright future with visits to the exceptional and contrasting cities of Xian, Beijing and Shanghai.

Places Visited

Ireland – Shanghai (3N) – Xian (2N) – Beijing (3N) – Ireland

Tour Highlights

Marvel at the sparkling city of Shanghai on a Huangpu River Cruise
Soak up the old world charms of the sleepy Water Town of Zhujiajiao
Come face to face with the Terracotta Warriors
Survey Xian from its ancient city ramparts
Step back into China’s dynastic past at the Imperial Forbidden City
Wander along the incredible Great Wall of China

Dates & Prices on Request

(Code D5)

Call Slatterys Travel on (066) 401 1150

Tour Overview

Days 1-2

Fly to Shanghai

Fly overnight to the exuberant city of Shanghai, called ‘the Paris of the East’. Depending on your time of arrival the rest of the day is yours to start soaking up the local culture.

Day 3

Discover Shanghai

Shanghai is China's great metropolis, where east and west collide on streets lined with futuristic skyscrapers and 10th century temples. Today's explorations include the traditional Yu Gardens and the atmospheric alleys of the old town, as well as a visit to the Silk Museum. Admire the magnificent colonial architecture with a stroll along the Bund before viewing the city from the Huangpu River on a panoramic cruise. Dinner is traditional Shanghai cuisine.

Day 4

Zhujiajiao Canal Tour

Visit Zhujiajiao, one of Shanghai’s sleepy water towns, built on an old canal system once used to transport goods all over imperial China. The town’s narrow alleyways exude old-world charm, whilst the waterways are lined with ancient buildings and crossed by stone bridges. Return to Shanghai and enjoy the fine arts and antiquities of the Shanghai Museum and explore People's Square.

Day 5

Fly to Xian

Fly to Xian, the ancient former capital. Tonight feast on traditional Shui Jiao dumplings before a performance of Tang Dynasty dancing.

Day 6

Terracotta Warriors

After their fortuitous discovery in the 1970s, the Terracotta Army of China’s first Emperor Qin Shi Huang has intrigued visitors ever since. Spend the morning viewing the enigmatic ranks of life-sized warriors. Later stroll on the beautifully preserved 14th century city walls that enclose Xian’s old town.

Day 7

Fly to Beijing

A relaxed morning includes a visit to the lovely Little Wild Goose Pagoda and time to walk through the atmospheric alleys of the Muslim Quarter, which are lined with Islamic food stalls. Later, fly to Beijing, China’s capital city.

Day 8

Forbidden City

Heading to Beijing’s symbolic heart, stroll across Tiananmen Square and into the sprawling magnificence of the Forbidden City. Entering through the Gate of Supreme Harmony you will find a complex full of imperial riches. Soak up the harmonious ambience of the Temple of Heaven, an orderly oasis in a bustling urban landscape, where you can watch, or participate in, a dance class. This evening watch a Chinese acrobatic show.

Day 9

Great Wall of China

This morning is dedicated to China’s most iconic sight – the Great Wall. Taking a walk on this incredible structure is the best way to appreciate both the sheer magnificence of the wall itself and the dramatic scenery that it crosses. Jade has been long cherished by the Chinese and at the Jade Museum you can understand and appreciate the delicate process of carving the stone and buy a piece if you wish. Savour an afternoon in the idyllic landscapes of the Summer Palace as you see the traditional Chinese gardens and exquisite architecture. Today’s sightseeing is the perfect way to build up your appetite for Beijing’s best known delicacy – Peking Duck.

Day 10

Fly Beijing to Ireland

Fly to Ireland, arriving home the same or following day.

Why Book This Tour?

This adventure is ideal for travellers with less time to spend and who want to see the very best bits of this incredibly diverse destination. We have designed the tour to make the most of the time available to showcase the key highlights and cities of China.

What’s Included

International flights and current taxes
Domestic transportation
Accommodation
All meals
Touring with guides and entrance fees
Visa fees for UK & EU passport holders