Classic Beijing-Xian 8-Day Tour

Tour Overview

This classic itinerary takes you through China’s two ancient capitals—Beijing and Xian. From the imperial splendor of the Forbidden City to the eternal guardians of the Terracotta Army, experience the brilliant history of Chinese civilization.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Beijing

Arrive at Beijing Capital International Airport. Private transfer to your hotel. Free time to rest or explore depending on arrival time.

Accommodation: 5-star hotel in Beijing

Day 2: Tiananmen Square - Forbidden City - Jingshan Park

Morning visit to Tiananmen Square, the world’s largest city square. Then explore the Forbidden City in depth with your expert guide through this imperial palace with 9,999 rooms.

Afternoon climb Jingshan Park for panoramic views of the Forbidden City and Beijing’s central axis.

Meals: Breakfast (hotel), Lunch (imperial cuisine)

Day 3: Mutianyu Great Wall

Full day at Mutianyu Great Wall. Less crowded and better preserved than Badaling. Take the cable car up and hike along the wall enjoying spectacular mountain views.

Meals: Breakfast (hotel), Lunch (farmhouse cuisine)

Day 4: Summer Palace - Temple of Heaven - Peking Duck

Morning at the Summer Palace, strolling along Kunming Lake and admiring the exquisite royal architecture. Afternoon visit the Temple of Heaven to learn about ancient imperial rituals.

Evening enjoy authentic Peking Duck, a centuries-old imperial delicacy.

Meals: Breakfast (hotel), Lunch (Chinese), Dinner (Peking Duck)

Day 5: Beijing - Xian (Bullet Train)

Take the bullet train to Xian (approx. 4.5 hours). Visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda and learn about the legendary monk Xuanzang. Evening stroll through the Muslim Quarter sampling local snacks.

Meals: Breakfast (hotel), Dinner (on your own at Muslim Quarter)

Accommodation: 5-star hotel in Xian

Day 6: Terracotta Warriors - Huaqing Palace

Full day at the Terracotta Warriors Museum, viewing this underground army that has guarded Emperor Qin for over 2,000 years. Afternoon visit Huaqing Palace and hear the love story of Emperor Xuanzong and Yang Guifei.

Meals: Breakfast (hotel), Lunch (Shaanxi cuisine)

Day 7: Xian City Wall - Forest of Steles - Bell & Drum Towers

Morning bike ride or walk on Xian’s ancient city wall, the best-preserved in China. Visit the Forest of Steles Museum with its calligraphy treasures. Afternoon explore the Bell and Drum Towers.

Meals: Breakfast (hotel), Lunch (dumpling banquet)

Day 8: Depart Xian

Private transfer to Xian Xianyang International Airport based on your flight schedule.

Meals: Breakfast (hotel)

Travel Tips

• Comfortable walking shoes recommended
• Great Wall hiking requires moderate fitness
• Summer in Xian is hot; bring sun protection
• Itinerary can be customized to your preferences