Collette > Best of China

Best of China
13 Days starting from $1,499

Countries Visited:
China

 

Length: 13 Days
Type: First Class Tour
Category: Asia Tour
Operator: Collette
Tour Code: 3339
   
 
About This Tour


From the mystical landscapes of Guilin to the culture-filled metropolis of Shanghai, our Best of China tour promises to be an unforgettable adventure. In fabled Beijing, home to such historic structures as the Forbidden City and the Summer Palace, you will experience a time-honored Chinese pastime, kite-flying in Tiananmen Square! During your stay, you'll walk a portion of the 3,700 mile Great Wall of China, enjoy a rickshaw tour and experience a show at the world-famous Peking Opera. In Xian, you'll take in such legendary sights as the Wild Goose Pagoda, one of the most famous Buddhist Temples in the world; and the wondrous excavation site of the Terra-Cotta Warriors. In Guilin, experience tranquility when you participate in a private Tai Chi lesson before cruising the Li River, and shopping the local markets for souvenirs. A three-night stay in Shanghai includes a visit to the YuYuan Gardens; the Temple of the Jade Buddha; and an amazing Acrobatics Show. Enjoy a full day excursion to the water village of Zhujiajiao, an ancient city located on the banks of beautiful Dianshan Lake.

 
  • What's Included
  • Itinerary
  • Dates & Prices
  • Sightseeing Highlights
  • Additional Details

Enjoy the services of a professional tour manager who accompanies you throughout your trip.

Meals
12 Breakfast(s), 10 Lunch(es), 8 Dinner(s)

Hotel Accommodations:
Listed below or equivalent. Rooms with private bath or shower, hotel taxes, porterage, tips, and service charges

BEIJINGTraders Shangri-La Hotel
XIANGrand New World Hotel
GUILINGuilin Bravo Hotel
SHANGHAIShanghai Marriott Hongqiao

Complimentary hotel-to-hotel baggage handling.
Sightseeing
Private transportation via a deluxe, climate-controlled motorcoach
Day 1
Overnight Flight


Day 2
Arrive Beijing, China - Tour Begins
Join us on a tour of one of the world’s most fascinating countries: The People’s Republic of China. You’ll experience the ancient splendor of Xian, the traditional bustle of Beijing, and the modern cityscape of Shanghai. Your adventure begins in Beijing, the vibrant capital city.

Day 3
Beijing
LANGUAGE DISCOVERY: Today, your Tour Manager will help you discover the origin and history of the language(s) you will experience on your tour along with key words and phrases that will help you communicate with the locals. A sightseeing tour of Beijing begins with a visit to the expansive and historic Tiananmen Square. Continue to the Forbidden City, a vast network of palaces, including five halls, seventeen palaces and numerous other buildings. It was once reserved for China’s most powerful rulers and was the Chinese Imperial Palace during the mid-Ming and Qing dynasties.

Day 4
The Great Wall
China’s legendary landmark, the Great Wall, is yours to discover today. During your visit, you’ll have a chance to walk along a portion of this 3,700 mile marvel! Follow this famous path and take in incredible views of the surrounding countryside. Then continue on through the valley of the Ming Tombs where you will visit the extensive Sacred Way burial site, commissioned by Emperor Yongle in the 15th century. You will have time to experience a time-honored and favorite pastime of the Chinese when you go kite-flying! Cap off the day with a Peking duck dinner, a specialty of this part of the country, followed by a traditional Peking opera show. You will be delighted by the colorful costumes and interesting music.

Day 5
Beijing
This morning you will visit the Summer Palace which is ranked amongst the most noted classical gardens in the world. In 1998, it was listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The remainder of your day is at leisure.

Day 6
Beijing - Xian
Explore the world-famous Temple of Heaven, an ornate sanctuary where Chinese Emperors worshiped their gods. Enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime rickshaw tour through the Hutongs, the narrow streets of ancient Beijing. Along the way, visit a local home where you will share a simple lunch and learn the art of dumpling making. Then, continue your journey with a short flight to China’s interior city of Xian.

Day 7
Xian
Today you will lay eyes on one of the most famous Buddhist temples in the world, the classical Wild Goose Pagoda. The impressive structure was built during the Tang Dynasty to house Buddhist treasures. For lunch you will savor a local specialty, Xian dumplings, before traveling to the excavation site of the incredible Terra-Cotta Warriors. This army of men and horses was buried with the first Emperor of Qin to protect him in the afterlife. You will be amazed by the sheer numbers of them and their detailed features! This evening, you may choose an optional dinner and entertainment at the Tang Dynasty show.

Day 8
Xian - Guilin
An early morning flight whisks you from Xian to the beautiful city of Guilin. Here you’ll find mystical landscapes of limestone karst pinnacles covered with lush vegetation….it truly is a sight to behold. After a casual lunch, visit the legendary Reed Flute Caves. Enjoy a guided tour showcasing the spectacular underground scenery. You’ll also stop to take in the view of Elephant Trunk Hill, located on the western bank of Li River. The hill is named for its curious shape, which resembles an enormous elephant drinking water from the placid river. Finally, return to your hotel for an evening at leisure.

Day 9
Guilin
Today is a day to remember. You’ll begin with a scenic cruise along the Li River where you’ll admire the landscapes that have been inspiring Chinese artists and poets for centuries. With its unique landforms and swirling mist, it is the classic Chinese scenery you have always imagined. And be sure to keep on the lookout for water buffalo. Visit the Guilin Tea Institute, learn the art of tea leaf picking and enjoy a traditional tea ceremony.

Day 10
Guilin - Shanghai
Start the day with a private Tai Chi lesson, a highly-revered Chinese martial art that is both invigorating and relaxing. After your session, depart Guilin for Shanghai, a bustling trade port and the economic heart of China. The sight of the city’s futuristic skyline will leave you speechless. Next, enjoy a locally-guided tour of the waterfront district known as the Bund. This area runs along the western bank of the Huangpu River and is famous for its gorgeous colonial buildings. You’ll feel as though you’ve stepped back into 19th century Europe as you wander among the impressive Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance architecture.

Day 11
Shanghai
This morning is highlighted by a visit to the Children’s Palace, an ornate fortress where the local children come to learn various arts including calligraphy, piano and dance. Delight in the sight of children at work and play as you tour the palace. Next, visit the Old Town and walk its winding, narrow lanes. You’ll pass traditional Chinese buildings as you make your way to the once-private Yu Yuan Gardens. Then leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind as you wander through this 400-year-old oasis. Admire the classical design as you wander among the flowering trees and quiet ponds. End your full-day sightseeing tour with a stop at the beautiful Temple of the Jade Buddha. Tonight, take in the energy and excitement of a Chinese acrobatics show.

Day 12
Shanghai - Suzhou - Shanghai
Enjoy a full day excursion to the water village of Suzhou, known as the "Venice of the East." Enjoy a boat cruise along the Grand Canal, which is over 1,500 years old and connects Beijing to the rich coastal areas around Shanghai. Next, take a relaxing stroll through one of the beautiful gardens. See the artistry of the students at the Institute of Silk Embroidery and experience an educational visit to a silk spinning factory. This evening you may choose an optional cruise on the Huangpu River to enjoy the Shanghai skyline by night, followed by a western dinner.

Day 13
Shanghai
Today you will discover the treasures of the Shanghai Museum. Here you will admire priceless artifacts that span the length of China’s rich history and enliven its cultural traditions. The remainder of the day is at leisure for you to explore more of the city on your own or revisit some of your favorite locales. Snap just a few more photographs, enjoy another steaming bowl of noodles, or shop for a few last-minute souvenirs. Later this evening, bid farewell to China at a farewell dinner with your fellow travelers.

Day 14
Shanghai - Tour Ends
Your tour ends in Shanghai but you will carry your memories of China with you as you make the journey home.

Day 1
Overnight Flight


Day 2
Arrive Beijing, China - Tour Begins
Join us on a tour of one of the world’s most fascinating countries: The People’s Republic of China. You’ll experience the ancient splendor of Xian, the traditional bustle of Beijing, and the modern cityscape of Shanghai. Your adventure begins in Beijing, the vibrant capital city.

Day 3
Beijing
LANGUAGE DISCOVERY: Today, your Tour Manager will help you discover the origin and history of the language(s) you will experience on your tour along with key words and phrases that will help you communicate with the locals. A sightseeing tour of Beijing begins with a visit to the expansive and historic Tiananmen Square. Continue to the Forbidden City, a vast network of palaces, including five halls, seventeen palaces and numerous other buildings. It was once reserved for China’s most powerful rulers and was the Chinese Imperial Palace during the mid-Ming and Qing dynasties.

Day 4
The Great Wall
China’s legendary landmark, the Great Wall, is yours to discover today. During your visit, you’ll have a chance to walk along a portion of this 3,700 mile marvel! Follow this famous path and take in incredible views of the surrounding countryside. Then continue on through the valley of the Ming Tombs where you will visit the extensive Sacred Way burial site, commissioned by Emperor Yongle in the 15th century. You will have time to experience a time-honored and favorite pastime of the Chinese when you go kite-flying! Cap off the day with a Peking duck dinner, a specialty of this part of the country, followed by a traditional Peking opera show. You will be delighted by the colorful costumes and interesting music.

Day 5
Beijing
This morning you will visit the Summer Palace which is ranked amongst the most noted classical gardens in the world. In 1998, it was listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The remainder of your day is at leisure.

Day 6
Beijing - Xian
Explore the world-famous Temple of Heaven, an ornate sanctuary where Chinese Emperors worshiped their gods. Enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime rickshaw tour through the Hutongs, the narrow streets of ancient Beijing. Along the way, visit a local home where you will share a simple lunch and learn the art of dumpling making. Then, continue your journey with a short flight to China’s interior city of Xian.

Day 7
Xian
Today you will lay eyes on one of the most famous Buddhist temples in the world, the classical Wild Goose Pagoda. The impressive structure was built during the Tang Dynasty to house Buddhist treasures. For lunch you will savor a local specialty, Xian dumplings, before traveling to the excavation site of the incredible Terra-Cotta Warriors. This army of men and horses was buried with the first Emperor of Qin to protect him in the afterlife. You will be amazed by the sheer numbers of them and their detailed features! This evening, you may choose an optional dinner and entertainment at the Tang Dynasty show.

Day 8
Xian - Guilin
An early morning flight whisks you from Xian to the beautiful city of Guilin. Here you’ll find mystical landscapes of limestone karst pinnacles covered with lush vegetation….it truly is a sight to behold. After a casual lunch, visit the legendary Reed Flute Caves. Enjoy a guided tour showcasing the spectacular underground scenery. You’ll also stop to take in the view of Elephant Trunk Hill, located on the western bank of Li River. The hill is named for its curious shape, which resembles an enormous elephant drinking water from the placid river. Finally, return to your hotel for an evening at leisure.

Day 9
Guilin
Today is a day to remember. You’ll begin with a scenic cruise along the Li River where you’ll admire the landscapes that have been inspiring Chinese artists and poets for centuries. With its unique landforms and swirling mist, it is the classic Chinese scenery you have always imagined. And be sure to keep on the lookout for water buffalo. Visit the Guilin Tea Institute, learn the art of tea leaf picking and enjoy a traditional tea ceremony.

Day 10
Guilin - Shanghai
Start the day with a private Tai Chi lesson, a highly-revered Chinese martial art that is both invigorating and relaxing. After your session, depart Guilin for Shanghai, a bustling trade port and the economic heart of China. The sight of the city’s futuristic skyline will leave you speechless. Next, enjoy a locally-guided tour of the waterfront district known as the Bund. This area runs along the western bank of the Huangpu River and is famous for its gorgeous colonial buildings. You’ll feel as though you’ve stepped back into 19th century Europe as you wander among the impressive Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance architecture.

Day 11
Shanghai
This morning is highlighted by a visit to the Children’s Palace, an ornate fortress where the local children come to learn various arts including calligraphy, piano and dance. Delight in the sight of children at work and play as you tour the palace. Next, visit the Old Town and walk its winding, narrow lanes. You’ll pass traditional Chinese buildings as you make your way to the once-private Yu Yuan Gardens. Then leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind as you wander through this 400-year-old oasis. Admire the classical design as you wander among the flowering trees and quiet ponds. End your full-day sightseeing tour with a stop at the beautiful Temple of the Jade Buddha. Tonight, take in the energy and excitement of a Chinese acrobatics show.

Day 12
Shanghai - Suzhou - Shanghai
Enjoy a full day excursion to the water village of Suzhou, known as the "Venice of the East." Enjoy a boat cruise along the Grand Canal, which is over 1,500 years old and connects Beijing to the rich coastal areas around Shanghai. Next, take a relaxing stroll through one of the beautiful gardens. See the artistry of the students at the Institute of Silk Embroidery and experience an educational visit to a silk spinning factory. This evening you may choose an optional cruise on the Huangpu River to enjoy the Shanghai skyline by night, followed by a western dinner.

Day 13
Shanghai
Today you will discover the treasures of the Shanghai Museum. Here you will admire priceless artifacts that span the length of China’s rich history and enliven its cultural traditions. The remainder of the day is at leisure for you to explore more of the city on your own or revisit some of your favorite locales. Snap just a few more photographs, enjoy another steaming bowl of noodles, or shop for a few last-minute souvenirs. Later this evening, bid farewell to China at a farewell dinner with your fellow travelers.

Day 14
Shanghai - Tour Ends
Your tour ends in Shanghai but you will carry your memories of China with you as you make the journey home.


To speak to one of our live, experienced travel consultants, Call us now at 1-800-942-3301.

Airfare Disclaimer
A NOTE ABOUT AIRFARE: We encourage you to buy your airfare from the tour operator, because if your tour cancels then your airlines tickets will be covered. Purchasing flights separately at a lesser rate and incorporating it with a Non-Guaranteed Departure Date can result in loss of total cost of your flight investment. Depending on the fare rules, flights may be Non-Refundable and/or Non-Transferable. Neither the tour operator and/or Atlas Cruises & Tours will be held responsible for loss if a tour is cancelled for Lack of Participation. If you would like to check for discounted fares on Guaranteed Departures or for competitive pricing on air and hotel packages, we invite you to follow this link.

Documents
TRAVEL DOCUMENTS: Necessary Travel Documents such as Passports and Visas is the responsibility of the traveler. Passports must be valid six months from your return travel date.

         
Touring Date
Land Only
Land + Air
Single
(Land Only)
Single
(Land + Air)
4/3/2008 - 4/15/2008
$1,549
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4/17/2008 - 4/29/2008
$1,549
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4/24/2008 - 5/6/2008
$1,549
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9/10/2008 - 9/23/2008
$1,749
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9/17/2008 - 9/30/2008
$1,749
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9/24/2008 - 10/7/2008
$1,749
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10/8/2008 - 10/21/2008
$1,749
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10/15/2008 - 10/28/2008
$1,749
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10/29/2008 - 11/11/2008
$1,749
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2/25/2009 - 3/10/2009
$1,499
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3/5/2009 - 3/18/2009
$1,649
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3/25/2009 - 4/7/2009
$1,649
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4/22/2009 - 5/5/2009
$1,699
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5/27/2009 - 6/9/2009
$2,099
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6/17/2009 - 6/30/2009
$1,899
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9/9/2009 - 9/22/2009
$2,099
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10/6/2009 - 10/19/2009
$2,099
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10/21/2009 - 11/3/2009
$2,099
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10/28/2009 - 11/10/2009
$2,099
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2/23/2010 - 3/8/2010
$1,899
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3/10/2010 - 3/23/2010
$1,999
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4/14/2010 - 4/27/2010
$2,049
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The land price does not include trans-Pacific flights or flights within China and must be purchased with the air portion of your vacation.
Many dinners are Western.
Itineraries include many activities and may consist of walking on uneven terrain or significant walking at times. Some of the most unique sightseeing can mean accessing locations that restrict motorcoaches, especially in historic areas. For your comfort, we recommend bringing walking shoes.
This tour includes Beijing, Tiananmen Square, The Great Wall, Xian, Guilin, Shanghai and more.

Your four-night stay in Beijing is highlighted by a fantastic Peking duck dinner and an evening to remember at the Peking Opera.

Witness the splendor of the incredible Terra-Cotta Warriors…seven thousand individually-crafted figures who guard the tomb of an ancient emperor.

While in Shanghai take in an amazing acrobatics show and visit both the Children's Palace and the Shanghai National History Museum.

Go kite-flying

Enjoy a once in a lifetime rickshaw tour through the Hutongs.Visit a local home where you will share a simple lunch and learn the art of dumpling making.

For lunch you will savor a local speciality, Xian dumplings, before traveling to the excavation site of the incredible Terra-Cotta Warriors.

Visit the Guilin Tea Institute, learn the art of tea leaf picking and enjoy a traditional tea ceremony.

Cruise on the fabled Li River
The land price does not include trans-Pacific flights or flights within China and must be purchased with the air portion of your vacation.
Many dinners are Western.
Itineraries include many activities and may consist of walking on uneven terrain or significant walking at times. Some of the most unique sightseeing can mean accessing locations that restrict motorcoaches, especially in historic areas. For your comfort, we recommend bringing walking shoes.
   
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