North China Getaway

Intrepid Travel · 9 days
North China Getaway
North China Getaway
North China Getaway
North China Getaway
North China Getaway
North China Getaway
North China Getaway
North China Getaway
North China Getaway
North China Getaway
North China Getaway
North China Getaway
North China Getaway
North China Getaway
North China Getaway
North China Getaway
North China Getaway
North China Getaway
North China Getaway
9 Days
From AUD $1395
Trip Type
Small Group
Activity Level
Average

Rating


 (1 reviews)

North China Getaway

North China Getaway

Intrepid Travel · 9 days
4.0
1 Reviews
Duration

9 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Basic

Physical Rating

Average

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Discover the breathtaking countryside and rich cultural history of China's north on this 12-day trip bookended by the bright city lights of the country’s biggest hubs.

Includes


Accommodation: Basic Hotel (6 nights), Overnight Sleeper Train (2 nights)

Highlights

  • Walk along Beijing’s narrow hutongs that date back to the Yuan Dynasty, then stretch your legs further on the well-preserved Mutianyu section of the Great Wall of China – one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
  • Get lost in the streets of Xi’an’s Muslim Quarter and visit the Terracotta Warriors, where soldiers, horses and chariots have guarded Emperor Qin Shi Huang’s tomb for over 2000 years.
  • See the contrast of China from the last century, with its art deco influence and the skyscrapers of the past 30 years, as you walk along the Bund in Shanghai.
  • Take overnight trains to maximise time in each destination – get to know your fellow travellers over a game of cards and get a real sense of the vastness of the country.
  • Savour authentic Chinese cuisine throughout your trip as you dig into duck dishes, hotpot and countless servings of noodles and dumplings – travelling with a local also means getting an insight into the best local eats.
North China Getaway

Trip Details

Duration

9 days

Transportation

Overnight Hard Sleeper Train, Public Bus, Private vehicle, Subway

Guide Language

English

Starts

Beijing, China

Finishes

Shanghai, China

Accommodations

Basic

Travel Style

Explorer, Budget

Physical Rating

Average

Itinerary

1
Day 1: Beijing
Nimen hao! Welcome to China! Your adventure begins in Beijing – the capital of the fastest developing countries on earth, this food-centric city is packed with ancient sites and modern architecture. You’ll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm this evening. After, settle into your hotel, then maybe head out for dinner with your new travel crew. Your local leader will have a couple of great recommendations, from hand-pulled noodles to something spicy.

Accommodation:

  • Basic Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
2
Day 2: Beijing
This morning, set out and explore Beijing’s hutongs with your leader. Hutongs are the traditional neighbourhoods of old Beijing, dating back to the Mongolian empire of Yuan Dynasty. Now they are vibrant with local life, making this a great chance to learn a little about the Beijing of the past. Then, enjoy the rest of the day free. You may wish to visit Forbidden City and Tian’amen Square if you’ve prebooked. Or, maybe visit the Temple of Heaven, the Summer Palace or check out the Beijing Olympic venue.

Included Activities:

  • Beijing - Leader-led Hutong walking tour

Optional Activities:

  • Beijing - Lama Temple (entrance fee) (25 CNY)
  • Beijing - Summer Palace (entrance fee) (30 CNY)
  • Beijing - Temple of Heaven (entrance fee) (40 CNY)
  • Beijing - Forbidden City (60 CNY)

Accommodation:

  • Basic Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
3
Day 3: Beijing
Today, you’ll tick one of the Seven Wonders of the World off your bucket list– the Great Wall of China, of course. Take a public coach bus to the Mutianyu section of the Wall and spend some time exploring, taking photos and learning the history of this mighty site. An incredible piece of engineering, the wall stretches 6000 km (3728 mi) west from Beijing. It was originally constructed to protect Chinese empires from invaders from the north and continues to be one of the country’s most remarkable achievements. The Mutianyu section is one of the best-preserved and has a high density of watch towers dotted along the wall. There’s also the option to ride a toboggan down the nearby hills if you’re after a bit of a thrill! Get back to Beijing in the afternoon and get ready for your overnight train this evening.

Included Activities:

  • Beijing - Mutianyu Great Wall day tour

Accommodation:

  • Overnight Train (Number of Nights: 1)
4
Day 4: Xi'an
Arrive in Xi’an – the capital of Shaanxi Province and the largest city in northwest China. Head to the hotel to leave your luggage, then head out on a leader-led walking tour to the Muslim Quarter, with its narrow streets of shops and lively food markets and is a window into the daily life of Chinese Muslims. After, enjoy the rest of the day free. You can choose to visit the Bell Tower, which according to legend, was built to restrain dragons causing earthquakes, or the Drum Tower, full of instruments once used to mark time and warn the population of emergencies. Xi’an’s Silk Road history has shaped its food scene, so tonight is a good chance to follow your leader’s advice and try a few local specialties.

Included Activities:

  • Xi'an - Leader-led Muslim Street walking tour

Accommodation:

  • Basic Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
5
Day 5: Xi'an
This morning, make the journey by public transport to the acclaimed Terracotta Warriors. Spend a few hours at this incredible archaeological find, buried for 2000 years before being discovered in 1974 by farmers digging a well. These clay statues of soldiers, horses and chariots were commissioned by the Emperor Qin Shi Huang as part of his mausoleum after he ascended to the throne in 264 BC. Three main pits are open for viewing, where just under 2000 of the total 6000 warriors – each an individual with a different costume, height and even facial expression – are on display. Return to Xi’an in the afternoon. You may wish to explore the 13 km-long (8 mi) City Walls and attached Gates – you can rent a bike and cycle the whole circle of the City Wall. Or, take a walk outside the City Wall in the park where the locals go about their daily exercises. This evening, maybe head out to the Tang Paradise street that’s illuminated beautifully at twilight.

Included Activities:

  • Xi'an - Terracotta Warriors Tour - leader led

Optional Activities:

  • Xi'an - Big Goose Pagoda (entrance fee) (80 CNY)
  • Xi'an - Bell & Drum Towers (entrance fee) (50 CNY)
  • Xi'an - City Wall bike hire (45 CNY)
  • Xi'an - Great Mosque (entrance fee) (25 CNY)

Accommodation:

  • Basic Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
6
Day 6: Xi'an
Enjoy a free morning in Xi’an before your mid-afternoon overnight train to Shanghai. Perhaps revisit the Muslim Quarter, pick up local snacks for the train or follow your leader’s tips for a final local lunch.

Accommodation:

  • Overnight Train (Number of Nights: 1)
7
Day 7: Shanghai
Arrive in Shanghai early this morning, then take the subway with the locals to your accommodation. Settle in, then venture out with your leader to get a taste of the city on a walking tour along the Bund – a strip of spectacular Art Deco buildings. Wander the nongtangs (narrow, winding lanes) of Old Shanghai, getting a peek at daily life. When night falls, why not get together with a few of your travel pals for a taste of Shanghai’s eclectic food scene.

Included Activities:

  • Shanghai - Leader-led Bund walking tour

Optional Activities:

  • Shanghai - Acrobat Show (ticket) (280 CNY)
  • Shanghai - Urban Planning Exhibition Centre (entrance fee) (30 CNY)
  • Shanghai - Huangpu River Night Cruise (ticket) (150 CNY)
  • Shanghai - Oriental Pearl Tower Viewing Deck (entrance fee) (200 CNY)
  • Shanghai - Shanghai Propaganda Poster Art Centre (entrance fee) (25 CNY)
  • Shanghai - Yuyuan Garden (entrance fee) (40 CNY)
  • Shanghai - Shanghai Museum (entrance fee) - Free

Accommodation:

  • Basic Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
8
Day 8: Shanghai
Today, continue your free time in Shanghai, heading wherever the spirit moves you. Maybe check out Yuyuan Garden and the old bazaar, or head to the Pudong area and go up Shanghai Tower for a bird’s-eye view of the city. Perhaps you’ll get a fresh perspective on the city’s blend of 21st-century architecture and traditional character during a night cruise on the Huangpu River. If you wish, find a cafe in the French Concession, browse local shops or return to the Bund at sunset. Later, maybe head to one of the city’s rooftop bars to celebrate your journey.

Accommodation:

  • Basic Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
9
Day 9: Shanghai
With no activities planned for today, your trip comes to an end. If you’d like to extend your stay and explore Shanghai further, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation.
Exclusions
  • Flights to and from origin and destinations
  • Airport transfers (unless otherwise stated)
  • Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
  • Recommended gratuities/tipping
  • Optional activities/tours
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance
  • Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.
Important Information
Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We will do our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling.

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

  • It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
  • Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
  • Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.
Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.
AUD $1,395
(Tour only)
Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 9 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Average

Discover the breathtaking countryside and rich cultural history of China's north on this 12-day trip bookended by the bright city lights of the country’s biggest hubs.

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 20 Mar 2027

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Customer Reviews

Overall Rating
Excellent
4.5
Guide
Excellent
4.5
Itinerary
Excellent
4.5
Accommodations
Excellent
4.5
Transportation
Excellent
4.5
Tour Operator
Excellent
4.5
Food
Excellent
4.5
4.0
Lucy
Traveled, March 2024

03/28/2024

An amazing trip, so much covered in 12 days, Alan our guide was brilliant, came home with a better understanding of china and its people. The wall was definitely the highlight for me, trip was full on, lots of walking and travelling, but we got to experience so much, so was totally worth it. China was incredibly cheap too, a fabulous, insightful trip was had by the whole group.

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

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