China Travel 6-Day Beijing Xi’an Tour

Beijing-Xi'an 6 Days Tour

Great Wall, Forbidden City, Terracotta Army, Ancient City Wall

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Beijing-Xi'an 6 Days Tour

Beijing and Xi’an, two ancient capitals with a history of over 3,000 years, are both renowned for their profound historical heritage and splendid culture. If you are passionate about Chinese history and culture, we highly recommend this 6-day Beijing-Xi’an highlights tour.

Beijing, once the capital of six dynasties, is now the capital of the People’s Republic of China. This cosmopolitan city harmoniously blends ancient traditions with modern conveniences, allowing visitors to fully appreciate its rich history, cultural brilliance, and urban vitality. A mere 4-hour high-speed train ride takes you from Beijing to Xi’an – the capital of 13 dynasties and widely recognized as the cradle of Chinese civilization. From imperial relics and grand engineering feats to vibrant local life; from hiking the Great Wall to taking a rickshaw ride through traditional Hutongs – you will immerse yourself in every moment and create unforgettable travel memories.

Through this visit, you can experience the 'must-see and must-do'

Highlight 1: Stroll through the Forbidden City, visit the Summer Palace, and listen to the imperial secrets and garden legends of the Ming and Qing dynasties amidst red walls, yellow tiles, pavilions, and towers.

Highlight 2: Climb the less crowded, scenic, and well-preserved wild Great Wall to enjoy panoramic views of the magnificent landscape.

Highlight 3: Step into a history classroom and marvel at 8,000 life-sized terracotta warriors.

Highlight 4: Walk along the ancient city wall and take in the panoramic view of old and new Xi'an.

Itinerary Overview

Daily Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Beijing | Private Transfer and Hotel Check-in

Hello! Welcome to Beijing, the capital of China! Upon your arrival at Beijing Airport or train station, your guide and driver will be waiting for you at the exit to escort you to your selected hotel in the city center. The rest of the day is free for you to rest and adjust to the time difference, or to explore the area around your hotel at your leisure.

【Arrival Guide】
Beijing has well-developed air and high-speed rail transportation. There are two airports in the city – Beijing Daxing International Airport and Beijing Capital International Airport, serving numerous international and domestic routes. You can fly to Beijing from most major cities in China (such as Hong Kong, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Xi’an, Guilin, Hangzhou, Kunming, Wuhan, Xiamen, Guiyang, Chongqing, Lanzhou, etc.). Alternatively, you can choose to travel to Beijing by high-speed train: approximately 4-5 hours from Xi’an, 4.5-6 hours from Shanghai, 2.5-3 hours from Zhengzhou, 4-5 hours from Wuhan, and 5-5.5 hours from Harbin, etc.

【Free Time】
After checking into your hotel, if you wish to explore the surroundings, feel free to ask your guide for exclusive tips. Whether it’s heading to Wangfujing Street for authentic snacks, experiencing the charm of old Beijing hutongs in Shichahai, or watching the flag-lowering ceremony at Tiananmen Square, your guide can tailor the most suitable itinerary based on your interests and time.

Day 2: Beijing City Tour | Visit Tiananmen Square, Stroll through the Forbidden City, Explore Old Beijing Hutongs

After breakfast, your guide will pick you up from your hotel and take you to Tiananmen Square – the world’s largest urban public square and a symbol of China. Over the past decades, it has witnessed many significant historical events in China. Crossing the square, you will marvel at the grandeur and magnificence of the Forbidden City (Palace Museum). As the world’s largest and best-preserved ancient imperial palace complex, it was once home to 24 emperors of China. This imperial garden, with its 8,728 rooms, is not only an architectural masterpiece of Chinese civilization but also a ‘city within a city,’ akin to the Vatican in Rome. Entering through the Meridian Gate, proceed along the central axis to explore the exquisite palaces. With your guide’s explanations, you will not only admire the brilliant ancient architecture and countless treasures but also hear the imperial stories hidden within the red walls and yellow tiles. Afterward, move to Jingshan Park, just a 15-minute walk away. Ascend to the Wanchun Pavilion for a breathtaking panoramic view of modern Beijing and the continuous golden rooftops of the Forbidden City.

In the afternoon, let’s wander through the old Beijing hutongs and experience authentic local life at a leisurely pace. Take a ride in a traditional rickshaw through the winding alleys, where characteristic shops on both sides tell stories of the old city’s street life.

Evening Recommendation (Optional): You can visit Quanjude to savor the world-renowned Peking Duck.

Forbidden City, Beijing

Tiananmen, Beijing

Day 3: Beijing Great Wall Tour | Mutianyu Great Wall, Bird's Nest and Water Cube

This morning, you will head to the Mutianyu Great Wall, located northwest of Beijing (73 kilometers from the city, about 1.5-2 hours by car). The Great Wall, with over 2,000 years of history, stretches across northern China for more than 3,000 miles and is one of the world’s most awe-inspiring ancient engineering marvels. Mutianyu Great Wall connects Jiankou Great Wall to the west and Gubeikou Great Wall to the east. It is the best-preserved and most fully restored section of the Great Wall, not only attracting fewer tourists but also renowned for its 23 Ming Dynasty watchtowers and magnificent scenery. You will take a cable car directly to the 14th watchtower to begin an unforgettable Great Wall hiking experience, focusing on the western section. Surrounded by lush pines and cypresses, the winding Great Wall stands majestically on the vast land, offering you the most stunning natural scenery. Challenge yourself by climbing to the 20th watchtower to fulfill your Great Wall dream. Please cherish this rare opportunity and take plenty of photos!

After bidding farewell to this soul-stirring historical wonder, we return to the urban area of Beijing, passing by the Olympic landmarks – the Bird’s Nest (National Stadium) and the Water Cube (National Aquatics Center). These two Olympic venues have witnessed China’s dual Olympic glory from the 2008 Summer Olympics to the 2022 Winter Olympics. Stop for exterior photos to capture Olympic memories. After the tour, you will be driven back to your hotel. Tonight, you will surely sleep soundly with memories of the Great Wall.

Mutianyu Great Wall, Beijing

Bird’s Nest and Water Cube, Beijing

Day 4: Beijing to Xi'an High-Speed Train | Summer Palace

After breakfast, drive to the ‘Imperial Garden Museum’ – the Summer Palace. This was once a summer resort for the imperial family. The landscapes within the park, including mountains, water features, temples, gardens, pavilions, corridors, lakes, stone bridges, and city gates, are treasures of garden art. You can stroll leisurely, savoring the magnificent charm of imperial architecture, gazing at the mountain and lake scenery, and experiencing a pastoral mood like a traditional Chinese landscape painting.

After the tour, you will be transferred by private car to the train station to take a high-speed train to Xi’an (approximately 4.5-5.5 hours). Welcome to Xi’an – this historic city that has witnessed the rise and fall of thirteen dynasties! Upon arrival at Xi’an Railway Station, your guide and driver will be waiting for you at the exit, and then escort you to your hotel.

Summer Palace, Beijing

Day 5: Xi'an City Tour | Terracotta Army, Ancient City Wall, Muslim Quarter

After breakfast, your guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel and drive about 40 kilometers (about 1 hour) to visit one of the world’s greatest archaeological discoveries – the Terracotta Army Museum of Emperor Qin Shi Huang. This magnificent underground army was ordered to be built by Emperor Qin Shi Huang to guard his afterlife. Approximately 8,000 life-sized terracotta figures have been unearthed so far. First, visit Pit 1, the largest pit, which displays over 6,000 warrior and horse figures. The solemn formations of the terracotta figures stand silently for millennia, showcasing their majesty in guarding the imperial palace and highlighting the exquisite craftsmanship of Qin Dynasty artisans. Afterward, move to Pit 2, which houses over a thousand figures. Here you will see formations of archers composed of kneeling and standing archers, witness the grandeur of chariot formations, and observe the heroic postures of armed soldiers. (Special Note: If you are interested, you can also experience making miniature terracotta figures yourself.)

After lunch, return to the city center to visit the most well-preserved ancient city wall architecture – the Xi’an City Wall. This military defense system integrates moats, watchtowers, and corner towers. It is not only the largest and oldest ancient city defense project in China but also an excellent viewing platform overlooking the new look of the ancient city. You can stroll leisurely along the city wall, appreciating the structural beauty of the inner and outer walls, and gazing at the bustling modern cityscape of Xi’an. (Optional Experience: If you wish to cycle on the city wall, please inform your dedicated travel consultant in advance.)

In the evening, step into the bustling Muslim Quarter, and feel the vibrant pulse of local life on the bluestone pavement. This ancient alley, gathering Halal cuisine and diverse cultures, is a paradise for foodies and an excellent place to touch the pulse of the ancient city.

Terracotta Army, Xi’an

Ancient City Wall, Xi’an

Day 6: Xi'an to Shanghai Flight | Shaanxi History Museum

This morning, your guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel and take you to visit the Shaanxi History Museum. Known as the ‘Pearl of the Ancient Capital and Treasure House of China,’ it houses over 130,000 precious cultural relics, showcasing thousands of years of Chinese history, civilization, and brilliant ancient culture. During your visit, you will admire precious artifacts such as Western Zhou bronzes, Qin Dynasty terracotta warriors, and gold and silver items and murals unearthed from Tang Dynasty tombs. Afterward, we will visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a Tang Dynasty structure located within Ci’en Temple, which is an iconic landmark of Xi’an.

After the tour, you will be transferred to the airport or train station to take a flight or high-speed train to your next destination. Thank you for choosing Fenglin International Travel for your China tour. We will continue to serve you and look forward to meeting you again on your next China/Asia tour!

Shaanxi History Museum, Xi’an

Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Xi’an

Price: What's Included & What's Not

What’s Included?

Experienced Driver & Air-Conditioned Vehicle
Professional Licensed English-Speaking Guide
Hotel Accommodation with Breakfast
Domestic Flights (Economy Class) or High-Speed Train (Second Class Seat) as per itinerary
Entrance Fees, Activities, and Meals as per itinerary
Accident Insurance
We provide comprehensive services from itinerary planning and reception operations to the end of the journey.

What’s Not Included?

International Airfare
Visa Fees
Personal Expenses
Single Room Supplement
Optional Activities
Airport/Train Station Transfers on Arrival/Departure Day
Tips for Driver and Guide

Important Itinerary Notes for Booking a Private China Tour

How Do I Book a Private China Tour?

Booking a private China tour is very simple. Select the tour you are interested in and click ‘Free Consultation.’ Please tell us your requirements and preferences when submitting the form. You do not need to pay immediately during this process. After submitting your request, our professional travel experts will reply within 0.5 to 24 hours. You will only make a deposit after all information is confirmed. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our travel experts directly.

Extend Your China Tour

The itinerary above is a sample that most travelers choose. The tour can be customized according to your preferences, interests, and budget. Also, if you wish to extend your trip, just let us know your desired destinations and activities. Our professional travel experts will completely redesign the itinerary for you and your group at the best price.Tell us your ideas now >>

Transportation

Private tours mean you will travel to tourist attractions within a city in a private vehicle. The private cars we select are spacious, comfortable, and air-conditioned. Moreover, our drivers are experienced. As for travel between two destinations, we use domestic flights (economy class seats) or high-speed trains (second-class seats, usually less than 6 hours). Local guides and drivers will pick you up at the airport and train station and escort you to the hotel.

Meals

“B” stands for Breakfast. You will get it at your hotel in the morning.

“L” stands for Lunch. The restaurants we arrange for you are designated tourist restaurants approved by the local tourism administration. All these places are in good sanitary condition. Your guide will assist you with ordering.

“D” stands for Dinner. All dinners are not included in the itinerary. You have the opportunity to taste authentic Chinese food and local snacks.

If you have special dietary needs (vegetarian, Halal, Kosher, Indian, or gluten-free), please inform us before booking. We will do our best to accommodate you.

China Tour Accommodation & Hotel Conditions

Photo Album of This Trip

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