
Tour overview
- Tour Code
- CN-XA-010
- Rating
- 4.9
- Duration
- 6 Days
- Destination
- Beijing+Xi'an
- Tour Type
- Private for you only
- Suitable For
- China Culture Lovers
Starting from
$1348 p.p
A private tour based on a stay in a 4-star hotel with double occupancy. The price is subject to the travel dates, the number of people, and the selected hotel.
Highlights
6-day Beijing-Xi'an private tour: Covers iconic spots—Temple of Heaven, Palace Museum, Terracotta Warriors, Summer Palace. Free all-day pickup in 4 Beijing districts & key airports/stations.
Seamless travel: Pre-arranged Beijing-Xi'an high-speed rail, drivers at both ends. Hotel buffet breakfast included ; flexible hotels.
Cultural depth: Visits Bell/Drum Towers, Huaqing Palace, Xi'an Museum. Ends with airport transfer; meals self-arranged for dining flexibility.

Your experience
Itinerary & tour details
Welcome to Beijing, the vibrant capital of China, where imperial heritage, traditional neighborhoods, and modern city life come together. Upon arrival, enjoy a convenient private pick-up service from your confirmed location, covering the designated Beijing districts, Beijing Capital International Airport, Beijing Daxing International Airport, and selected railway stations included in your booking. Your driver will meet you at the agreed pick-up point and transfer you comfortably to the day's sightseeing destinations or your hotel, depending on your arrival schedule.
Begin your Beijing adventure with a visit to the magnificent Temple of Heaven, one of the city's most important historical and cultural landmarks. Built during the Ming Dynasty and later expanded by subsequent emperors, this impressive complex served as the ceremonial site where emperors prayed for good harvests and favorable weather. Explore the beautifully designed grounds, admire the iconic Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, and discover the architectural principles that reflect traditional Chinese beliefs about the relationship between heaven and earth.
As you stroll through the temple complex, appreciate the harmony between the circular ceremonial buildings, geometric courtyards, and extensive parkland. The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests is particularly striking for its colorful roof tiles, intricate wooden structure, and elegant proportions. Continue to other important ceremonial areas, including the Circular Mound Altar, where imperial rituals were once performed. The surrounding park is also a wonderful place to observe local life, as residents often gather for tai chi, dancing, singing, and traditional recreational activities.
After exploring the Temple of Heaven, continue to Qianmen Street, a historic commercial district located south of central Beijing. Known for its traditional-style architecture, long-established shops, and lively pedestrian streets, Qianmen offers an inviting introduction to the city's everyday culture. Walk past restored storefronts, browse local specialty shops, and discover the history of a neighborhood that once served merchants, travelers, and residents near the old imperial capital.
Take time to explore the surrounding traditional lanes and admire the blend of historic façades and contemporary commercial spaces. Qianmen is also an excellent place to sample Beijing cuisine, with dining options ranging from classic local restaurants to casual snack shops. Depending on your interests, you may wish to try Beijing-style noodles, traditional pastries, or other regional specialties while enjoying the lively atmosphere.
After sightseeing, transfer to your selected hotel and check in. The remainder of the day can be spent relaxing after your journey or exploring the nearby neighborhood at your own pace. Since arrival times may vary, the sequence and duration of sightseeing can be adjusted to suit your schedule.
Meals: All meals are self-arranged and at your own expense.
Transportation: Private pick-up and sightseeing transfers according to your confirmed booking.
Accommodation: Beijing
After breakfast, begin a full day exploring the historic heart of Beijing, where imperial palaces, monumental public spaces, and traditional hutong neighborhoods reveal different chapters of China's history. Today's itinerary combines the grandeur of the former imperial capital with panoramic city views and an opportunity to experience the charm of old Beijing.
Start at Tiananmen Square, one of the world's largest public squares and an important landmark in modern Chinese history. Admire the monumental scale of the square and its surrounding buildings while learning about its role in national ceremonies and public events. The broad open space provides a striking contrast to the traditional courtyard architecture found elsewhere in the city. Please note that advance reservations, identity verification, and security checks may be required, so it is advisable to confirm entry arrangements before your visit.
Continue to the Palace Museum, also known as the Forbidden City, the former imperial residence of China's Ming and Qing emperors. Once the political and ceremonial center of the empire, this vast palace complex contains grand ceremonial halls, elegant courtyards, ornate gates, and numerous buildings that reflect the sophistication of traditional Chinese architecture.
Enter through the designated visitor entrance and follow the principal palace route to discover the grand halls that once hosted imperial ceremonies and state functions. Along the way, admire the richly decorated roofs, red walls, stone balustrades, and intricate architectural details. Learn about the lives of emperors, empresses, officials, and court attendants, as well as the strict ceremonial traditions that governed life within the palace walls.
Allow several hours to explore the Forbidden City, as its extensive grounds contain a remarkable variety of historical structures and exhibitions. Depending on opening arrangements and available time, you may also visit selected galleries or exhibitions that showcase imperial artifacts, traditional craftsmanship, and aspects of court culture. Advance ticket reservations are strongly recommended, especially during peak travel seasons.
After leaving the palace, visit Jingshan Park, located just north of the Forbidden City. The park is famous for its elevated viewpoint, which offers one of the most impressive panoramic views of Beijing's historic imperial center. Follow the landscaped paths toward the summit pavilion and look out over the golden palace roofs, traditional courtyards, and the carefully arranged layout of the former imperial city.
The short uphill walk is a rewarding addition to the day, providing an opportunity to appreciate the scale and symmetry of the Forbidden City from above. Take photographs of the skyline and enjoy a moment of relaxation among the park's trees and traditional pavilions before continuing to the next destination.
In the late afternoon, explore Nanluoguxiang, one of Beijing's best-known hutong districts. Its narrow lanes, traditional courtyard residences, independent boutiques, cafés, and snack shops provide a glimpse into the city's historic neighborhood life. Stroll through the main alley and, where appropriate, explore quieter side lanes to observe the contrast between traditional residential architecture and the area's contemporary creative culture.
Take a break at a local café or browse shops selling souvenirs, crafts, and design products. The district is particularly enjoyable for travelers who want to experience Beijing beyond its major monuments. As the day draws to a close, enjoy the lively street atmosphere before returning to your hotel.
Meals: All meals are self-arranged and at your own expense.
Transportation: Sightseeing transportation according to your confirmed arrangements; walking is required within the major attractions.
Accommodation: Beijing
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before departing for the Summer Palace, one of China's finest examples of classical imperial garden design and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in the northwestern part of Beijing, the Summer Palace combines landscaped hills, expansive water features, elegant pavilions, and traditional architectural structures into a harmonious setting that once served as a retreat for the imperial family.
Begin your exploration around Kunming Lake, where the surrounding hills and traditional buildings create picturesque views throughout the seasons. Walk along the lakeside paths, admire the graceful bridges, and discover the famous Long Corridor, a covered walkway decorated with thousands of colorful paintings depicting landscapes, historical stories, and scenes from Chinese literature.
Continue to the Hall of Benevolence and Longevity and other significant structures, subject to your chosen route and available time. Learn about the palace's development during the Qing Dynasty and its role as a place for imperial relaxation, administration, and ceremonial activities. The combination of natural scenery and carefully planned architecture makes the Summer Palace an excellent destination for leisurely walks and photography.
If operating conditions and your schedule permit, you may consider an optional boat ride on Kunming Lake for a different perspective of the palace grounds. Alternatively, continue exploring the lakeside paths and elevated viewpoints to enjoy the changing scenery. The park is extensive, so comfortable walking shoes and sufficient time are recommended.
After visiting the Summer Palace, continue to Yuanmingyuan Park, also known as the Old Summer Palace. Historically, Yuanmingyuan was an extensive imperial garden complex renowned for its landscaped lakes, ornate pavilions, and elaborate palace grounds. It was once considered one of the most remarkable garden estates of the Qing imperial court.
Today, the park combines peaceful natural landscapes with the remains of its former palaces, offering a moving perspective on a significant chapter of Chinese history. Explore the designated pathways and discover the ruins of the Western-style palaces, whose surviving stone columns and fragments provide a striking contrast to the surrounding greenery.
As you walk through the park, learn about the site's historical importance, its destruction during the nineteenth century, and subsequent efforts to preserve the remains as a place of cultural remembrance. The lakes, tree-lined paths, and open spaces also provide a quieter atmosphere after the grandeur of the Summer Palace.
After the visit, return to your hotel or enjoy some free time, depending on the day's schedule. The two imperial gardens offer complementary experiences: the Summer Palace showcases the beauty of a restored imperial retreat, while Yuanmingyuan provides insight into the scale of Qing garden design and the historical events that shaped modern China.
Meals: Hotel buffet breakfast included according to the selected package. Lunch and dinner are self-arranged and at your own expense. Additional charges may apply for children who exceed the applicable height standard under the hotel's breakfast policy; confirm the current terms with your accommodation provider.
Transportation: Sightseeing transfers according to the confirmed itinerary.
Accommodation: Beijing
After breakfast and hotel check-out, meet your driver for a transfer to the railway station. Board your pre-arranged high-speed train from Beijing to Xi’an, the historic capital of several Chinese dynasties and one of the most important cultural centers along the ancient Silk Road. The high-speed rail journey provides a comfortable connection between China's modern capital and a city celebrated for its ancient walls, imperial heritage, and distinctive culinary traditions.
During the journey, relax in your reserved seat and watch the changing scenery as the train travels across northern China toward Shaanxi Province. Please confirm your train departure time, station details, and ticket arrangements in advance, and allow sufficient time for station security and boarding procedures. Upon arrival in Xi’an, meet your driver or follow your confirmed transfer arrangements to begin exploring the city.
Your first sightseeing stop is the Xi’an Bell Tower, a prominent landmark situated near the center of the old city. Originally constructed during the Ming Dynasty, the Bell Tower was traditionally used to announce the time and mark important daily activities. Admire its traditional wooden architecture, colorful roof tiles, and elevated position at the intersection of major city streets.
Continue to the nearby Xi’an Drum Tower, another historic structure that once complemented the Bell Tower in the city's traditional timekeeping system. The Drum Tower is known for its impressive roofline and traditional architectural details. Together, the two towers represent important surviving elements of Xi’an's historic urban landscape and provide a fascinating introduction to the city's past.
Next, explore the lively Muslim Quarter, also known as Huifang, one of Xi’an's most famous food and cultural districts. Wander through bustling lanes filled with traditional restaurants, specialty food stalls, bakeries, and small shops selling local products. The area reflects the city's long history of cultural exchange, shaped in part by merchants and travelers who arrived through Silk Road trade networks.
Take the opportunity to sample regional specialties such as roujiamo, hand-pulled noodles, lamb dishes, and other traditional Shaanxi snacks. Food availability and restaurant opening times vary, so you can choose where to eat based on your preferences. Beyond the cuisine, observe the distinctive street atmosphere and explore the surrounding historic lanes to discover more of the neighborhood's architectural and cultural character.
In the evening, visit the Grand Tang Mall, or Grand Tang Dynasty Ever-Bright City, a popular cultural district inspired by the prosperity and artistic achievements of the Tang Dynasty. The pedestrian streets are lined with Tang-style architectural façades, colorful lighting, public art installations, and spaces for cultural performances. As night falls, the illuminated streets create a festive atmosphere that brings Xi’an's imperial heritage into a contemporary setting.
Walk through the main avenues, admire the themed installations, and enjoy the lively evening environment. Depending on the day's schedule, you may encounter street performances or other public entertainment. The district offers excellent opportunities for evening photography and provides a memorable contrast with the ancient Bell Tower and Drum Tower visited earlier in the day.
After the evening visit, transfer to your hotel and check in. If your train arrives later than expected, the sightseeing sequence may need to be adjusted, with some evening activities shortened or rescheduled according to the available time.
Meals: All meals are self-arranged and at your own expense.
Transportation: Transfer to the railway station in Beijing, pre-arranged high-speed train to Xi’an, and local sightseeing transportation according to your confirmed booking.
Accommodation: Xi’an
After breakfast, depart for the Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Site Museum, home to the world-famous Terracotta Army and one of China's most extraordinary archaeological discoveries. The museum offers a remarkable journey into the Qin Dynasty, when Qin Shi Huang unified China and established the foundations of the first centralized imperial state.
Explore the principal excavation pits, where thousands of life-sized clay warriors, horses, and chariots have been discovered. Each soldier displays distinctive facial features, hairstyles, clothing, and military details, reflecting the extraordinary craftsmanship of ancient Chinese artisans. Observe how the warriors are arranged in different formations and learn about the military organization and burial traditions of the Qin Empire.
As you move through the exhibition areas, discover the history of the mausoleum, the accidental discovery of the Terracotta Army in the 1970s, and the continuing archaeological work that has revealed new information about the site. The scale of the underground army provides a striking illustration of the emperor's ambition, the resources of the Qin state, and the sophistication of ancient Chinese sculpture and engineering.
Allow sufficient time to explore the museum at a comfortable pace and appreciate the historical significance of the collection. The site can be busy during weekends and public holidays, so advance ticket arrangements and an early departure are recommended. Follow the museum's visitor guidelines and observe any restrictions on photography.
Continue to Huaqing Palace, a historic imperial retreat at the foot of Mount Li, renowned for its hot springs, traditional architecture, and association with the Tang Dynasty. The palace complex provides a contrasting perspective on China's imperial history, moving from the military power and unification ambitions of the Qin Dynasty to the cultural sophistication and court life of the Tang era.
Explore the landscaped grounds, admire the traditional pavilions, and discover the history of the imperial hot spring pools. Huaqing Palace is closely associated with Emperor Xuanzong and his consort Yang Guifei, whose story became one of the most celebrated romantic legends in Chinese literature. As you explore, learn how the natural hot springs and surrounding mountain scenery made this area a favored imperial retreat.
Take time to appreciate the architectural details and the relationship between the palace complex and its natural surroundings. Depending on the available time and operating arrangements, you may also explore additional designated areas or enjoy views of Mount Li. The combination of historic buildings, gardens, and cultural stories makes Huaqing Palace an excellent complement to the Terracotta Army visit.
After completing the day's sightseeing, return to Xi’an. Lunch and dinner are self-arranged, allowing you to select restaurants that suit your preferences. Spend the evening relaxing at your hotel or exploring nearby streets independently before the final day of your trip.
Meals: Lunch and dinner are self-arranged and at your own expense.
Transportation: Sightseeing transfers between Xi’an, the Terracotta Army, Huaqing Palace, and the return destination according to your confirmed itinerary.
Accommodation: Xi’an
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before checking out and beginning the final day of your journey. Today's visit to the Xi’an Museum offers a valuable opportunity to deepen your understanding of the city's long history, from its early development as a major settlement to its rise as the capital of powerful Chinese dynasties.
Explore the museum's exhibitions, which feature archaeological artifacts, historical objects, ceramics, bronze items, calligraphy, sculptures, and other collections that illustrate the evolution of Xi’an and the surrounding Shaanxi region. Through these displays, discover how successive dynasties shaped the city's political importance, cultural achievements, religious traditions, and connections with the wider world.
The museum provides a more focused and accessible overview of Xi’an's history, complementing the previous day's visit to the Terracotta Army and Huaqing Palace. Take time to examine the exhibits and learn about the city's development during the Han and Tang dynasties, when it played a central role in China's political administration and international trade.
The museum complex is also associated with the Small Wild Goose Pagoda, a historic Buddhist monument dating to the Tang Dynasty. If access and your schedule permit, explore the surrounding grounds and admire the pagoda's elegant brick structure, which has endured through centuries of historical change. Its association with Buddhist scholarship and the translation of religious texts reflects the important role Xi’an played in the spread of Buddhism in China.
Enjoy a final stroll through the museum grounds, appreciate the peaceful atmosphere, and take photographs where permitted. Please check the museum's opening arrangements and ticket requirements in advance, as access to specific exhibitions or the pagoda may vary.
After the visit, enjoy lunch independently before meeting your driver for the transfer to Xi’an Xianyang International Airport. Your driver will take you to the airport according to the departure arrangements confirmed in your booking. Ensure that your flight time has been coordinated with the sightseeing schedule, allowing adequate time for the road transfer, check-in, baggage procedures, and airport security.
If your flight departs early, the museum visit may need to be shortened or omitted to ensure a timely arrival at the airport. For later departures, you may have more flexibility to explore the museum and surrounding area before leaving the city.
Your six-day journey concludes with a memorable combination of Beijing's imperial landmarks, classical gardens, and historic neighborhoods, followed by Xi’an's ancient cityscape, Silk Road culture, Tang Dynasty atmosphere, and extraordinary archaeological heritage.
Meals: Hotel buffet breakfast included according to the selected package. Lunch is self-arranged and at your own expense. Additional charges may apply for children who exceed the applicable height standard under the hotel's breakfast policy; confirm the current terms with your accommodation provider.
Transportation: Sightseeing transfer and airport drop-off at Xi’an Xianyang International Airport according to the confirmed booking.
Tour conclusion: The tour ends with your transfer to the airport. Please confirm the departure time and any additional transfer requirements in advance.
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