Luxury Grand Tour of China: Giant Pandas, Palaces & Yangtze River Cruise

Your holiday begins as you fly from the UK to your destination.

Stepping off your flight in Beijing, your holiday begins with four nights in China’s vibrant capital. You could take an atmospheric rickshaw ride through historical districts or seek serenity at the 11^th-century Beihai Park, which boasts a wealth of historical treasures.

The city features a thriving arts scene, diverse cuisine, and significant political and educational institutions, making it a global hub of culture and diplomacy.

Visit the magnificent Temple of Heaven with its symbolic representations of heaven and Earth, together with the scarlet-walled Forbidden City – home to imperial rulers. Then on to the remarkable Tiananmen Square and the heart of the People’s Republic.

Get ready for the Great Wall of China – the longest wall in the world and the only manmade structure visible from space! Discover its 2,000-year history, then explore the breathtaking Summer Palace and imperial gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Travel to Xi’an by train for a two-night escape and the imposing Terracotta Army. History buffs will also appreciate the Bell Tower of Xi’an, built in 1384, while foodies may wish to stroll the Muslim Quarter, packed with tasty local cuisine.

Uncovered in 1974 by farmers, the 8,000 soldiers of the Terracotta Army are a symbol of the power and megalomania of Qin Shi Huangdi, China’s first emperor. Sculpted in 210 BC, each of the figures carries its own unique features.

Take the high-speed train to Chengdu for a two-night stay. The capital of Sichuan Province, Chengdu is home to not just one of Asia’s richest culinary cultures, but the country’s leading panda breeding programme.

A highlight of your holiday, today you’ll visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding for an up-close encounter with the national animal of China. Meander through the winding pathways and observe the bears asleep and at play.

The largest river ship in the world, Victoria Sabrina features six passenger decks, a cultural theatre, and a grand, three-storey atrium. Her elegant staterooms and spacious observation deck perfectly complement the Three Gorges scenery.

Today you’ll reach Fengdu, where you’ll be able to ascend Mount Shuanggui, passing by 20 ancient pagodas, pavilions and temples on the route to verdant mountain views. On this day, you’ll also enjoy a captain’s welcome party.

Qutang Gorge snakes for eight kilometres through some of the region’s most stunning scenery. Later in the day, sail through Wu Gorge, celebrated for its forest-covered mountains and cliffs so sheer that the sun barely hits them.

Spanning the Yangtze River, the Three Gorges Dam is the world’s largest power station. Marvel at this incredible feat of engineering that stretches over two kilometres before disembarking in Yichang and transferring to Shanghai for a two-night hotel stay.

Discover the incredible, 400-year history of Yu Garden, which was restored to its former glory in 1956. In the afternoon, enjoy a tour of the Bund, the historic waterfront where magnificent colonial architecture opposes enormous skyscrapers.

Your holiday complete, today you’ll head to the airport for your flight home.