Essentials - 8 days

Day 1 Arrive Beijing

Arrival private transfer to hotel.

Days 2-4 Beijing

During in-depth private touring in Beijing, explore the splendours of the imperial palaces- Forbidden City, the Summer Palace and the Temple of Heaven;  Travel by rickshaw down the narrow hutongs (lanes) of a traditional residential neighbourhood. See lesser-known temples, and venture to a little-visited hilltop park for panoramic views over the rooftops of the Forbidden City.  One day, take an excursion to a stunning section of the Great Wall with a stop for lunch at Commune by the Great Wall.

Dine on traditional specialties at favourite family-run restaurants, and enjoy reservations at Beijing's most acclaimed restaurants. Visit markets specializing in pearls, silk, food and furniture, and, if desired, explore new art gallery districts that showcase the city's burgeoning contemporary art scene.

Day 5 Shanghai

Private transfer and flight to Shanghai for 3 nights.

Days 6-7 Shanghai

In Shanghai, learn about Shanghai's history through the architecture of the Bund, the French Concession, Pudong and other districts. Visit up-and-coming neighbourhoods filled with art galleries, design shops and stylish new restaurants. Later visit the beautifully maintained Yu Garden, an outstanding example of a classical garden dating from the 16th century, and explore the bustling market area which now surrounds it; Ascend Shanghai World Financial Centre, one of the world’s tallest buildings, for an astonishing view over the whole city, before visiting the renowned Shanghai Museum.

During your stay in Shanghai, visit one of the traditional water villages of Zhouzhuang, Tongli, Wuzhen or take high speed train to serene Hangzhou.

Day 8 Depart Shanghai

Depart private transfer to the airport.