Beijing & Great Wall
Beijing is the natural starting point for our first-time visitors to the People's Republic. It is here that you will explore centuries of extraordinary history and observe modern life in a thriving 21st century China. In the sprawling 15th century Forbidden City, on the sacred steps of the Temple of Heaven and in the landscaped gardens of the Summer Palace, you can relive the might and power of the Dynastic years, when all-powerful emperors ruled over China. Better yet, we'll get there early to observe the elderly locals who rise early to take communal exercises in the park and gather to sing their red songs.
In the vast Tiananmen Square, the uncompromising communism of the Chairman Mao era is embodied in the brutal Soviet style buildings which line this immense public space. Venture into the ancient hutong alleyways to find pockets of life largely untouched by the explosive capitalism of recent years. The younger generation might be moving to the outskirts, but these streets are still home to many Mao-era Beijingers.
But Beijing is not all about the past; micro-breweries, contemporary hotels and the flourishing 798 Art District lend the city a young, creative and dynamic edge. Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism thrive and coexist harmoniously, celebrated and worshipped in magnificent temples.
Beijing is also the place to access the mythical Great Wall of China, both reconstructed and easily-accessed areas around an hour from the city, to our favourite wilder and atmospheric sections slightly further afield.
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Specialist Knowledge
Need some help with your trip? Paulo Veloso has travelled extensively across China and can help with his knowledge and expertise of the attractions and services available.
China17 Nights from £3,982€3,679$4,575
Be inspired by stories of epic Imperial wonders and Shanghai's forest of towers on a tour full of cultural insights and magnificent landscapes
China14 Nights from £3,784€3,452$4,298
Delve into China's Imperial past and hike the Great Wall away from the crowds. Discover Hong Kong beyond the skyscrapers and stand in awe at the iconic Terracotta Army
China13 Nights from £3,992€3,691$4,589
Cruise through the Three Gorges landscape in 5* style, experience China's Imperial age wonders and go beyond the skyscrapers to uncover the real Shanghai
China20 Nights from £5,271€5,162$6,380
Palaces of the Dalai Lama and Chinese emperors, baby pandas, the Terracotta Army and Hong Kong beyond the skyscrapers
China14 Nights from £4,343€4,094$5,080
Buddhist monk debates, prayer flags fluttering below Himalayan peaks and the Dalai Lama's palaces on the Roof of the World
China14 Nights from £4,668€4,469$5,536
Enjoy Yunnan's stunning landscapes and cultural experiences as you go behind the scenes on the old Tea Horse Road
China13 Nights from £3,442€3,058$3,819
China by Bullet Train, with no internal flights. Enjoy Imperial wonders, classic gardens, ancient canals and spectacular mountains
China7 Nights from £2,228€1,662$2,119
Explore Imperial palaces, hike the Great Wall of China and enjoy Hong Kong's exotic beaches and local markets
China13 Nights from £3,167€2,742$3,434
Travelling to China with kids? We've an unforgettable China family adventure - the Great Wall, Terracotta Army, Pandas & Hong Kong!
Read all about the epic 20 hour train journey across the Tibetan Plateau to the holy city of Lhasa.
Five best places to visit the Great Wall away from the crowds, in both its wild and restored forms.
Where is the Great Wall? When was it built and can it really be seen from space? Find out all you need to know about this wor…
Gain an in-depth perspective on Beijing's past and present with our specially designed tour of the capital.
Explore the ancient complex, home to 24 Chinese emperors to immerse yourself in China’s Dynastic past.
Tour the magnificent lakeside summer residence of emperors, cross the lake by boat and see the Old Palace ruins.
Climb the sacred steps to one of China’s finest temples and observe locals taking their morning exercises.
A range of options to hike along a wild and atmospheric part of the Great Wall of China, just north of Beijing.
Ride the cable cars to a picturesque restored section of the Great Wall and visit the impressive Ming tombs.
Traverse the alleyways of a traditional hutong to gain an insight into life here and partake in cultural activities.
Delve into Beijing's lesser visited places to gain different perspectives on life here, away from the crowds.
Visit three beautiful temples to learn how Buddhism, Confucianism and Taoism remain relevant today.
Wander the bohemian streets of Beijing’s art district to see the creative side of the city, full of surprises.
A renowned luxury 5 star hotel in the heart of the city - a stylish haven in which to unwind after a day Beijing.
A 5 star Hilton hotel with spa and indoor pool and a convenient location for the city and airport.
This laid-back trendy hotel offers cool design but a welcoming embrace, none more so than in the busy Pentalounge, a neighbou…
A renowned 5* hotel in Central Beijing, with good facilities and spacious rooms.
This boutique courtyard hotel blends traditional Chinese decor and style with excellent service and modern facilities.
