Top 10 China tours 2024/2025 for first visits and returns: embark on a lifetime experience. Learn more
13-Day Shanghai, Macau, Beijing, Zhangjiajie Tour

Classic Zhangjiajie Tour

13-Day Private China Tour: Shanghai– Macau– Beijing–Zhangjiajie

Immerse yourself in the vibrant and cosmopolitan city of Shanghai, where modern architecture meets historical landmarks. Explore the charming streets of Macau, known for its Portuguese influence and luxurious casinos. Discover the awe-inspiring history and iconic attractions of Beijing, including the Great Wall and the Forbidden City. Delve into the natural wonders of Zhangjiajie, home to the towering sandstone pillars that inspired the movie Avatar.

The itinerary below is only one possibility. Tips to tailor-make your trip are offered as inspiration. Send us details of your preferences and our travel experts will customize this trip to suit your interests, tastes, and budget.

Tour 'Wow' Points

Enjoy a Peaceful Boat Ride Through Zhujiajiao Water Town

Zhujiajiao Water Town

Find the Hidden Halls in the Forbidden City

Forbidden City

Explore a Top-Ranked Section of the Great Wall

walking on the Great Wall

Marvel at the Famous Hallelujah Mountain in the Movie "Avatar"

Hallelujah Mountain

Why Choose Us

Your Wellbeing is Our Priority

Your Wellbeing is Our Priority.

  • 1-to-1 travel expert
  • Vaccinated guides
  • Private Rides
Your Trip is Perfectly Planned

Your Trip is Perfectly Planned.

  • Less crowded
  • Exclusive Exciting Experiences
Your Booking is Risk-Free

Your Booking is Risk-Free.

  • No cancellation fee (up to 22 days before departure)
  • Free changes

Finish Your Booking in as Quick as 1 Day

1. Tell us your dream travel idea

2. Work out your unique plan with 1 to 1 expert advice

China Highlights, Asia Highlights, and Global Highlights collaborate to provide families and couples with personalized and stress-free experiences in diverse destinations.

Itinerary Quick Look

Here is a suggested itinerary. We are happy to customize a tour according to your interests.

DAY 1 Shanghai Arrival

Your private guide will be ready to meet and greet you at the arrival hall in Shanghai. A comfortable private car with an experienced driver will transfer you directly to your hotel. Your guide will help you to check-in.

DAY 2 Shanghai| The Bund and Zhujiajiao Water Town

Experience the allure of The Bund, a historic embankment along the Huangpu River. Marvel at the well-preserved European-style buildings that line its promenade, offering a glimpse into Shanghai's trading past. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere that now defines The Bund, with its modern developments, chic restaurants, upscale shops, and lively bars. Be sure to visit in the afternoon or evening to witness the enchanting lights that illuminate the area.

Visit the impressive Shanghai World Financial Center, a soaring skyscraper that serves as a symbol of Shanghai's prosperity. Take in awe-inspiring views from its observation deck, the highest in the world, and explore the diverse offerings within the building, including hotels, apartments, restaurants, shopping malls, and offices.

Indulge in a Zhujiajiao Boat Ride, where you can peacefully glide along the water and admire the town's scenic highlights. Discover historical attractions such as the ancient pharmacy, Post Office, art galleries, temples, museums, and gardens during the 20-minute ride. Allow the intimate setting of the boat to provide a personal experience of this charming water town.

DAY 3 Shanghai| Yuyuan Garden and Shikumen

Explore the enchanting Yuyuan Garden, a meticulously designed private garden showcasing classic Chinese architecture. Immerse yourself in the peaceful ambiance as you admire the rockeries, pavilions, ponds, and corridors. Don't miss the bustling marketplace surrounding the garden, offering a blend of culinary delights, handicrafts, and souvenirs.

Visit the revered Jade Buddha Temple, home to invaluable Buddha statues carved from precious white jade. Experience the vibrant atmosphere as worshippers and visitors gather, immersing yourself in the spiritual energy the temple offers.

Take a leisurely stroll through Shanghai's Old Street, where well-preserved traditional houses and narrow lanes transport you to the bygone era of the city. Engage with local life and explore the various shops and stalls, filled with antiques, crafts, and souvenirs, allowing you to discover unique treasures.

Experience the distinctive Shikumen style of housing and witness its evolution from residential neighborhoods to modern gathering places filled with bars, tea houses, and entertainment centers. Don't miss the opportunity to glimpse into the past at Wu Li Xiang, an exhibition that showcases the furnishings and essence of traditional Shanghainese homes.

DAY 4 Shanghai to Macau | The Maglev Train

Experience the world's only commercial Maglev (magnetic levitation) rail system, offering a thrilling ride reaching speeds of up to 430 km/hr on the 7-minute journey between Pudong International Airport and Longyang Station. While the Maglev train provides a speedy transfer, it is important to note that it does not take you directly to the main attractions in Shanghai. It is recommended to schedule the Maglev train ride for a different day, separate from your arrival, to avoid the inconvenience of carrying your bags onto the train or waiting for transportation at the other end.

DAY 5 Macau | The Historic Centre of Macau

Start your day with a visit to the Historic Centre of Macau, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the narrow streets, beautiful squares, and colonial-era buildings influenced by Portuguese architecture. Highlights include the Ruins of St. Paul's, Senado Square, and St. Dominic's Church.

Visit the A-Ma Temple, dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu. This is one of the oldest and most famous temples in Macau, offering cultural insights and serene surroundings.

DAY 6 Macau to Beijing | The Cotai Strip

Head to the Cotai Strip, a vibrant area that hosts many of Macau's famous resorts and casinos. Explore the Venetian Macao, an upscale resort modeled after Venice, where you can take a gondola ride through the Grand Canal.

DAY 7 Beijing| The Mutianyu Section of the Great Wall

Experience the picturesque Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, ranked top on TripAdvisor. Enjoy a round-trip cable car ride to save time and explore the beautifully-restored architecture. Hike the "golden route" between the 14th and 23rd watchtowers for approximately 2 hours before descending.

Summer Palace with the Garden of Virtue and Harmony: Visit the renowned Summer Palace, China's largest and best-preserved imperial garden. Explore the Garden of Virtue and Harmony, once a theater for the Empress Dowager, where Beijing Opera performances took place.

DAY 8 Beijing| The Forbidden City

Explore Tiananmen Square, the largest city square in central Beijing. Admire the iconic Tiananmen Gate, which separates the square from the Forbidden City. This historic square holds great cultural significance, having witnessed key events in Chinese history. Imposing buildings surround the square, including the entrance to the Forbidden City, museums, government buildings, and Chairman Mao's Mausoleum.

Step into the heart of Beijing to discover the majestic Forbidden City. This ancient imperial complex was the residence of 24 emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Explore its vast courtyards, intricate halls, and beautiful gardens. The Forbidden City is the largest and best-preserved ancient imperial architectural complex in the world. Allow for a moderate 2-hour walk (covering approximately 2 kilometers) to fully immerse yourself in its treasures. The exhibitions, both permanent and temporary, showcase the rich heritage of ancient China.

Embark on a captivating Hutong tour, experiencing the historic alleyways and traditional courtyard houses of Beijing. Traverse the narrow alleys aboard a rickshaw, visit a local family, and cross the picturesque Silver Ingot Bridge. Gain insights into the unique characteristics of different courtyards. Explore Prince Gong's Mansion, an exquisite example of traditional Chinese architecture. Finally, take a stroll along Pipe Street (Yandaixiejie), soaking in the charm of this cultural neighborhood.

DAY 9 Beijing to Zhangjiajie | The Ming Tombs

Take a stroll along the Sacred Way, a picturesque tree-lined path leading to the Ming Tombs. Admire the impressive collection of 12 sets of animal and human statues, including the striking Great Red Gate. Don't miss the marble memorial archway and the stele on the back of a tortoise.

Explore the Changling Tomb, the final resting place of Emperor Yongle and his empress from the Ming Dynasty. Built in 1413, this well-preserved mausoleum covers an expansive area of 100,000 square meters. Marvel at the magnificent architecture, vibrant color paintings on the ceiling, and the golden brick-paved earth. While the underground palace is not accessible, you will still have the opportunity to appreciate the grandeur and learn about Chinese Fengshui theory. This lesser-known tomb provides a fascinating glimpse into Ming emperors' legacies.

Visit the Temple of Heaven, a complex of Taoist buildings dating back to 1420 during the Ming dynasty. This site holds great cultural significance as emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties would come here annually to pray for bountiful harvests. Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the park surrounding the temple, with locals gathering in the mornings to sing, exercise, and practice tai chi. Covering an expansive 273 hectares in southern Central Beijing, take a leisurely walk for about 1-1½ hours (1½ kilometers). The walk is easy and offers a delightful exploration of this historical site.

DAY 10 Zhangjiajie | The National Forest Park

In Zhangjiajie, you will visit the National Forest Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the unique pillar-like formations shaped by erosion over time. Explore the park's vast forest-covered area, including Yuanjiajie, Yangjiajie, Jinbian Stream, and Wulongzhai. Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting nearby villages inhabited by Tujia, Bai, Miao, and Hui people.

Please note that accommodations and meals in mountain areas like Zhangjiajie and Huangshan are simple. Adjust your expectations accordingly for the best experience. Get ready to be captivated by the breathtaking landscapes of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park.

DAY 11 Zhangjiajie| The Grand Canyon with Glass Bridge

Today, our guide will lead you to visit Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon, which is a stunning natural attraction that has recently been developed into a wonderland for visitors. It offers a combination of majestic mountains, flowing streams, intriguing caves, towering cliffs, and lush forests. One of the highlights of this scenic area is the world's longest and highest glass bridge. Imagine the thrill of walking on this bridge, suspended 300 meters above the ground! It's definitely an experience you wouldn't want to miss during your tour.

If walking on the glass bridge isn't your cup of tea, don't worry. We have an alternative route that allows you to still enjoy the attraction without stepping on the glass bridge. However, if you decide to take on the adventure, please note that for safety reasons, carrying a camera on the bridge is not allowed. You can, however, bring your cellphone or GoPro to capture those unforgettable moments.

DAY 12 Zhangjiajie | Tianmen Mountain

Visit the Tianmen Mountain, the awe-inspiring heart of Zhangjiajie! As the highest peak in the area, this majestic mountain offers unrivaled views of ancient trees, stunning karst formations, and scenic roads carved into cliff sides. Hop on the world's longest cable car ride, a thrilling 30-minute journey from the city center, and ascend to the mountain's summit.

At 1430 meters above ground, you'll find the renowned Tianmen Mountain Glass Walkway, a remarkable observation platform that extends from a sheer cliff. This narrow 1.6-meter-wide, 60-meter-long glass walkway offers brave souls not only breathtaking views of the mountains below but also the exhilaration of treading nervously above such heights. Some have even likened this experience to the famous 'skywalk' at the Grand Canyon in Arizona, USA.

Don't miss the chance to explore this remarkable natural wonder in China. Savor the beauty and thrill of Tianmen Mountain, an experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories.

DAY 13 Zhangjiajie to Beijing Departure

Our guide will help you transfer from your hotel to the Airport for departure with independentcar/van and guide.

Tour Price

FromUS3,250 p/p Based on a private tour for 2 people. Price varies depending on program, travel date, number of people and chosen hotel

Price includes:

  • Private air-conditioned business car with big windows and ample space
  • English speaking local guide
  • Activities, hotels, and meals listed in the itinerary
  • 24/7 helpline for while you are traveling

Tour code: cht-cx-44

Your 1:1 travel consultant will reply within 1 working day.

Number in your group

What's your hotel choice?

*

*

*

I prefer to be contacted via:

Popular tours
Make the most of your time
Choose the best time to visit
Start planning your tailor-made tour with 1-1 help from our travel advisors. Create Your Trip

Sign up to Our Newsletter

Be the first to receive exciting updates, exclusive promotions, and valuable travel tips from our team of experts.

The China Highlights Experience

1-to-1 Expert Planning

1-to-1 Expert Planning

Your tour will be tailor-made by your personal travel advisor — a destination expert. Every reply will be within 24 hours.

Personal Journeys

Personal Journeys

Enjoy your personal local guide and ride. Explore destinations at your own pace. Have unparalleled flexibility, which is impossible on a group tour.

Authentic Experiences

Authentic Experiences

Discover the hidden gems. Experience local culture by practicing it. Try new and exciting activities, and unveil the stories behind the sights and people.

Well-Selected Local Guides

Well-Selected Local Guides

Knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and attentive — your personal local guides will share interesting stories, insider information, and even create unexpected highlights!

China Highlights tailor-makes China tours to help travelers discover China their way. We're a passionate team of one hundred avid travelers who love to share our knowledge of China with those looking for a more authentic travel experience, more ...
China Highlights International Travel Service Co., LTD
Corporate Number: 914503003486045699
Featured on