Splendors of Beijing and Shanghai
A premium cultural city break between the imperial capital, Jiangnan gardens, and modern Shanghai
Spirit of the journey
A short and intense journey between majestic Beijing, the Great Wall, the canals of Tongli, the gardens of Suzhou, and the contemporary brilliance of Shanghai.
Two Faces of ChinaThis 7-day journey connects Beijing and Shanghai, two major cities essential to understand the Chinese contrasts: Beijing for its imperial memory, hutongs, the Great Wall, and major historical sites; Shanghai for its openness, the Bund, the old city, museums, and contemporary energy.A Poetic Extension to JiangnanThe itinerary also includes Tongli and Suzhou, adding a softer dimension: canals, classical gardens, ancient alleys, traditional houses, and the atmosphere of Jiangnan.
Itinerary
Highlights
- Two faces of China: Imperial Beijing and contemporary Shanghai
- Great Wall of Mutianyu, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, and Summer Palace
- Hutongs, teahouses, ancient quarters, and local expériences in Beijing
- Shanghai: Bund, old city, Yu Garden, museums, and contemporary skyline
- Tongli and Suzhou: canals, classical gardens, and Jiangnan atmosphere
- Short format ideal for a premium first approach to China
- Easily combinable with Xi'an, Guilin, Hong Kong, or a Jiangnan extension
Well-located hotels, comfortable pace, well-structured major stops, and selection of cultural expériences tailored to a premium short stay in China.
Local French-speaking or English-speaking guides depending on the stages and availability. On-ground assistance during key moments of the program.
A balance between iconic sites, major cities, old quarters, Jiangnan gardens, local addresses, and moments of respite.
Who is it for?
- Clients seeking a first short trip to China
- Travelers wishing to combine Beijing, the Great Wall, Shanghai, and Jiangnan
- Couples, families, or small groups who enjoy history, gardens, major cities, and heritage
- Premium clients with limited time
- Agencies looking for a short, readable, and easily customizable product
To check before quoting
- Exact travel dates and availability of tickets for the Forbidden City
- Schedule of high-speed train Beijing → Shanghai
- Desired hotel level in Beijing and Shanghai
- Feasibility of Day 6 between Tongli, Suzhou, and Shanghai according to client pace
- Availability of French-speaking guides depending on the stages
- Desired activity level: Great Wall, hutongs, gardens, and long urban days
- Necessary reservations for restaurants, shows, or specific expériences
- High traffic periods: weekends, Chinese holidays, and public holidays.
Day by day
Jour 1 Arrival in Beijing Open
Arrival in Beijing, welcome by the guide or driver as per confirmed version, then transfer to the hotel. Depending on the time of arrival, a gentle walk in the surroundings or free time to rest. Overnight in Beijing.
Jour 2 Imperial Beijing Open
Visit Tian'anmen Square and the Forbidden City, then explore the Temple of Heaven at the group's pace. Traditional lunch as per confirmed version. Overnight in Beijing.
Jour 3 In the Footsteps of the Great Wall Open
Excursion to the Great Wall of Mutianyu. Lunch at a local spot, then return to Beijing. Evening free or cultural expérience option as per confirmed version. Overnight in Beijing.
Jour 4 Spirituality in Beijing Open
Visit the Lama Temple and have lunch at an imperial cuisine restaurant. Departure for the Summer Palace and evening in the Hutongs. Overnight in Beijing.
Jour 5 From Beijing to Shanghai Open
Departure by high-speed train to Shanghai. Depending on the time of arrival, discover the old city, Yu Garden or take a first stroll along the Bund. Overnight in Shanghai.
Jour 6 Excursion to Tongli & Suzhou Open
Excursion in Jiangnan: discovery of Tongli or Suzhou at the chosen pace. Possibility to visit a classical garden, canals, and an ancient quarter. Return to Shanghai at the end of the day. Overnight in Shanghai.
Jour 7 Visit Shanghai Open
Depending on flight time, last stroll in Fuxing Park, along the Bund, in the former French concession or visit the Shanghai Museum. Transfer to the airport for the return flight.
Included
- Selected accommodations, double or twin room basis with breakfasts
- Transfers between airports, train stations, and hotels
- Private transportation with driver for mentioned visits
- High-speed train Beijing → Shanghai as per confirmed version
- French-speaking or English-speaking guides depending on the stages and availability
- Visits, entries, and expériences mentioned in the final quote
- Meals mentioned in the confirmed program
- Local assistance before and during the trip
Not included
- International flights.
- Travel insurance.
- Optional activities not mentioned in the program.