Taste of China - Northbound

Itinerary

Days 1-3 Shanghai/Zhouzhuang

Get a sense of the city on a guided orientation walk before getting lost in the fascinating exhibits of the renowned Shanghai Museum. Not simply an architectural landmark, the museum also has many fantastic displays, including ancient historical relics, beautiful Chinese sculpture, callipgraphy and weapons. There's time to shop till you drop in busy markets or stay up all night in a happening bar. Enjoy a trip to one of Shanghai's nearby water towns, Zhouzhuang, where the tranquil cobblestone streets lined with traditional buildings are a haven for keen photographers. For a different perspective, why not take a tour down the Huangpu River for remarkable views of the Bund?

Days 4-6 Xi'an

Climb the walls of Xi'an to look out over the city or watch the locals go about tai chi and ballroom dancing practice in the gardens below. Come face to face with the fierce Terracotta Warriors, who are set out in battle formation, complete with horses and chariots. Buried for over 2,200 years, these ancient figures are sure to amaze - every soldier in the 6,000-strong army dislays a different facial expression.

Days 7-9 Beijing

Tour the city sights, taking in Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City. Roam the ancient hutongs - narrow alleyways - to get a feel for life in the days of old. Of course, no journey to China would be complete without a visit to the Great Wall. Be amazed by the flexibility and daring of an acrobatic show and fit in a final feast at one of Beijing's incredible restaurants.