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China and Laos: Two Worlds, One Journey

European Tour Package

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17 Days Tour Plan
  • Day 1
  • Day 2
  • Day 3
  • Day 4
  • Day 5
  • Day 6
  • Day 7
  • Day 8
  • Day 9
  • Day 10
  • Day 11
  • Day 12
  • Day 13
  • Day 14
  • Day 15
  • Day 16
  • Day 17
Day 1 Beijing

Welcome to China! Upon arrival, we’ll transfer you to your hotel.In the early evening, we’ll take a transfer to Wangfujing Street, a vibrant pedestrian avenue known for its lively atmosphere, numerous shops, and diverse restaurants. This will be a great opportunity to get acquainted with the city. Dinner will be included, followed by a return to the hotel.

Day 2 Beijing

An exciting day awaits us as we explore the highlights of Beijing, the vibrant capital of China. We’ll embark on a full-day tour, discovering some of the city´s most iconic avenues. Our journey will take us to the Great Chinese Imperial Palace, better known as the Forbidden City, the most majestic architectural complex in China, where 24 emperors ruled for nearly 500 years.We’ll also visit Jingshan Park, home to Coal Hill, one of the best-preserved imperial gardens in Beijing. From its summit, we’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Forbidden City—weather permitting. Next, we’ll stroll through Tiananmen Square, one of the largest public squares in the world, from where we can admire the Great National Theater, also known as the Beijing Opera House.Lunch will be included.Our journey will continue with a visit to the Summer Palace, the imperial retreat of the Qing Dynasty, renowned for its picturesque gardens and serene lakes. In the afternoon, we’ll immerse ourselves in traditional Beijing life with a tricycle ride through the historic Hutong neighborhoods. Here, we’ll experience the city´s rich cultural heritage, explore traditional shops, and visit a Siheyuan, a classic courtyard house that reflects the city´s architectural charm.We’ll then return to the hotel for an overnight stay.Note: Due to heritage protection measures and visitor safety regulations, the governing body of the Forbidden City has temporarily reduced daily visitor capacity. As a result, we cannot guarantee this visit. If access is unavailable, we’ll instead explore the Confucius Temple and the Lama Temple, both of which are emblematic sites in Chinese history and culture.

Day 3 Beijing & Shanghai

We’ll take an excursion to the Great Wall at the Mutianyu section, a spectacular architectural masterpiece whose history spans more than 2,000 years. We’ll ride the cable car up and down to access the Wall (tickets included). We’ll bid farewell to Beijing with a delicious lunch included, featuring the famous Peking duck. Afterward, we’ll transfer to the train station to board a high-speed train bound for Shanghai. Upon arrival, we’ll transfer to the hotel for check-in and overnight stay.

Day 4 Shanghai

Our tour of Shanghai will take us through its most iconic sights. We´ll begin in Pudong, Shanghai’s modern financial district, located across the Huangpu River. This area is home to towering skyscrapers, including the iconic Pearl Tower.We’ll then take a scenic ferry ride across the Shanghai River, offering spectacular views of both the historic and contemporary sides of the city.Next, we’ll stroll through the Old City and visit the serene Yuyuan Garden, a beautifully preserved private garden built during the Ming Dynasty. Here, we’ll also experience a traditional tea ceremony, an integral part of China’s rich cultural heritage.Our tour will continue through Xintiandi, one of the city’s trendiest neighborhoods, known for its stylish boutiques, cafés, and vibrant atmosphere.Lunch will be included.In the afternoon, we’ll explore Tianzifang, a former residential district now famous for its maze-like alleys, charming craft shops, and contemporary art galleries.We’ll conclude our day with a walk along The Bund, where grand colonial-era buildings reflect the influence of European trade in Shanghai.Free afternoon. If you wish, you can enjoy a boat trip to see Shanghai at night, it will be an unforgettable experience.

Day 5 Luoyang & Shanghai

Transfer to the train station to board a high-speed train (scheduled departure at 07:17 a.m.). In just over five hours, we’ll travel 1,000 km through picturesque landscapes, passing through beautiful stretches of countryside before arriving in Luoyang.Lunch will be included.Our visit will begin at the awe-inspiring Longmen Buddhist Caves, an extraordinary complex stretching over a kilometer along the rocky cliffs of the river. Here, more than 100,000 Buddha statues and carvings have been sculpted into the stone, creating one of China’s most remarkable archaeological sites. To fully appreciate the grandeur of this site, we’ll also enjoy a scenic boat ride along the river.Afterward, we’ll transfer to the ancient city of Luoyang, where we’ll pass through its imposing walls and immerse ourselves in the lively atmosphere of its illuminated streets, filled with traditional charm and vibrant local activity.

Day 6 Longmen & Luoyang & Sanmexia & Xian

In the early morning, on the outskirts of Luoyang, we’ll visit the White Horse Buddhist Monastery, a vast and historic center of Buddhist learning that welcomes scholars and practitioners from around the world.We’ll then continue our journey to Sanmenxia, a city rich in history. Here, we’ll admire the mighty Yellow River and visit the Baolun Temple, known for its striking tall pagoda. We’ll also explore the renowned Guo Museum, considered one of the finest in China, where we’ll see the ancient funeral carriages of the former State of Guo, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region’s past.Lunch will be included.Our journey eastward will take us past the sacred Mount Hua, one of China’s holiest mountains, known for its dramatic peaks and spiritual significance.By late afternoon, we’ll arrive in Xian, where our day will come to an end.

Day 7 Xian

We have arrived in Xian, the fascinating city where the ancient Silk Road began.In the morning, we’ll visit the legendary Terracotta Army, an astonishing archaeological site where thousands of life-sized clay soldiers, hidden underground for centuries, stand guard over the tomb of China’s first emperor.Afterward, we’ll return to Xian to visit the Small Wild Goose Pagoda, a beautiful Buddhist structure that has stood for over a thousand years.Next, we’ll explore the city’s historic walled center, passing through the vibrant Muslim Quarter, where we’ll visit the Great Mosque. This unique site reflects the rich blend of cultures and religions that have shaped China over the centuries.Our tour also includes entrance to the Drum Tower, where we’ll enjoy a short performance of traditional Chinese music played on ancient instruments.Afterward, you’ll have free time to explore at your own pace.

Day 8 Chengdu & Xian

We leave Xian in a very modern high-speed train, and in just over three hours we cover the 700 km that separate us from CHENGDU. On arrival we will go to the Panda Bear research and breeding centre, a reserve where 120 giant pandas and 76 red pandas live. Lunch included. In the afternoon we will take a stroll through the People´s Park, with its small lake, the local people doing Taichi, and its tea houses.-

Day 9 Chengdu

Today we include full-day tour of Sichuan Province, with its pleasant landscapes and traditional villages. In DUJIANGYAN we see the traditional irrigation system, which has been working for more than 2000 years and is a world heritage site. QUINGCHENG SHAN, “mountain of the green city” is a Taoist holy mountain. Its paths through the forests show us caves, pavilions and centuries-old wooden temples, lunch included. Finally, we will visit the ancient city of JIEZI with its alleys with over a thousand years of history. Return to CHENGDU.

Day 10 Chengdu & Lijiang

Early departure to the airport to board a flight (included) to LIJIANG. Upon arrival, we set out to discover the culture of the Naxi ethnic group. Our first stop is Yuhu Village, near Jade Lake. At the Naxi Culture Interpretation Center (entrance included), we will dress in traditional local attire and take part in a calligraphy lesson.Lunch is included at a local restaurant.In the afternoon, we visit Baisha Village, known for its traditional houses. We then return to Lijiang for a guided walk through its well-preserved Old Town, famous for its traditional wooden architecture.Overnight stay.

Day 11 Dali & Lijiang & Xizhou & Zhoucheng

Visit to the beautiful Black Dragon Pool Park (admission included). Afterwards, departure toward the charming village of SHAXI, a former caravan trading town known for its traditional wooden architecture. Lunch included at a local restaurant.The journey continues to ZHOUCHENG, famous for its ancestral dyeing techniques. We will visit a small workshop where we will experience dyeing a piece of fabric with a design and take it home as a souvenir.Nearby lies XIZHOU, another picturesque Bai village known for its elegant historic mansions. Finally, we arrive in the ancient city of DALI, whose historic center, surrounded by the remains of a Ming-era wall, is characterized by cobblestone streets and stone houses.

Day 12 Dali & Kunming

Visit to the Three Pagodas Temple, the symbol of DALI, featuring one of the tallest and best-preserved Buddhist pagodas in southern CHINA. The complex was originally part of a large monastery, which we will reach by shuttle (included). Lunch included at a local restaurant. Afterwards, we will take a train (included) from Dali to the city of KUNMING, the capital of Yunnan Province. Transfer to the hotel and accommodation.

Day 13 Kunming

Departure from the city for an excursion to the Stone Forest, a UNESCO Natural Heritage Site, where we will encounter a series of rock formations that create scenery resembling petrified trees. Lunch included during the visit. Return to KUNMING and city tour: Yuantong Temple, Green Lake Park, the Zhuanxin Farmers’ Market—an old, traditional market—and finally a visit to the lively Kunming Laojie Old District. Accommodation.

Day 14 Kunming & Luang prabang

Departure to the station to take the train (included) that connects KUNMING with the Laotian city of LUANG PRABANG. This is one of the most modern international railway routes in Asia.Welcome to Laos! Upon arrival at Luang Prabang Station, meet our guide and transfer to the hotel. Nestled between green mountains and along the majestic Mekong River, this city is a jewel of Southeast Asia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.Note: Please make sure you have all documents required for exiting China and entering Laos: passport, visa, and Yellow Fever certificate (required by authorities depending on your country of origin).Note: During the journey, we will need to get off the train twice with all our belongings. First, we will disembark at the China Border Control (Mohan), then reboard the same train. Later, we will disembark again with all our belongings at the Laos Border Control (Boten). It is always the same train, and we keep the same seat from Kunming all the way to Luang Prabang

Day 15 Luang prabang

City tour of the former royal capital. We will begin with the Royal Palace, now the National Museum (admission included). We continue to Wat Mai Temple (admission included), known for its five-tiered roof, and then to the Temple of the Golden City (admission included), the most important Buddhist monument in LAOS, featuring roofs that slope almost to the ground and dazzling mosaics. From there, we head to the pier for a boat ride along the Mekong River, observing local life. Lunch included on board. The journey concludes with a visit to the Pak Ou Caves, a sacred sanctuary that houses thousands of Buddha statues hidden within the rock. Return by road and stop at the village of BAN XANG KHONG, well known for its cotton and silk weaving. Accommodation

Day 16 Luang prabang

Early departure to attend the Tak Bat ceremony, where saffron-robed monks walk barefoot and in silence to receive food offerings. Traveling through lush green fields, we arrive at Living Land Farm, where we will discover the entire rice-farming process from start to finish.Nearby, at Laos Buffalo Dairy, we will have the chance to interact with the animals and sample handcrafted cheeses. Nature then takes center stage with a visit to the Kuang Si Waterfalls, where turquoise waters cascade over terraced pools surrounded by dense jungle.Lunch is included at a local restaurant. Return to LUANG PRABANG.At the end of the day, transfer to a local home to take part in the traditional Baci ceremony, where you will have the privilege of experiencing this sacred ritual. Dinner is included. Return to the hotel.

Day 17 Luang prabang

After breakfast, our journey will come to an end, leaving you with wonderful lasting memories.

Planned Hotels or similar
MERCURE BEIJING DOWNTOWN

1087956688

H7565-re@accor.com

No.16 jia,xi da wang road, chaoyang, cp 100124,beijing,100124
Beijing,China

GRAND CONCORDIA

1051086688

No. 26 xiaoyun road, chaoyang district, beijing, china, 100016,100016
Beijing,China

GRAND MERCURE BEIJING CENTRAL

106603668

China, beijing, xicheng district,100031
Beijing,China

NOVOTEL SHANGHAI ATLANTIS

2150366666

28 pu dong avenue 200120 shanghai china,200120
Shanghai,China

RAMADA BY WYNDHAM DOWNTOWN

37965150000

info.luoyang@wyndhamhotels.com

76 jinguyuan road, luoyang,471000
Luoyang,China

MERCURE LUOYANG

3796233999

Kaiyuan avenue geological and mining building, luolong district, luoyang city,000
Luoyang,China

DELTA BY MARRIOTT XIAN

2968528888

West of longshu north road, no. 22, lian hu qu, xi´an, shaanxi, china, 710014,710014
Xian,China

NOVOTEL XIAN SCPG

29862688

H9253@accor.com

China, shaanxi, xi´an, lianhu, weiyang rd, 33,0
,China

DORSETT CHENGDU

2883328666

168 xi yulong street, qingyang district, chengdu,610015
Chengdu,China

DUOFU HOLIDAY

3066888

198 guyou lane, qiyi street,gucheng district, lijiang, yunnan,0
Lijiang,China

LANLINGE

2666188

96 yuer road, dali,yunnan,0
Dali,China

FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON KUNMING

68375555

Dongfeng square, xishan district, kunming ,0
Kunming,China

MEUANGLUANG

71212791

Bounkhong road,0
Luang prabang,Laos

LE BEL AIR BOUTIQUE RESORT

71254699

1 old bridge, ban muang nga, pb 120,06000
Luang prabang,Laos

Inclusions & Exclusions
What's Included in the price

Travel by bus with English speaking guide, basic travel insurance, hotel and breakfast buffet.

Includes arrival transfer

Beijing, Shanghai, Xian, Kunming, Luang prabang

Tricycle ride through the traditional neigborhood, Great Wall of China Mutianyu section , Dujiangyan, Quingcheng Shan Mountain and ancient city of Jiezi , Visit to Yuhu Village and Baisha Village , Stone Forest , Pak Ou Caves , Living Land Farm, Laos Buffalo Dairy and Kuang Si Waterfalls

Boat trip in Longmen grottoes, Boat trip in Quingcheng Shan Mountain , Boat trip on the Mekong River to the Pak Ou Caves

Wangfujing street in Beijing, Luoyang Old City

Traditional clothing and calligraphy classes of the Naxi ethnic group in Yuhu Village, Workshop visit and fabric dyeing , Rural life on a farm in rice fields and caring for buffaloes, Traditional Baci Ceremony

The Forbidden City, Jingshan Park, Summer Palace in Beijing, Great Wall of China Mutianyu section , Yuyuan Garden and demonstration of the Tea ceremony in Shanghai , White Horse Temple in Luoyang , The Longmen Buddhist Grottoes , Baoulon Temple, Guo Museum in Sanmexia , Terracota Army Museum, Small Wild Goose Pagoda, mosque, show of traditional instrument playing in Drum Tower (not always guaranteed) in Xian , Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding en Chengdu , Traditional irrigation system in Dujiangyan, Sacred Mountain of Quingcheng Shan , Yuhu Village Naxi Culture Interpretation Centre , Black Dragon Lagoon Park , Three Pagoda Temple with shuttle bus ride up to the monastery , Stone Forest, Yuantong Temple , Royal Palace (National Museum), Wat Mai Temple, Temple of the Golden City (Wat Xieng Thong), Pak Ou Caves , Living Land Farm, Laos Buffalo Dairy and Kuang Si Waterfalls

Huangpu River in Shanghai

Great Wall of China Mutianyu section, Quingcheng Shan Mountain

Beijing/Shanghai, Shanghai - Luoyang , Xian-Chengdu , Dali-Kunming , Kunming-Luang Prabang

Chengdu-Lijiang

Beijing, Beijing, Shanghai, Luoyang, Sanmexia, Chengdu, Chengdu

Beijing