Discover Beijing and Xian on a 3-Day Private Tour by Train Memorable Beijing Xian Tour Package

Summary

DAY 1 Beijing: Tian'an men Square, Forbidden City, Temple of heaven, Summer Palace
DAY 2 Beijing--Xian by Train: Mutianyu Great Wall, Nanluoguxiang Hutongs, train to Xian
DAY 3 Xian: Terracotta Warriors, Ancient City Wall, Muslim Quarter

Day 1 Arrive in Beijing

Welcome to Beijing! Embrace the adventure of "Travel like a Local" as you step off the plane. Upon your arrival, your dedicated tour guide will be waiting at Beijing International Airport, holding a sign with "Your Way Holiday" to warmly welcome you. From this moment, your Beijing and Xi'an tour begins with a personalized touch. Your guide, equipped with deep local knowledge, will ensure you experience the city’s vibrant culture and hidden gems, while our attentive driver will provide a smooth and comfortable transfer to your hotel. This seamless start sets the stage for an immersive exploration, blending local insights with exceptional service to make your journey truly unforgettable.

Your first destination is Tiananmen Square, the grand heart of Beijing and the largest city square in the world, spanning 440,000 square meters (about 109 acres) and capable of hosting up to 1,000,000 people simultaneously. This historic site is a focal point of Chinese history and culture. The square is home to several significant landmarks, including the iconic Tiananmen Gate, where Chairman Mao Zedong announced the establishment of the People's Republic of China in 1949. As you explore, you’ll be captivated by the impressive architecture and vast open space, framed by beautiful flowerbeds and the striking red national flag that flutters majestically in the breeze. A highlight of your visit is the daily flag-raising ceremony, a solemn and awe-inspiring event that underscores the historical and national significance of this landmark. This moment, combined with the square's historical richness and vibrant atmosphere, offers a profound introduction to Beijing’s cultural heritage.

After lunch, you'll continue your tour with a visit to the Forbidden City, one of the world's five most significant palaces, alongside the Palace of Versailles in France, Buckingham Palace in England, the White House in the U.S., and the Kremlin in Russia. Also known as the Palace Museum, this majestic complex spans 720,000 square meters (177.9 acres) and features approximately 8,700 rooms, all enclosed by a towering red wall stretching 3,400 meters (3,718 yards) in length. Built during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), the construction of the Forbidden City took fourteen years, from 1406 to 1420. Listed as a World Cultural Heritage Site in 1987, it stands as the most magnificent and splendid palace complex in China, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of imperial China.

Your journey continues with a visit to the Temple of Heaven, a magnificent symbol of ancient Chinese beliefs and imperial traditions. With your knowledgeable guide, you’ll explore the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, a striking wooden structure built without nails, representing heaven and earth's harmony. Learn about the Circular Mound Altar, where emperors conducted ceremonies to communicate with the heavens, and the Echo Wall, an architectural marvel that carries sound over remarkable distances. As you stroll through the tranquil gardens, your guide will point out the centuries-old cypress trees, some over 500 years old, and explain their cultural significance. They’ll enrich your experience with insights into the rituals, such as the winter solstice sacrifice, and the site's unique Feng Shui design, symbolizing cosmic balance. Throughout, your guide will ensure a seamless and engaging visit, offering detailed explanations, answering questions, and guiding you to the most photogenic spots.

Step into a world of imperial elegance at the Summer Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its harmony of nature and architecture. Spanning 290 hectares, this former royal retreat features serene gardens, grand pavilions, and Kunming Lake, all showcasing traditional Chinese design principles. Your guide will reveal captivating stories as you visit the Hall of Benevolence and Longevity, admire the Marble Boat, and stroll along the Long Corridor with its 14,000 colorful paintings. The palace’s feng shui-inspired layout creates a tranquil and balanced atmosphere. Climb Longevity Hill for panoramic views and learn about Empress Dowager Cixi’s influence on the palace. Explore hidden gems like the Garden of Virtue and Harmony, once a stage for imperial performances. With expert insights, your guide brings to life the artistry and cultural significance of this iconic masterpiece, offering a rich journey into China’s imperial past.

After exploring Nanluoguxiang, you will be driven back to your hotel by our professional driver, ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey. Upon arrival, your dedicated tour guide will assist you with the check-in process, taking care of all the arrangements to ensure a seamless transition. Your guide will also be available to answer any questions or provide additional recommendations for your stay. This attentive service ensures that your day ends on a high note, with all your needs taken care of and a relaxing evening ahead.

Day 2 Beijing-Xian by Train

In the morning, you'll be picked up from your hotel in Beijing to embark on an exciting day exploring the Mutianyu Great Wall. Often quoted, "If you haven't climbed the Great Wall, you haven't seen China," this iconic landmark offers an unforgettable experience. The Mutianyu section is one of the best-preserved stretches of the Great Wall, once serving as a crucial northern defense protecting the capital and the imperial tombs. Renowned for its stunning natural beauty, Mutianyu is surrounded by lush forests and rolling pastures that transform with the changing seasons, offering breathtaking views year-round. As you walk along this ancient structure, you'll not only appreciate its historical significance but also enjoy the serene and picturesque landscape that makes Mutianyu a standout destination on the Great Wall.

In the afternoon, you'll be driven back to downtown Beijing, where you'll visit Nanluoguxiang, one of the most famous Hutong districts in the city. Hutongs are traditional alleyways lined with one-story courtyard houses that offer a glimpse into Beijing’s historical architecture and communal life. Nanluoguxiang is a vibrant blend of history and modernity, where ancient alleyways are juxtaposed with contemporary fashion boutiques, eclectic shops, and trendy cafes. This bustling area is particularly popular with tourists and the younger generation, thanks to its unique charm and lively atmosphere. As you wander through Nanluoguxiang, you'll experience the rich cultural heritage of old Beijing while enjoying a modern twist that makes this area a must-visit destination.

After exploring the vibrant Nanluoguxiang, you'll be transferred to the train station for your high-speed train journey to Xi'an. Upon your arrival in Xi'an, your local tour guide will be waiting at the station exit with a welcoming sign reading "Your Way Holiday." They will warmly greet you and assist with your luggage, ensuring a smooth transition to your hotel. Your guide will provide a comfortable and direct transfer to your accommodation, sharing insights into Xi'an’s history and culture along the way. This attentive service ensures a stress-free arrival and sets the stage for an enriching experience in Xi'an, with your guide ready to answer questions and offer local recommendations as you settle in.

Day 3 Xian

Your first stop is the Terracotta Warriors and Horses, a must-see attraction that defines your visit to Xi'an. This extraordinary site, about an hour from the city, features the world-renowned Terracotta Army—an incredible collection of life-sized terracotta sculptures depicting the armies of Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China. Created in 210–209 BCE, these figures were buried with the emperor as part of a grand funerary art project designed to safeguard him in the afterlife. As you explore the vast excavation pits, you'll marvel at the sheer scale and intricate details of the statues, which include thousands of warriors, horses, and chariots, each uniquely crafted with distinct facial expressions and armor. The site provides a fascinating glimpse into ancient China’s imperial ambitions and artistic mastery, offering a profound connection to one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th century.

After visiting the Terracotta Warriors, you'll continue to the Qin Tomb, where you’ll further immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring legacy of Emperor Qin Shi Huang. The Qin Tomb, part of the same expansive burial complex, offers a deeper exploration into the emperor’s grand vision for the afterlife. Here, you’ll witness the full battle array of the Terracotta Warriors, meticulously arranged as though poised for combat. The sheer scale and strategic positioning of the figures highlight the emperor’s quest for eternal protection and dominance. As you stroll through the site, you’ll appreciate the artistic brilliance and historical significance of these sculptures, which, alongside the tomb, form a monumental testament to the emperor’s power and the grandeur of ancient China.

After your visit to the Terracotta Warriors, you'll be driven back to downtown Xi'an to explore your final destination of the day: the Xi'an Ancient City Wall. This remarkable structure is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and stands as one of the oldest, largest, and best-preserved city walls in China. Originally built during the Tang Dynasty, the current wall represents an impressive enhancement from that era, reflecting the grandeur of feudal rampart architecture. The City Wall offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient military fortifications and urban planning. A leisurely walk around the entire wall takes about half a day, but for a unique experience, you might choose to cycle along its length. This allows you to fully appreciate the wall's impressive scale and the historical context of ancient Chinese construction. The Xi'an Ancient City Wall is not only a top attraction but also a symbol of the city’s rich history and architectural prowess.

Your final stop is the vibrant Muslim Quarter, a historic gem in Xi’an’s Old City, spanning 31 hectares and home to 22,000 residents. Enter through iconic gates like St. Stephen’s or Lion’s Gate and step into a lively maze of ancient streets. At its heart lies the bustling shuk, overflowing with spices, meats, textiles, and local delicacies. Your expert guide will uncover hidden gems, share fascinating stories, and introduce you to Xi’an’s rich culinary traditions. From savoring a fresh roujiamo to exploring unique souvenirs, this is your gateway to the city’s cultural and culinary soul!

After the tour concludes, you will be driven to your hotel in Xi'an or to the Xi'an train station for your onward journey. Our professional driver will ensure a comfortable and efficient transfer, while your attentive tour guide will assist with any last-minute questions or needs you may have. Whether you're heading to your hotel to relax or catching a train to your next destination, our team is dedicated to making your departure smooth and hassle-free. This personalized service is designed to ensure that your time in Xi'an ends on a high note, with all your travel arrangements taken care of.

Price Per Person in US Dollars