Christmas in China
Experience an unforgettable, unique blend of cultures with this once-in-a-lifetime Christmas in China special. Embrace the magic as traditional Chinese elements intertwine with Western customs, offering a truly memorable holiday season.
New for 2026, the journey begins with the sparkling lights of Shanghai at Christmas, followed by the ancient wonders of Xian—now including a rare visit to a unique conservation park, home to the elusive Qinling four and the world's only brown panda. Ring in the year in Beijing's Hutongs, then spend New Year's Day with an unforgettable walk along the Great Wall.
- Walk on the Great Wall.
- Feast on Peking duck.
- Explore the Forbidden City.
- Face the Terracotta Army.
- Travel on a bullet train.
- Watch giant pandas play.
- Day 1 - Fly to Shanghai:
Fly to the cosmopolitan city of Shanghai. Depending on your time of arrival the rest of the day is yours to start soaking up the local culture. - Day 2 - Christmas Day in Shanghai:
Today's Christmas Day explorations start with the peaceful Yu Gardens and then the atmospheric alleys of the old town. Admire the magnificent colonial architecture with a stroll along the Bund before visiting a silk mill. Enjoy your lunch at the renowned Lost Heaven, one of Shanghai's must-try restaurants inspired by indigenous recipes and cooking techniques from the Yunnan region. Later, wander through one of the city's festive Christmas markets, then cruise on the mighty Huangpu River for stunning views of the Shanghai skyline. This evening, enjoy a German-style feast. - Day 3 - Zhujiajiao Water Town:
Visit Zhujiajiao, one of Shanghai's sleepy water towns, built on an old canal system once used to transport goods all over imperial China. The town's narrow alleyways exude old-world charm, whilst the waterways are lined with ancient buildings and crossed by stone bridges. Return to Shanghai for a wander through the vibrant arts district of Tianzifang. - Day 4 - Fly to Xian:
Fly to Xian, the ancient former capital with a history spanning 3,100 years. This afternoon, stop at a local brewery for a refreshing beer tasting, then walk through the lively atmospheric alleys of the Muslim Quarter which are lined with food stalls. - Day 5 - Terracotta Warriors:
After their fortuitous discovery in the 1970s, the Terracotta Army of China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, has intrigued visitors ever since. Spend the morning viewing the enigmatic ranks of life-sized warriors and horses who stand in their original formations at the exact location they were excavated. Learn about the meticulous restoration efforts that revived this archaeological wonder, and visit the workshop where skilled craftsmen recreate terracotta warriors in the style of their ancient counterparts. Later, stroll on the beautifully preserved 14th-century ancient city walls that enclose Xian's old town. Tonight, feast on traditional Shui Jiao dumplings before a captivating performance of Tang Dynasty dancing. - Day 6 - Giant Pandas:
Travel to a unique conservation park, home to the rare Qinling four – giant pandas, golden monkeys, crested ibises and takins. Spot over 20 other native species, including red pandas and black bears, and meet Qizai, the world's only known brown giant panda. - Day 7 - Bullet Train to Beijing:
Board the bullet train to Beijing, Chinas's capital city. A spectacular Chinese acrobatic show rounds off the day. - Day 8 - New Years Eve:
Begin with a walk through Tiananmen Square, a vast symbol of modern history, before stepping into the Forbidden City, a magnificent UNESCO listed palace complex of over 900 buildings that once housed China's emperors. Later, celebrate the year's end with dinner and drinks in Beijing's atmospheric hutongs. - Day 9 - New Years Day on the Great Wall:
Start the New Year with a walk along China's most iconic landmark – the Great Wall. Take in the breathtaking scenery as you explore this mighty feat of engineering and enjoy a champagne toast on the wall. This afternoon, stop by a jade factory to learn about the precious stone, then wander the elegant gardens and tranquil lakefront of the Summer Palace. Round off the day with a classic Peking duck dinner, a festive welcome to the year ahead. - Days 10-11 - Fly Beijing to Australia:
Fly to Australia, arriving home the same or following day.
- 24 Dec 2026 - 02 Jan 2027
from $6,180 pp twin share * - 24 Dec 2027 - 02 Jan 2028
from $6,680 pp twin share *
* Prices and category availability are subject to change without notice.
- Mercure Beijing Downtown
- Dajing Castle Hotel
- Skytel Hotel
How long is this journey?
This itinerary runs for 11 days and 9 nights.
When can I travel?
Departures are currently scheduled between 24 Dec 2026 and 02 Jan 2028, subject to live availability.
Are there different departure options?
Yes, multiple departures may be available depending on your preferred travel period.
What is generally included?
Inclusions typically cover guided touring and selected experiences, with exact details listed in the itinerary.
What style of accommodation is used?
Accommodation is pre-arranged as part of the journey, with specific properties shown in the trip details.
Terms and conditions apply. Click here for more details.