6-Day Beijing and Shanghai Tour A Tale of Two Cities
Why ST-CTour
Save Your Time:
- Less research, more enjoyment!
- Real-time 1V1 expert planning
Maximize Your Flexibility:
- Personal local guide and ride
- Explore at your own pace
Live Your China Story:
- Authentic local culture and lifestyles
- Understand the culture by living it
Want to understand China’s story — from imperial grandeur to modern transformation — in just one week? This private 6-day Beijing and Shanghai tour is the perfect introduction.
Over the last 600 years, Beijing shaped China as the political and cultural heart of the empire. Shanghai, by contrast, tells the story of modern China — a city of innovation, global influence, and rapid development. Together, these two iconic metropolises offer first-time visitors an unforgettable journey through history, culture, tradition, and contemporary urban life.
📌 Suggested Beijing – Shanghai Itinerary
Day 1–3 | Beijing
Forbidden City, Hutong visit, Temple of Heaven, Mutianyu Great Wall
Day 4 | Beijing → Shanghai
Summer Palace, High-Speed Train
Day 5–6 | Shanghai
The Bund, Shanghai Tower, Yu Garden, Former French Concession, Michelin local snacks
⭐ Signature Highlights
Step into the Forbidden City’s Hidden Halls and Royal Stories
Beyond the main axis of grand palaces, explore lesser-visited courtyards and quiet halls connected to legendary figures of the Ming and Qing dynasties — including hardworking emperors, powerful empress dowagers, gifted concubines, and the last emperor.
Walk through 300-Year-Old Hutongs and Meet Local Residents
Discover Beijing’s traditional lifestyle in the hutong alleyways. Visit a courtyard home where generations have lived, try Chinese calligraphy, and climb the Bell Tower for a panoramic view of Old Beijing.
Hike the Most Recommended Great Wall Section at Mutianyu
Mutianyu is consistently ranked among the best sections of the Great Wall for its breathtaking scenery and beautifully restored watchtowers. Walk at your own pace and enjoy sweeping mountain views.
Follow an Insider Route to Decode Shanghai’s Rise
Explore the Bund in depth with stories hidden behind its historic facades, cross the Huangpu River by ferry like locals, and witness Shanghai’s skyline from the top of Shanghai Tower.
Taste Authentic Shanghai Snacks in a Local Michelin Favorite
Step into old alleyways to see everyday Shanghai life, then take a delicious break with classic local bites — carefully selected for quality and authenticity.
Stroll the Former French Concession: Old Shanghai at Its Most Elegant
Walk under leafy plane trees and admire charming colonial-era villas, Art Deco residences, and the refined atmosphere that makes this district the city’s most romantic area.
🗺️ Suggested Itinerary
Here is a suggested itinerary. We are happy to customize a tour according to your interests.
DAY 1 — Beijing Arrival
Your private guide will meet and greet you in the arrivals hall. A comfortable private car with an experienced driver will transfer you directly to your hotel.
The rest of the day is yours to relax or explore Beijing at your own pace.
DAY 2 — Beijing | Forbidden City & Hutong Discovery
After breakfast, begin with Tian’anmen Square, where your guide will share the history and stories behind this iconic landmark.
Then enter the Forbidden City, the world’s largest imperial palace complex. Your guide will lead you through 12 carefully selected sites, going beyond the standard route. Through stories of key historical figures from the Ming and Qing dynasties, the palace will come alive with human drama, politics, and daily court life.
In the afternoon, explore Beijing’s traditional hutong neighborhood. Walk through centuries-old alleys and visit a local family in a courtyard home, offering an authentic glimpse into the real life of Old Beijing.
DAY 3 — Beijing | Temple of Heaven & Great Wall at Mutianyu
In the morning, visit the Temple of Heaven, where emperors once prayed for good harvests. The park is also a lively gathering place for locals — you’ll see tai chi, dancing, singing, and other morning rituals.
In the afternoon, travel to Mutianyu Great Wall. To save time and energy, a round-trip cable car will be arranged (instead of climbing steps for about 40 minutes each way). Enjoy free time on the Wall after your guide’s introduction.
DAY 4 — Beijing → Shanghai by High-Speed Train | Summer Palace
In the morning, visit the Summer Palace, a masterpiece of imperial garden design and the former summer retreat of China’s emperors.
Your guide will show you both the palace area and the lake area. A highlight is a dragon boat ride on Kunming Lake, offering scenic views of pavilions, bridges, and lakeside architecture.
After the tour, your guide will escort you to the railway station for your high-speed train to Shanghai.
DAY 5 — Shanghai | Shanghai in Progress Tour
Begin with an in-depth exploration of the Bund, where your guide will reveal stories hidden behind the historic buildings and explain how Shanghai rose from a port city into a global financial center.
Then wander through an old alleyway to glimpse everyday local life, followed by a break at a carefully selected Michelin-starred local restaurant for classic Shanghai snacks.
Cross the Huangpu River by public ferry — a favorite local experience — and witness the futuristic skyline of Pudong. Ascend Shanghai Tower for a bird’s-eye view of the city.
Later, slow down in Yu Garden, an exquisite classical garden hidden in the urban core. End the day with a walk in the Former French Concession, listening to stories from Shanghai’s 1930s golden era.
DAY 6 — Depart from Shanghai
Say goodbye to Shanghai. Your guide will escort you to the airport or train station and assist with check-in before the tour ends.
Tour Price
FromUS US$1,409 p/pBased on a private tour for 2 people. Price varies depending on program, travel date, number of people and chosen hotel
Price includes:
Private air-conditioned business car with big windows and ample space
English speaking local guide
Activities, hotels, and meals listed in the itinerary
The bullet train from Beijing to Shanghai
24/7 helpline for while you are traveling