On Solos’ Grand Tour of China, we will explore the country’s fascinating ancient land, from the Terracotta Army and the Great Wall of China, to modern day Shanghai, while getting around the country via high speed train. On this epic escorted group tour, we join a ready-made group of solo travellers to explore ancient historical sites, enjoy scenic landscapes, encounter the charming Giant Pandas, experiencing the vibrant modernity of urban China and cruising down the famous Yangtze River. A fully immersive group tour offering all that China has to offer.
Visa cost is £151 per person. Applications are initially made online, however you must also go in person to a Chinese Visa Application Centre in either London, Manchester or Edinburgh
Today we arrive into Beijing. We transfer to our hotel and get settled before gathering for a welcome dinner this evening.
Today we explore Beijing, starting with the site that witnessed the founding of the People’s Republic of China. We will gaze across Tiananmen Square and take in the full weight of its historical and cultural significance. With the iconic portrait of Mao Zedong looming over the Tiananmen gates, this public square is one of the largest in the world and has been the site of numerous historical events in China.
We enter the Forbidden City, where emperors once ruled, concubines fluttered their fans, and eunuchs schemed for 500 years. The Palace Museum is now the best-preserved palace complex in China. Home to emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasty, over 800 buildings and 9,000 chambers of the Forbidden City were filled with only the elite officials and associates of the imperial family.
After lunch, we visit the Temple of Heaven – widely regarded as the noblest example of religious architectures in all of China. This site is where emperors came to worship heaven for a bountiful harvest.
This morning we visit a must when in China – the Great Wall. Surrounded by picturesque countryside, the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall that we visit is renowned both domestically and internationally and is praised as an outstanding section of the Great Wall.
This afternoon, we head to the Summer Palace where the gardens bloom around the water and trees shade the narrow paths. This is an impressive display of man-made beauty built around Kunming Lake – an artificial body of water that required an army of over 10,000 laborers to complete.
We begin today walking Beijing’s intricate alleyways, known asHutongs. Several households nestled tightly with courtyards are a cherished way of life and a legacy for many generations. As well as an authentic way of life, the Hutongs offer a a great array of bustling street food stalls.
We then transfer to the train station and take the high speed train to Xi’an.
Today we visit the Terracotta Warrior Museum – a collection of terracotta sculptures depicting the armies of Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China. They were discovered by accident in 1974 by a farmer who was digging a well. The human sized figures were modelled after actual soldiers of the Qin Army in detail. Consisting of 8,000 life-size soldiers, 100 chariots and 600 horses, none of which are identical, the army was built to guard the remains of Emperor Qin Shihuang, housed in a massive mausoleum complex.
We will also pay a visit to Big Wild Goose Pagoda – one of the oldest surviving structures of its kind in China which has been brilliantly preserved.
This morning we board a high speed train to Chengdu to spend a leisurely afternoon in People’s Park. Boasting a lake, gardens, teahouses, and monuments, it’s the best place to observe the lives of locals. We head to Narrow and Wide Alley to witness traditional courtyards.
Today we witness China’s universally adored mascot – the Panda. We head to Dujiangyan Panda Base for an up-close look at the Panda’s playful antics and after lunch, learn about vital conservation efforts aimed at safeguarding their future.
Once here, we head to the pier to embark on the vessel that is waiting for us for a leisurely river cruise downstream to Yichang.
This morning we wake up on board the ship and continue to cruise down the mighty Yangtze River. We set sail through a journey of time to explore the banks that some of the earliest Chinese cultures existed. The river has been essential for China’s agriculture, transportation and development of the country’s economy. At a different pace to the tour so far, we can relax on board and take in the dramatic scenery, and admire the history and heritage of the Yangtze.
We stop off at Fengdu Mount Shuanggui Scenic Region for an excursion, for a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural significance. Known for its serene landscapes and rich history, this destination provides a captivating experience for all who visit.
We continue sailing today, passing through the extraordinary Three Gorges of the Yangtze River, where natural grandeur meets historical significance and each gorge offers something unique. This stretch of the Yangtze River, known for its dramatic scenery and cultural treasures, offers an unforgettable experience for all who traverse its waters.
A highlight of today will be the Shennv Stream, which is nestled in the awe-inspiring Wu Gorge and one of the most captivating tributaries of the Yangtze River. Renowned for its serene beauty and mystical ambiance, this hidden gem offers a unique and intimate encounter with nature and local culture.
Today we visit an engineering masterpiece – the Three Gorges Dam. Straddling the mighty Yangtze River in Hubei Province, this is a true testament to human ingenuity and ambition. As the world’s largest hydroelectric power station, this colossal structure has transformed the landscape and lives of millions. The Three Gorges Dam stretches 2,335 meters (7,660 feet) across the Yangtze River and stands 185 meters (607 feet) high. Constructed with 27.2 million cubic meters (35.6 million cubic yards) of concrete, it’s an awe-inspiring example of modern engineering. One of the primary purposes of the Three Gorges Dam is flood control. By regulating the flow of the Yangtze River, the dam reduces the risk of catastrophic floods downstream, protecting millions of people and vast tracts of farmland.
Here we leave the ship and take a high speed train to Shanghai.
Today we enjoy a full day exploring Shanghai. Our first stop will be the impressive Yu Garden. Located in the old city centre, the gardens are a wonderful example of classical design. Constructed 400 years ago in the Ming Dynasty, the colossal city of Shanghai has sprung up around this older relative but left it to grow old peacefully, providing a fascinating contrast between old and new.
Shanghai’s iconic skyline located on the river bank, named the Bund, boasts modern architecture, where as across the river, there is another contrast of oriental buildings. We visit the Former French Concession to stroll through its tree-lined streets and elegant architecture, where a harmonious fusion of Chinese and Western influences creates an atmosphere brimming with charm and allure.
Today we can relax and explore the city of Shanghai at our own pace. The largest city in China, Shanghai’s charm is a blend of eastern and western cultures.
Today we enjoy a final breakfast together before we transfer back to the airport for our flight home.
For this tour, we will stay in following hotels, or to a similar standard:
Frequently Asked Questions
Please note: At the beginning of your trip, your Tour Leader will ask if you would be happy to sign a photo permission form. This means that any photographs taken during your holiday can be used by Solos to share what the Solos experience is all about. It also means you have lots of memories to go home with! Details will be given at your welcome meeting.
WhatsApp Group: Just before the start of your trip, you will be sent an invite to the WhatsApp group which will put you in touch with your fellow Solos travellers and Tour Leader prior to your departure day. By choosing to join, you’re consenting to share your contact details with other members of your group. However, if you prefer not to join, that’s completely fine, and you can meet the group on your first day instead. Please note, if you have not received an email within 24 hours of departure, we recommend you check your email junk folder.
Normally, when visiting China, tourists should “dress as in the West.” This means that whatever you wear on a normal day back home is generally an okay choice for your everyday travel itinerary in China as well. As we will be touring, we suggest comfortable footwear.
There are some exceptions to this, such as when visiting temples and other holy sites, it is customary to wear more modest clothing. Making sure shoulders and knees are covered is the most important rule. Wearing this type of respectful clothing is encouraged when touring religious sites such as Buddhist temples and shrines. Occasionally, you may be expected to remove your shoes when entering a religious site.
There is often confusion on the question of gratuities, since it frequently depends on the type of holiday, location and, of course, your attitude towards tipping, as to what is normally expected. To give you a rough idea, we have given appropriate guidance below.
The Tour Leader will be on hand to offer advice or suggestions if required but gratuities are offered entirely at the sole discretion of the individual. We suggest a group collection at the beginning of your holiday to cover drivers, guides, porters and hotel staff, also USD4 per person per day for guide, USD2 per person per day for driver. Your Tour Leader will collect this on your behalf and distribute it accordingly, thus relieving you of the burden of who, when and how much to tip.
To enter China, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive and 2 blank pages for visas and stamping.
You must have a visa to visit mainland China, cost is £151.
If you’re 14 to 70 years old, you must apply for a visa online and then go in person to a visa for China application centre. Officials will take a scan of your fingerprints as part of your application. There are visa application centres in London, Manchester, Belfast and Edinburgh. If you’re aged 13 or under, or 71 or over, you do not have to attend in person.
The Chinese Embassy has further information on visa categories and how to apply.
To enter China, you must have a certificate to prove you’ve had a yellow fever vaccination if you’re coming from a country listed as a transmission risk.
For full details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s China guide.
Chinese Yuan
You will need a basic level of fitness for this tour as there will walking tours and getting on and off boats.
Average Temperatures
| Month(s) | Highest temperature | Lowest temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Apr-Oct | 33 °C | 14 °C |
| Nov-Mar | 25 °C | 0 °C |
“I’m sure you will enjoy it, I have been on three solos holidays to date and the people I’ve met have been great.”
“I’ve been travelling with Solos for nearly 20 years, on and off. The reason is for exactly what you want – you meet like minded people… and have loads of fun!”
“I’ve been on loads of trips with Solos over the years and can honestly say you will not regret booking your 1st one!”
“The feeling you have once you go away on your own is worth all the nerves before! I was so very anxious the first time but now having done it 4 times, I love it!”
