Why Travel with Discover Beijing Tours
Unique Experiences
Enjoy a premium trip that goes beyond the typical tourist attractions.
Well-Selected Local Guides
Knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and attentive — your personal local guides will share interesting stories, insider information, and even create unexpected highlights!
Your Booking is Risk-Free
Cancel up to 24 hours before the travel date in advance for a full refund
Start From 1,235.20 USD P/P
Per Person
Start From 1,235.20 USD P/P
Per Person
99.6% positive customer reviews among 1500+
Why Travel with Discover Beijing Tours
Unique Experiences
Enjoy a premium trip that goes beyond the typical tourist attractions.Well-Selected Local Guides
Knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and attentive — your personal local guides will share interesting stories, insider information, and even create unexpected highlights!Your Booking is Risk-Free
Cancel up to 24 hours before the travel date in advance for a full refund
3-Day Private Golden Triangle Tour : Beijing, Xian and Shanghai
This 3-day private Golden Triangle tour lets you explore Beijing, Xi’an and Shanghai’s top UNESCO sites and highlights—with flights, guide, tickets and meals included, plus flexible end destinations.
- Make sure everyone brings their passport
- Full name and passport number are required to book attraction tickets
Quick itinerary view
3-Day Private Golden Triangle Tour: Beijing → Xi’an → Shanghai
Day 1: Beijing – Imperial Grandeur & Great Wall Adventure
1. Hotel Pick-Up & Tiananmen Square Exploration
Your private guide and driver will greet you at your Beijing hotel lobby, then head straight to Tiananmen Square—the world’s largest public square, bustling with historical significance. Wander alongside locals and visitors, taking in iconic landmarks like the National Museum of China, the Monument to the People’s Heroes, and the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong. Your guide will share fascinating stories about the square’s role in China’s modern history as you soak up the grand atmosphere.
Historical Fact: Built in the 17th century and expanded in the 20th century, Tiananmen Square has been a central hub for political gatherings and national celebrations, symbolizing China’s cultural and historical identity.
2. Forbidden City (The Palace Museum) Guided Tour
From Tiananmen Square, enter the Forbidden City through its southern gate—the iconic Meridian Gate. Step into a 250-acre imperial complex of opulent palaces, serene courtyards, and lush gardens, which served as the home of 24 emperors over 500 years. Marvel at ancient treasures like jade carvings, imperial paintings, and golden artifacts, while your guide explains the palace’s strict architectural hierarchy and royal life. Don’t miss the Hall of Supreme Harmony, the largest and most magnificent building in the complex.
Historical Fact: Constructed between 1406–1420 during the Ming Dynasty, the Forbidden City was the imperial palace until 1912 and became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, preserving China’s imperial architectural legacy.
3. Drive-by Beijing Olympic Park (Bird’s Nest)
En route to lunch, pass by Beijing Olympic Park, home to the iconic “Bird’s Nest” National Stadium—famous for hosting the 2008 Summer Olympics. Ask your driver to stop for photos if you’d like to capture this modern architectural masterpiece against the city skyline.
4. Traditional Lunch & Mutianyu Great Wall Visit
Refuel with a delicious traditional Chinese lunch at a local restaurant, then relax on a 1.5-hour drive to the Mutianyu Great Wall. Less crowded and more naturally scenic than Badaling, this section is covered in 96% greenery, with rugged peaks and lush orchards. Choose to hike the wall’s ancient steps, take a convenient round-trip cable car, or glide down on an exciting toboggan ride. Climb the watchtowers for panoramic views of the winding wall snaking through the mountains—an unforgettable sight.
Historical Fact: First built in the 6th century BC and rebuilt in the Ming Dynasty, Mutianyu Great Wall was a critical defensive barrier, known for its dense watchtowers and strategic mountain location.
5. Transfer to Xi’an & Hotel Check-In
After exploring the Great Wall, your driver will take you to Beijing Airport for your flight to Xi’an. On arrival, a local driver will greet you with a name sign at the arrival hall and transfer you to your Xi’an hotel for a restful night.
Meals Included: Lunch
Day 2: Xi’an – Terracotta Warriors & Ancient City Charms
1. Hotel Pick-Up & Terracotta Warriors Museum Tour
Meet your Xi’an guide at your hotel lobby, then board a private air-conditioned vehicle for a trip to the Museum of Qin Terra-cotta Warriors and Horses—dubbed the “Eighth Wonder of the World”. Your guide will share the dramatic story of the army’s 1974 discovery by local farmers as you travel. Explore the three main pits, where thousands of life-sized clay soldiers (each with a unique face), horses, and chariots stand in perfect battle formation, frozen in time to guard Emperor Qin Shi Huang in the afterlife.
Historical Fact: Crafted in the 3rd century BC for Qin Shi Huang, China’s first emperor, the Terracotta Army was unearthed in 1974 and remains one of the world’s most significant archaeological finds.
2. Local Lunch & Xi’an City Wall Exploration
Enjoy a flavorful local lunch, then head to the Xi’an City Wall—a 600-year-old fortification that’s the most intact ancient city wall in China. Climb to the top and stroll along the wide ramparts, admiring sweeping views of Xi’an’s mix of ancient temples and modern streets. Rent a bike to cycle the full 13.7-kilometer perimeter if you’re up for a leisurely adventure.
Historical Fact: Expanded in the 14th century Ming Dynasty from a Tang Dynasty foundation, Xi’an City Wall served as a crucial defense system for the ancient capital and Silk Road hub.
3. Muslim Quarter Cultural & Culinary Stroll
Next, visit the vibrant Muslim Quarter—a historic district and hub of Xi’an’s Muslim community. Wander through narrow, bustling lanes lined with stalls selling sizzling lamb skewers, crispy Roujiamo (Chinese hamburgers), sweet persimmon cakes, and unique souvenirs. Follow your guide to discover hidden gems, and feel free to sample local snacks at your own cost while soaking up the lively, centuries-old atmosphere.
Historical Fact: Originating in the Tang Dynasty when Muslim merchants settled in Xi’an via the Silk Road, the quarter has evolved into a cultural melting pot with 10 historic mosques and traditional markets.
4. Transfer to Shanghai & Hotel Check-In
After the tour, your driver will take you to Xi’an Airport for your 2-hour flight to Shanghai. On arrival, a local driver will transfer you to your Shanghai hotel for the night.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 3: Shanghai – Modern Skylines & Timeless Traditions
1. Hotel Pick-Up & Customized Itinerary Planning
Meet your Shanghai guide at your hotel lobby, then board a private vehicle to start your customized city tour. Discuss your interests with your knowledgeable guide—whether you prefer history, culture, or modern sights—and adjust the itinerary to suit your preferences.
2. Shanghai Museum Cultural Immersion
Typically, the tour begins with Shanghai Museum—a treasure trove of Chinese art and history. Explore 11 galleries housing over 120,000 rare relics, including exquisite bronze ware, ancient ceramics, and masterful paintings and calligraphy. Your guide will highlight key pieces, explaining their historical context and artistic value.
Historical Fact: Founded in 1952, Shanghai Museum showcases China’s 5,000-year cultural heritage through its world-class collection of artifacts spanning multiple dynasties.
3. Jade Buddha Temple Spiritual Visit
Next, visit the serene Jade Buddha Temple, home to two priceless white jade Buddhas brought from Burma in the 19th century. Stroll through peaceful halls and courtyards, watch locals worship and burn incense, and learn about Buddhism’s history in China from your guide. The temple’s tranquil atmosphere offers a calming contrast to Shanghai’s bustling streets.
Historical Fact: Established in 1882 to house the imported jade Buddhas, the temple has become one of Shanghai’s most important Buddhist sites, blending traditional Chinese architecture with spiritual significance.
4. Local Lunch & Yu Garden Exploration
Enjoy a delicious local lunch, then explore Yu Garden—Shanghai’s largest and best-preserved ancient garden, built in the Ming and Qing styles. Follow your guide through winding paths, elegant pavilions, lotus ponds, and rock gardens, learning about traditional Chinese garden design principles. Afterward, wander the nearby Old City God Temple area, filled with snack shops and traditional markets.
Historical Fact: Built in the 16th century during the Ming Dynasty by a government official for his parents, Yu Garden is a masterpiece of classical Chinese garden design, showcasing harmony between nature and architecture.
5. The Bund Skyline & Colonial Architecture Tour
Head to The Bund—Shanghai’s iconic waterfront along the Huangpu River. Walk along the promenade, admiring the stunning skyline of Pudong (home to the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, Shanghai Tower, and Shanghai World Financial Center) and the row of grand colonial-era buildings on the Bund itself. Your guide will share stories of how this area became a global trading hub in the early 20th century.
Historical Fact: Developed in the 19th–20th centuries as a foreign concession, The Bund’s 52 colonial buildings reflect a mix of architectural styles, symbolizing Shanghai’s history as an international trade port.
6. Former French Concession Leisure Stroll
Explore the charming Former French Concession, a leafy district with tree-lined streets, historic villas, and a bohemian vibe. Wander narrow alleyways, browse art galleries, or stop for a coffee at a cozy café (at your own cost). Your guide will point out architectural highlights and share stories of the district’s multicultural past.
Historical Fact: Established in the 19th century as a French-administered area, the concession retains its European-inspired architecture and laid-back atmosphere, blending Western and Chinese influences.
7. Xintiandi Nightlife & Cultural Finale
End your tour at Xintiandi—a vibrant district where historic Shikumen (stone-gate) houses have been transformed into a modern dining, shopping, and entertainment center. Explore the bustling streets lined with international restaurants, boutiques, and bars, soaking up Shanghai’s dynamic mix of past and present.
Historical Fact: Developed in the early 2000s, Xintiandi preserves traditional Shikumen architecture while repurposing it for contemporary use, celebrating Shanghai’s transition from a historic city to a global metropolis.
8. Flexible End Options & Tour Conclusion
- Customize Attractions: Swap any spots for alternatives like the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, Shanghai World Financial Center, or Jinmao Tower based on your preferences.
- Choose End City: Finish the tour in Beijing, Xi’an, or Shanghai—adjust the flight sequence in advance if opting to end in Xi’an.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 1: Beijing – Imperial Grandeur & Great Wall Adventure
1. Hotel Pick-Up & Tiananmen Square Exploration
Your private guide and driver will greet you at your Beijing hotel lobby, then head straight to Tiananmen Square—the world’s largest public square, bustling with historical significance. Wander alongside locals and visitors, taking in iconic landmarks like the National Museum of China, the Monument to the People’s Heroes, and the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong. Your guide will share fascinating stories about the square’s role in China’s modern history as you soak up the grand atmosphere.
Historical Fact: Built in the 17th century and expanded in the 20th century, Tiananmen Square has been a central hub for political gatherings and national celebrations, symbolizing China’s cultural and historical identity.
2. Forbidden City (The Palace Museum) Guided Tour
From Tiananmen Square, enter the Forbidden City through its southern gate—the iconic Meridian Gate. Step into a 250-acre imperial complex of opulent palaces, serene courtyards, and lush gardens, which served as the home of 24 emperors over 500 years. Marvel at ancient treasures like jade carvings, imperial paintings, and golden artifacts, while your guide explains the palace’s strict architectural hierarchy and royal life. Don’t miss the Hall of Supreme Harmony, the largest and most magnificent building in the complex.
Historical Fact: Constructed between 1406–1420 during the Ming Dynasty, the Forbidden City was the imperial palace until 1912 and became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, preserving China’s imperial architectural legacy.
3. Drive-by Beijing Olympic Park (Bird’s Nest)
En route to lunch, pass by Beijing Olympic Park, home to the iconic “Bird’s Nest” National Stadium—famous for hosting the 2008 Summer Olympics. Ask your driver to stop for photos if you’d like to capture this modern architectural masterpiece against the city skyline.
4. Traditional Lunch & Mutianyu Great Wall Visit
Refuel with a delicious traditional Chinese lunch at a local restaurant, then relax on a 1.5-hour drive to the Mutianyu Great Wall. Less crowded and more naturally scenic than Badaling, this section is covered in 96% greenery, with rugged peaks and lush orchards. Choose to hike the wall’s ancient steps, take a convenient round-trip cable car, or glide down on an exciting toboggan ride. Climb the watchtowers for panoramic views of the winding wall snaking through the mountains—an unforgettable sight.
Historial Fact: First built in the 6th century BC and rebuilt in the Ming Dynasty, Mutianyu Great Wall was a critical defensive barrier, known for its dense watchtowers and strategic mountain location.
5. Transfer to Xi’an & Hotel Check-In
After exploring the Great Wall, your driver will take you to Beijing Airport for your flight to Xi’an. On arrival, a local driver will greet you with a name sign at the arrival hall and transfer you to your Xi’an hotel for a restful night.
Meals Included: Lunch
Day 2: Xi’an – Terracotta Warriors & Ancient City Charms
1. Hotel Pick-Up & Terracotta Warriors Museum Tour
Meet your Xi’an guide at your hotel lobby, then board a private air-conditioned vehicle for a trip to the Museum of Qin Terra-cotta Warriors and Horses—dubbed the “Eighth Wonder of the World”. Your guide will share the dramatic story of the army’s 1974 discovery by local farmers as you travel. Explore the three main pits, where thousands of life-sized clay soldiers (each with a unique face), horses, and chariots stand in perfect battle formation, frozen in time to guard Emperor Qin Shi Huang in the afterlife.
Historical Fact: Crafted in the 3rd century BC for Qin Shi Huang, China’s first emperor, the Terracotta Army was unearthed in 1974 and remains one of the world’s most significant archaeological finds.
2. Local Lunch & Xi’an City Wall Exploration
Enjoy a flavorful local lunch, then head to the Xi’an City Wall—a 600-year-old fortification that’s the most intact ancient city wall in China. Climb to the top and stroll along the wide ramparts, admiring sweeping views of Xi’an’s mix of ancient temples and modern streets. Rent a bike to cycle the full 13.7-kilometer perimeter if you’re up for a leisurely adventure.
Historical Fact: Expanded in the 14th century Ming Dynasty from a Tang Dynasty foundation, Xi’an City Wall served as a crucial defense system for the ancient capital and Silk Road hub.
3. Muslim Quarter Cultural & Culinary Stroll
Next, visit the vibrant Muslim Quarter—a historic district and hub of Xi’an’s Muslim community. Wander through narrow, bustling lanes lined with stalls selling sizzling lamb skewers, crispy Roujiamo (Chinese hamburgers), sweet persimmon cakes, and unique souvenirs. Follow your guide to discover hidden gems, and feel free to sample local snacks at your own cost while soaking up the lively, centuries-old atmosphere.
Historical Fact: Orginating in the Tang Dynasty when Muslim merchants settled in Xi’an via the Silk Road, the quarter has evolved into a cultural melting pot with 10 historic mosques and traditional markets.
4. Transfer to Shanghai & Hotel Check-In
After the tour, your driver will take you to Xi’an Airport for your 2-hour flight to Shanghai. On arrival, a local driver will transfer you to your Shanghai hotel for the night.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 3: Shanghai – Modern Skylines & Timeless Traditions
1. Hotel Pick-Up & Customized Itinerary Planning
Meet your Shanghai guide at your hotel lobby, then board a private vehicle to start your customized city tour. Discuss your interests with your knowledgeable guide—whether you prefer history, culture, or modern sights—and adjust the itinerary to suit your preferences.
2. Shanghai Museum Cultural Immersion
Typically, the tour begins with Shanghai Museum—a treasure trove of Chinese art and history. Explore 11 galleries housing over 120,000 rare relics, including exquisite bronze ware, ancient ceramics, and masterful paintings and calligraphy. Your guide will highlight key pieces, explaining their historical context and artistic value.
Historical Fact: Founded in 1952, Shanghai Museum showcases China’s 5,000-year cultural heritage through its world-class collection of artifacts spanning multiple dynasties.
3. Jade Buddha Temple Spiritual Visit
Next, visit the serene Jade Buddha Temple, home to two priceless white jade Buddhas brought from Burma in the 19th century. Stroll through peaceful halls and courtyards, watch locals worship and burn incense, and learn about Buddhism’s history in China from your guide. The temple’s tranquil atmosphere offers a calming contrast to Shanghai’s bustling streets.
Historical Fact: Established in 1882 to house the imported jade Buddhas, the temple has become one of Shanghai’s most important Buddhist sites, blending traditional Chinese architecture with spiritual significance.
4. Local Lunch & Yu Garden Exploration
Enjoy a delicious local lunch, then explore Yu Garden—Shanghai’s largest and best-preserved ancient garden, built in the Ming and Qing styles. Follow your guide through winding paths, elegant pavilions, lotus ponds, and rock gardens, learning about traditional Chinese garden design principles. Afterward, wander the nearby Old City God Temple area, filled with snack shops and traditional markets.
Historical Fact: Built in the 16th century during the Ming Dynasty by a government official for his parents, Yu Garden is a masterpiece of classical Chinese garden design, showcasing harmony between nature and architecture.
5. The Bund Skyline & Colonial Architecture Tour
Head to The Bund—Shanghai’s iconic waterfront along the Huangpu River. Walk along the promenade, admiring the stunning skyline of Pudong (home to the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, Shanghai Tower, and Shanghai World Financial Center) and the row of grand colonial-era buildings on the Bund itself. Your guide will share stories of how this area became a global trading hub in the early 20th century.
Historical Fact: Developed in the 19th–20th centuries as a foreign concession, The Bund’s 52 colonial buildings reflect a mix of architectural styles, symbolizing Shanghai’s history as an international trade port.
6. Former French Concession Leisure Stroll
Explore the charming Former French Concession, a leafy district with tree-lined streets, historic villas, and a bohemian vibe. Wander narrow alleyways, browse art galleries, or stop for a coffee at a cozy café (at your own cost). Your guide will point out architectural highlights and share stories of the district’s multicultural past.
Historical Fact: Established in the 19th century as a French-administered area, the concession retains its European-inspired architecture and laid-back atmosphere, blending Western and Chinese influences.
7. Xintiandi Nightlife & Cultural Finale
End your tour at Xintiandi—a vibrant district where historic Shikumen (stone-gate) houses have been transformed into a modern dining, shopping, and entertainment center. Explore the bustling streets lined with international restaurants, boutiques, and bars, soaking up Shanghai’s dynamic mix of past and present.
Historical Fact: Developed in the early 2000s, Xintiandi preserves traditional Shikumen architecture while repurposing it for contemporary use, celebrating Shanghai’s transition from a historic city to a global metropolis.
8. Flexible End Options & Tour Conclusion
-
Customize Attractions: Swap any spots for alternatives like the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, Shanghai World Financial Center, or Jinmao Tower based on your preferences.
-
Choose End City: Finish the tour in Beijing, Xi’an, or Shanghai—adjust the flight sequence in advance if opting to end in Xi’an.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Tour Ends in Xi’an with Hotel| group size | Adult (11-80 years old) price/person | Children (4-10 years old) price/person | Infant (0-3 years old) price/person |
| 1 person |
$1,875.20
|
$840.54 | $360.54 |
| 2 adults | $1,363.20 | / | / |
| 3 adults | $1,299.20 | / | / |
| 4 adults | $1,171.20 | / | / |
| 5 adults | $1,160.54 | / | / |
| 6 adults | $1,107.20 | / | / |
| 7 adults | $1,085.87 | / | / |
| 8 adults | $1,053.87 | / | / |
| 9 adults | $1,032.54 | / | / |
| 10-15 adults | $1,032.54 | / | / |
| group size | Adult (11-80 years old) price/person | Children (4-10 years old) price/person | Infant (0-3 years old) price/person |
| 1 person |
$1,629.87
|
$776.54 | $360.54 |
| 2 adults | $1,235.20 | / | / |
| 3 adults | $1,128.54 | / | / |
| 4 adults | $1,043.20 | / | / |
| 5 adults | $1,011.20 | / | / |
| 6 adults | $979.20 | / | / |
| 7 adults | $957.87 | / | / |
| 8 adults | $936.54 | / | / |
| 9 adults | $915.20 | / | / |
| 10-15 adults | $915.20 | / | / |
| group size | Adult (11-80 years old) price/person | Children (4-10 years old) price/person | Infant (0-3 years old) price/person |
| 1 person |
$1,629.87
|
$776.54 | $360.54 |
| 2 adults | $1,235.20 | / | / |
| 3 adults | $1,128.54 | / | / |
| 4 adults | $1,043.20 | / | / |
| 5 adults | $1,011.20 | / | / |
| 6 adults | $979.20 | / | / |
| 7 adults | $957.87 | / | / |
| 8 adults | $936.54 | / | / |
| 9 adults | $915.20 | / | / |
| 10-15 adults | $915.20 | / | / |
| group size | Adult (11-80 years old) price/person | Children (4-10 years old) price/person | Infant (0-3 years old) price/person |
| 1 person |
$2,109.8
|
$1,128.54 | $531.20 |
| 2 adults | $1,597.87 | / | / |
| 3 adults | $1,533.87 | / | / |
| 4 adults | $1,405.87 | / | / |
| 5 adults | $1,395.20 | / | / |
| 6 adults | $1,341.87 | / | / |
| 7 adults | $1,320.54 | / | / |
| 8 adults | $1,299.20 | / | / |
| 9 adults | $1,277.87 |
/ | / |
| 10-15 adults | $1,277.87 | / | / |
| group size | Adult (11-80 years old) price/person | Children (4-10 years old) price/person | Infant (0-3 years old) price/person |
| 1 person |
$1,875.20
|
$840.54 | $360.54 |
| 2 adults | $1,363.20 | / | / |
| 3 adults | $1,299.20 | / | / |
| 4 adults | $ 1,171.20 | / | / |
| 5 adults | $1,160.54 | / | / |
| 6 adults | $1,107.20 | / | / |
| 7 adults | $1,085.87 | / | / |
| 8 adults | $1,053.87 | / | / |
| 9 adults | $1,032.54 | / | / |
| 10-15 adults | $1,032.54 | / | / |
| group size | Adult (11-80 years old) price/person | Children (4-10 years old) price/person | Infant (0-3 years old) price/person |
| 1 person |
$1,864.54
|
$1,053.87 | $531.20 |
| 2 adults | $1,469.87 | / | / |
| 3 adults | $1,363.20 | / | / |
| 4 adults | $1,277.87 | / | / |
| 5 adults | $1,245.87 | / | / |
| 6 adults | $1,213.87 | / | / |
| 7 adults | $1,181.87 | / | / |
| 8 adults | $1,171.20 | / | / |
| 9 adults | $1,160.54 | / | / |
| 10-15 adults | $1,160.54 | / | / |
There are discounts in the off-season, please call us!
Free cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours before your travel date and get a full refund
-
DepartureBeijing
-
Departure Time8:00am, 8:30am, 9:00am, 9:30am, 10:00am
-
IncludedEnglish-speaking guideEntrance FeeHotel pickup and drop-offCable car round trip or ski lift up and toboggan down at the Great WallTransport by private air-conditioned vehicleLunch (3)Breakfast (2)
-
Not IncludedGratuities to tour guide and driver(recommended)Accommodation if the hotel option not been selected
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