China Tours & Holiday Packages

Few countries can match China for sheer scale, history, and variety. Our guided tours in China range from epic rail adventures crossing the Silk Road from Istanbul to Shanghai, to sweeping journeys south through Laos and Thailand

View China tours
Image link

China at a Glance

China is one of the most geographically and culturally diverse countries on the planet. Imperial cities sit alongside futuristic skylines; ancient trade routes wind through remote mountain passes; and rural communities carry on traditions that predate the written word. From the terracotta warriors of Xi’an and the classic scenery around Guilin to the dramatic karst pillars of Zhangjiajie and the unmistakable energy of Shanghai, there is genuinely no other destination quite like it.

China also occupies a central position in one of history’s great stories — the Silk Road. For centuries, merchants, monks, and explorers crossed this network of routes linking East and West, and the legacy of that exchange is visible in the architecture, food, and culture of cities along the way. Travelling by rail through China connects you to that history in a way no other form of transport can.

Explore our China Tours

Why Choose Undiscovered Destinations for China Small Group Tours

China rewards travellers who are willing to look beyond the postcard highlights — and our tours are built to do exactly that. Both itineraries use the train as their primary mode of travel, which means you arrive in each destination having seen the countryside between them, rather than stepping off a plane into a city centre. Whether you’re crossing the steppes of Central Asia into western China on the Istanbul to Shanghai route, or heading south from Shanghai through the landscapes of Laos and into Thailand, you’ll see China as part of a wider, connected world. Small group travel keeps the experience personal and unhurried, with expert local guides adding depth to every city, site, and stop along the way.

Our China Tour Packages Overview

1. Shanghai to Bangkok Rail Adventure

This rail journey travels south from Shanghai through eastern China, crossing into Laos on the Boten–Vientiane railway before continuing into Thailand and finishing in Bangkok. It’s an outstanding way to experience the contrasts between China’s modern cities and the slower rhythms of South-East Asia, all from the comfort of the train. View full itinerary →

2. Istanbul to Shanghai Rail Adventure

One of the great rail journeys of the world, this adventure follows the ancient Silk Road from Istanbul through Georgia, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan before crossing into China and finishing in Shanghai. You’ll pass through some of the most historically significant cities and landscapes on the planet, with expert guides bringing the history of this remarkable trade route to life. View full itinerary →

What to see on our China Group Tours
Explore Shanghai, China’s dynamic financial hub, where colonial era architecture along the Bund contrasts with a futuristic skyline and vibrant urban life
Visit Yuyuan Garden and Shanghai’s old quarter, offering a glimpse into traditional Chinese architecture, classical landscaping, and local daily life
Experience China’s high speed rail network, travelling between major cities in comfort while witnessing the country’s vast and varied landscapes  
Discover Xian’s Terracotta Warriors, one of the world’s greatest archaeological finds, alongside the historic city wall and Big Wild Goose Pagoda
Visit Chengdu’s Panda Breeding and Research Centre, home to giant pandas and a leading conservation facility set among bamboo groves and peaceful walkways
Explore Yunnan’s Stone Forest and Jiuxiang Caves, dramatic natural landscapes of towering karst formations, underground chambers, and scenic countryside
As featured in

Feedback from our Travellers

With a 97% satisfaction rating from over 250 independent reviews on AITO, our travellers consistently praise the unique experiences and exceptional service provided by Undiscovered Destinations. From exploring the vibrant cultures of West Africa to uncovering hidden gems in the Caribbean, our carefully curated tours offer unforgettable adventures off the beaten path.

Read more reviews

Have a question? Check these answers.

Yes, China is ideal for group tours due to its vast size, complex transport system, and rich cultural sites spread across different regions.

Top highlights include Beijing (Great Wall & Forbidden City), Xian (Terracotta Warriors), Shanghai (modern skyline), Guilin (river landscapes), and Zhangjiajie (mountain scenery).

Featured tours of the month

Handpicked escapes that define what it means to travel differently.

View all tours