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Luxury Grand Tour of China: Giant Pandas, Palaces & Yangtze River Cruise

Holiday Includes:
  • river_cruise_icon@2x Full-Board River Cruise
  • excursions_icon@2x Shore Excursions
  • tours_icon@2x Tours
  • hotel_icon@2x Hotels
  • all_flights_icon@2x All Flights
  • transfers_icon@2x Transfers
From £3,999pp
Booking Enquiry

Holiday Overview

  • Ship : Victoria Isabella
  • Duration: 16 NIGHTS
  • Departure: 13 March 2027
  • Holiday Type: River Cruising
  • Holiday code: RVR7273

From beguiling gorges to ancient masterpieces, immerse yourself in China’s historic essence, warm hospitality, and vibrant cities on this unforgettable river cruise and touring experience.

Discover China’s greatest treasures on a fully escorted journey. Visit the Terracotta Army, one of the world’s most remarkable archaeological sites; marvel at the winding Great Wall, an enduring architectural triumph shaped by centuries of history; and explore the mystical Forbidden City and Temple of Heaven, where ancient stories come to life. In Chengdu, enjoy a memorable morning at the Giant Panda Research Centre, observing these endearing creatures as they play, eat, and relax in their lush surroundings.

Complementing the tour is a four-night cruise along the Yangtze River. Glide through the breathtaking Three Gorges as dramatic cliffs, verdant landscapes, historic towns, and rural villages unfold, offering captivating insights into China’s rich past and present.

IMMERSIVE TOUR OF CHINA: EXPLORE ANCIENT WONDERS

EXPERIENCE THE BEAUTY OF THE YANGTZE RIVER

ENJOY CLOSE ENCOUNTERS WITH PANDAS

From beguiling gorges to ancient masterpieces, immerse yourself in China’s historic essence, warm hospitality, and vibrant cities on this unforgettable river cruise and touring experience.

Discover China’s greatest treasures on a fully escorted journey. Visit the Terracotta Army, one of the world’s most remarkable archaeological sites; marvel at the winding Great Wall, an enduring architectural triumph shaped by centuries of history; and explore the mystical Forbidden City and Temple of Heaven, where ancient stories come to life. In Chengdu, enjoy a memorable morning at the Giant Panda Research Centre, observing these endearing creatures as they play, eat, and relax in their lush surroundings.

Complementing the tour is a four-night cruise along the Yangtze River. Glide through the breathtaking Three Gorges as dramatic cliffs, verdant landscapes, historic towns, and rural villages unfold, offering captivating insights into China’s rich past and present.

Your Imagine Holiday Includes

IMMERSIVE TOUR OF CHINA: EXPLORE ANCIENT WONDERS

EXPERIENCE THE BEAUTY OF THE YANGTZE RIVER

ENJOY CLOSE ENCOUNTERS WITH PANDAS

Fully-Escorted Tours
Shanghai city tour including Yu Garden and the Bund
Yichang city tour including Binjiang Park and Yichang Museum
High-speed trains to Chengdu, Xi’an and Beijing
Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding
Chengdu city tour including the Kuanzhai Xiangzi
Terracotta Warriors
Xi’an city tour
Great Wall of China and Summer Palace
Temple of Heaven, Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City
Full-Board River Cruise
4 night full-board luxury river cruise on board Victoria Isabella
Included Shore Excursions
Three Gorges Dam
Sail through Shennong Stream, Wu Gorge and Qutang Gorge
Fengdu Snow Jade Cave
Luxury Hotel Stays
2 night five-star stay in Shanghai at the Hengshan Garden Hotel Shanghai
1 night five-star hotel stay in Yichang at the Crowne Plaza Yichang
2 night five-star hotel stay in Chengdu at the Shangri-La Chengdu
2 night five-star hotel stay in Xi’an at the Gran Meliá Xian
3 night five-star stay in Beijing at the NUO Hotel Beijing
All hotel stays include breakfast
All Flights & Transfers
London departure – regional flights available
Overnight flights
Holiday duration includes overnight flights when applicable and is subject to change.

Your Voyage

Your Itinerary

Day 1
Fly Overnight to Shanghai

Your holiday begins as you fly from the UK to your destination.

Day 2
Shanghai: Hotel Stay

Enjoy a two-night hotel stay in one of China’s most exciting cities. Stroll along the historic Bund for stunning skyline views, savour local delicacies, and explore the intricate beauty of Jade Buddha Temple.

Overnight: Hengshan Garden Hotel Shanghai

Day 3
Shanghai: Tour & Hotel Stay

Enjoy a morning at leisure before paying a visit to the Shanghai Museum, home to one of the finest collections of ancient Chinese art and antiques in the world. Later, explore the Bund, the historic waterfront where magnificent colonial architecture opposes enormous skyscrapers.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight: Hengshan Garden Hotel Shanghai

Day 4
Yichang: Hotel Stay

In Hubei Province, Yichang serves as the gateway to the Yangtze River’s Three Gorges. Blending modern life with rich cultural history, the city’s attractions include Binjiang Park and the shops of Wanda Square.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight: Crowne Plaza Yichang

Day 5
Yichang: Embark Ship

Enjoy a visit to Yichang Museum and explore the local market before you embark Victoria Isabella. Settle into your cabin, enjoy a welcome reception, and begin your luxurious Yangtze River journey with stunning scenery ahead.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Overnight: Victoria Isabella

Day 6
Three Gorges Dam & Xiling Gorge

Spanning the Yangtze River, the Three Gorges Dam is the world’s largest power station. Marvel at this incredible feat of engineering that stretches over two kilometres before continuing through the imposing Xiling Gorge region.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Overnight: Victoria Isabella

Day 7
Small Gorges

Today you’ll transfer to smaller vessels to access the small gorges of Shennong Stream. These enchanting waterways lead deep into an impenetrable wilderness where forest-shrouded cliffs rise from emerald waters.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Overnight: Victoria Isabella

Day 7
Wu Gorge & Qutang Gorge

Wu Gorge is celebrated for its quiet beauty, with forest-covered mountains and cliffs so sheer that the sun barely hits them. Later in the day, sail through the dramatic Qutang Gorge, which snakes for eight kilometres through some of the region’s most stunning scenery.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Overnight: Victoria Isabella

Day 8
Snow Jade Cave

Today your cruise itinerary includes shore excursions to the stalactites of Snow Jade Cave and Xiao Guan Shan Folk Culture Park. Depending on river conditions, an alternate excursion may be substituted to Shibaozhai with its impressive wooden pagoda.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Overnight: Victoria Isabella

Day 9
Chongqing: Disembark & Chengdu Hotel Stay

Disembarking in Chongqing, you’ll take the high-speed train to Chengdu for a two-night stay. The capital of Sichuan Province, Chengdu is home to not just one of Asia’s richest culinary cultures, but the country’s leading panda breeding programme.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight: Shangri-La Chengdu

Day 10
Chengdu: Tour & Hotel Stay

A highlight of your holiday, today you’ll visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding for an up-close encounter with the national animal of China. Meander through the winding pathways and observe the bears asleep and at play.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Overnight: Shangri-La Chengdu

Day 11
Xi’an: Hotel Stay

Travel to Xi’an by train for a two-night escape and the imposing Terracotta Army. History buffs will also appreciate the Bell Tower of Xi’an, built in 1384, while foodies may wish to stroll the Muslim Quarter, packed with tasty local cuisine.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight: Gran Meliá Xian

Day 12
Xi’an: Tour & Hotel Stay

Uncovered in 1974 by farmers, the 8,000 soldiers of the Terracotta Army are a symbol of the power and megalomania of Qin Shi Huangdi, China’s first emperor. Sculpted in 210 BC, each of the figures carries its own unique features.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Overnight: Gran Meliá Xian

Day 13
Beijing: Hotel Stay

China’s high-speed Fast Train awaits. Leaving Xi’an behind, you’ll journey to Beijing for three nights. Take an atmospheric rickshaw ride through historical districts or seek serenity at the 11th-century Beihai Park.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight: NUO Hotel Beijing

Day 14
Beijing: Tour & Hotel Stay

Visit the remarkable Tiananmen Square and the heart of the People’s Republic. Then it’s on to the magnificent Temple of Heaven with its symbolic representations of heaven and Earth, together with the scarlet-walled Forbidden City – home to imperial rulers.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Overnight: NUO Hotel Beijing

Day 15
Beijing: Tour & Hotel Stay

Get ready for the Great Wall of China – the longest wall in the world and the only manmade structure visible from space! Discover its 2,000-year history, and explore the breathtaking Summer Palace and imperial gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Overnight: NUO Hotel Beijing

Days 16 - 17
Beijing: Fly Home

Your holiday complete, today you’ll head to the airport for your flight home.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Your Holiday Highlights

Shanghai City Tour
Your tour of Shanghai begins at Yu Garden where, 400 years ago, a merchant spent almost 20 years – and all his life savings – building a garden to please his parents in their old age. Later on, take a stroll along the Bund, a historic waterfront regarded for hundreds of years as the symbol of Shanghai.
Chengdu Panda Research Base
At China’s leading panda breeding centre, you’ll observe giant pandas of all ages enjoying life as though they were in the wild, from adults lazily munching bamboo and napping in trees to playful cubs rolling around. Visitors can stroll through beautiful paths, visit the panda nursery, and learn about their dainty cousin, the red panda.
Terracotta Warriors
Xi'an, birthplace of Chinese civilisation, houses the astounding Terracotta Warriors. Unearthed accidentally by farmers, these life-sized warriors, boasting intricate details, including hair, expressions, and armour, encircle the tomb of China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. A remarkable and enigmatic discovery.
Great Wall of China
Admire the Great Wall of China, the longest wall in the world that bends and twists over hills and valleys like a giant dragon fiercely guarding its borders. During your tour you’ll explore the quieter Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, a 2.5-kilometre stretch which features 22 watchtowers.
Forbidden City
Experience the awe-inspiring Forbidden City Tour, a journey through China's imperial history. Wander through the majestic halls and courtyards, where emperors once ruled in splendour. Discover the secrets of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, a testament to China's rich culture and heritage.

Life on board Victoria Isabella

Overview

Victoria Isabella

Victoria Isabella is the newest flagship of Victoria Cruise Lines, which debuted on China’s Yangtze River in late 2025 as one of the largest and most advanced river cruise ships on the water.

Built with eco-friendly hybrid-electric technology and designed for maximum comfort, it carries up to 590 guests across seven decks. The Isabella features elegant accommodation with private-balcony staterooms, Executive Suites and luxurious Shangri-La Suites, all offering river views. Public spaces include panoramic lounges, dining venues, and leisure facilities, while an onboard escalator improves passenger movement.

Operating classic Three Gorges itineraries between Chongqing and Yichang, Victoria Isabella blends modern design, international service and sustainable cruising for an exceptional Yangtze experience.

Victoria Cruises isabella ship image 2
Food & Drink

Food & Drink

Dining onboard Victoria Isabella is a refined and memorable experience, with buffet-style breakfasts, lunches and dinners offering a delicious blend of international favourites and authentic Chinese cuisine. Meals are served in the elegant main restaurant, with à la carte options available for select guests. Complimentary tea, coffee and soft drinks are included, while the lounge bar offers wines, beers, cocktails and spirits – perfect for relaxing as the Yangtze scenery drifts by.

Victoria Cruises isabella ship image food and drink
Facilities

Facilities

The Victoria Isabella offers a range of exceptional onboard facilities for relaxation and enjoyment, including a sun deck, stylish lounges like the Yangtze Club, a theatre, gift shop and business centre, a fitness room and spa with massage services, a reading and game room, cinema, and medical clinic. You can also enjoy cultural lectures and entertainment, plus Wi-Fi throughout and comfortable cabins with private balconies.
• Lobby
• Reception Desk
• Gift Shop
• Mahjong Room
• Theater
• Yangtze Club
• Clinic
• Spa & Massage Room
• Gym
• Sun Deck
• Dynasty Dining Restaurant
• Executive Lounge
• Top of the Yangtze Restaurant

Victoria Cruises isabella ship image facilities
Entertainment

Entertainment

On Victoria Isabella, your days and evenings are filled with engaging entertainment and activities, from morning Tai Chi and cultural lectures on Chinese history, language and arts to DIY workshops like dumpling-wrapping and calligraphy. Enjoy fashion shows, lively cabaret performances, karaoke and dancing in the Yangtze Club, watch films in the theatre or relax with games like mahjong – all designed to enrich your Yangtze River cruise experience.
• Tai Chi Chuan
• Lectures
• Fashion Shows
• Karaoke
• Dancing
• Cabaret

Victoria Cruises isabella ship image entertainment

Victoria Isabella

Victoria Isabella is the newest flagship of Victoria Cruise Lines, which debuted on China’s Yangtze River in late 2025 as one of the largest and most advanced river cruise ships on the water.

Built with eco-friendly hybrid-electric technology and designed for maximum comfort, it carries up to 590 guests across seven decks. The Isabella features elegant accommodation with private-balcony staterooms, Executive Suites and luxurious Shangri-La Suites, all offering river views. Public spaces include panoramic lounges, dining venues, and leisure facilities, while an onboard escalator improves passenger movement.

Operating classic Three Gorges itineraries between Chongqing and Yichang, Victoria Isabella blends modern design, international service and sustainable cruising for an exceptional Yangtze experience.

Victoria Cruises isabella ship image 2

Food & Drink

Dining onboard Victoria Isabella is a refined and memorable experience, with buffet-style breakfasts, lunches and dinners offering a delicious blend of international favourites and authentic Chinese cuisine. Meals are served in the elegant main restaurant, with à la carte options available for select guests. Complimentary tea, coffee and soft drinks are included, while the lounge bar offers wines, beers, cocktails and spirits – perfect for relaxing as the Yangtze scenery drifts by.

Victoria Cruises isabella ship image food and drink

Facilities

The Victoria Isabella offers a range of exceptional onboard facilities for relaxation and enjoyment, including a sun deck, stylish lounges like the Yangtze Club, a theatre, gift shop and business centre, a fitness room and spa with massage services, a reading and game room, cinema, and medical clinic. You can also enjoy cultural lectures and entertainment, plus Wi-Fi throughout and comfortable cabins with private balconies.
• Lobby
• Reception Desk
• Gift Shop
• Mahjong Room
• Theater
• Yangtze Club
• Clinic
• Spa & Massage Room
• Gym
• Sun Deck
• Dynasty Dining Restaurant
• Executive Lounge
• Top of the Yangtze Restaurant

Victoria Cruises isabella ship image facilities

Entertainment

On Victoria Isabella, your days and evenings are filled with engaging entertainment and activities, from morning Tai Chi and cultural lectures on Chinese history, language and arts to DIY workshops like dumpling-wrapping and calligraphy. Enjoy fashion shows, lively cabaret performances, karaoke and dancing in the Yangtze Club, watch films in the theatre or relax with games like mahjong – all designed to enrich your Yangtze River cruise experience.
• Tai Chi Chuan
• Lectures
• Fashion Shows
• Karaoke
• Dancing
• Cabaret

Victoria Cruises isabella ship image entertainment

Cabins & Suites

The cabins and suites are thoughtfully designed to combine comfort, style, and panoramic river views. Accommodation ranges from well-appointed staterooms to spacious suites with private balconies. Each features plush bedding, en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and modern amenities. Suites elevate the experience further with generous living space and enhanced comforts, creating a tranquil haven to relax and unwind after a day exploring the majestic Yangtze River.

Superior Cabin (Main Deck - Private Balcony)
from £ 3,999 pp
Superior Cabin (Main Deck - Private Balcony) from £ 3,999 pp

The Superior Cabin offers around 25.5 m² of space with twin beds, a private balcony overlooking the Yangtze and a modern en-suite bathroom with shower. Thoughtfully appointed with Wi-Fi, TV and refreshing décor, it’s a comfortable, relaxing retreat perfect for enjoying river views and a restful cruise experience.

• Private balcony
• WiFi access, HBO and CNN
• Private bathrooms with shower
• Tea and coffee facilities
• Air-conditioning
• Safe
• Electricity: 220V/110V in bathroom
• Superior cabins have several configurations, some with one queen or two single beds

Superior Cabin (Bridge Deck - Private Balcony)
from £ 4,299 pp
Superior Cabin (Bridge Deck - Private Balcony) from £ 4,299 pp

The Superior Cabin offers around 25.5 m² of space with twin beds, a private balcony overlooking the Yangtze and a modern en-suite bathroom with shower. Thoughtfully appointed with Wi-Fi, TV and refreshing décor, it’s a comfortable, relaxing retreat perfect for enjoying river views and a restful cruise experience.

• Private balcony
• WiFi access, HBO and CNN
• Private bathrooms with shower
• Tea and coffee facilities
• Air-conditioning
• Safe
• Electricity: 220V/110V in bathroom
• Superior cabins have several configurations, some with one queen or two single beds

Executive Suite (Large Private Balcony)
from £ 5,399 pp
Executive Suite (Large Private Balcony) from £ 5,399 pp

The Executive Suite offers around 35.5 m² of elegant space with a private balcony and panoramic river views, twin beds, a luxurious en-suite bathroom with shower and bathtub, and premium amenities. Larger and more comfortable than standard cabins, it’s ideal for a restful and refined Yangtze River cruise experience.

• Private balcony
• WiFi access, HBO and CNN
• Private bathrooms with shower and bathtub
• Tea and coffee facilities
• Air-conditioning
• Safe
• Electricity: 220V/110V in bathroom

Your Hotel Stays

Shanghai

Included Hotel

Hengshan Garden Hotel Shanghai (Or Similar)

In Shanghai’s vibrant Xuhui District, the elegant Hengshan Garden Hotel Shanghai offers a perfect blend of modern sophistication and traditional charm. The hotel features beautifully designed rooms with panoramic views, plush amenities, and refined décor. Enjoy world-class dining options, a serene garden setting, and a fully equipped fitness centre. Its prime location provides convenient access to Shanghai’s cultural landmarks, shopping districts, and entertainment hubs.

Yichang

Included Hotel

Crowne Plaza Yichang (Or Similar)

The luxurious Crowne Plaza Yichang overlooks the Yangtze River, where it offers a modern elegance and comfort. Guests can enjoy well-appointed rooms, multiple dining options, and state-of-the-art leisure amenities including a fitness centre, indoor pool, and versatile meeting spaces. Its convenient location near major attractions like the Three Gorges Dam and Yiling Square makes it an ideal choice for exploring the region.

Chengdu

Included Hotel

Shangri-La Chengdu (Or Similar)

panoramic views of the Jinjiang River and the city’s glistening skyline, Shangri-La Chengdu offers elegant design and world-class service. The hotel features spacious rooms and suites, tastefully furnished with modern amenities. Guests can indulge in fine dining at its restaurants, which serve both local Sichuan cuisine and international dishes. The hotel also boasts a fully equipped fitness centre, an indoor pool, and a tranquil spa. Its central location makes it convenient for exploring attractions like Tianfu Square and the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.

Xi'an

Included Hotel

Gran Meliá Xi’an (Or Similar)

Located next to Tang Paradise, Gran Meliá Xi’an offers private gardens, a lake, and even a big-name shopping mall amidst its welcoming grounds. Guests can enjoy meals at a choice of five restaurants, or work off the calories in the well-equipped fitness centre. There’s also a beautiful indoor pool beneath a panoramic roof as well as a hot tub and spa. Every room comes with a TV, air conditioning, and a balcony offering views of wither the lake or the city. Enjoy free Wi-Fi throughout the property.

Beijing

Included Hotel

NUO Hotel Beijing (Or Similar)

The NUO Hotel Beijing, located in the Chaoyang District, is a luxury hotel known for its exquisite design, elegant accommodations, and commitment to Chinese art and culture. The hotel offers a range of spacious and well-appointed rooms and suites, all designed with a blend of contemporary luxury and traditional Chinese elements.

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