Eclectic escape from China cities to Bali bliss with excursions

Excursions

We've gone the extra mile to pack your trip with exciting included excursions; all the details are outlined below.

Day 2: Tiananmen Square and Forbidden City guided tour

Step into the monumental heart of China's capital with a visit to the vast expanse of Tiananmen Square. You'll get to pass through the iconic crimson gates of the Forbidden City, stepping into the sprawling imperial palace complex that once housed generations of Ming and Qing emperors. Wander through a mesmerizing maze of golden-roofed pavilions, grand courtyards, and tranquil gardens, soaking up the weight of centuries of history within these ancient, protective walls.

Day 3: Temple of Heaven, Great Wall & Ming Tombs guided tour

Step back into China's imperial past at the magnificent Temple of Heaven, a breathtaking architectural masterpiece where emperors once prayed for prosperous harvests. You'll get to venture north into the rugged mountains to walk the legendary, winding ramparts of the Great Wall at either the Badaling or Juyongguan section, soaking up sweeping panoramic views from its ancient stone watchtowers. Conclude your epic journey through history by wandering the serene, pine-shaded grounds of Changling, the grand resting place of the Yongle Emperor at the majestic Ming Tombs.

Day 4: Yuyuan and Jade Temple, Nanjing Road and the Bund guided tour

Dive deeper into the captivating contrasts of Shanghai, starting with the tranquil, classical landscapes of Yuyuan Garden and the serene, incense-filled halls of the Jade Buddha Temple. You'll get to dive into the city's vibrant modern energy as you stroll down Nanjing Road, China's premier bustling shopping street. Conclude your exploration at the legendary Bund, admiring the sweeping waterfront promenade and its magnificent colonial-era architecture looking out across the Huangpu River.

Day 7: Tegalalang, Kintamani & Tirta Empul visit

As you depart Bali, you'll get to stop off en route to marvel at the cascading green slopes of the famed Tegalalang rice terraces before ascending to Kintamani to take in dramatic, sweeping vistas of the Mount Batur volcano and its shimmering crater lake. Conclude your cultural exploration by wandering the ancient, sacred grounds of the Tirta Empul water temple, where you can witness spiritual purification rituals taking place in the holy spring pools.

Day 8: Mengwi Temple, Jatiluwih Terraces and Tanah Lot guided tour

Journey into Bali's rich cultural heritage starting with the striking Mengwi Royal Temple, an elegant shrine complex surrounded by serene lotus moats. From the island's lush interior, gaze out over the sweeping, UNESCO-listed Jatiluwih rice terraces, a breathtaking expanse of vibrant green carved into the volcanic hillsides. Conclude your day of discovery on the dramatic western coast, admiring the legendary Tanah Lot temple as it sits perched majestically on a rocky offshore outcrop against the crashing waves of the Indian Ocean.

If you’d like to make your trip even more unforgettable, you can also book the following optional excursions. These excursions can be selected in the booking process.

Day 3: Hutong rickshaw sightseeing tour of old Beijing city and Acrobatic show

Step back in time as you weave through the labyrinthine alleys of Beijing's ancient hutongs from the comfort of a traditional cycle rickshaw. You'll get to glimpse the rhythms of everyday local life and admire historic courtyard homes tucked quietly away from the bustling modern metropolis. Cap off your day of discovery by taking your seat for a dazzling Chinese acrobatic show, where incredibly skilled performers execute gravity-defying stunts and breathtaking displays of agility.

Day 4: Oriental Pearl TV Tower tour with evening Huangpu River cruise

Experience Shanghai at night to see its most beautiful side! Start your evening with a visit to the famous Oriental Pearl Tower; from the observation deck, you'll enjoy stunning panoramic views of the glittering metropolis. Then, continue your journey with a romantic cruise on the Huangpu River and let yourself be wowed by the fascinating mixture of traditional Chinese architecture and modern high-rise landscape as you admire the illuminated skyscrapers of Pudong alongside the historic buildings of the Bund.

Day 6, 9, 10 or 11: Mount Batur sunrise trekking adventure

Embark on an exhilarating pre-dawn adventure, ascending the rugged volcanic slopes of Mount Batur beneath a quiet canopy of stars. You'll get to reach the summit just as the first light of day breaks, rewarding your early climb with breathtaking, panoramic views of the sun rising over the dramatic caldera and shimmering Lake Batur below. Soak up the crisp morning air and the magical, shifting colors of the sky from this sacred peak before beginning your scenic descent back through the lush highland jungle.

Day 9, 10, 11 or 12: Three-stop snorkelling expedition at Manta Bay

Plunge beneath the sparkling waters of the Indian Ocean off the rugged coast of Nusa Penida. Visit three distinct, vibrant marine locations, renowned for their crystal-clear waters, colourful coral gardens and diverse schools of tropical fish. The undeniable highlight of your aquatic journey awaits at Manta Bay, where, with a bit of luck, you’ll have the rare opportunity to swim alongside graceful, giant manta rays as they glide peacefully through their natural habitat.

Day 6, 9, 10 or 11: Bali cycling tour

In Nusa Dua, a picturesque bike tour along Bali's beautiful coastal landscape awaits you. You cycle along well-maintained paths past golden beaches, lush gardens and impressive temples. The fresh sea breeze and relaxed ambience make the ride even more enjoyable. There are charming cafés along the way for a well-deserved break with exotic refreshments.

Day 6, 9 or 10: Bali rafting adventure

Get your adrenaline pumping as you navigate the thrilling rapids and cascading drops of one of Bali’s winding jungle rivers. You'll get to paddle through deep, spectacular gorges draped in dense tropical rainforest, floating past hidden waterfalls and intricately carved stone shrines tucked into the riverbanks. Cap off your exhilarating whitewater journey with a refreshing swim in the cool, clear waters before relaxing by the water's edge to catch your breath.