Marco Polo's Silk Road Legacy
Retracing the Footsteps of History's Greatest Explorer
Journey Overview
An Epic Cultural Expedition
This meticulously crafted 16-day journey follows the legendary path of Marco Polo through China's most significant historical and cultural landmarks. Designed for travelers passionate about ancient civilizations, this expedition combines imperial grandeur with Silk Road mystique, offering an unparalleled immersion into China's rich heritage.
Detailed Itinerary
Days 1-3: Imperial Beijing - The Eastern Capital
Day 1: Arrival in Beijing
Arrive in Beijing, the starting point of your Silk Road adventure. Transfer to your hotel with the remainder of the day at leisure to acclimatize.
Meals: No meal | Accommodation: Beijing Hotel
Day 2: Great Wall & Imperial Gardens
Conquer the magnificent Mutianyu Great Wall, followed by a serene visit to the Summer Palace. Optional Peking Duck dinner completes your authentic Beijing experience.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch | Accommodation: Beijing Hotel
Day 3: Imperial Heart & Flight to Urumqi
Explore Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and the Temple of Heaven before catching your evening flight to Urumqi, gateway to Western China.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch | Accommodation: Urumqi Hotel
Days 4-7: Xinjiang Adventures - The Western Frontier
Day 4: Urumqi's Natural & Cultural Wonders
Discover the breathtaking Heavenly Lake nestled in the Tianshan Mountains. Visit Xinjiang Regional Museum and experience local culture at Erdaoqiao Bazaar.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch | Accommodation: Urumqi Hotel
Day 5: Kashgar - Crossroads of Civilization
Fly to Kashgar, exploring Zhiren Street's artisan workshops, the historic Id Kah Mosque, and Apak Hoja Tomb. Experience the vibrant Sunday Bazaar (seasonal).
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch | Accommodation: Kashgar Hotel
Day 6: Karakul Lake & Return to Urumqi
Journey along the Karakoram Highway to stunning Karakul Lake, surrounded by the majestic Muztagh Ata peaks. Evening flight returns you to Urumqi.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch | Accommodation: Urumqi Hotel
Day 7: Turpan - Oasis of History
Travel to Turpan, visiting the ancient Jiaohe City ruins, the ingenious Karez Well irrigation system, and Emin Minaret. Enjoy a traditional dinner under grape trellises.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Accommodation: Turpan Hotel
Days 8-11: Gansu Corridor - Desert Mysteries
Day 8: Journey to Dunhuang
Take the bullet train to Dunhuang, arriving in the afternoon. Rest and prepare for upcoming desert adventures.
Meals: Breakfast | Accommodation: Dunhuang Hotel
Day 9: Ancient Passes & Desert Landscapes
Explore the strategic Yumenguan Pass and witness the extraordinary formations at Dunhuang Yadan National Geologic Park.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch | Accommodation: Dunhuang Hotel
Day 10: Sand Dunes & Buddhist Art
Experience the singing sands of Mingsha Dunes and Crescent Spring, followed by the magnificent Buddhist art of Mogao Grottoes.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch | Accommodation: Dunhuang Hotel
Day 11: Jiayuguan - Great Wall's Western End
Travel to Jiayuguan to explore the impressive Jiayuguan Pass, known as the "First and Greatest Pass Under Heaven."
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch | Accommodation: Jiayuguan Hotel
Days 12-16: Ancient Capitals & Modern Marvels
Day 12: Wei-Jin Tombs & Flight to Xi'an
Discover the remarkable Wei-Jin Tomb Murals before flying to Xi'an, China's ancient capital.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch | Accommodation: Xi'an Hotel
Day 13: Terracotta Warriors & City Walls
Marvel at the Terracotta Army, visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, and walk the ancient City Wall. Optional Tang Dynasty Show with dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch | Accommodation: Xi'an Hotel
Day 14: Museum & Flight to Shanghai
Explore Shaanxi History Museum before flying to Shanghai, China's vibrant modern metropolis.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch | Accommodation: Shanghai Hotel
Day 15: Shanghai - East Meets West
Visit Jade Buddha Temple, Yuyuan Garden, and Chenghuangmiao. Ascend the Oriental Pearl Tower and stroll the Bund and Nanjing Road.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch | Accommodation: Shanghai Hotel
Day 16: Departure
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight, concluding your remarkable Silk Road journey.
Meals: Breakfast