Day 1: Arrival in Suzhou

Commence your 7-day tour by flying into Shanghai and traveling by train to Suzhou, a city renowned for its stunning gardens and ancient water towns. Begin your Suzhou adventures with a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Humble Administrator's Garden, where you can take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the serene atmosphere, surrounded by intricate designs. Make sure you take some time to explore the historic Pingjiang Road, an iconic street with excellently preserved traditional Chinese architecture, where you can taste local specialties such as Suzhou-style mooncakes and tofu pudding.

Day 2: Explore the Water Towns

Expand your exploration today of the surrounding regions and let the tranquil nature of Zhouzhuang or Tongli town refresh your senses. These picturesque water towns boast ancient canals, bridges, and traditional Chinese architecture that will enchant you. Take a boat ride to marvel at the breathtaking scenery before embarking on a walkabout, where you can stop by local shops to buy souvenirs and to sample local street food, including Wansan pork knuckles and Songhe tofu soup. Come evening, return to Suzhou and savor local seafood and vegetable dishes at one of the many restaurants in the city.

Day 3: Discover the Silk Road

Discover Suzhou's prominence in China's silk industry by paying a visit to the Suzhou Silk Museum today. Learn about silk's rich history and manufacturing processes as you watch demonstrations of the silk-making process and peruse an extensive array of silk items, ranging from fabrics to garments and accessories. Take a tranquil stroll through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tiger Hill, one of Suzhou's most iconic attractions, viewing the famous leaning pagoda and appreciating the serene environments surrounding you.

Day 4: Arrive in Hangzhou

Prepare to be awed by Mother Nature's beauty as you take a quick train ride to Hangzhou. Begin your Hangzhou itinerary with a tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of West Lake, one of China's most beloved lakes. Take a leisurely walk and absorb the peaceful scenery, including the sculptures and pavilions spread throughout the area. Next, visit the Lingyin Temple, an esteemed and ancient Buddhist temple surrounded by forests and mountains, and filled with ancient Buddhist statues.

Day 5: Enjoy the Beauty of Hangzhou

Get some exercise and explore the city with a bike ride around West Lake today. Take in the stunning views and breathe in the fresh air while stopping occasionally at one of the traditional tea houses along the route for some of Hangzhou's famous Longjing tea, known for its delicate taste and notable green color. In the afternoon, make your way to Qinghefang Ancient Street, a well-preserved section of old Hangzhou filled with traditional shops, food stalls, and opera performances.

Day 6: Arrive in Shanghai

Journey by train to Shanghai, the world's second-largest city and a global financial center. Commence your tour with a visit to the Bund, a bustling and popular waterfront area that showcases Shanghai's colonial past. Take in the various architectural styles, from Gothic to Baroque to Art Deco. Then take a journey to the top of the Shanghai Tower, which is China's tallest building and the second-tallest building globally, for panoramic views of the city.

Day 7: Explore the Bustling City of Shanghai

Spend your final day exploring some of Shanghai's famous landmarks. Visit the Yuyuan Garden, a traditional Chinese garden with ponds, rock formations, and pavilions. Following that, take a stroll through the bustling Yuyuan Bazaar, a market where you can sample various types of street food and buy souvenirs such as jade jewelry, silk scarves, and calligraphy brushes. Finally, conclude this fantastic tour with a visit to the Shanghai Museum, which boasts an immense collection of ancient Chinese art and artifacts.