As China continues to captivate discerning travellers with its blend of ancient heritage, modern innovation, and spectacular landscapes, deluxe cruise and tour experiences are emerging as one of the most rewarding ways to discover the country's many dimensions. Among the leaders in this growing sector, Century Cruises offers a sophisticated gateway to China through a collection of premium Yangtze River cruises and expertly curated land journeys. Combining five-star accommodations, immersive cultural experiences, and seamless service, Century Cruises provides visitors with an elegant perspective on one of the world's oldest civilizations.
A Front-Row Seat to China's Greatest Waterway
The Yangtze River has long been considered the lifeblood of China. Stretching more than 6,300 kilometers across the country, it links ancient traditions with modern development while flowing through some of China's most dramatic scenery. Century Cruises has elevated river cruising on the Yangtze with a fleet of contemporary vessels designed specifically for comfort and refinement. Spacious staterooms, panoramic viewing decks, gourmet dining, and attentive hospitality create an atmosphere that rivals many luxury ocean cruises while maintaining an intimate connection to the surrounding landscape. One of the highlights of a Yangtze voyage is passage through the legendary Three Gorges - a breathtaking series of limestone canyons renowned for their towering cliffs, mist-covered peaks, and timeless beauty. As the ship glides through these natural wonders, guests enjoy ever-changing vistas from the comfort of elegantly appointed lounges and private balconies.
Authentic Cultural Discovery
What distinguishes Century Cruises is its commitment to combining comfort with authentic cultural engagement. Shore excursions introduce travellers to China's rich history and regional traditions, providing opportunities to explore ancient temples, historic villages, and UNESCO-recognized landmarks. Visits to sites such as Fengdu's cultural attractions, the impressive engineering marvel of the Three Gorges Dam, and traditional riverside communities offer valuable insight into both China's past and its future. Expert guides enhance each experience with historical context and local perspectives, creating meaningful connections beyond typical sightseeing. Onboard, guests can further immerse themselves in Chinese culture through demonstrations, performances, and educational presentations that bring local customs and traditions to life.
Beyond the River: Comprehensive Land Tours
For guests seeking a more comprehensive exploration of China, Century Cruises complements its river journeys with carefully crafted land tour programs. These itineraries seamlessly connect iconic destinations, allowing guests to experience the country's extraordinary diversity. In Beijing, visitors can walk along the Great Wall, explore the grandeur of the Forbidden City, and discover the cultural heart of the nation's capital. Xi'an offers an encounter with the world-famous Terracotta Warriors, one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the twentieth century. Meanwhile, Shanghai showcases China's dynamic modern identity through its futuristic skyline, luxury shopping districts, and vibrant culinary scene. Many itineraries are designed to integrate these celebrated destinations with a Yangtze River cruise, creating a comprehensive journey that balances cultural depth, scenic beauty, and urban sophistication.
Sample of a Century Cruises’ cruise-tour itinerary:
Legend of China & Yangtze River Cruise
14-days Beijing to Shanghai
2026: August 7 – November 27
2027: March 26 – November 19
2028: March 17 – November 17
Cities included: Beijing - Xi'an - Chongqing - Fengdu - Yichang - Shanghai
Days 1-4: Beijing
As one of the most historically significant cities in China, Beijing serves as an important starting point for understanding the country’s cultural heritage and urban development. Visit Tiananmen Square, one of the largest public squares in the world, before entering the Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that served as the imperial palace for more than 500 years. Travel to the Great Wall of China, one of the world’s most famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, originally built between the 5th century BC and 16th century to protect Chinese territories. Walk along the wall and enjoy panoramic mountain views. Visit the Summer Palace (Yiheyuan), a former royal retreat known for its classical Chinese gardens, lakes, and historic structures.
Day 5: Beijing to Xi'an
After breakfast, take a city tour in Beijing's old town: visit hutongs, the traditional, narrow alleyways and residential neighbourhoods of northern Chinese cities, most famously Beijing. Fly to Xi'an, one of China's oldest cities, celebrated as the starting point of the ancient Silk Road, an expansive 6,400km network of trade and cultural routes connecting Asia to the Middle East and Europe, famously documented by Marco Polo. With more than 3,000 years of history, the city of Xi’an (originally Chang’an) has played a crucial role in one of China's most glorious cultural periods.
Day 6: Xi'an
Visit the eighth wonder of the world: the Terracotta Warriors, discovered in the tomb of Qin Shi Huangdi, the First Emperor of China. Admire the estimated 8,000 life-sized warriors, archers and infantry, as well as terracotta horses and wooden chariots, buried with him. It is worth noting that each person and horse are molded with their own unique features. The incredible archaeological site was discovered by local farmers in 1974. In the afternoon, guests will visit the Oye Goose Pagoda, a 1370-year-old Buddhist landmark, housing the original Sanskrit scriptures and statues brought from India. At night, enjoy dinner while watching the spectacular Tang Dynasty dance performance.
Day 7: Xi'an – Chongqing
Travel from Xi’an to Chongqing as the itinerary shifts toward the Yangtze River region. This transition marks the move from inland historic capitals toward one of China’s most important river cities and a major gateway to river cruising experiences.
Day 8: Chongqing – Century Voyage
Begin the Yangtze River portion of your journey in Chongqing and experience China from one of its most important waterways. Enjoy stylish staterooms, gourmet cuisine, attentive service, and a vibrant array of cultural experiences and entertainment. Whether you're unwinding on the sundeck, exploring local heritage through onboard programs, or savouring regionally inspired dishes, Century Cruises offers an immersive journey designed for those who appreciate sophistication and discovery.
Days 9 - 10: Yangtze River Cruise – Three Gorges
Travel through the most scenic stretch of the Yangtze as it forces its way through a spectacular series of limestone ridges known as the Three Gorges. Cruise through Qutang Gorge, the shortest, narrowest and most spectacular of the three large gorges, followed by Wu Gorge, renowned for its magnificent scenery and the legendary Twelve Peaks of the Wushan Mountains. Board a smaller boat for an excursion through the Goddess Stream, a stunning 15km tributary, famous for its emerald green waters and towering, mist-shrouded peaks. Along the way, you can see fascinating sites including the hanging coffins of the Ba people and the ancient plank road carved into the cliffside.
Day 11: Yangtze River Cruise – Yichang – Shanghai
Conclude the Yangtze River portion of your journey towards Shanghai. Visit Yichang, and see the inner workings of this massive dam up close. Learn how the dam controls flooding and how it led to the relocation of 1.25 million people. After the tour, you will fly to Shanghai.
Day 12: Shanghai
Start your day in Lujiazui, the glittering financial and commercial heart of Shanghai, directly across the river from the historic Bund. Enjoy the modern skyscraper landscape and the Oriental Pearl Tower, a futuristic TV tower built in 1994. Next, head to Nanjing Road, a 5.5km long shopping and pedestrian avenue stretching from the Bund to Jing’an Temple. Browse heritage department stores and high-end shopping, taste local street food, and absorb a vibrant atmosphere. Visit the Bund to appreciate the contrast between the futuristic skyscrapers of Pudong across the river and the early 20th century European and Art Deco architecture. In the afternoon, head to the City God Temple, a traditional Taoist shrine, adjacent to the stunning Yuyuan (also known as Yu) Gardens, created in 1577.
Day 13: Shanghai
In the morning, visit Zhujiajiao, a 1,700-year old ancient water town, often called the Venice of Shanghai. Stroll along the old streets, admire the Ming and Qing dynasty architecture, and enjoy the charm of the winding canals and historic bridges by boat. In the afternoon, explore the ancient alleys of Shanghai now filled with art studios, galleries and tea houses in Tianzifang (or Tianzi Fang) to learn about the city's past. As night falls, enjoy the city's bright skyline on the Huangpu River, Mother River of Shanghai, bisecting the metropolis into two distinct zones, historic Puxi and modern Pudong.
Day 14: Shanghai – Home City
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your return journey home, concluding your China multi-city travel experience and completing an exciting route that connects historic capitals, major river regions, and one of Asia’s most modern cities.
One of the biggest advantages of Century Cruises’ cruise-and-tour package is that flights from Toronto or Vancouver, all domestic flights within China, airport and ship transfers, cruise and hotel accommodations, all meals on board and most of meals ashore, complimentary beer and wine provided during cruise meals, all shore excursions, and English speaking guides are included in the price. This creates a seamless experience for visitors who may be unfamiliar with China's transportation systems or language.
A New Way to Experience China
Today's travellers are looking for more than sightseeing - they want meaningful experiences delivered with comfort, confidence, and ease. Few destinations reward that curiosity quite like China, where ancient imperial palaces, sacred mountains, vibrant cities, and modern engineering wonders exist side by side. Century Cruises brings these worlds together through thoughtfully crafted journeys that reveal the very best of China without the complexities often associated with visiting the destination. With beautifully appointed accommodations, attentive service, immersive cultural experiences, and seamless travel from beginning to end, guests are free to focus on what matters most: discovering a fascinating country through experiences that are authentic, enriching, and unforgettable.
In September 2026, Century Cruises is also launching a new ship, Century Star, on the Danube and Rhine Rivers, focusing on fine dining, classical music, and wine tasting - a feast for the senses as much as for the soul. Visit here for more information on available itineraries and departure dates.
Contact your Travel Professional or visit centurycruise.com for details.