UK travellers will be able to enter China visa‑free for up to 30 days from 17 February 2026, removing long‑standing barriers and making it easier to explore one of the world's most culturally rich destinations. The change brings the UK in line with more than 50 countries already benefitting from simplified entry.

2027 Yangtze River Cruise - Riviera's New Flagship Experience

Riviera's all‑new 14‑day Yangtze journey combines three nights in Beijing with a 10‑night sailing from Chongqing to Shanghai aboard the five‑star Century Legend. This voyage blends China's ancient heritage with its cutting‑edge modernity, offering a rare look at riverbank life, sacred sites, dramatic scenery and vibrant cities.

What to expect

• Three nights in Beijing to explore the Forbidden City, the Great Wall and a traditional Peking Duck feast
• A 10‑night cruise showcasing sacred mountains, ancient towns and the iconic Three Gorges
• Stops in Chongqing, Wuhan, Nanjing and Shanghai
• Full board onboard, unlimited selected drinks, balcony cabins, gratuities included
• 20 included experiences, flights, transfers, internal flights, Wi‑Fi and an expert Tour Manager

Designed for culture lovers and curious travellers, this itinerary offers a deeper, more authentic look at China's living history and its future.

Classic China Tour - Departures in 2026 & 2027

Riviera's Classic China Tour remains a firm favourite, with 11 nights in four‑star hotels and 15 included experiences. Highlights include the Great Wall, Terracotta Army, Li River cruise, Summer Palace, Chengdu's panda centre and a Shanghai river cruise — all in groups averaging just 22 guests.

Perfect Timing: Year of the Horse

Launching during the Year of the Horse, a symbol of adventure and momentum, these itineraries arrive at a moment made for cultural discovery and renewed freedom to explore.

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Notes to Editors

Media contact
Please email PublicRelations@Rivieratravel.co.uk

About Riviera Travel

Riviera Travel is the UK's leading river cruise and tour operator. Founded in Burton-on-Trent, England, by Michael Wright in 1984, for 41 years the travel experts have been bringing to life the world's most fascinating destinations.

Today, Riviera Travel operates in 66 countries and offers 90 European tours, 52 worldwide tours, 19 ocean cruises, 55 solo traveller holidays, and 50 river cruises. Dedicated agents personally select every aspect of the holiday for their guests, ensuring that each itinerary is thoughtfully balanced to include both time to explore and time to relax.

With a focus on quality not quantity, Riviera Travel has won multiple awards including Which? Recommended Provider for River Cruises and Escorted Tours in 2024, and numerous other recognitions from the Food and Travel Awards, British Travel Awards, Wave Awards, Travel Weekly Globe Awards, The Times Travel Awards and many others over the years. Operating through a majority direct and travel agent model in the UK, in 2017 Silverfleet Capital took over the ownership of Riviera Travel and continued to build its sector-leading proposition. The company operates internationally in North America and the Republic of Ireland.