Full-Day Old Shanghai City Lifestyle and Culture Private Tour with Lunch
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Full-Day Old Shanghai City Lifestyle and Culture Private Tour with Lunch

Active
7h - 8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

New visitors to Shanghai can get acquainted with the city at an easygoing pace on this small group tour. With a private guide, travel the city by private vehicle, stopping at major attractions like Former French Concession, Fuxing Park, Shanghai Zhougong Mansion, Xintiandi, Shikumen Museum, Yuyuan Old Street, Yu Garden, ShiLiu Pu Cloth Market, local Bird And Flower Market and Nanjing Road. You will admire the western-style architectures around Former French Concession area, walk through Shanghai Old City and experience the original Shanghai lifestyle.

✔ Get in touch with the local people and experience lifestyle in Fuxing Park
✔ Admire the SHIKUMEN style old houses and the relaxing atmosphere of Xintiandi
✔ Admire classical Chinese architecture, exquisite sculptures and carvings at Yu Garden
✔ Lunch is included, with vegetarian options and local speciality available
✔ Hassle-free pickup and drop-off from your Shanghai hotel

Available options

Full-Day Old Shanghai City Lifestyle and Culture Private Tour with Lunch

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation
Bottled water
Knowledgeable tour guide
Lunch
Entrance fee of the indicated attractions

Detailed itinerary

1

Your tour guide will meet you at your hotel at 09:00 a.m.. Then, transfer to Fuxing Park and start the highlight tour.
Fuxing Park, also called Gujiazhai Park. It is a unique park in Shanghai that maintains the French classic style, which is characterized by plaids and patterns. Now stays popular both for senior's exercises in the morning. We will experience the colorful life of retirees.

2
Stop 2

Known for its tree-lined boulevards, the former French Concession is a stylish neighborhood boasting a charming mix of Chinese and European architecture. Explore quiet alleyways on a leisurely stroll, and enjoy the area's shopping, dining, and entertainment.
You will stroll along Sinan Road and visit Shanghai Zhougong Mansion.
Shanghai Zhougong Mansion is a Spanish-style garden building on No.73, Sinan Road in Former French Concession. It was once the place where Zhou Enlai who was the former Chinese premier has worked and lived in Shanghai in 1946. It is well-preserved, you can still see the layout of the room at that time, and can also see the furniture and some work items copied as they are.

Then, you will walk around other areas of the Former French Concession.

3
Stop 3

Tianzifang, which used to be industrial area, is now a fashion landmark with many lanes. You can walk through the old alleys to see what the folk houses looked like in early 20th century Shanghai with dormer windows, red tiles, green moss on the walls, and so on. Moreover, losts of restaurants and fashion boutiques can be found here, making it a nice place to enjoy delicious food and shopping

4
Stop 4

Xintiandi is a tourist attraction that preserves the historical and cultural features of Shanghai and integrates Chinese and western culture. Xintiandi is divided into northern and southern parts. The south is dominated by modern architecture. The north is dominated by Shikumen old buildings. Composed of Shikumen and modern architectural style, now it has become a hot and fashionable pedestrian street in the center of the city. The outdoor cafes, bars and romantic restaurants can be seen everywhere.

Then, we will visit Shikumen Museum and learn about the living space and lifestyle of Shanghai people in those days.

5
Stop 5

It is an old shikumen house built in the 1920s that has been preserved and renovated. The museum was built according to the model of one household in the 1920s. There are seven main exhibition rooms, namely, the guest room, the study room, the old people's room, the master room, the daughter room, the pavilion room and the oven room. The story of a shikumen family runs through the whole visit. It not only shows the unique shikumen architectural culture of Shanghai, but also reproduces the living space and lifestyle of Shanghai people in those days.

At noon, you will enjoy local speciality for lunch, with vegetarian options available.
Then, you will head to Yuyuan Old Street and visit Yu Garden.

6
Stop 6

Shanghai Old Street, historically called Miaoqian Dajie, is an old business street that has a combination of tourist attractions, shops, entertainment and cultural exhibits. It owes its special social attractions and rich commercial background to the fact that the earliest bank, gold shop, jeweler's store, wine shop and tea house of the city were all to be found here. Visiting the old alleys of Shanghai is a great way to discover the traditional culture of this city and experience the real life of the Shanghainese.
After lunch, you will visit the largest ancient gardens in Shanghai - Yu Garden and Shanghai Temple of the Town God (Chenghuang Miao).

7
Stop 7

Yu Garden was a private garden of the Pan family in the Ming Dynasty. It was the largest and most prestigious of its era in Shanghai after it was completed.
Yu Garden is small in size, but it contains all elements that a classical Chinese garden should have. The pavilions, halls, rockeries, ponds and cloisters all have unique characteristics. The exquisite layout, beautiful scenery, and the artistic style of the garden architecture have made the garden one of the highlights of Shanghai.
You can walk to the Zigzag Nine Bend Bridge. Chinese people believe that the number nine symbolizes auspiciousness. Walking across the Bridge is said to bring people good luck. The Bridge leads to Mid-Lake Pavilion Teahouse, which is the oldest teahouse in Shanghai.

Then, you will visit the famous Shanghai "Fabric Market" - ShiLiu Pu Cloth Market.

8

Lesser known than its South Bund counterpart, Shi Liu Pu Cloth Market houses an array of tailors and seamstresses, ready to whip up commissioned clothing in a week or so. In addition to a full range of fabrics, it's a good spot to pick up buttons, zippers and trims.

Then, your guide will take you to explore local Bird And Flower Market and experience original Shanghai lifestyle.

9

Start by the crossing of Tibet Road and Fangbang Road, in one of Shanghai’s many antique neighborhoods, also known as the cricket market. Its full of flowers, bonsai, birds, fish insects and crowds of people searching for whatever their hearts desire. It is a good place to experience part of a local’s life kind of life.

Then, you will walk around Nanjing Road, explore surrounding communities and the thinnest building.

10
Stop 10

Nanjing Road is considered to be the 'No. 1 commercial street in China', which has been a landmark for this city for a long time. Along its 5.5 kilometers, you will find over 600 shops that on average are visited by some 1.7 million people each day.
You can also visit the thinnest building in Ningbo Road is known as Paper Building(纸片楼).
The building was once reported by British Daily Mail, stated as perhaps the world's flattest and thinnest building. Standing diagonally in the front of the the building, it just looks like a piece of paper. The old house had four floors, not all that thin; it takes the shape of triangular polygon. This novel and strange building still has a large number of residents.

Afterwards, enjoy comfortable transfer back to your hotel. Wrap your memories and say good-bye in your hotel.

Available languages

Guide guide
DE CMN JA EN FR ES

Important information

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Shanghai

Shanghai is a global financial hub and a city of stunning contrasts, where futuristic skyscrapers stand alongside traditional shikumen houses. It's known for its vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and historic landmarks, making it a must-visit destination in China.

Top Attractions

The Bund

The Bund is a famous waterfront area with a stunning skyline of colonial-era buildings and modern skyscrapers. It's a must-visit for its historic significance and breathtaking views.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours Free

Oriental Pearl Tower

This iconic tower is a symbol of modern Shanghai, offering panoramic views of the city from its observation decks.

Architecture 2-3 hours ¥150-200

Yu Garden

Yu Garden is a classical Chinese garden with beautiful landscapes, pavilions, and historical buildings. It's a peaceful oasis in the bustling city.

Historical/Garden 2-3 hours ¥30

Shanghai Museum

The Shanghai Museum houses an extensive collection of ancient Chinese art and artifacts, providing a deep dive into China's rich history and culture.

Museum 2-3 hours Free

Nanjing Road

Nanjing Road is one of the world's busiest shopping streets, offering a mix of international brands, local shops, and vibrant street life.

Shopping 2-3 hours Varies by shop

Must-Try Local Dishes

Xiaolongbao

Small soup dumplings filled with meat and hot broth, typically pork. They are a staple of Shanghai cuisine and are often served with soy sauce and ginger.

Dumplings Contains meat, gluten, and soy.

Braised Pork Belly (Hong Shao Rou)

A slow-cooked dish of pork belly braised in soy sauce, sugar, and other seasonings. It's tender, flavorful, and often served with steamed buns or rice.

Main dish Contains pork and soy.

Shanghai Soup Dumplings (Shao Mai)

Open-topped dumplings filled with minced pork and shrimp, often served with a dipping sauce made of soy sauce, vinegar, and ginger.

Dumplings Contains pork, shrimp, and soy.

Stinky Tofu (Chou Doufu)

Fermented tofu with a strong odor, often deep-fried and served with pickled cabbage. It's an acquired taste but a popular street food.

Snack Vegetarian, contains soy.

Popular Activities

Hiking in nearby nature reserves Biking along the Huangpu River Tea house visits Spa treatments Visiting museums and historic sites Attending traditional performances Boat rides on the Huangpu River Swimming at nearby beaches

Best Time to Visit

April to October

This period offers pleasant weather, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is lively with numerous festivals and events.

15°C to 35°C 59°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Chinese (Mandarin)
  • Widely spoken: Shanghainese, English (in tourist areas)
  • English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Chinese Yuan Renminbi (CNY)

Time Zone

GMT+8

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Shanghai is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:
  • • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.
  • • Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps like Didi.
  • • Be wary of strangers offering unsolicited help or services.

Getting there

By air
  • Shanghai Pudong International Airport • 30 km from city center
  • Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport • 13 km from city center
By train

Shanghai Railway Station, Shanghai South Railway Station

By bus

Shanghai Long-Distance Bus Station, Shanghai South Long-Distance Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The Shanghai Metro is efficient, clean, and covers most of the city. It's the fastest and most convenient way to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Didi, Meituan

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

The Bund Pudong French Concession Xintiandi Tianzifang

Day trips

Hangzhou
180 km from Shanghai • Full day

Hangzhou is a beautiful city known for its natural beauty, historic sites, and the famous West Lake. It's a great day trip from Shanghai for those looking to escape the city and enjoy some nature.

Suzhou
100 km from Shanghai • Full day

Suzhou is a historic city known for its classical gardens, silk production, and canals. It's a great day trip for those interested in history, culture, and architecture.

Zhujiajiao
50 km from Shanghai • Half day

Zhujiajiao is an ancient water town known for its well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture, canals, and bridges. It's a great day trip for those looking to experience traditional Chinese water town life.

Festivals

Shanghai Tourism Festival • September Shanghai International Film Festival • June Chinese New Year • January/February (varies)

Pro tips

  • Use the Shanghai Public Transportation Card for convenient and discounted travel on metro, buses, and ferries.
  • Download a translation app or carry a phrasebook to help with language barriers.
  • Try local street food, but be cautious of food safety and choose busy stalls with high turnover.
  • Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
  • Consider hiring a local guide or joining a tour to gain insights into Shanghai's history and culture.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 18-75
1
Infants
Age 0-2
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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