Private Full-day Tour from Shanghai Featuring both Classical and Modern Suzhou

Shanghai , China

Private Full-day Tour from Shanghai Featuring both Classical and Modern Suzhou

Active

8h - 10h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Suzhou is not only a famous historical and cultural city with a blend of classical gardens and tiny canal-side streets, but also a modern city full of skyscrapers. With the assistance of professional guide, we will walk into the ancient and modern Suzhou. The itinerary includes Suzhou Museum, the Humble Administrator's Garden, Pingjiang Road and Jinji Lake.

1. Visit Suzhou Museum and learn about he history and culture of Suzhou
2. Visit a UNESCO World Heritage Site - Humble Administrator's Garden
3. Take a boat cruise along canal to Pingjiang Road
4. Wander in Pingjiang Road and enjoy local lifestyle
5. Walk around Jinji Lake, enjoy skyscrapers and have a coffee break
6. Have local dim-sum Lunch
7. Public transport travel as a local
8. Round-trip train tickets from Shanghai to Suzhou included

Available options

Private Full-day Tour from Shanghai Featuring both Classical and Modern Suzhou

Pickup included

What's included

Admission to the indicated attractions

Coffee or tea

Professional guide

Dim-sum

Public transport fee

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Suzhou Museum’s designer, I.M. Pei, an internationally recognized and award-winning architect, traveled back to his hometown to design and build one of Suzhou’s most popular attractions. Located deep in the historic district adjacent to the Humble Administrator’s Garden, the Suzhou Museum appeals to lovers of art, architecture and culture.
The museum exhibits a vast collection of ancient ceramics, cultural relics and woodcarvings, and the handsome lotus pool at the museum’s center is a highlight there.

Stop 2

The Humble Administrator's Garden, covering about 52,000 sq. meters (12.85 acres), is the largest and most renowned. Due to its unique designs and ethereal beauty, the garden has garnered many special honors. It is listed as a World Cultural Heritage site and has also been designated as one of the Cultural Relics of National Importance under the Protection of the State as well as a Special Tourist Attraction of China. Along with the Summer Palace in Beijing, the Mountain Resort of Chengde in Hebei Province and the Lingering Garden in Suzhou, it is considered as one of China's four most famous gardens.

Stop 3

We will take a boat along the canal to Pingjiang Road.
With the length of 1,606 meters, Pingjiang Road is a stone route with a river flowing across it. Here, bridges across the river, houses with white walls and black roofs built along the stone road, and the old walking leisurely, which presents the traditional Suzhou local life. As well, it is a traditional Chinese painting scene for tourists to appreciate. Because of its nostalgic style, Pingjiang Road becomes the symbol of Suzhou ancient city. Only a street distance away to the Guanqian Pedestrian Street, Pingjiang Road is a quite place for people to get away from the hustle and bustle.

Located in the east of Suzhou, Jinji Lake is the largest city lake park in China. It’s a symbol of Suzhou as “New Paradise on Earth”, where people can enjoy their leisure time and the beautiful broad view of the lake
Moonlight Harbor is a beautiful block on the northeast side of Jinji Lake. From here visitors could have a 270 degree view of the lake scenery, thus it’s called the first place to see Suzhou night scenery. European architectures are built in the blocks, including restaurants, clubs, training center, jazz bars, and hotels.
Walk around Jinji Lake, enjoy skyscrapers and have a coffee break.

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

Meeting point

Hongqiao Railway Station

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.