Coach Day Tour: Classic and Modern Shanghai with Lunch
Active
8h
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
Enjoy a whirlwind tour of Shanghai, old and new, on this 10-hour coach tour with separate guide and driver. Visit Yuyuan Garden, Old Street, The Bund, People's Square, Shanghai Museum, and the Old French Concession, savor lunch at a Chinese restaurant and tea at a classic teahouse, and shop for souvenirs at Pearl City market.
Available options
Coach Day Tour: Classic and Modern Shanghai with Lunch
Pickup included
What's included
Tour guide
Chinese lunch served at a local restaurant
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Transfers between attractions by air-conditioned coach
What you'll see
Your coach will collect you from your downtown Shanghai hotel between 7:30am and 8am: if your hotel is out of the center, meet at Hotel Yun's Paradise at 8am. Please don't be late as there are no refunds for no-shows.
First, you'll journey back in time to old Shanghai. Enjoy half an hour exploring the old city's characterful Old Street, with its rebuilt houses and souvenir stands, before your guide leads you round the Yuyuan Garden, first built in the sixteenth century, and a masterpiece of Chinese garden design. Sip Chinese tea in a traditional Shanghai teahouse before you hop back on the coach.
You'll arrive at The Bund at 10:30am, where you'll walk with your guide past landmarks of colonial architecture as he explains the history of this iconic strip of waterfront.
Now, cross the river to high-tech, modern-day Lujiazui, You'll have free time to walk around, as your guide explains Shanghai's complicated history, and how the city has grown since it was opened as a free port in 1843.
Then it's back on the coach and off to a local restaurant for an included Chinese lunch: you'll have an hour to relax and feast before hopping back on the coach at 1pm.
Board the coach for the drive to Pearl City Market, a contemporary mall with great value souvenirs, including pearls: you'll have half an hour to stock up here before you get another taste of modern day Shanghai.
By 2:30pm you'll be at People's Square, visit Shanghai Museum, which holds China's best collection of treasures from ancient bronzes, exquisitely carved jades and Ming and Qing dynasty antique furniture.
The next stop is the Old French Concession, where you'll explore atmospheric alleyways with your guide, and window-shop for arts and crafts. You'll have around half an hour more to explore the Old French Concession, the base for foreign traders in China for over a century, and still a vibrant and characterful international district.
You'll be dropped at Yun's Paradise Hotel around 6pm, or your own hotel by 6:30pm.
What's not included
Gratuities for guide and driver (recommended)
Global Financial Center top floor admission ticket (approx. CNY180 per person)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
A minimum of 2 adults per booking is required
Hotel information should be provided 24 hours before departure
Important notes
Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, you must contact the local service provider to verify your exact pickup time.
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
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Free cancellation available
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