Private Shanghai Full Day City Tour with Old and New Highlights
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
Discover old and modern Shanghai on a private, fully customizable tour. With a personal guide direct from your door, explore attractions such as the Bund, Ming-Dynasty Yuyuan Garden, Jade Buddha Temple, and the observation deck of one of Shanghai’s highest skyscrapers. Upgrade to add transport by your choice of private car or rideshare and metro; or keep things simple with a package that includes guide, car, lunch, and tickets.
Great overview and orientation of the city—perfect for first-time visitors
See Yuyuan Garden, the Shanghai Tower—or whatever attraction appeals
Upgrade to add transfers or a package with transport, lunch, and tickets
Private guide makes for a personalized and 100% customizable experience
Available options
Private Guide & Car Service
Duration: 8 hours: Great local guide, private driver and car are included (lunch and entrance fees at your own expense).
Pickup included<br/>Pickup included
PrivateTour by Uber/Metro Only
Duration: 8 hours: By Uber/Metro: Great private guide, local transportation fare (Uber taxi/Didi) are inclusive
Exclude lunch ,entrance fees<br/>Pickup included
Private All Inclusive Tour
Duration: 8 hours: Great local guide, private driver and car, tasty lunch , entrance fees to Yu Garden and Jade Buddha Temple are all inclusive.<br/>Pickup included
Private Guide Service Only
Duration: 8 hours: Amazing private guide for 8-hour tour( food, transport, entrance fees at your costs).
Pickup included<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Private driver with air-conditioned vehicle(Only "Private Guide & Car" or "All Inclusive" is booked)
Entrance fee to Yu garden and Jade Buddha Temple( If "All Inclusive Tour" is booked)
Local delightful & Classy Lunch (If " All Inclusive Tour" is booked)
Private tour with amazing guide
Downtown Hotel pick up and drop-off
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Meet your private guide at your central Shanghai hotel at your prefered time.Tell your guide if there’s anything you want to see more of on your tour: your itinerary is flexible and can be 100% customized around you. Following is the sample itinetary and you are welcome to discuss with your guide if you want to customize your own tour. Typically, you will visit The Bund , the colonial-era promenade along the Huangpu River. Admire the stunning views of old and new Shanghai, including buildings such as the Bund's Old Customs House and iconic skyscrapers.
2
Stop 2
Afterward, visit the 500-year old classic Chinese Yu Garden, and view the traditional Qing-Dynasty architecture of the Old Town Bazaar. Enjoy fun walking along the lucky ‘Nine Zigzag’ bridge , appreciate old pavilions, ponds in the lush greens. Here you may also enjoy fun shopping around in the local bazaar markets for souvenirs as handicrafts, antiques, jade, pearls, silk, and other wares etc. If you wish, experience a tea ceremony (own expense) and sample some high quality local tea.
3
Stop 3
Then, visit Shanghai’s French Concession, once the center of colonial life and now a hip area. Visit the ‘French Park,’ to see locals enjoying activities like ballroom dancing, Tai-chi, singing, and water calligraphy, and stroll around the Concession with its charming avenues of ‘French trees’ and traditional houses.
4
Stop 4
After the wonderful morning activities, you will take a break and savor a local delightful lunch in the nice restaurant. Your expert guide will help you order the dishes based on your own dietary requests.
5
Stop 5
After lunch,head to visit one of the most beautiful and famous Buddhist temples -Jade buddha temple. Admire the exquisite Jade Buddha Status from Burma,explore different chambers of the temple and learn the fascinating religious culture ,wisdom from your knowledgable guide.
6
Stop 6
Next, continue the tour to Pudong Lujiazui area ,take a leisure walk along the skybridge among the futuristic modern skyscrapers. Marvel at the fast development of city. If nice clear day, choose to visit one of the top observation decks in Shanghai Tower, Oriental Pearl TV Tower, Shanghai Financial Tower, Jinmao Tower based on your own preferences. Enjoy the spectacular birdeye view of the mega Shanghai city.
As the exclusive flexible tour , if you have been to the above mentioned attractions , you could also have alternative options to visit Xintiandi, Tianzifang, Shanghai Museum, Urban Planning Hall, Shanghai poster art museum, AP Plaza market etc based on the time and your own interests.
After the wonderful day you will be dropped off back to your downtown hotel or other downtown area as per your request.
What's not included
Gratuities
Lunch and entrance fees (If "All Inclusive Tour " is not booked)
Available languages
Audio guide
EN
Guide guide
EN
Written guide
EN
Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
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
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
