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.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This great 8-hour Shanghai city tour takes you to discover the must see sites in Shanghai from its old and modern perspectives, from its colonial Bund riverside to the modern skyscrapers Oriental Pearl TV Tower, Shanghai Tower, from the elegant Ming Dynasty Yu Garden and old town Bazaar to the charming French Concession, from the exquisite Jade Buddha Temple to China's No.1 famous shopping street Nanjing Road and more! Experience the local culture, history and life with your local guide. Enjoy the flexibility of the exclusive private tour and explore the city at your desired way and pace! You can either choose to experience the city with the tour option by public transit such as metro, taxi, or you can choose the option with your own private vehicle. No matter if you are a solo traveler or travel with friends or family, you won't want to miss such an amazing and memorable day!
Available options
PrivateTour by Uber/Metro Only
Tour by Uber/Metro: Great private guide, local transportation fare (Uber taxi/Didi) are inclusive (lunch ,entrance fees at your own expense).<br/>Pickup included
Private All Inclusive Tour
All Inclusive Tour: 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 & Car Service
Great local guide, private driver and car are included (lunch and entrance fees at your own expense).<br/>Pickup included
Private Guide Service Only
Amazing private guide for 8-hour tour( food, transport at your costs).<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Private driver with air-conditioned vehicle(Only "Private Guide & Car" or "All Inclusive" is booked)
Local delightful & Classy Lunch (Only for those who booked" All Inclusive Tour" Option)
Private tour with amazing guide
Downtown Hotel pick up and drop-off
Entrance fee to YuGarden(Only if you booked "All Inclusive Tour"Option(Garden is closedevery Monday)
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
Then, follow your guide to Yu garden ( Closed on every Mondays), here you will enjoy explore the five century old garden built with charming chambers, exquisitive rockeries, ponds ,pavillions doctted in the lush greens while learning the fasinating history from your guide.
3
Beside the Yu garden, visit the Old town bazaar also know as the "China Town" built with the traditional Qing-Dynasty architecture complex. Enjoy fun walking along the lucky ‘Nine Zigzag’ bridge and the unique vibes of the old Shanghai. 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.
4
Stop 4
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.
5
Stop 5
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.
6
Stop 6
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.
7
Stop 7
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 (If "Private All Inclusive Tour " option is NOT booked)
Entrance fee to observation deck of the top tower
Outskit hotel pick up and drop off( Can be arranged at surcharge)
Available languages
Guide guide
CMN
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
364 reviews
5★
357
4★
7
3★
0
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1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
587 reviews
5★
579
4★
8
3★
0
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0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
If your hotel is not located in downtown Shanghai, an arrangement can be made to meet near the downtown area
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
Important notes
• Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
• The duration for this full-day tour is up to 8 hours. If you would like to extend for more than 8 hours, the overtime charge is $25.00 USD per hour. Please pay your tour guide directly.
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
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