Suzhou Private Flexible City Tour with Lunch Option

Suzhou , China

Suzhou Private Flexible City Tour with Lunch Option

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(28 reviews)

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

This one day fully flexible Suzhou city tour allows you to explore the remarkable sites in Suzhou with your own local expert guide, the winding canals, historical buildings, ancient pagodas and classic gardens. Choose to visit some of the UNESCO sites such as famous Humble administrator’s garden, Lingering Garden , Master of the Nets garden from different dynasties as well as the local ancient canal streets or ancient city wall ,enjoy a delightful local lunch and get a great overview of the “Ancient Oriental Venice” and “Garden City” with your own guide. Private transportation adds more convenient for the tour.

Available options

Private Tour Only

Great guide, private driver with comfortable car are included ( Lunch ,entrance fees at your own costs)<br/>Pickup included

Private Tour with Lunch

Great guide, private driver with comfortable car , local tasty lunch are included (Entrance fees at your own costs)<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Local tasty lunch ( If Tour with Lunch Option booked)

Bottled water

Great Local guide

Experienced driver with comfortable car

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Your local great guide and the driver will meet you at your place in Suzhou (Your Suzhou Hotel or Suzhou train station if you travel by train). Start to design your own private day with your interests in mind. Following is the sample itinerary, you are welcome to tell your guide if need make any changes during the tour.

Stop 2

Typically, start your tour at the famed Suzhou garden, choose to visit one or two UNESCO gardens such as The Humble Administrator’s garden, Lingering garden, Master of the Nets Garden. Follow your guide to explore the beautiful gardens dotted with ponds, exquisite rockeries, bridges, pavilions, towers. Immerse yourself in the ancient charm while listening the interesting commentary from your guide.

Stop 3

Next head to Pingjiang historic road, a colorful old street along ancient water way, here enjoy a nice stroll along stone paved lanes, known as the “ Little oriental Venice”, take in the beautiful scenery with ancient architecture, stone bridges ,canals, willow trees, interesting local arts, crafts, you could also choose to enjoy a peaceful gondola ride here.

Take a break and savor a delightful local lunch.Your guide will help you recommend base on your own dietary requests. After lunch take a fun walk along China No.1 ancient street.

Stop 5

Continue your afternoon tour to Tiger Hill, one of the popular Suzhou attractions, here see the famous No.1 leaning pagoda in East, you may also enjoy the light walking up till the top Huqiu Hill.

Stop 6

As mentioned, your itinerary is totally flexible and if time permits you may choose to include other sites such as Silk Museum/Factory to learn the fascinating silk process from the tiny little worms to the beautiful fabric, Panmen Gate, Hanshan Temple, Beisi Pagoda, Lingering Garden etc.

If need to make visit inside of Suzhou museum make sure to mention in the special request and book at least 7 days in advance and we could not gurantee the entry if if museum booked out).

After the wonderful tour you will be dropped off at Suzhou hotel or Suzhou railway station if you travel by train.

What's not included

Gratuities

Entrance fees if apply

Local lunch( Pay as actual own your own if " Tour with lunch option" not booked)

Pick up&drop off in outskirts as Kunshan, Dianshan Lake, Fenghuetc can be arranged at surcharge.

Available languages

Guide guide

ZH-TW CMN EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

12 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.4

16 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

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

Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking

Operates in all weather conditions,please dress appropriately

About Suzhou

Suzhou, often referred to as the 'Venice of the East,' is renowned for its classical gardens, silk production, and intricate waterways. This historic city offers a blend of traditional Chinese culture and modern amenities, making it a unique destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Humble Administrator's Garden

One of the most famous classical gardens in China, the Humble Administrator's Garden is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It features beautiful pavilions, ponds, and intricate rockery work.

Historical/Garden 2-3 hours ¥100 (Moderate)

Suzhou Museum

Designed by renowned architect I.M. Pei, the Suzhou Museum houses a vast collection of ancient artifacts, including ceramics, paintings, and calligraphy.

Museum 1-2 hours Free (Entry is free, but advance booking may be required)

Pingjiang Road

A well-preserved ancient street in Suzhou, Pingjiang Road offers a glimpse into the city's rich history. It features traditional architecture, shops, and teahouses.

Historical/Shopping 1-2 hours Free (Shopping and dining costs vary)

Tiger Hill (Huqiu Mountain)

A historic site and scenic area, Tiger Hill is known for its ancient pagoda, caves, and beautiful views. It's a popular spot for hiking and sightseeing.

Historical/Nature 2-3 hours ¥50 (Moderate)

Suzhou Silk Museum

Dedicated to the history and art of silk production, the Suzhou Silk Museum offers insights into the city's renowned silk industry. Visitors can learn about the silk-making process and see beautiful silk products.

Museum/Cultural 1-2 hours ¥30 (Budget)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Squirrel-Shaped Mandarin Fish

A signature dish of Suzhou cuisine, this dish features mandarin fish cooked in a sweet and sour sauce, arranged to resemble a squirrel.

Main dish Contains seafood

Suzhou Style Braised Pork

A tender and flavorful dish made with pork belly braised in a savory sauce, often served with rice or noodles.

Main dish Contains pork

Sweet and Sour Yangzhou Fried Rice

A popular fried rice dish featuring a balance of sweet and sour flavors, often made with shrimp, ham, and vegetables.

Main dish Contains seafood and pork

Bilayer Cake (Double-Skin Milk)

A traditional Suzhou dessert made with milk, sugar, and eggs, creating a creamy and smooth texture with a slightly crispy top layer.

Dessert Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in Tiger Hill (Huqiu Mountain) Boat tours in ancient water towns Tea ceremonies in Suzhou tea houses Strolling along Pingjiang Road Visiting classical gardens and historical sites Exploring local markets and street food Fishing in local lakes and rivers Visiting historical sites and museums

Best Time to Visit

March to May, September to November

These months offer pleasant weather with mild temperatures and lower humidity, making it ideal for sightseeing. The city's gardens and waterways are particularly beautiful during these times.

15-28°C 59-82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Chinese (Mandarin)
Widely spoken: Wu Chinese (local dialect), English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Chinese Yuan (CNY)

Time Zone

GMT+8

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Suzhou is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a safe environment for tourists. However, it's always important to stay vigilant and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services

Getting there

By air

Sunan Shuofang International Airport • 20 km from city center

By train

Suzhou Railway Station, Suzhou North Railway Station

By bus

Suzhou Long-Distance Bus Station, Suzhou North Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The metro system is efficient, clean, and easy to navigate. It consists of multiple lines connecting key areas of the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Didi Chuxing

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Pingjiang Road Shiquan Street Surging Wave Bridge (Langshan) Area Xuanmiao Temple Area

Day trips

Tongli Ancient Town

30 km from Suzhou • Half day to full day

A well-preserved ancient water town featuring traditional architecture, canals, and bridges. It offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the region.

Zhouzhuang Water Town

40 km from Suzhou • Full day

One of the most famous water towns in China, Zhouzhuang features ancient architecture, canals, and bridges. It's a popular destination for tourists seeking a glimpse into the region's rich history and culture.

Huzhou

100 km from Suzhou • Full day to overnight

A city known for its beautiful lakes, mountains, and tea plantations. Huzhou offers a variety of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and scenic views.

Festivals

Suzhou Lantern Festival • Mid-February (Lunar New Year) Suzhou Culture and Arts Festival • September to October Suzhou International Comedy Festival • October

Pro tips

Visit the Suzhou Museum early in the morning or on a weekday to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience
Explore the city's canals and waterways by taking a boat tour, which offers a unique perspective on Suzhou's ancient architecture and scenic landscapes
Try local snacks and street food at the Shiquan Street Night Market, a bustling and vibrant destination for food lovers
Experience Suzhou's rich tea culture by visiting a traditional tea house, such as Louisa Tea House or Yun Xian Lou Tea House, and participating in a tea ceremony
Purchase high-quality silk products at the Suzhou Silk Market, where you can find a wide variety of fabrics, garments, and accessories at competitive prices