Private Flexible Suzhou Day Tour with Old and New Highlights

Suzhou , China

Private Flexible Suzhou Day 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

Enjoy a full day flexible Suzhou tour, discover both old and new sites that inscribed Suzhou as the “Paradise City” on the earth. Choose to visit the USECO sites such as the Humble Administrator’s Garden, Tiger Hill, Lingering Garden, Ancient Grand Canal and its peaceful Jinji Lake in the new part of the city with some amazing modern charm. Choose to upgrade the tour with lunch and savor the delight local cuisine. Private guide, door to door transfers are all included.

Available options

Private Tour with Lunch

This option includes great guide, driver with comfortable ,air-conditioned car, local tasty lunch. <br/>Pickup included

Private Tour Only

Guide with Private Car Service: This option includes great guide, driver with comfortable ,air-conditioned car.<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water

Great Local guide

Local tasty lunch (If Tour with Lunch option is booked)

Experienced driver with comfortable car

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

You will be picked up at your Suzhou hotel or railway station (If you travel by train) in the morning. After meeting, discuss with your guide about the tour today. Following is the sample itinerary, as the flexible private tour you will enjoy the fully customized itinerary, be sure to let your guide know if you need any changes. First , begin the tour at Suzhou’s top popular garden at The Humble Administrator’s Garden, listed at USNESCO Cultural site , here you will appreciate the five century old garden that designed with the tranquil ponds, exquisite rockeries , unique pavilions , hundred bonsai trees , charming architecture and learn the fascinating ancient charm and history from your guide. You could also choose to include other gardens such as Lingering Garden, Master of Nets Garden, Lion forest garden based on your interest.

Next head to Panmen Gate, a historic site that showcase the Suzhou’s ancient times, here admire the 1700 old Buddhist Pagoda and temple, enjoy the peaceful park designed with classic Chinese towers, stroll along the old City wall and see the unique water and land gate that once used as the strategic defense of the city ; walk cross the largest stone bridge over the Grand Canal.

Continue the tour to the new part of the city and visit the China’s largest Lake Jinji lake , which used the blueprint of the West Lake in Hangzhou, follow your guide and enjoy a nice and leisure stroll along the shore of the lake and appreciate the tranquil view of the new skyline that includes the iconic building “ Oriental City Gate”, tallest building of “ Suzhou Center “ , Ferries Wheel and more.

Stop 4

In the afternoon, based on the time and interests you have, you could choose to visit another UNESCO site at Tiger Hill, see the 1000 years old leaning pagoda that was second to the one from Italy Pisa or choose to visit the famed Suzhou Museum designed by I.M Pei ; the interesting Suzhou silk factory to learn the fascinating silk production from the real tiny silkworms to the finished fine garments and materials or the lively Pingjiang ancient canal street ; active Hanshan Buddhist Temple etc. After the great day, your guide will see you off at Suzhou hotel or other downtown area as per your request.

What's not included

Entrance fees if apply

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

ZH-TW CMN EN

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking

Children must be accompanied by an adult

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