Private Layover Tour of Shanghai Museum, Yu Garden and Cruise on Huangpu River
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Private Layover Tour of Shanghai Museum, Yu Garden and Cruise on Huangpu River

Active
8h - 9h
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

Get to know Shanghai with your own guide on this private layover tour. Wander in the Bund and take a cruise to enjoy the scenery along the Huangpu River; walk through People’s Square and visit Shanghai Museum; enjoy yourselves at Shanghai Great World; explore local food street - Yunnan Road; stroll around Yuan Old Street and Yu Garden, enjoying charming scenery of garden and experiencing the street life. According to your preference, your guide will recommend some delicious local foods to eat.

1. Learn about profound history and culture at Shanghai Museum
2. Get in touch with the everyday people and experience local lifestyle at Shanghai Old City
3. Flexible itinerary with personalized attention from a private guide
4. Time-smart arrangements: no hurrying, no shopping and no wasted time

Available options

Private Layover Tour of Shanghai Museum, Yu Garden and Cruise on Huangpu River

Pickup included

What's included

Knowledgeable tour guide
Private transportation
Bottled water
Entrance fee of the indicated attractions

Detailed itinerary

1

Your tour guide will meet you at exit of airport at 08:30 a.m. or your flight arrival time. Then, you will move to the Bund.
The Bund is a famous waterfront on the west bank of Huangpu River and regarded as the symbol of Shanghai. Here, the charm of Shanghai as a bustling metropolis combining the century-old history and flourishing future is fully presented, making the Bund Shanghai a must-see attraction. We will see the 26 various buildings of different architectural styles at the Bund. Such as Peace Hotel, Shanghai Customs House and Shanghai Pudong Development Bank. We will see Sculpture on the Bund, Monument to the People's Heroes, Huangpu Park and Waibaidu Bridge. We also can appreciate high rises across the Huangpu River.

Then, you will take a cruise to enjoy the scenery along the Huangpu River.

2
Stop 2

The Huangpu River divides two iconic but different Shanghai sights: high modern buildings in the Pudong area and 26 various buildings of different architectural styles on the west side. We will take a one-hour cruise along the Huangpu River to enjoy the light show and beautiful scenery on both sides of the river including the Bund, the Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai Tower, Shanghai World Financial Center and Jin Mao Tower.

Then, you will move to People’s Square and visit Shanghai Museum to learn about profound history and culture of Shanghai.

3

Shanghai People's Square is located at the very center of Shanghai and is the demarcation point of East Nanjing Road and West Nanjing Road. It is a flourishing place for people to look around.
Before 1949, the area of Shanghai People’s Square and the People’s Park was used as a famous horse racetrack which was built in 1861, honored as the “No.1 Racetrack in Far East”. Visitors still can find the ruins for the former main building standing at the northeast part of the People’s Square.
You will see many scenic spots around people's square, such as the new Municipal Government Mansion, Shanghai Museum, Shanghai Grand Theater, Shanghai History Museum the Urban Planning Exhibition Hall. Later, we will visit Shanghai Museum.

4
Stop 4

Located in the center of Shanghai in People's Square, Shanghai Museum is a large museum of ancient Chinese art. Its style and presentation surround visitors with artifacts demonstrating ancient wisdom and philosophy. The exterior design of the round dome and the square base symbolizes the ancient idea of a round heaven and a square land.
The museum is divided into eleven galleries and three exhibition halls. The eleven galleries cover most of the major categories of Chinese art: Ancient Bronze, Ancient Ceramics, Paintings, Calligraphy, Ancient Sculpture, Ancient Jade, Coins, Ming and Qing Furniture, Seals, and Minority Nationalities. We will see many scenic spots around people's square, such as the new Municipal Government Mansion, Shanghai Grand Theater.

Later, you will walk to Yunnan Road.
According to your preference, your guide will recommend a place to eat, which could be a small local eatery or elegant cuisine restaurant.

5

This building used to be the pinnacle of Night life in Shanghai many years ago. Da Shi Jie was the happening place in the foreign settlement area in Shanghai. Crowds flocked there to see the novelties and enjoy themselves. On the first floor they still have the "magic mirrors" which were brought over from the Netherlands many decades ago. Some of the shows still survive. From beautifully woven carpets in Xinjiang, to cave paintings in Ningxia, to a wide variety of skilled artisans showing off their handicrafts.

6
Stop 6

Shanghai Old Street, historically called Miaoqian Dajie, is an old business street that has a combination of tourist attractions, shops, entertainment and cultural exhibits. It owes its special social attractions and rich commercial background to the fact that the earliest bank, gold shop, jeweler's store, wine shop and tea house of the city were all to be found here. Visiting the old alleys of Shanghai is a great way to discover the traditional culture of this city and experience the real life of the Shanghainese.
Then, we visit the largest of Shanghai's ancient gardens - Yu Garden.

7
Stop 7

Later, you will be shown around Yu Garden which was first built in 1559 during the Ming Dynasty by Pan Yunduan as a comfort for his father, the minister Pan En, in his old age. Pan Yunduan began the project after failing one of the imperial exams, but his appointment as governor of Sichuan postponed construction for nearly twenty years until 1577. 
Yu Garden is small in size, but it contains all elements that a classical Chinese garden should have. The pavilions, halls, rockeries, ponds and cloisters all have unique characteristics. The garden has six areas, each with its own style.

8
Stop 8

The Old Town God Temple of Shanghai, with far-reaching history, attracts a lot of tourists from all over the world to visit. As well as praying, visitors to the Old City God Temple can watch some folk performances, can take part in cockfighting, special calligraphy and some other acrobatic performances. The Old City God Temple is most famous for its local snacks, and as such is a real kingdom of delicious food with many different kinds of restaurants spread along the streets.

Afterwards, enjoy comfortable transfer back to airport to catch your flight or nearby hotel. Wrap your memories and say good-bye.

What's not included

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide
DE CMN JA EN FR ES

Important information

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Specialized infant seats are available
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

Adults
Age 18-75
1
Childs
Age 3-17
0
Infants
Age 0-2
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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