Suzhou Classical Garden and Food Trip by Private Car and Lunch

Suzhou , China

Suzhou Classical Garden and Food Trip by Private Car and Lunch

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About this experience

We can help you arrange flexible itinerary, and the guide and driver can accompany show you around the city. We can take you to find delicious local food.

Available options

Suzhou Classical Garden and Food Trip by Private Car and Lunch

Pickup included

What's included

Transport by private vehicle and driver

Snacks

Great local guide and driver service

Upto 8 hour private tour

Entrance fee to one of Suzhou garden

Delicious local food for lunch

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Your local friendly tour guide and the driver will pick up you from Suzhou hotel, railway station, or Shanghai hotel, or Airport. And then you will start your Suzhou gardens tour. There are several gardens for you choose, like Humble Administrator's Garden, Lingering Garden, Master of the Nets Garden, Lion Grove Garden and so on, As private tour you will enjoy a fully flexible itinerary. Your local guide also can give you advise as your interest.

Stop 2

Next you will travel Pingjiang road, located in the heart of the old city, Pingjiang Road is the best preserved and largest scale historical street in the area. With a history of 800 years. When you walk in the Pingjiang historical block, the road was still the old paved roads; the river was still green and clear and the residence was still as quiet as before. Waling on the Pingjiang road, you can see all the scenery was as beautiful as a painting. One of the best ways to enjoy the charm of Pingjiang Road and its surroundings is by taking a traditional boat ride along the canals. Local boatmen often row you through the narrow water lanes, giving you a different perspective of the area. It's a relaxing and picturesque way to explore the old town of Suzhou.

Stop 3

Our guide will arrange local food for you as lunch. Pingjiang road is also brimmed with stores and restaurants selling Suzhou-style crafts and cuisines.

Stop 4

Next head to Suzhou Silk Museum. Suzhou Silk Museum is the first Chinese museum specialized in silk. The museum demonstrates China’s 6000-year-old silk history from fabulous silk cultural relics, mulberry planting, silkworm breeding to finished garments. Besides, there are the performances of traditional silk weaving as well as the application of the modern silk technology on the daily life. All in all, Suzhou Silk Museum is the combination of the static exhibits and the dynamic activities, of the tradition and the modern.

Next you will travel Shantang street, Shantang Street, also called Seven-mile Shantang, is a prosperous ancient street block built in 852 AD. Visiting this old place, you will see many featured old houses selling local food, delicate handicrafts and feel the real flavor of old Suzhou and Wu culture in ancient times.
After Shangtang street, you have a good tour in Suzhou. Our guide and driver will take you back to your hotel, railway station or airport.

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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