Timeless Suzhou: Private Suzhou Trip from Shanghai or Suzhou
Active
7h - 9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
A full day packed with the best Suzhou has to offer: curated garden, spiritual temple, charming water alleys, leaning tower, bustling wet market, and more! The day will also be filled with unique activities: a boat ride through historic canals; rest your legs at a riverside tea house; and visit a temple to do fun activities
- No shopping! No silk museums, no wallet drain. All expenses covered—except lunch. We’ll take you to a lively wet market to pick your own favorites
- Discover a Suzhou’s finest garden, once the emperor's favorite
- Enjoy tea at a riverside tea house and create latte art with tea
- Visit a bustling local wet market to discover your favorite local food
- Spot cats, burn incense and try fortune-telling in a spiritual temple
- Visit a 1000-year-old leaning tower and hear its cultural significance
- Ride a boat from a quiet neighborhood on a 4-km long river journey
- Climb up the ancient city wall and get panoramic view of the old town and the modern skyline
Available options
Suzhou Day Trip from Shanghai
Meeting location at Shanghai: This option applies to guests who prefer to start the tour at Shanghai. private round-trip transfers from Shanghai<br/>Pickup included
Suzhou Day Tour from Suzhou
Meeting location at Suzhou: This option allows guests to meet in Suzhou. We offer free pick-up/drop off and premium taxi transfers in the tour<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Bottled Water
Entry Admission - Xiyuan Temple
All entry admissions/tickets included - a Classic Suzhou Garden, Xiyuan Temple, Tiger Hill
Local English-speaking guide
Boat ride in the Suzhou Grand Canal
A thoughtful gift :)
Private tour (if your group exceeds the max size, please contact us)
Private car for hotel / preferred location pickup and drop-off
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
A top-rated Suzhou garden with fewer crowds, offering a full garden experience. Uncover the artistry, symbolism, and culture reflected in Suzhou garden design. For added fun, explore the maze-like trails of the garden's rock mountain
2
Stop 2
Once the silk center in the city, today river-crossed side-alleys are the true gem of this neighborhood. We will rest our legs at a charming riverside tea house tucked away in this neighborhood, and enjoy tea the traditional Chinese way
3
Visit a local wet market and get to know local ingredients and fruits in a wet market popular among locals. Choose your favorite Suzhou local foods like meat dumplings, egg pancakes, shrimp noodles, beef casserole, Shengjian, and more!
4
Discover Buddhism in this spiritual temple, filled with fun activities like spotting cats, tossing coins, trying vegetable buns, fortune-telling & burning incense. You don't have to be a believer to enjoy the Zen and fun of this place!
5
Stop 5
Visit the Suzhou’s version of the Leaning Tower, which has been the city's icon for over a thousand years. Stroll through a beautiful bamboo grove, and hear Chinese legend stories
6
Glide along a 1,200-year-old waterway on a boat, with the view changing from local riverside neighborhood and historic houses to vibrant alleys and lantern-lit streets. In the end, climb up the ancient city wall and get a panoramic view of the old town and the ultra-modern skyline in the same frame
What's not included
Gratuities
We will stop by a bustling and fancy wet market and you can discover your favorite local food at your own expense
Available languages
Guide guide
CMN
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
3★
0
2★
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1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Vegetarian friendly (please notify us in advance)
Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
Operates in all weather conditions (except for the extreme ones), please dress appropriately
Infants (age under 3) are welcome to join free of charge; however, please note that we do not provide infant seats in car
Please wear comfortable shoes as there will be approx. 3-4 km of walking
Not recommended for gluten-free guests due to the common use of soy sauce in local cuisine
This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
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
Instant confirmation
