Shanghai , China

Shanghai City Free Walking Tour

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About this experience

What makes our Shanghai City Free Walking Tour a must-do? It’s simple! This tour offers a fantastic introduction to the city's history and culture, all while being budget-friendly.

This immersive experience invites you to dive into the city's rich history and vibrant culture while soaking in stunning views along the iconic Huangpu River. From its humble beginnings as a fishing village to its rise as a bustling metropolis, Shanghai's transformation is an incredible story just waiting to be told.

On this engaging tour, you'll have a time travel on the Suzhou Creek, where you can snap a photo with Shanghai's beloved symbol on the Instagram-Famous Bridges, explore the glamour of The Bund, and immerse in the stunning sights, smells, and sounds of ancient Yu Garden Bazaar. Each stop is chosen to give you a taste of the rich cultural tapestry that defines Shanghai. Join our enthusiastic guides as they share fascinating stories that bring the Magical City to life!

Available options

Shanghai City Free Walking Tour

What's included

English-speaking Tour Guide

Guided Shanghai City Tour

Detailed itinerary

The Suzhou River, also known as Suzhou Creek, is a significant river in Shanghai, China. Historically, it served as an important transportation route and was once heavily polluted due to industrialization. In recent decades, extensive cleanup efforts have revitalized the river, making it a scenic area with parks, walking paths, and cultural attractions. It now symbolizes Shanghai's transformation and commitment to urban sustainability.

Opened in 1924, it was once the largest post office in Asia and the heart of China's international communications. Its grand, classical design—with the iconic clock tower and majestic sculptures—was meant to show the world the power and reliability of the modern postal service.
It's still a working post office with a beautiful public hall. Inside, you'll find a stunning grand hall that still operates today, and a museum that showcases everything from ancient courier systems to vintage mail trucks.It perfectly symbolizes old Shanghai: a meeting point of East and West, tradition and breathtaking modernity.

Huangpu Park is a place of fascinating contradictions, holding multiple layers of Shanghai's history within its border. It is a monument to cultural exclusion and leisure, and a key to understanding the visionary planning that saved the Bund from becoming a mere dockyard and made it the iconic symbol of Shanghai.

Stop 4

The Bund—Shanghai's most iconic landmark and an open-air museum of architecture.
This magnificent mile-long waterfront promenade showcases a stunning collection of 52 grand buildings from the 1920s and 30s, once housing the world's greatest banks, trading houses, and clubs. This is why it was known as the "Wall Street of the East."
It's the perfect symbol of Shanghai itself: a city forever looking forward, but built upon a rich and powerful history.

Stop 5

Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street is the most famous shopping street and a major tourist attraction in Shanghai, China. Often called "China's No. 1 Shopping Street," it stretches for about 1.5 kilometers through the heart of the city.

No. 12 The Bund, originally the HSBC Building, is a landmark of Shanghai and a masterpiece of neo-classical architecture. Completed in 1923, it was once hailed as "the most luxurious building between the Suez Canal and the Bering Strait."

Welcome to the incredible Yuyuan Bazaar, a bustling maze of traditional buildings now filled with tea houses, classical gardens,souvenir stalls, and some of the best street food in Shanghai—this is the place to try famous xiaolongbao (soup dumplings)!

What's not included

Personal expenses

Guide tips and gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

CMN EN

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Every direct booking helps us to support social causes and sustainable tourism in our destinations. Join us in creating positive change - learn more at #MonsterImpact.

Meeting point

Go to Exit 3 Tiantong Road Station of Metro 10/12, in front of Ji Hotel and look for a guide with a Red Tiger.

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.