4 or 6 Hours Private Customized Shanghai Historical Tour (or Layover)

Shanghai , China

4 or 6 Hours Private Customized Shanghai Historical Tour (or Layover)

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(1 reviews)

4h - 6h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The Bund is the most famous sightseeing site in Shanghai, known as “Gallery of World Architecture”. Do you know why…

The Bund was also the important financial district known as “Eastern Wall Street”, “Paradise of Adventurer”. Why…

Most people stop, take pictures & walk away, unknowingly missing the soulful stories of Shanghai.

Our expert guide, walking slowly, explaining all the interesting stories behind the grand buildings on Bund.

Our tours are 100% flexible. At the end of the Bund tour, feel free to discuss options with your experienced guide, or any of the local foods you want to taste… of course, time permitted.

Options: Old Town, River cruise, Shanghai Towers, Confucian Temple, Jade Buddha Temple, the French Concession, or any other places.

We also offer options for markets featuring special items you may wish to purchase as souvenir. Just ask your experienced guide to meet your satisfaction.

4-Hr tour for guests in central Shanghai;
6-Hr tour for guests at outskirt SH.

Available options

4-Hr Central Shanghai Guests

Duration: 4 hours: For guests' hotel centrally located in Shanghai city.

6-Hr Shanghai Layover Guests

Duration: 6 hours: For guests of airport layover, Baoyang Rd cruise port, Disneyland hotels etc, which is at outskirt of Shanghai.<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Professional guide

Driver with air-conditioned vihicle for 6-hr outskirt guests according to option

Exclusive Private tour

Detailed itinerary

After 1843 Opium War, Shanghai, a peaceful fishing village, was forced to open as a trade port to world. Thus, a new chapter of Shanghai history started from Bund. The 52 magnificent buildings along Bund tell the story of the historical rise and fall of this city.

Your excellent guide will explain all of the fantastic stories hidden behind of the buildings.

Old time “Cathay Hotel or Sassoon House”, was built by a Jewish tycoon, Sir Victor Sassoon.

Your guide will show you around the building, featuring the gallery and the hidden museum. You can discover the tycoon’s stories with precious photos and objects.

Customs House. Tremendously English influenced… examples…. the giant clock on top of the building is a copy of Big Ben, of UK Lodon fame.

Robert·Hart, an Englishman, became the top officer in the Chinese Customs House. Your guide will tell you the story of this famous Englishman and what he did to help build & influence Shanghai.

Formerly HSBC Bank. This was the HSBC headquarters in Far East in early 20th century. The mosaic ceiling is breathtakingly beautiful. Your guide will tell you a time-honored secret behind the ceiling. (Admitted during working days.)

Shanghai Club. Build in 1910 as an exclusive British club whose members included the most influential men in the city. Today it is Waldorf hotel. Your guide will direct your attention to the 100 years old “Long Bar”, known as longest bar in the world, still in business today, starting every afternoon at 4pm.

The 100 years ago Long Bar, known as longest bar in world, still on business starting every afternoon 4pm.

Optional. It’s an highlight of Shanghai. Guests can enjoy the breathtaking beautiful view of the two river banks.

We suggest you asking your guide checking the tide situation for you, since the tide can alter the boat timetable from time to time.

Stop 7

Optional. There’s the Yu Garden, City God Temple in a traditional market. You will find yourself in an ancient China with a number of traditional buildings around you. Here you can enjoy shopping of all kind Chinese souvenirs such as tea, silk, chopsticks, pearls, jade, brushes, inks, paintings and many others.

Stop 8

Optional. If sky is clear, it’s great to have a bird eye view form top of Shanghai at night. There are several high towers for your choice: Shanghai Tower, Financial Tower, Pearl Tower or Jinmao Tower.

Food Testing Break. Optional. Tell your guide what type of food you are interested in trying. Street foods or local restaurant, your guide will have a long list of culinary choices for your satisfaction. (Food Testing is at guests’ own expense.)

After a flexible city tour, any sightseeing spot guests wish to end in Shanghai city.

Guests for airport layover, Baoyang Rd cruise port or Disneyland hotels etc, which is outskirt Shanghai, we offer pick up/drop off option.

What's not included

Tips - encouraged.

Available languages

Guide guide

CMN EN

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Instant Confirmation

Excellent English speaking tour guide

Comfortable walking shoes.

Dress code is smart casual

Meeting point

Fairmont Peace Hotel (He Ping Fan Dian) 和平饭店，in the lobby center, under the Golden Octagonal pavilion, our guide will hold your name sight waiting for you at meeting time.

Important notes

Bund Walking with Optional Afternoon Tea

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.