1-Day Private Shanghai City Tour to See Its Past, Present and Future

Shanghai , China

1-Day Private Shanghai City Tour to See Its Past, Present and Future

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(25 reviews)

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About this experience

Shanghai is a huge international metropolis with a long history. This private full-day city tour is designed for people who are interested in Shanghai’s past, present and future. It starts with a visit to the galleries in the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall. Stroll through the lovely Yu Gardens and purchase lunch in the nearby Yu Bazaar, then take a walk along the Bund. Head to the Shanghai World Financial Center for an aerial perspective on the city, then see shops and Shikumen-style architecture along the atmospheric alleyways of Tianzifang, located in the old French Concession. Your tour includes entrance fees, and hotel pickup and drop-off. No shopping detours, factory stores, tea ceremony or shopping site restaurant to take up your valuable time at attraction sites, so you will have a pure sightseeing experience.

Available options

Shanghai One Day Tour

Depart from the hotel at about 09:00. This one day tour includes the visit to the Urban Planning Exhibition Hall, Yuyuan Garden, Yuyuan Market, the Bund, World Financial Center and Tianzifang.<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Air conditioned car with chauffeur

Centrally located hotel pick-up and drop-off

Private English Speaking guide

Complimentary bottled water with unlimited supplies

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Your tour guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel and drive you to the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall. There, you can view many textual and graphic files and architectural models, which will help you get an overall understanding of the development of Shanghai.

Stop 2

Then, your guide will accompany you to the Yu Garden. Renowned as a shinning jewel among classical gardens in southern Yangtze River of China, it mainly features waterside pavilions, artistic stone carvings and wood engravings.

Stop 3

After leaving the garden, you will be guided to the nearby Yuyuan market to take a leisurely walk along the bustling pedestrian street. The pseudo-classic architectures lie along ancient streets to form a market selling souvenirs and snacks. You may have lunch here on your own choices.

Next, your trip will continue to the lively Bund Area to admire its essential part - the architectural complex of 52 exotic and glorious buildings. Take a leisure walk on the Bund and enjoy the spectacular view of the Huangpu River.

Stop 5

After that, you will ascend the World Financial Center, a skyscraper takeing the unique shape of a beer bottle-opene, with a height of 492 meters (1,600 feet). Here you will have a fantastic bird's eye view of the whole city. Take photos from the spectacular perspective of the city.

Stop 6

This Shanghai one day tour will conclude at Tianzifang, an old-style cultural block featuring distinctive Shikumen buildings with art studios, themed cafés and bars, and handicraft workshops. After that, your guide will escort you back to your hotel.

What's not included

Meals

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

CMN EN

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

25 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Wheelchair accessible

Pick-up from hotels within the Middle Ring Road of Shanghai. An additional transfer fee will be incurred if your hotel is outside the above mentioned area.

Please wear comfortable walking shoes.

Important notes

• You MUST confirm and obtain any visa requirements prior to border crossing. All visa requirements are the sole responsibility of the traveler
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended

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.