Shanghai is truly a remarkable city with a fascinating history, vibrant culture and magnificent skyline. It is a place that never sleeps, and there is always something exciting to discover around every corner. One of the best ways to experience all that this incredible city has to offer is by taking a day tour. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, there’s an endless choice of day tours to suit every interest and budget. To help you explore Shanghai like a pro, we’ve curated a list of the 12 best day tours that are guaranteed to give you an unforgettable experience in this bustling metropolis.
The 12 Best Day Tours in Shanghai
- Zhouzhuang Water Village Private Full Day Tour from Shanghai
- Private Xi’an Day Trip from Shanghai by Round-way Air with All Inclusive Option
- Private Tour: Best of Shanghai Day Tour including Jade Buddha Temple & Bund, etc
- Hong Kong in One Day: Day Trip from Shanghai by Air
- 8-Day Private Tour to Shanghai,Chengdu,Xi’an and Beijing
- 7-Day Shanghai to Xi’an and Beijing Private Tour with Flight
- 5-Day Private Tour from Shanghai to Beijing
- 14-Day Private Tour to Shanghai,Chengdu,Luoyang,Xi’an,Pingyao,Datong and Beijing
- 13-Day Private Tour to Shanghai,Yangtze River,Chongqing,Xi’an,Beijing and Guilin
- 11-Day Private Tour to Shanghai,Yangtze River Cruise,Chongqing,Xi’an & Beijing
- 10-Day Private Tour to Shanghai,Yangtze River Cruise,Chongqing and Beijing
- 10-Day Private Tour to Shanghai,Guilin,Xi’an and Beijing
The 12 Best Day Tours in Shanghai
1. Zhouzhuang Water Village Private Full Day Tour from Shanghai
This full-day private tour takes you to one of China’s most picturesque water towns, Zhouzhuang, which is located just 1.5 hours from Shanghai. On this tour, you will escape the hustle and bustle of the city and explore the tranquil waterways, ancient bridges, and quaint white-washed houses of this well-preserved traditional town.
Your English-speaking guide will take you on a walking tour through the town’s narrow alleys, where you can see local crafts and folk art like paper cutting, bamboo weaving, and silversmithing. You’ll also visit the town’s ancient stone bridges, including the picturesque Twin Bridges which date back to the Ming Dynasty.
The tour also includes a 30-minute Chinese-style gondola cruise along the canals, offering a unique view of the town from the water. You’ll have the opportunity to taste some delicious local snacks and enjoy a tasty lunch at a local restaurant before returning to Shanghai.
Pickup and drop-off from your hotel or the Shanghai International Cruise Terminal on Dongdaming Road are included, making for a hassle-free and convenient day trip from Shanghai.
Please note that this tour is not recommended for travelers with back problems or heart conditions and is not wheelchair accessible. The tour is operated privately, so only your group will participate. Cancellation up to 24 hours in advance is possible for a full refund.
2. Private Xi’an Day Trip from Shanghai by Round-way Air with All Inclusive Option
Explore the ancient city of Xi’an on a private day trip from Shanghai by round-way air. Enjoy the convenience of airport and hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as a delicious Xi’an-style lunch and dinner. Your private tour guide will take you to see the world-famous Terracotta Warriors and Horses, the ancient city wall, and the Muslim Quarter. Experience the culture, history, and cuisine of Xi’an with an all-inclusive option that covers gratuities and hotel accommodation. Please note that a current valid passport is required on the day of travel and specific dietary needs should be advised at the time of booking. This private tour/activity is exclusively for your group’s participation.
3. Private Tour: Best of Shanghai Day Tour including Jade Buddha Temple & Bund, etc
Explore the best of Shanghai on a private day tour that includes a visit to the Jade Buddha Temple, the Bund, and other top attractions. A professional English-speaking tour guide will accompany you and provide informative commentary as you travel in an air-conditioned vehicle. The tour includes pickup and drop off from city center hotels, as well as gratuities. Please note that the Shanghai Museum is closed on Mondays, and you will visit the M50 Art Zone instead. Also, Yuyuan Garden is closed on Mondays, and you will visit the Yuyuan Bazaar and City God Temple instead. This tour is suitable for most travelers, and infants must sit on laps. You can cancel this tour up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
4. Hong Kong in One Day: Day Trip from Shanghai by Air
Explore the vibrant city of Hong Kong in just one day with this day trip from Shanghai by air. Your tour starts with a convenient pickup from your Shanghai hotel before you take off to Hong Kong on a round-trip airfare with airport taxes included. Once you arrive in Hong Kong, your tour guide will take you to visit some of the city’s most iconic landmarks such as Victoria Peak, Aberdeen Fishing Village, Stanley Market, and more. Admission tickets to all attractions are included, so you can focus on enjoying your day. You’ll also have time to shop for souvenirs and taste local cuisine during the tour, with meals included. After an exciting day out in Hong Kong, you’ll fly back to Shanghai and be dropped off at your hotel. Please note that a multi-entry Chinese visa is required to join this tour. Don’t miss this chance to discover the best of Hong Kong in just one day. Book now and create unforgettable memories!
5. 8-Day Private Tour to Shanghai,Chengdu,Xi’an and Beijing
Our 8-Day Private Tour takes you to the most incredible cities in China – Shanghai, Chengdu, Xi’an and Beijing. This tour is perfect for those who want to explore the rich culture and history of China. Your adventure will start in Shanghai where you’ll visit the famous Bund, Yu Garden, and enjoy a delicious dinner.
Next stop is Chengdu where you’ll get to see the adorable giant pandas at the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base, explore the ancient town of Huanglongxi and enjoy a hot pot dinner. Then you’ll be whisked away to the ancient city of Xi’an where the iconic Terracotta Army awaits you, as well as the ancient city wall and Muslim Quarter.
Lastly, you’ll head to Beijing, the heart of China. You’ll visit Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, the Great Wall of China, and many more stunning sites. All flights and private transportation to each destination is included, as well as entrance tickets, hotels, and meals mentioned in the itinerary.
Our pickup points are flexible and we can pick you up at any hotel in Shanghai central. This tour has a cancellation policy where you can cancel up to 4 full days in advance and still receive a full refund. Infants are welcome and we provide infant seats if needed. Join us for a once-in-a-lifetime experience in China!
6. 7-Day Shanghai to Xi’an and Beijing Private Tour with Flight
This 7-day private tour will take you from Shanghai to Xi’an and Beijing, offering an immersive experience into China’s rich history and culture. With the included flight tickets, private guide, and car, you’ll have a hassle-free journey between the cities.
In Xi’an, you’ll visit the famous Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum, the Xi’an City Wall, and the Muslim Quarter. In Beijing, you’ll explore the iconic Great Wall of China, the Forbidden City, and the Temple of Heaven. Both cities offer a unique glimpse into China’s past.
The tour includes entrance tickets to all attractions, hotel accommodations, and dinners. Infant seats are available and the tour is wheelchair/stroller accessible. Plus, if you want to extend your trip, you can add more days to your itinerary.
Pickup is available from any hotel in Shanghai city central and the tour has a cancellation policy that allows full refunds up to 4 days before the start of the experience. Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to discover the history and culture of China’s ancient dynasties on this 7-day private tour.
7. 5-Day Private Tour from Shanghai to Beijing
This 5-day private tour takes you from Shanghai to Beijing, offering an unforgettable experience of two of China’s most iconic cities. The tour includes all entrance tickets, a flight ticket from Shanghai to Beijing (economy class), a private car, and guide. Your hotel accommodation and dinner are also taken care of. The tour starts with a pickup from your hotel in central Shanghai at 9:00 AM. Expect to visit top attractions, including the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square, and the Forbidden City. The tour can be extended if you wish. Infant seats are available while the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible. You can cancel up to 4 days before the tour start time for a full refund. However, any cancellations made less than 3 days before the start time of the tour will not be refunded. Join us and experience sights and sounds that will stay with you long after the tour ends.
8. 14-Day Private Tour to Shanghai,Chengdu,Luoyang,Xi’an,Pingyao,Datong and Beijing
Discover the best of China with this comprehensive 14-day private tour, visiting vibrant cities and historic sites. Start your journey in Shanghai, where you’ll explore the city’s iconic landmarks, including The Bund and the Yu Garden. Continue to Chengdu to see the famous Giant Panda Breeding Center before flying to Luoyang to witness the stunning Longmen Grottoes. In Xi’an, marvel at the Terracotta Warriors, while in Pingyao, you’ll visit one of the best-preserved ancient towns in China. Take a trip to Datong to see the Hanging Monastery and Yungang Grottoes before ending your trip in Beijing, where you’ll witness the grandeur of the Forbidden City and the Great Wall, all while staying in comfortable accommodations and enjoying delicious local cuisine. Explore China’s fascinating culture and history on this unforgettable journey.
9. 13-Day Private Tour to Shanghai,Yangtze River,Chongqing,Xi’an,Beijing and Guilin
This 13-day private tour will take you on a journey to some of China’s most popular destinations. You will start in Shanghai, where you’ll explore the city’s rich history and modern architecture. From there, you will fly to Chongqing and embark on a Yangtze River cruise, taking in the stunning scenery along the way. Next, you’ll visit Xi’an, home to the famous Terracotta Warriors, before flying to Beijing to explore the historic landmarks of the capital city. Finally, you’ll end your journey in Guilin, surrounded by the breathtaking karst landscape.
Throughout the tour, you’ll have a private car and guide to show you around, as well as entrance tickets to all the attractions. Your hotel accommodations and dinners are also included.
Please note that this tour is not recommended for travelers with back problems and that it may not be available during the Chinese New Year festival. You also have the option to add more days if you’d like. Cancellation is allowed up to 7 days in advance for a full refund.
10. 11-Day Private Tour to Shanghai,Yangtze River Cruise,Chongqing,Xi’an & Beijing
This private 11-day tour takes you to some of the most iconic destinations in China. Your journey begins in Shanghai where you’ll explore the Bund, Yu Garden and the famous Shanghai Tower. From there, you’ll embark on an unforgettable cruise down the Yangtze River before arriving in Chongqing where you’ll see Giant Pandas up close. Continuing onto Xi’an, you’ll visit the magnificent Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum before finishing the tour in Beijing to see the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City. This all-inclusive tour includes a private car and guide, three domestic flights, entrance tickets, hotel accommodations and most meals. Pickup is available from your hotel in Shanghai. Infant seats are available and the tour is wheelchair accessible. You can also add extra days to the tour if desired. Please note, the tour is not available during Chinese national holidays or the Chinese New Year. Cancellation is accepted up to 7 days in advance of the tour start time for a full refund.
11. 10-Day Private Tour to Shanghai,Yangtze River Cruise,Chongqing and Beijing
This 10-day private tour takes you on an unforgettable journey through the highlights of China. Beginning in Shanghai, you’ll explore the city’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems with the help of your knowledgeable tour guide. From there, you’ll travel by plane to Beijing, where you’ll discover the awe-inspiring Great Wall and other must-see sights. In between, you’ll experience the beauty of the Yangtze River with a luxurious cruise and visit the vibrant city of Chongqing. This all-inclusive tour includes private transportation, entrance tickets, hotel accommodations, and meals. You can also extend your trip if you wish. Be sure to book in advance as tour availability may be limited during busy seasons. Cancellation within 7 days of the start time will result in a full refund.
12. 10-Day Private Tour to Shanghai,Guilin,Xi’an and Beijing
This 10-day private tour takes you to four of China’s most iconic destinations – Shanghai, Guilin, Xi’an, and Beijing. You’ll explore the ancient architectural wonders of the Forbidden City, the Great Wall of China, and the Terracotta Warriors. You’ll witness some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes in the world, including Li River and Elephant Trunk Hill. You’ll immerse yourself in centuries of history and culture, from the bustling modern metropolis of Shanghai to the ancient capital of Xi’an. Your tour includes entrance tickets, flights, private transportation, expert guides, hotel accommodations, and dinner. We offer pickup at any hotel in Shanghai city central for your convenience. Infant seats are available, and the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible. You can add additional days to your tour if you desire. Our cancellation policy allows you to cancel up to 7 days in advance of the experience for a full refund. Don’t miss this unforgettable opportunity to experience the best of China’s natural and cultural wonders on a private tour tailored just for you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shanghai
If you’re planning a trip to Shanghai, you may have a lot of questions regarding the city, and its culture, history, accommodations, transportation, and more. To help you out, we’ve put together a list of some of the most frequently asked questions about Shanghai, along with detailed answers based on strong evidence and accurate information. Read on to learn more!
1. Where is Shanghai located?
Shanghai is located on the eastern coast of China, at the mouth of the Yangtze River. The city is situated in the Yangtze River Delta, and it is a major financial, commercial, and cultural center of China, and the world.
2. What is the population of Shanghai?
As of 2021, the population of Shanghai is around 24 million people, making it the most populous city in China, and one of the most populous cities in the world.
3. What is the local currency in Shanghai?
The local currency in Shanghai is the Chinese yuan (CNY), also known as renminbi (RMB). The exchange rate between CNY and other foreign currencies can fluctuate, so it is a good idea to check the exchange rate before trading money.
4. Which language is spoken in Shanghai?
The official language of Shanghai is Mandarin Chinese. However, many locals also speak Shanghainese, which is a dialect of Wu Chinese. English is not widely spoken in Shanghai, but most hotels, restaurants, and attractions catering to foreigners may have some basic level of English fluency.
5. What is the best time to visit Shanghai?
The best time to visit Shanghai is from March to May and September to November. During these months, the temperature and humidity are relatively mild, and the scenery is beautiful, with blooming flowers in spring and colorful foliage in autumn. However, avoid visiting the city during Chinese national holidays (usually in October and February), as the crowds and prices may skyrocket.
6. What are the must-visit attractions in Shanghai?
Shanghai has a lot to offer for tourists of all tastes and interests. Some of the must-visit attractions in Shanghai are:
- The Bund: a picturesque promenade along the Huangpu River, featuring colonial-era heritage buildings and stunning views of the city skyline.
- Yu Garden: a classical Chinese garden with rockeries, ponds, pavilions, and bridges dating back to over 400 years ago.
- Shanghai Tower: the highest building in China and the second-highest in the world, offering panoramic views of the city on a clear day.
- Shanghai Museum: a world-class museum showcasing over 120,000 ancient and modern Chinese artifacts, from ceramics and calligraphy to jade and currency.
- Fuxing Park: a peaceful and green oasis in the heart of the city, featuring exotic flowers, trees, and birds, as well as a historic mansion housing the Shanghai Art Museum.
7. How is the transportation in Shanghai?
Shanghai has a well-developed transportation system, consisting of buses, taxis, subways, ferries, and high-speed trains. The subway is the most convenient and efficient way to navigate the city, with 18 lines and over 600 stations covering almost every corner of Shanghai. Taxis are also readily available and affordable, but be sure to bring the destination address in Chinese characters or show it on a map, as many drivers may not speak English.
8. What is the local food in Shanghai?
Shanghai is famous for its diverse and flavorful cuisine, known as Hu cuisine, which reflects the city’s history as a melting pot of different culinary traditions from all over China and beyond. Some of the popular local dishes in Shanghai are:
- Xiao long bao: steamed dumplings filled with savory broth and minced pork.
- Sheng jian bao: pan-fried buns stuffed with pork and vegetables.
- Hong shao rou: braised pork belly in sweet and savory sauce.
- La zi ji: spicy fried chicken with peanuts and peppers.
- Chao mian: stir-fried noodles with meat, vegetables, and sauce.
9. What is the dress code in Shanghai?
Shanghai is a cosmopolitan and modern city, and it has a relatively relaxed dress code. However, it is recommended to dress modestly and respectfully, especially when visiting temples and other religious sites. In general, avoid revealing or provocative attire, and opt for comfortable and breathable clothes, as the weather in Shanghai can be hot and humid in summer, and chilly in winter.
10. What is the etiquette and customs in Shanghai?
Shanghai is a diverse and tolerant city, and it has a rich cultural heritage and social norms. However, to show respect to the locals and avoid unintentional offense, it is recommended to follow some basic etiquette and customs, such as:
- Greet people with a nod or a handshake, and use their title or last name.
- Do not point with your finger or feet, and do not touch someone’s head.
- Remove your shoes when entering someone’s home or a temple.
- Use chopsticks properly, and do not stick them upright in your rice bowl.
- Avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics, religion, or personal income.
Conclusion
Shanghai is a vibrant, historic, and fascinating city that has a lot to offer for travelers. By knowing the answers to these frequently asked questions about Shanghai, you can better plan your trip, enjoy your stay, and immerse yourself in the local culture and lifestyle.
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