How to Plan Your Old City Walking Tour in Shanghai

If you’re looking for an immersive experience in Shanghai’s rich cultural heritage and fascinating history, the Old City Walking Tour is the perfect fit for you. The tour is ideal for travelers who are interested in exploring the ancient landmarks and authentic local streets, learning about traditional Shanghai lifestyle, and indulging in the rich Chinese culture. Here’s your comprehensive guide on how to plan your Old City Walking Tour in Shanghai.

Tour Overview

The half-day Old City Walking Tour provides a fantastic introduction to Shanghai and its contrasting traditional and modern features. You’ll start by strolling along the Bund, which lies on the banks of the iconic Huangpu River. The Bund boasts unrivaled views of Shanghai’s skyline and colonial architecture, making it one of the city’s most popular landmarks. Afterward, you’ll visit Yuyuan Garden, one of the finest classical gardens in China. This serene garden is a perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and unwind.

The tour includes a stop at a traditional teahouse, where you’ll indulge in an authentic Chinese tea ceremony. You’ll learn about the history, symbolism, and etiquette associated with this age-old tradition, making it an unforgettable experience. You’ll also get to explore two bustling markets and the local streets, sampling street food, and absorbing the atmosphere of this peculiarly Chinese experience.

The tour concludes at fashionable Xintiandi, a stylish and trendy district that expertly blends the traditional brick-lane architecture with modern boutiques and restaurants, providing an excellent contrast to your Old City walking tour.

What’s Included

The Old City Walking Tour is an all-inclusive package, so you don’t have to worry about any extra expenses. Here’s what you can expect:

1. English-speaking Local Guide: You’ll be accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, who will provide expert commentary on the tour’s attractions, history, and culture.

2. Complimentary Drink: You’ll get one complimentary drink of your choice at the traditional teahouse.

3. Lunch: You’ll indulge in a delicious Chinese lunch at the end of the tour.

4. Hotel Pickup and Drop-off: The tour operators will pick you up and drop you off at your hotel, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

5. Gratuities: All tips to the guide are included, so you don’t have to worry about tipping separately.

Meeting Point and Pickup

The tour’s meeting point is the Fairmont Peace Hotel. The address is:
China Shang Hai Shi Huang Pu Qu Waitan 南京东路20号 邮政编码: 200002

The Fairmont Peace Hotel is easy to find and located in a convenient location for travelers staying near the Huangpu River. The tour operator will pick you up from your hotel if you’re staying in the city center, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Choosing the Right Departure Time

The Old City Walking Tour is available at various times throughout the day, so you can choose the one that suits your schedule best. The tour operators offer multiple departure times, so you can select the one that’s most convenient for you.

Booking Your Tour

Booking your Old City Walking tour is convenient, safe, and easy. You can book the tour directly through the tour operator’s website, which guarantees the lowest price and best service. Here is the link to book the tour: book the tour now.

In Conclusion

The Old City Walking Tour is an ideal option for travelers who want to explore Shanghai’s rich cultural heritage and history. The tour offers a perfect balance of traditional and modern features, making it an immersive and memorable experience. By following the guidelines in this comprehensive guide, you can plan and book your Old City walking tour and make it an unforgettable part of your Shanghai adventure.

The Most Frequently Asked Questions About Shanghai: Answered

Shanghai is a bustling city in eastern China with a population of over 24 million people. It’s known for its towering skyscrapers, amazing architecture, and rich culture. If you’re planning a trip to Shanghai, you may have some questions about the city. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Shanghai, answered.

1. What is the best time to visit Shanghai?

Shanghai has a moderate climate, with four distinct seasons. The best time to visit Shanghai is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild, and there are fewer tourists. The summer months (June to August) can be hot and humid, while the winter months (December to February) can be cold and damp.

2. Do I need a visa to visit Shanghai?

Yes, you will need a visa to visit Shanghai. You can apply for a tourist visa at your nearest Chinese embassy or consulate. The visa application process can take several weeks, so it’s best to plan ahead.

3. What language is spoken in Shanghai?

The official language of Shanghai is Mandarin Chinese. However, many locals also speak Shanghainese, a dialect of Wu Chinese. English is also widely spoken in tourist areas and major hotels.

4. What is the currency used in Shanghai?

The currency used in Shanghai is the Chinese yuan (CNY). ATMs are widely available throughout the city, and most major credit cards are accepted.

5. What are some popular tourist attractions in Shanghai?

Shanghai has many popular tourist attractions, including:

• The Bund: a waterfront promenade lined with historic buildings
• Yu Garden: a traditional Chinese garden with rock formations, ponds, and pavilions
• Shanghai Tower: the tallest skyscraper in China with an observation deck on the 118th floor
• Oriental Pearl TV Tower: an iconic tower with observation decks, a revolving restaurant, and a museum
• Shanghai Museum: a museum of Chinese art and history

6. What is the transportation system like in Shanghai?

Shanghai has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, subway, and taxis. The subway is the most convenient and affordable way to get around the city. Taxis are readily available but can be expensive during peak hours.

7. What is the food like in Shanghai?

Shanghai is known for its delicious cuisine, including dishes like xiaolongbao (steamed dumplings), sheng jian bao (pan-fried pork buns), and hairy crab. There are also many international restaurants in the city, serving everything from Italian to Japanese cuisine.

8. Is Shanghai a safe city for tourists?

Shanghai is a relatively safe city for tourists. However, it’s always a good idea to take precautions, such as not carrying large amounts of cash or valuable items and being aware of your surroundings.

9. What is the nightlife like in Shanghai?

Shanghai has a vibrant nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and entertainment venues. The city’s most popular nightlife areas are The Bund, French Concession, and Xintiandi.

10. Is tipping expected in Shanghai?

Tipping is not a common practice in Shanghai. However, some upscale restaurants may add a service charge to the bill, and it’s common to round up the fare for taxi rides.

Conclusion

Shanghai is a fascinating city with a rich history and culture. Whether you’re planning a visit for business or pleasure, it’s important to be prepared and know what to expect. With this guide, we hope we’ve answered some of the most frequently asked questions about Shanghai and will help you plan a successful trip to this incredible city.