Shanghai is a city with a unique blend of ancient traditions and modernity. It is an active city filled with historical buildings, markets, parks, and superb restaurants, giving tourists a great experience. In this blog, I will cover the top ten tours and excursions to provide the best experience of Shanghai’s beauty in 2025. From private city tours, where you admire the best architecture, to relaxing boat trips on the Huangpu River, this guide has everything planned. These tours will fulfill every history buff, foodie, and adventure lover’s dream, making it an unforgettable trip to Shanghai.
Which Shanghai day tours offer the best value for money?
Which Shanghai day tours offer the best value for money
- Walking Tours of the Bund and Old Shanghai
Shanghai’s stunning waterfront and ancient streets provide the perfect backdrop for these cultural and historical tours. For budget-aware travelers, these tours offer great insight into the city at an affordable cost.
- Food Tasting Tours in Shanghai’s Local Markets
The local markets go a long way in serving the heart of any city, and Shanghai is no different. Shanghainese dumplings, noodles, and street food can be savored at unbelievably low costs.
- Huangpu River Cruise at Sunset
This tour gives a beautiful view of the Shanghai skyline. It is stunningly affordable, romantic, and a must-try for any budget-aware traveler.
- Yuyuan Garden and Bazaar Self-Guided Experience
These dreamy gardens and energetic marketplaces offer a self-guided exploration option with low entry fees, saving tourists money on guides.
These tours ensure magnificent experiences with optimal value for the time and money spent in Shanghai.
Comprehensive city tour including Shanghai Museum and Yu Garden
This excursion comes with a rich summary of the cultural and historical essence of the Shanghai region. The visiting shoppers Yu Garden in Garden City, China, while The Shanghai Museum Yu Garden Museum accompanies the visitors with China’s old legacy by displaying its ancient art like bronze sculptures, ceramics, paintings, and calligraphy. Generally, the museum entry is free, making it easy to include in the schedule.
Next, the Yu Garden is a perfect example of a classical-style Chinese garden, with finely arranged pavilions, ponds, and rockeries. The entrance fee is usually around 40 RMB per person, which is very economical and worth it to enjoy the display.
You may consider taking the Shanghai Metro, which costs between 3 and 9 RMB, depending on your travel distance. This tour is particularly suited for those who wish to visit popular sites at a low cost while enhancing the experience with knowledge.
Huangpu River cruise and Shanghai World Financial Center visit.
Cruise along the Huangpu River to see Shanghai’s stunning skyline. The cruise lasts from half an hour to two hours and departs multiple times throughout the day. It is most popular in the evening to catch the stunning light show of landmarks such as the Orient Pearl Tower and the Bund. Prices for the cruises range from 120 to 300 and can increase due to premium options or private seating.
A visit to the Shanghai World Financial Center is also highly recommended, as they offer some of the city’s most breathtaking views from their observation decks. The building has a height of 492m and offers three observation decks, which are located at level 94 (423m), level 97 (439m), and level 100(474m). The 10th floor offers a spectacular view with its glass floor, but the most popular decks are between 120-180RMB, which is dependent on combination tickets with additional attractions.
As for the location’s guides, they claim that both tourist spots can be reached by public transport. There is a Nanjing East Road Metro station near the dock for the Huangpu River Cruise, which services Line 10 and 2. The SWFC is in the Lujiazui financial district, which can be reached by Lujiazui Metro station on Line 2. These places distinguish the blend of culture and innovation with history found in Shanghai, which makes this plan friendly for tourists who want to see the city’s famous places. A stroll along the Bund is perfect for sightseeing lovers.
Old Shanghai walking tour with local food tasting
An Old Shanghai walking tour with local food sampling is a must-do if exploring the city’s deep history and numerous culinary delights is on your to-do list. I was lucky enough to see the undisturbed structures that tell the story of Shanghai while engaging my senses in the narrow lanes within Shikumen neighborhoods with the help of my guides. For example, local famous xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), scallion pancakes, and sesame balls were cooked by expert vendors using traditional methods. Most walking tours last four hours, and one or two are spent walking. You can walk comfortably for a mile or two at your own pace, which is suited for walking novice adventurers. Enjoying these tours simply requires light snacks and a pair of walking shoes.
What are the must-see attractions on a Shanghai shore excursion?
What are the must-see attractions on a Shanghai shore excursion
You should make it a point to cover Shanghai’s diverse attractions during a shore excursion. Begin by visiting the iconic Bund to witness firsthand the timeless beauty of the colonial buildings juxtaposed with the modern skyscrapers of the Pudong skyline. Afterward, proceed to the Yu Garden, a Chinese classical garden featuring a traditional design, beautiful pavilions, and scenic landscapes. For some local experience, walk down Nanjing Road, a shopper’s delight filled with cute shops and delicious eateries. Also, see the Ogural Pearl Tower, which has breathtaking city views and a museum that provides interesting facts about Shanghai. All these places offer a glimpse into the magnetism and vigor of the beautiful city of Shanghai.
Efficient layover tours covering Shanghai’s highlights
Following a time management schedule is vital while preparing for a layover tour in Shanghai. The following pointers and tips will help you make the most of your short stay in the city:
- Duration of Layover
- If you plan to tour outside the airport, you should have at least 8-10 hours of layover time.
- Be sure to consider the time needed for immigration clearance, which is roughly estimated to take 30 minutes to an hour. Also, the time required to return to the airport is generally around 1 to 1.5 hours.
- Transportation Options
- Maglev Train (Airport to City): This train travels in ~7 minutes and can reach 430 km/h speeds.
- Metro/Subway: This is cost-effective and reliable, though expect longer travel times (~30-45 minutes to central Shanghai).
- Taxi/Ride-Hailing: Beneficial, 45 minutes to central Shanghai from Pudong Airport with no heavy traffic.
- Key Destinations and Estimated Times
- The Bund: 1-1.5 hours to stroll and enjoy the scenic skyline.
- Yu Garden: 1.5 hours, including exploring nearby markets and pavilions.
- Nanjing Road: 1-2 hours for shopping or dining.
- Oriental Pearl Tower: 1-2 hours spent on the observatory and museum.
- Visa Requirements
- For relaxation, use the 144-hour visa-free layover policy available to international travelers. Always confirm alignment prior.
- Packing Essentials
- A comfortable pair of walking shoes for exploring.
- Mobile apps like Didi (Chinese ride-hailing service) or MetroMap for navigation.
- A portable charger for your devices to ensure connectivity throughout the trip.
By elaborately blending these procedures and striving for nearby features, one can make the most out of one’s layover time in the prosperous city of Shanghai.
Combining Shanghai city tour with Pudong airport transfers
Combining a Shanghai city tour with Pudong airport transfers is possible and can be a great way to utilize layovers. Make sure you plan your route carefully around the travel times and possible check-in requirements at the airport. The transfers can be made efficiently using the high-speed Maglev train or Metro Line 2. The Maglev train is high-speed, only 8 minutes from Pudong International Airport to Longyang Road Station. Set aside time for a city tour, and include famous central areas like The Bund, Yuyuan Garden, or Nanjing Road. A 6-8 hour layover is recommended to explore the city comfortably after travel and security clearance. Local metro apps or Didi can make getting around much more manageable. Double-check visa-free transit rules, which depend on your citizenship. Careful timing and efficient transport options make it possible to have a short but memorable glimpse of the city without missing a flight.
Which day trips from Shanghai are worth considering?
Which day trips from Shanghai are worth considering
Some excellent day trips from Shanghai include:
- Suzhou, nicknamed “The Venice of the East,” is famous for its stunning canals and classical gardens, like the ‘Humble Administrator’s Garden’, rich history in silk production, and easy accessibility via a short high-speed train ride.
- Hangzhou—Famous for its beautiful West Lake, the tranquil Hangzhou is filled with tea estates and cultural attractions like the Lingyin Temple. It can be reached within one hour by train.
- Zhujiajiao Water Town—This ancient water town, about an hour from Shanghai, offers picturesque bridges, stone roads, and calm canals, perfect for a quiet getaway.
- Nanjing—For history lovers, Nanjing is home to the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum and Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall, which are beautiful historical sites. Nanjing is well connected to Shanghai, one and a half hours away by high-speed train.
These destinations offer splendor of nature and cultural richness and are ideal for relaxation—perfect for traveling around Shanghai.
Exploring ancient water towns near Shanghai
While researching the ancient water towns surrounding Shanghai, one comes across towns like Zhujiajiao, Wuzhen, and Tongli, which boast rich culture and architecture. Below is a compact description of each city, which will hopefully assist you with travel plans based on your preferences:
- Zhujiajiao
- Distance from Shanghai: Approximately 30 miles (50 km)
- Travel Time: Around 1 hour by car or bus
- Highlights: Known as ‘the pearl of the Orient,’ Zhujiajiao features beautiful canals, ancient bridges like Fangsheng Bridge, and tranquil boat rides.
- Wuzhen
- Distance from Shanghai: Approximately 50 miles (80 km)
- Travel Time: About 1.5 hours by car or train
- Highlights: Known for its well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture, Wuzhen offers cultural performances and traditional workshops and has beautiful waterways.
- Tongli
- Distance from Shanghai: Approximately 55 miles (90 km)
- Travel Time: Around 1.5 hours by car or train
- Highlights: Known for its small gardens and “Three Bridges,” Tongli is remarkable for its tranquility and rich history.
These towns are all accessible, giving a glimpse of ancient charm while proving very convenient for anyone near Shanghai.
Suzhou day trip: Gardens, canals, and silk factories
Day trips from Shanghai to Suzhou capture the eye with amazing views and deep cultural history, as well as stunning craftsmanship of the locals and picturesque landscapes overall. Like Eastern Venice, Suzhou is popular for its classical gardens, ancient canals, and silk-making.
Must-Visit Attractions:
- Classical Gardens
- Humble Administrator’s Garden (Zhuozheng Yuan): This is the largest and most famous garden in Suzhou, located in its heart. It was included in Unesco World Heritage Sites and measures around 13 acres (52,000 m²). The serene ponds, plants, and a building styled with Chinese Architecture make the garden as soothing as possible.
- Lingering Garden (Liu Yuan): Another UNESCO garden stretches over 5.8 acres (23,300 m²). This beauty is known for its beautiful and imaginative combination of rocks, an amalgamation of water, and fauna.
- Canals and Old Town
- Shantang Street (Shantang Jie) represents an ancient part of the city. For three kilometers, you can walk along a three-meter path decorated with plants featuring special historic pedestrian pipes.
- Pingjiang Road (Pingjiang Lu) is one of the oldest roads in Suzhou, dating back to the Tang dynasty. On both sides, you can find many souvenir and clothing stores and cafes, and the road passes by a beautiful canal.
- Silk Factories and Museums
- Suzhou Silk Museum (Suzhou Sichou Bowuguan): The museum hosts multiple exhibitions and cultural celebrations to promote four statistics of the marvelous silk production market. It also features specialized devices depicting the culture and methods of silk making, which serve as a symbol for the city.
- No.1 Silk Factory (Suzhou Diyi Sichang): This remarkable factory where you can see the whole silk weaving process. You could also buy various quality silk-based artifacts to take home as souvenirs.
Tips for Planning Your Trip:
- Transport from Shanghai:
- High-Speed Train (G-Class): Approximately 25 minutes from Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station to Suzhou Railway Station, with frequent departures.
- By Car: Roughly 1.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
- Ideal Time to Visit:
- Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) boast mild weather and picturesque scenery.
- Cost:
- Ticket prices for the gardens vary from $5-10 per participant (¥30-70) depending on the site and period.
- Tickets for second-class seats on high-speed trains are approximately $8-15 (¥50-100).
This plan outlining your stay in the area is well-balanced and should cover all the crucial highlights of your daily excursion to Suzhou and enjoy its phenomenal beauty and history.
Hangzhou excursion: West Lake and tea plantations
West Lake in Hangzhou is a must-see with its stunning greenery, serene waters, and ancient pagodas, making it an unforgettable place to visit. I suggest starting your tour with a boat ride that allows for the breathtaking view of Leifeng Pagoda, the Broken Bridge, and other cultural landmarks around the lake. The boat tour takes about 1-2 hours and costs around $10-15, approximately ¥70-100.
After taking your fill of West Lake, you can head to Longjing tea plantations, where you can appreciate the detailed process involved in tea cultivation and treat yourself to a freshly brewed cup of Longjing (Dragon Well) tea. Guided tours of tea fields cost between $10-20 (¥70-140) depending on inclusions such as tea tastings. For tea lovers, visiting local tea houses or museums is a must.
Regarding timing, March to May and September to November would be the ideal time to visit as the weather during these months is mild, and nature is at its prime. A high-speed train from Shanghai gets to Hangzhou in an hour or less, making it convenient for a day trip or an overnight excursion. The train costs $11-20 (¥70-130) for a second-class seat, which is excellent at the price point.
What are the best Shanghai tours for foodies in 2025?
What are the best Shanghai tours for foodies in 2025
In 2025, Shanghai will have some vibrant food tours that are best suited for food lovers. One recommendation is the “Shanghai Night Market Tour,” which covers the local street food scene, serving amazing foods like soup dumplings, scallion pancakes, and stinky tofu. The “Old Shanghai Culinary Walk” is for those who prefer a more sophisticated approach, as it lets tourists enjoy traditional Shanghainese food from local family restaurants. Another great option would be the “Tea and Dim Sum Tasting Tour,” where tourists taste hand-crafted tea alongside sweet and savory dim sum. These tours promote a deep appreciation for Shanghai’s diverse cultures, foods, and rich history, providing the perfect blend for food lovers.
Street food adventures in popular Shanghai neighborhoods
Participating in Shanghai’s street food culture epitomizes the city’s colorful cuisine and culture. Nanjing Road, Yuyuan Garden Bazaar, and Tianzifang Markets are all great places for visitors to savor what the city offers. Yuyuan Garden Bazaar has the best xiaolongbao and spring onion noodles (soup dumplings), which tourists and locals love. Vendors on Nanjing Road sell snacks like penghulu and crispy scallion pancakes. The artistic hub of Tianzifang also has some quintessential street food; fried dumplings and bubble tea are a must-try.
For those looking for Shanghai street food, these neighborhoods are fantastic choices. Most vendors price their food from 10-30¥. The best time to go is midmorning or early evening when fresh food is plentiful, and vendors are fully open for business. You can easily walk through most of these areas, soaking in the lively environment and numerous food places. Make sure you try the unique seasonal dishes—the pride of Shanghai and Western China cuisine.
Hands-on cooking classes featuring Shanghai cuisine
Culinary traditions classes in Shanghai offer practical techniques and skills for advanced and new-skilled students who want to improve their culinary skills. Soup dumplings, scallop pancakes, and sweet and sour pork are some of the many famous meals around the city that people can learn to cook. Most classes are taught in small groups so that every participant can receive enough attention for their specific needs. Each session generally lasts 2-3 hours.
One key feature of these classes is a guided market tour. Students visit local wet markets to buy fresh ingredients such as mung beans, fermented tofu, and vegetables. Later, they prepare the meals under the supervision of an experienced chef and are taught basic skills like dough kneading, appropriate seasoning, and steaming.
Details:
- Duration: Typically 2-3 hours, including market tours and cooking time.
- Group Size: Ranges from 6-12 participants for an intimate learning experience.
- Cost: Prices range from $50 to $80 per person, depending on the number of dishes taught and the class format.
- Facilities: Classes are conducted in modern kitchens with steamers and cleavers.
If you wish to learn about cultural recipes or more about the culinary field, these classes offer an engaging experience with the city’s cuisine while also allowing you to practice it back home.
How to choose the perfect Shanghai tour itinerary for different trip lengths?
How to choose the perfect Shanghai tour itinerary for different trip lengths
The length of stay for your Shanghai Tour will define what you will see on your itinerary, which is something to consider. If your stay is shorter (1-2 days), focus on the city’s most recognizable landmarks: The Bund, Yu Garden, and the famous Nanjing Road. Not to forget how iconic the Yu Garden and the Shanghai Museum are. These two will give you a sense of what the city offers.
With medium stays (3-4 days), further explorations can be added: a Huangpu River cruise, walks at the Former French Concession, or Zhujiajiao, with its quaint beauty. All these will improve your day and allow you to experience more of what China offers.
While with more extended stays (5 days to more), time allows you to soak in the surroundings thoroughly. Put the Longhua Temple or the Shanghai Propaganda Poster Art Center on your checklist, a Chinese cooking class, fantastic food markets, and the city’s skyline at night. Make the most out of Shanghai by adjusting your schedule based on your interests through the unique combination of the city’s history, culture, and modern day.
Ideal 1-day Shanghai city tour for time-pressed visitors
Here’s how to effectively experience the rich culture, historic landmarks, and breathtaking sights of Shanghai in 24 hours:
- Morning
- Start your day at The Bund. Reserve a spot there a night before your trip so you can gaze at the skyline of Pudong and the European buildings alongside the waterfront. It is an exquisite view.
- After that, stroll towards Yu Garden (Yuyuan Garden) and spend approximately 1.5 hours there. It is a classic example of Chinese garden design, and there are various spots where you can take beautiful snaps.
- Make your way to the bustling Shanghai Old Street close to grab some traditional food and souvenirs.
- Afternoon
- Next, visit the People’s Square to rent a vehicle for the Oriental Pearl Tower and check out the highly esteemed Shanghai Museum. This cultural excursion is endless, so set aside at least two hours.
- For lunch, enjoy some xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) at a local restaurant to experience the authentic taste of Shanghainese food.
- Evening
- Make your way to the Lujiazui district for a sumptuous view of the 360-degree panoramic city from the top of the Shanghai Tower. Aim to reach there by nightfall. Set aside one hour for this captivating experience, as it will leave you stunned.
- Last, take a Huangpu River cruise to witness the magnificent skyline and city lights. It is a tradition for people visiting Shanghai, and the cruise typically takes about an hour and a half.
The itinerary is designed to provide a balanced mix of sightseeing and cultural experiences and gives a genuinely diverse yet sober experience of Shanghai in a day. Set aside enough time to get to different places and schedule your meals in a way that makes the most of your time.
3-day comprehensive Shanghai exploration
For a 3-day trip to Shanghai, here’s how I would plan it concisely and experience:
Day 1
- Morning
My first recommendation is to start the day at The Bund, a traditional Shanghai waterfront, where you can find a mix of riverside buildings and a skyline view. Plus, walk on the promenade and visit famous places like the Port of Customs and the Hotel of Peace.
- Afternoon
Don’t forget to check out the masterpiece of Ming Dynasty Yu Garden. If you’re feeling snacks, head over to Yuyuan Mall. And if there’s any time left, visit Shanghai Museum for a deeper dive into their culture.
- Evening
Head to the Nanjing Road Pedestrian area for some evening shopping and food, and finish the day with a walk to enjoy the city lights.
Day 2
- Morning
Travel to Zhujiajiao Water Town, which is one hour from central Shanghai. This is a good place to walk through ancient canals, stone bridges, and classic historic buildings.
- Afternoon
The next stop is the Tianzifang, an arts and crafts area within the French Concession, where you can window shop or grab a bite at one of the many excellent themed cafes.
- Evening
For dinner, I suggest heading to a local place that serves great food from this region. End the tour at Xintiandi, where history and modern entertainment collide.
Day 3
- Morning
Gain insight into the city in marvelous Shanghai from the observation deck of the China Tower, the tallest structure in the country. It has an observation deck at 1841 feet (561 meters), which provides a stunning aerial view of the city.
- Afternoon
Visit a smaller yet equally valuable Propaganda Poster Art Center in Shanghai that contains art pieces of cultural and historical importance.
- Evening
Complete your day with a night cruise on the Huangpu River. For the best experience, choose one with glass walls. This will surely end your visit to Shanghai on a good note.
This guide will help you balance rest with exploration to make your experience comfortable. Remember to buy tickets in advance for the major attractions within the Tower and for the river cruises. Public trains are readily available for trips within the city, and taxis and rides are the best option for the water town trip.
What unique and off-the-beaten-path Shanghai excursions are available in 2025?
What unique and off-the-beaten-path Shanghai excursions are available in 2025
- M50 Art District—Visit this creative art district brimming with contemporary art studios and local and international galleries sculpting their masterworks.
- Sheshan National Forest Park—Escape the hustle of urban life by visiting Sheshan National Forest Park, which offers naturally beautiful hiking trails, a tranquil basilica, and stunning nature.
- Tianzifang by Night: Get lost in the magical old alleys, which have been transformed into a bustling cosmopolitan area filled with shops, beautiful cafes, and artistic display areas.
- Zhujiajiao Water Town Stays—The water town provides charming rustic guest houses for those who wish to go on a more extended trip. These accommodations offer a tranquil experience without the hassle of daytime tourists.
- Longhua Temple Evening Ceremonies—Experience Shanghai’s calm spiritual side with an evening prayer ceremony in Longhua’s oldest city temple.
These Shanghai excursions make the trip more memorable by providing depth to the experience and showcasing the less popular yet equally fascinating natural, cultural, and artistic treasures.
Underground art scene and gallery hopping tours
The sub-culture of art in Shanghai is richly woven and fostered by the highly metropolised city and its split between contemporary and traditional influences. The city’s abundant venues are guaranteed to house thought-provoking works of art, from concealed galleries in renovated warehouses to experimental art facilities carved from aged alleyways.
- M50 Creative Park—This famous park of contemporary art galleries contains ShanghART Gallery and Vanguard Gallery, which have modular installations, experimental photography, and modern media art exhibits. The park is open from 10 AM to 6 PM during the day, making it a perfect opportunity for those wanting to experience the Shanghai art scene.
- Caserne Space—This recently opened, although lesser-known, site-specific artistic independent gallery aims to support young and emerging talents. Its rotation of exhibitions held in the raw environment of an industrial building highlights the ever-growing pool of fresh talent.
- World Art Museum Basement Halls—Below the World Art Museum, there is a web of small-scale pop-up exhibitions organized by students and local collectives. These areas showcase the underground movements from close range and allow interactions with the artists during active workshops or collaborative sessions.
The places listed here are good examples of Shanghai’s innovative subculture, which combines local and foreign creative industries. Check what is displayed before your visit because most galleries rotate their exhibits. The underground art culture is the city’s artistic heart, and it does not get much commercial attention, making it a refreshing sight for tourists.
Shanghai’s hidden Jewish heritage tour
Delving into the lesser-known Jewish heritage sites in Shanghai is equally fascinating and educational. Jewish refugees escaping European persecution found refuge in Shanghai during World War II, with nearly 20,000 of them migrating to the city. Their legacy remains in the Shanghai Jewish Refugees Museum, which stores the now Ohel Moshe Synagogue. Artifacts, photographs, and personal accounts from the residents of Hongkou, also referred to as “Little Vienna,” are on display in the museum. Significant landmarks like Huoshan Park and the former residential buildings of the Jewish refugees are often included in the walking tours.
Key Details:
- Tour Duration: Typically 2-3 hours
- Group Size: Limited to 10-20 participants for an intimate experience
- Accessibility: Walking tours may include uneven pathways; suitable footwear is recommended
- Language Availability: English, Mandarin, and Hebrew options are often provided
These lesser-known tours of Shanghai emphasize the city’s cultural significance while giving accurate information about its history.
References
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the best private tours available in Shanghai for 2025?
A: Some of the best private tours in Shanghai for 2025 include customized city highlights tours, food tours exploring local cuisine, and day trips to nearby water towns. Private tours offer flexibility, personalized attention, and the ability to tailor the experience to your interests, making them an excellent choice for exploring Shanghai.
Q: Are there any recommended China tours that include Shanghai?
A: Yes, many China tours include Shanghai as a key destination. Popular options often combine Shanghai with other major cities like Beijing and Xi’an. Look for tours that balance Shanghai’s modern attractions and historical sites, such as the Shanghai Tower, Yu Garden, and the Bund. Some tours include nearby cities like Suzhou or Hangzhou for a more comprehensive experience.
Q: What are the top things to do in Shanghai during a visit?
A: Some top things to do in Shanghai include visiting the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower, exploring the historic Bund area, shopping on Nanjing Road, experiencing the vibrant nightlife in Xintiandi, and cruising the Huangpu River. Don’t miss out on visiting Shanghai Disneyland and the Shanghai Museum and trying local delicacies in the city’s numerous food streets and markets.
Q: Can you recommend a good Shanghai private tour for first-time visitors?
A: For first-time visitors, a comprehensive private Shanghai tour that covers the city’s highlights is ideal. Look for tours, including stops at the Yuyuan Garden, Jade Buddha Temple, Shanghai World Financial Center observation deck, and a walk along the Bund. Many private tours also offer the flexibility to customize the itinerary based on your interests, ensuring you see the best of Shanghai.
Q: Are there any unique Shanghai tours or experiences available in 2025?
A: Yes, there are several unique Shanghai tours and experiences available. Consider taking a food tour to discover the best local cuisine, a night tour to see the city’s spectacular illuminations, or a themed tour focusing on Shanghai’s Art Deco architecture. For a truly unique experience, look for tours that offer behind-the-scenes access to places like the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center or workshops on traditional Chinese crafts.
Q: What are the best shore excursions for cruise passengers visiting Shanghai?
A: The best Shanghai shore excursions for cruise passengers typically include visits to key attractions like the Bund, Yu Garden, and Shanghai Museum. Look for tours that offer efficient transportation and skip-the-line access to make the most of your limited time. Some excursions include a Huangpu River cruise or visiting the Shanghai Tower observation deck for panoramic city views.
Q: Are there any recommended day tours from Shanghai to nearby cities?
A: Yes, popular day tours from Shanghai include visits to the nearby water towns of Suzhou and Zhouzhuang, known for their canals and traditional architecture. Another option is a day trip to Hangzhou to see the famous West Lake. These tours usually include round-trip transportation, a local guide, and visits to key attractions in each city, providing a great way to experience more of the region during your Shanghai stay.