A blend of history and modernity, Shanghai is set to become a new hotspot in 2025. Whether you want to experience its historical sites, skyscrapers, or culture, there is something for every traveler in this city. This article and our extensive guide to unforgettable tours in Shanghai contain everything you need, from tips to the best visiting times to itineraries tailored to your interests. This article and our complete guide will reveal Shanghai’s hidden treasures, guide you to its most important landmarks, and immerse you in the city’s magic, allowing you to strategize your journey in one of the fastest-growing metropolises in the world. So get ready to explore and start planning for your astonishing experience in Shanghai, and allow us to help by motivating you through our inspiring tips!
What to Expect on a Shanghai Tour?
City Overview: Shanghai
Often referred to as the “Pearl of the Orient,” Shanghai is recognized as a city of worldwide importance as it encompasses contemporary and historical features. It is the largest city in terms of population, currently housing over 24 million, and it includes a multicultural society. Additionally, the city is significant for its trade, culture, and finance.
Shanghai is known for its breathtaking, innovative stallions, which include the Oriental Pearl and the Shanghai Tower. Coupled with contemporary colonial-era-style buildings, the Towers are also a source of Shanghai’s diverse culture. Other than that, the vibrant arts scene and nightlife, paired with street food and Michelin restaurants, create a world of their own.
Shanghai is also known for its historical landmarks, like Yuyuan’s Garden, which features modern attractions like avant-garde Captain, alongside an extensive shopping district known as Nanjing Road. Shanghai is recognized as a leader in global transport, with one of the world’s top-ranked metro systems available, as well as high-speed travel to and from the airport via Maglev train.
While preserving its rich culture, Shanghai remains at the forefront of innovation and development, becoming a must-visit place for travelers and an agile platform for global events.
Landmarks You Should Not Miss in Shanghai
The Bund: Shanghai’s historical highlight is a waterfront promenade along the Huangpu River with a remarkable skyline and architectural beauty. The riverbank’s historic structures are ethnically Gothic, Baroque, and Art Deco architecture, substantiating the city’s colonial history. People can marvel at the scenic view of the river, especially during sunrise and evening when the town is full of lights. It is a center of culture and leisure and remains packed with people.
Oriental Pearl Tower: The Pearl Tower is a 468-meter-tall tower located in Pudong and is one of the city’s prominent landmarks. The tower has a few observation decks through which tourists can see the lively city 360 degrees. Tourists can also visit the history museum while enjoying delicious meals in its revolving restaurant. This remarkable building fully shows contemporary Shanghai, which is full of entertainment and innovations.
Jade Buddha Temple: If you wish to escape the city’s fast-paced and energetic atmosphere, Jade Buddha Temple offers absolute calmness. It was built in the late 19th century and houses beautiful white jade Buddha statues, one seated and the other reclining. It has become a beloved place for both local religious people and foreigners, who appreciate the site’s cultural and spiritual atmosphere alongside its breathtaking carvings.
Shanghai Tower: The tallest building in China, Shanghai Tower, has a jaw-dropping height of 632 meters. It is a piece of modern innovation. Tourists can reach the world’s highest observation deck and appreciate the breathtaking Shanhai views on offer. It further acts as a mark of progress and innovation in Shanhai architecture, as its sustainable construction and bold double-skin facade propelled design advancement in Shanhai.
Tianzifang: A historic area from the old French Concession, it has become a bustling center of modern boutiques, art galleries, and cafes. It is a splendid blend of contemporary art and traditional Shanhai’s Shikumen architecture. It is ideal for those interested in art, history, and shopping.
Together, these marks showcase the enchanting combination of ancient Shanghai allure, contemporary futurism, and a rich cultural venture.
Sample Daily Travel Plan for Shanghai
Morning: Begin your day at The Bund and breathe in the splendid views of historic colonial buildings resting beside the futuristic skyscrapers of Pudong on the other side of the river. Enjoy breakfast at a local restaurant that serves piping hot xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) alongside other steamed Shanghai specialties. Next, visit Yu Garden, which features beautiful rockeries, ponds, and pavilions alongside classical Chinese landscaping and is a restful retreat from the busy world around it.
Midday: Walk toward Yu Garden’s bazaar and surrounding areas to explore the many shops for rare trinkets and taste some street food. Consider Shanghai-style casseroles such as Hong Shao Rou (braised pork belly) at a local diner for lunch. When you are full, walk to People’s Square to visit the Shanghai Museum, where you will learn about the history and artistry of China through its ancient ceramics, calligraphy, and jade exhibits.
Afternoon: Head out to the Former French Concession, which has lovely shops and cafes, as well as tree-lined streets. This area is ideal for walking as it combines Shanghai’s colonial history and modern culture. If you are a history buff, check out the Former Residence of Sun Yat-sen or the Propaganda Poster Art Center to view the peculiar pieces of history concerning the city.
Evening: Spend the evening at Lujiazui in Pudong and take in the panoramic view of Shanghai through the observation deck of Shanghai Tower or the Oriental Pearl Tower. There is no shortage of dining options in the area, from elegant restaurants located high in the skies serving fine cuisine to trendy restaurants with a twist on gourmet modern cuisine. To cap off the night, take the spectacular Huangpu River Cruise, which offers the best of Shanghai’s night views, with the skyline and the city lit up at night.
The above itinerary offers a comprehensive blend of modern polish and ancient charm, resulting in a unique and unforgettable experience in Shanghai.
How to Plan Your China Tour, Including Shanghai?
Selecting an appropriate tour package
Creating a trip to China is always a multi-dimensional experience; however, selecting the right tour package is essential while traveling to places like Shanghai. Consider the length of the trip, cultural activities, historically significant locations, food tourism, or even scenic wonders that need to be covered during the journey. Packages that allow customization are also the best, and some tours offer added experiences, such as tea ceremonies or visits to ancient water towns.
During the evaluation of tour packages, pay attention to what is being offered in the package, such as accommodation, transport, guides, and meals. Comfort and efficiency are guaranteed in packages with fast-speed train services connecting major cities such as Beijing, Xi’an, and Shanghai. In addition, small group tours are good for gaining personal attention, and private tours are best for those wanting a completely custom itinerary.
To have a complete experience of China, look at multi-city packages that include Shanghai and other famous sites such as the Great Wall, the Terracotta Army, or the beautiful Guilin karst landscapes. Seasonal considerations are equally important—spring and autumn are renowned for their vibrant festivals along with agreeable temperatures, while winter tours can offer snow-covered historical sites and sightseeing at a lower cost. You can enjoy a smooth and enriching journey across China with the right tour package tailored to your interests and travel style.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Private and Group Excursions
When choosing to travel on private or group excursion packages, evaluating the pros and cons of private vs group is essential to identify your travel preferences. Private tours are more suited for travelers who demand exclusivity, attention, and flexibility, as they are personalized the most out of all tour packages. With them, you can design the schedule yourself, guaranteeing that all the sights you wish to visit are on the list. Such tours are perfect for family vacations, couples, or small groups who love cozy atmospheres and control over the speed at which activities are done.
Conversely, group tours are economical and sociable, accommodating a variety of travelers with set itineraries. These tours provide excellent opportunities to meet new people and are led by guides who tell interesting stories and provide cultural commentary. While group tours may be more time-constrained than private ones, they often allow room to reasonably appreciate the local culture and essential landmarks. Group tours enable individuals or families to participate actively in shared experiences, fostering memorial interactions with people from different regions. Understanding the differences between both options lets one select the tour type that best improves their travels.
Creating a Custom Tour Experience
Aligning your travels with a personal custom tour improved to match your preferences, interests, and even schedule. Recent custom tours from reputable agencies allow you to choose the specific guides, destinations, and even activities that best suit you. Tailoring your itinerary aids in solving a myriad of thrills, be it passionate about historical landmarks, scenic landscapes, or culinary adventures. Custom tours reveal recent travel trends, highlighting a demand surge for flexible excursions tweaked to suit individual requirements.
Design a memorable personalized tour by outlining the available time slots interleaved with a list of your key interests. Look into local transportation, seasonal events, and peak visiting hours to maximize your experience. These details, together with group size, are equally important, for people attending might prefer an intimate solo trip or a family-friendly adventure, which many local experts describe as a hidden gem outside the standard itineraries. Furthermore, contributing to sustainable travel practice measures and incorporating eco-friendly travel choices like visiting local farms improve the environment and enrich the overall cultural experience.
Thorough planning, in conjunction with an acceptance of surprising elements, ensures that your custom tour is complete and timeless.
What Are the Best Day Tours in Shanghai?
Best Highlights For One Day Tour
Shanghai combines the old and the new and offers a spectacular variety of sights to visit. A traditional starting point would be the Bund, a waterfront walkway that captures stunning views of the city’s historic buildings next to the modern skyline on the Huangpu River. Guests will be treated to a scenic walk along the river, where they can take pictures and also learn about the city’s colonial history.
An equally important stop is the Yu Garden, another classical Chinese garden. It is so elegant, with pavilions, rockeries, and ponds, that it heals and calms beautifully. Hence, This Yu Garden offers a peaceful relief from urban life and an escape to traditional Chinese surroundings.
The Shanghai Museum also gives a stronger cultural feel. It has the world’s greatest collection of Chinese porcelain, jade, calligraphy, sculpture, and other ancient art pieces, which makes it so special. The museum has an equally advantageous position, as it is located at People’s Square, which enables tourists to visit and easily walk over to other attractions.
Nanjing Road can be your alternative if you’re looking for modern sights in Shanghai. This bustling avenue offers vibrant shopping and entertainment, where multinational companies have set up operations. Local outlets and food kiosks selling authentic dishes from the region can be found. The area offers a vibrant experience that showcases Shanghai’s multi-national reality.
To complete the day, travel to Jing’an Temple, a peaceful Buddhist temple with golden roofs that starkly contrast the nearby skyscrapers. The temple can also serve as a place for quiet meditation and a link to Shanghai’s spiritual past.
These varied locations provide an extensive glimpse of the city’s beauty and cultural richness, which will enhance your day tour of Shanghai.
Discovering Yu Garden and Other Historical Sites.
Situated in the center of the old town, Yu Garden (Yuyuan Garden) is a classic example of Chinese landscape garden design. This beautiful garden was constructed in the 16th century during the Ming Dynasty. It was preserved for a very prosperous Chinese official, and it was meant to serve as his private residence and retreat. Every detail of the landscape was done so to ensure that the more than five acres of land were populated with carefully placed pavilions, ponds, rockeries, and ancient trees, creating a tranquil retreat from the city. The stunning details of architecture, like carved lattice windows and bridges, showcase the artistic achievements of the time.
Located within walking distance, the City God Temple is one of the iconic Taoist temples, serving as the spiritual center for residents for many years. The traditional marketplace and the temple provide visitors with a blend of religious visits and the culture of Shanghai.
The Old City Wall can be found right next to Yu Garden. A small remnant section of the walls protected Shanghai in its earlier days. This landmark portrays an essential part of the city’s history and helps one understand its past as a bustling trade center. Together, these landmarks offer a glimpse of the city’s history, culture, and artistry, truly reflecting Chinese traditional values.
Sunset Views from Shanghai Tower
Spiraling gracefully into the clouds, the Shanghai Tower is an engineering marvel and a symbol of urban China’s transformation. Standing at a breathtaking height of 632 meters (2,073 feet), it holds the title of the tallest building in China and the second tallest in the world. The design of the building is particularly noteworthy; the spiraling glass façade not only improves stability in high winds but also embodies the rise of Shanghai on the world stage. From this architectural wonder, visitors are privileged to experience one of the most incredible sunsets in the world.
From the 118th floor, an unforgettable view comes into sight as daylight fades. The sun’s golden rays set the Bund and Pudong skyline ablaze, illuminating the city’s iconic structures. At this moment, the Huangpu River and the skyscrapers bask in the sun’s warmth. Seemingly endless views surround you and provide a sense of tranquility unlike any other. Supporting the Huangpu River, the bustling metropolis transforms into a glittering sea of lights while the sun emerges from its slumber.
Further enhancing the sunset experience, Shanghai Tower takes pride in its state-of-the-art amenities. Its high-speed elevators, traveling up to 20.5 meters per second (67 ft/s), ensure that reaching the observation deck is quick and seamless. All travelers are comfortable as the observation deck is surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows, which is optimal for unrestricted viewing. Whether you’re a photographer hoping to capture stunning shots or an avid traveler hoping to see Shanghai from that view, we guarantee that the sunset will always paint a breathtaking escene illuminated by the shimmering skyline.
How to Experience Local Culture on Your Shanghai Tour?
Strolling through the Former French Concession
While I was strolling through the Former French Concession, the tree-lined streets, along with the stylish colonial buildings, evoked a combination of the past and present that was captivating at the same time. This area had been an expatriate district and now is an amalgamation of cultural sites, beautiful cafes, and shops. It felt like I was transported to a different era while walking, where two different times meet in a perfect convergence. The blend of modern Shanghai with architectural remnants of French colonialism was truly astonishing.
A highlight of my trip was visiting the Fuxing Park, a calm green park. People gathered at Fuxing Park for tai chi, dancing, and card games, a great way to experience the local culture. Another place to not miss is Tianzifang, an intricate network of narrow streets and alleyways filled with art studios, craft shops, and tiny cafes and restaurants. Though frequented by tourists, the area’s artist history contributes an enduring charm. Locally, it felt like I was uncovering pieces of Shanghai’s identity by sampling local snacks and examining the splendid creativity on display.
I went to the Shanghai Propaganda Poster Art Center to deepen my understanding of the culture, which contains exquisite posters from a bygone epoch. These magnificent pieces of art illuminated a fragment of China’s revolutionary past. The Former French Concession was not only about sightseeing. It involved absorbing the multiple layers of history and the culture that have made Shanghai the enthralling city it is today. The architectural buildings and busy streets pulsing with life give this area a blend of the modern and ancient eras. It’s simply captivating.
Visiting the Water Towns around Shanghai
Visiting the water towns surrounding Shanghai was a glimpse into a world that used to be much slower and more pleasant. These lovely towns are also known as the “Venice of the East” because of their beautiful canals and old buildings, which are full of history. One of the renowned towns I visited is Zhujiajiao, about an hour away from downtown. The 36 stone bridges coupled with Ming and Qing dynasty buildings offered an exquisite, surreal view. This was an escape from Shanghai’s fast-paced city life.
Intermingling history with daily life, the town felt strikingly united while I was there. Local sellers offered traditional crafts, snacks, and other souvenirs while I sophisticatedly traversed the town’s alleyways. Riding the canal boats was a boat ride highlight because it intimately revealed the alluring charm of the waterfront along the town. Places like the Kezhi Garden enhanced the experience with their peaceful beauty and preserved architecture. Zhujiajiao is one of the oldest water towns in the area, and I was surprised to learn it is over 1,700 years old.
Zhouzhuang was also notable and is often deemed the crowning jewel of water towns near Shangai. Its scenic beauty and cultural importance have imprinted themselves into my memory. The Shuangqiao Bridge is also a double-arched bridge famous for its reflection, rounded like a perfect circle on the water. The town also has ancient residential buildings preserved for public access, and people can see how life was centuries ago. These water towns left a remarkable hope that touched the essence of my heart alongside my appreciation for the blended blend of natural beauty and culture.
Collaborating With Local Guides For Personal Authentic Experiences
Working with a local guide deepened my engagement, offering insights that would have been impossible to obtain independently. With an intimate knowledge of the area, my guide took me through secret family-owned tea shops and unique locales, revealing lifelong stories I will cherish forever. For example, my guide told me the story of the Shuangqiao Bridge, its role in ancient trade routes, and the incredible labor put into building it. Such striking stories infused with imagination helped me appreciate the town’s architecture in a lively manner.
Aside from their deep historical knowledge, local guides were invaluable help in understanding these towns’ customs and ways of life. I remember my guide brought me to see a traditional silk weaving demonstration, which was not something most tourists could see. He told me so many techniques skillfully woven throughout history that I can’t help but admire how much effort and creativity goes into this craft. Moreover, the guides gave handy advice, like when is the best time to visit certain places or how to interact with locals while respecting their culture.
A local guide’s connection with the people residing in these picturesque towns stood out the most. In particular, the elderly boatman who loved telling stories about the canals or the owner of the family restaurant who cooked using recipes passed down through generations. These experiences made my trip memorable. Local guides transformed my experience from a mere tourist visit to an educative deep-dive by sharing their enthusiasm and expertise, welcoming me into these water towns’ brilliant blend of culture, tradition, and community.
What Are the Popular Day Trips from Shanghai?
Exploring Suzhou and Its Classical Gardens
As part of my travel itinerary, I particularly enjoyed the scenic beauty of Suzhou’s classical gardens. Often referred to as the “Venice of the East,” Suzhou is also famous for its meticulously designed gardens, many of which have been classed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. One of my favorite stops was the Humble Administrator’s Garden, the largest of Suzhou gardens, covering over 51,000 square meters. While walking through its meandering paths, placid ponds, and beautiful pavilions, I felt immersed in a living work of art of traditional Chinese landscaping. The level of attention to balance and harmony in all details was genuinely captivating and revealed the sophistication of Ming Dynasty aesthetics.
Another highlight for me was the Lingering Garden, renowned for its ingenious use of space with rocks and water features. Even though this garden is smaller than others, it still conveys a sense of expansiveness. I found out this garden is especially admired for its Taihu rock collection and the four seasonal areas, providing something new to experience whenever you choose. It was intriguing to observe how the designers used natural features to represent powerful thoughts, crafting a meditative yet uplifting space.
What made this visit richer was the nearby Suzhou Museum, which is also a landmark I enjoyed because of its design by renowned architect I. M. Pei, who was born in Suzhou. The museum features modern elements of construction, which gives them a breath of fresh air while keeping traditional Chinese design, making it a great addition to the history-filled gardens in the city. These experiences combined made Wu’s behavior wonderfully beautiful and incredibly insightful from a cultural perspective. Shoppers is a history, design lover, or just need a quiet place to unwind, the classical gardens of Suzhou are a must visit spot no more than a day trip from Shanghai.
Field Trips to Hangzhou and West Lake
The trip to Hangzhou, as well as West Lake, was a personal favorite throughout my voyage as it provided a peaceful retreat along with a deep dive into authentic Chinese culture. Hangzhou is famous for its beauty and is often referred to as ˊHeaven on Earth. ˊ This is for its nurtured mountains, ancient trees, and alluring West Lake, the city’s centerpiece. Furthermore, when I reached the location, the incredible beauty captivated me thoroughly, as the scenery brought together nature and mankind’s artifice into a single piece of land.
West Lake was indeed the most astonishing one of all. While walking around its calming banks, I admired quintessential landmarks such as the Broken Bridge and the Leifeng Pagoda. Each of these attractions contained rich tales and historical importance. Furthermore, riding a boat on the lake was enchanting as it provided stunning vistas of the willow oaks, lotus flowers, and classic pavilions floating on the quiet waters. It was pretty apparent to me, at least, that this fantastic piece of land had been a >source of inspiration for poets, artists, and scientists for the last many centuries.
Located past the lake, Hangzhou offers a vivid blend of nature and modernity. I got to experience the history of the city myself when I visited Qinghefang Ancient Street due to its remarkable design, local bites, and unique keepsakes. During my stay, I also went to the famous Lingyin Temple, which is located in a hilly area, and its calmness filled my mind with imagination. The beauty of nature, modern vivacity, and rich history all come together in perfect harmony in Hangzhou; this makes it a remarkable area to visit in China.
Day Trips to Zhujiajiao Water Town
It seemed as if I was looking at a postcard when I visited Zhujiajiao Water Town. It was so calming and soothing; I understand why it is called the “Venice of the East” Water Town. This ancient town is 1,700 years old and is known for its historic and scenic stone bridges, ancient architecture, and serene waterways. Fangsheng Bridge caught my attention immediately, it is one of the largest stone arch bridges and is located in the area, it was built during the Ming Dynasty. While cruising through the canals on a boat, I was able to witness the classic-style buildings and vibrant local shops that add character to the town.
I spent hours wandering the narrow, cobblestone lanes, checking out various charming stores filled with local delicacies and handcrafted goods. One of the fantastic finds was the iconic Zongzi (sticky rice dumplings) and crispy roasted chestnuts, which Zhujiajiao is known for. Furthermore, visiting Kezhi Garden was the best part of my trip. This classical Chinese garden containing a lotus pond, pavilions, and shaded walkways was so well landscaped that it served as a peaceful retreat.
The combination of both modern and old made the trip worthwhile. However, Zhuaziqiao has ancient temples like Yuanjin Buddhist, which serve as a retreat from energetic street performances. For a city with so many historical roots, it is easy to reach from Shanghai, which allows for frequent transport, making it perfect for a day’s visit. This town provides stunning scenery with a deep culture that ensures visitors do not leave without cherishable memories.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What are the best Shanghai tours for first-time visitors?
A: First-time visitors to Shanghai are best guided to the Bund, the Shanghai Museum, and the Jade Buddha Temple. A classic Shanghai city tour includes historical districts and modern skyscraper areas. This itinerary provides a mix of history and culture.
Q: How can I make the most of my time in Shanghai?
A: To maximize your time in Shanghai, consider booking a private tour that suits your interests. Key sites such as Humble Administrator’s Garden, Shanghai World Financial Center, and modern and old Shanghai should be prioritized.
Q: Are there any recommended private tours in Shanghai?
A: Certainly, many recommended private tours in Shanghai focus on different interests. If you need sightseeing tours, concentrate on the skyscrapers or historical ones exploring the old Shanghai; plenty of options are available.
Q: What Should I Expect From a Shanghai City Tour?
A: Each Shanghai city tour generally incorporates the Bund and Huangpu Rivers and includes a description of the city’s history and culture. In addition, expect to witness a combination of older-style buildings and modern ones, like the Shanghai Pudong skyline.
Q: How Does Shanghai Travel Compare to Other Popular Cities in China?
A: Traveling to and around Shanghai offers a comparatively different experience than traveling to and around other popular cities in China, such as Beijing. While Beijing boasts classic landmarks such as the Great Wall of China, Shanghai is famous for its gleaming skyline and busy city life, making it ideal for those wishing to visit the more modern part of China.
Q: Are there any tours, including the Great Wall of China and Shanghai?
A: Certainly, they do offer tours for one day trips from Shanghai to the Great Wall of China. These tours mostly incorporate traveling to Beijing by high-speed train to see the Great Wall of China during your time in Shanghai.
Q: What is the best way to see the classic Shanghai?
A: Classic Shanghai can be best enjoyed through walking tours of old quarters with traditional buildings. Yu Garden and the bazaar around it illuminate the city’s classic beauty.
Q: What are the must-see attractions in Shanghai for history and culture buffs?
A: History and culture enthusiasts should visit the Shanghai Museum, the Jade Buddha Temple, and the Humble Administrator’s Garden, which are essential to comprehending Shianghais’ historical development and culture.
Q: How can I enjoy the Huangpu River while in Shanghai?
A: The Huangpu River can be enjoyed through a scenic boat cruise, which offers great views of the city’s iconic skyline and skyscrapers. Walking along the Bund promenade offers a new perspective of the city’s skyline and riverside.