Shanghai Tours

Customized & Private Tours | Explore the Bund, the Yu Garden, and More

Shanghai

Shanghai, often hailed as the “Paris of the East,” is a vibrant metropolis that seamlessly intertwines traditional Chinese culture with cutting-edge urban development. Its breathtaking skyline is punctuated by towering skyscrapers, standing as a testament to the city’s remarkable growth. It may be difficult to envision that Shanghai was once a humble fishing village. The Huangpu River, which divides the city into two distinct halves—the historic Pudong and the more contemporary Puxi—acts as a vital lifeline for Shanghai. As evening descends, Shanghai truly transforms, with a nightlife that is as diverse and vibrant as its daytime persona.

Classic Shanghai Tours

Check out our most popular Shanghai tour packages in 2024 and experience the allure of Shanghai.

7 Days

"Shanghai, Suzhou, Hangzhou"

Shanghai Tour Highlights

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1

The Bund

The Bund stands as one of the most emblematic and must-visit destinations in Shanghai, presenting an awe-inspiring array of international architectural marvels that line the scenic Huangpu River. Spanning a distance of 1.5 kilometers, this renowned waterfront promenade is a treasure trove of diverse architectural styles, ranging from the intricate details of Gothic, the ornate grandeur of Baroque, the warm and inviting curves of Romanesque, to the timeless elegance of Classicism and the artistic flair of the Renaissance. This iconic stretch not only serves as a testament to Shanghai’s past but also as a symbol of its vibrant and dynamic future.

2

Oriental Pearl TV Tower

Standing at 468 meters tall, the Oriental Pearl TV Tower is a symbol of the city’s modernity and offers panoramic views of Shanghai from its observation decks. It’s the third tallest TV tower in the world and provides an all-around panorama view of the city. Visitors can also experience the thrill of walking on a glass-bottom platform, feeling as if they are walking among the clouds. The tower is a great place to visit in the late afternoon to witness both the sunset and the city lighting up for the night .

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3

Yu Garden and Bazaar

Yu Garden, dating back to the 16th Century, is a classic Chinese garden known for its serene atmosphere amidst the bustling city. It features elaborate structures, intimate enclaves, and is divided by “dragon walls.” The garden is a place of natural beauty and architectural interest. Adjacent to the garden is the Yuyuan Bazaar, where visitors can explore traditional Chinese handicrafts, artworks, and savor local snacks. It’s a great spot to experience Shanghai’s cultural heritage and local flavors .

What Our Clients Say

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Liam Johnson
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"Elephant Travel crafted a journey through China that was nothing short of magical. Our guide, Lily, was a font of knowledge, bringing the Great Wall to life with her stories. The accommodations were luxurious, and the private access to the Summer Palace was a treat. I particularly appreciated the attention to my dietary restrictions—Elephant Travel made me feel truly at home."
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"As a solo female traveler, I felt completely safe and well taken care of by Elephant Travel. The itinerary was well-paced, allowing for both guided tours and free time to explore. The highlight was the homestay in a rural village, where I got to experience authentic Chinese hospitality. The guide, Jack, was incredibly patient and made sure I felt included in every activity."
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"Elephant Travel's commitment to cultural immersion was evident throughout our trip. The local food tour in Guangzhou was a gastronomic delight, and our guide, Mei, was a walking encyclopedia of Chinese cuisine. The surprise lantern-making workshop was a creative way to connect with local artisans. This was travel at its best—educational, enriching, and fun."
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Great visit to Beijing Our guide Tracy was very good showing with enthusiasm all the attractions in Beijing. She received us with a delicious Beijing Duck and other dishes. We give her 5 stars.
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"The family-friendly itinerary designed by Elephant Travel was perfect for our clan. Our guide, Alex, was fantastic with the kids, turning every sight into an adventure. The Terracotta Army tour was made interactive with a scavenger hunt, and the kids still talk about it. The care and thought that went into our trip were truly commendable."
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"As a history enthusiast, the personalized tour of the Forbidden City arranged by Elephant Travel was a dream come true. Our guide, Sam, had a PhD in history and could answer every question we had. The behind-the-scenes access to the museum was a bonus. Elephant Travel's attention to detail and commitment to providing an authentic experience was unparalleled."
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“Elephant Travel made our honeymoon in China an experience to remember. The romantic cruise along the Li River in Guilin, under the karst mountains, was breathtaking. Our guide, Grace, was incredibly attentive, arranging a private dinner with a view that took our breath away. The level of service was impeccable, and the memories will last a lifetime."
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“The trekking tour in Yunnan organized by Elephant Travel was an adventure of a lifetime. Our guide, Max, was not only knowledgeable about the local flora and fauna but also a great motivator. The home-cooked meals at the guesthouses were a delightful surprise. Elephant Travel's commitment to sustainability and support of local communities was inspiring."
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"Elephant Travel's attention to our comfort and safety was commendable. During our trip to Tibet, the guide, Maya, was vigilant about our acclimatization to the high altitude. The visit to the Potala Palace was a spiritual experience, and the guide's insights added depth to our understanding of Tibetan culture."
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"The customer service provided by Elephant Travel was exceptional. When our flight was delayed, they rearranged our entire first day in Shanghai without any fuss. Our guide, Tom, met us at the airport with a smile, ensuring our trip started on a positive note. The personalized itinerary was a perfect blend of popular sights and hidden gems."
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"Elephant Travel's local connections enriched our experience in China. We were fortunate enough to attend a traditional Chinese opera in Suzhou, an event not typically accessible to tourists. Our guide, Lucy, provided insightful commentary throughout, enhancing our appreciation of the performance."
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"The culinary tour of Sichuan arranged by Elephant Travel was a spicy adventure. Our guide, Chris, took us to local eateries and taught us how to differentiate between the various levels of spiciness. The cooking class was a hands-on experience where we learned to make our own Sichuan dishes, a skill I still use today."
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"Elephant Travel's flexibility was a lifesaver. When we decided to extend our stay in Xi'an, they quickly arranged additional activities and accommodations. The extra day allowed us to visit the Banpo Museum, which was a highlight of our trip. Their ability to adapt to our needs was impressive."
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"The small-group tour of China's water towns organized by Elephant Travel was a serene experience. Our guide, Anna, had a knack for finding the perfect spots for photos, and her knowledge of the local history was fascinating. The tranquility of the water towns was a welcome contrast to the bustling cities."
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"Elephant Travel's commitment to sustainable tourism practices was evident throughout our trip. They ensured that our activities had minimal environmental impact and supported local communities. The visit to the eco-farm in Yunnan was an eye-opening experience, and we left feeling that we had contributed positively to the region."
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"The personalized service provided by Elephant Travel was outstanding. They took the time to understand our interests and designed a trip that included a visit to a traditional Chinese medicine clinic in Guangzhou. Our guide, Ben, arranged for a consultation with a local practitioner, a unique experience that deepened our understanding of Chinese medicine."
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Shanghai Travel FAQs

“Great Customized Service”, “Trip of A Lifetime”, “Exceed All Expectations”

1.Is Shanghai friendly to foreigners?

Shanghai is generally very friendly to foreigners. The city is a melting pot of cultures, and you’ll often find that locals are welcoming and eager to help. Many signs and menus in restaurants and hotels are translated into English, especially in tourist areas, which makes navigation easier for non-Chinese speakers. Additionally, the city’s ongoing efforts to improve services for expats, such as the launch of an online expat service provision portal and the acceptance of international payment methods, demonstrate Shanghai’s commitment to being an inclusive destination.

After experiencing the urban dynamism of Shanghai, you might consider visiting other parts of China that offer a different flavor of the country. Here are a few suggestions:

  • Beijing: The capital city, known for its historical sites like the Great Wall, Forbidden City, and Tiananmen Square.
  • Xi’an: Famous for the Terracotta Army and ancient city wall.
  • Hangzhou: Known for its natural beauty, particularly West Lake, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Suzhou: Renowned for its classical gardens, which are also UNESCO-listed.
  • Guangzhou: For a taste of southern China with its Cantonese cuisine and proximity to Hong Kong and Macau.

Zhujiajiao is the closest and most popular water town near Shanghai. It’s easily accessible via public transportation and is known for its well-preserved ancient buildings, quaint bridges, and traditional Chinese atmosphere. The town is built around lakes and canals, offering a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Other options include:

  • Wuzhen: Known for its scenic canals, wooden houses, and traditional workshops.
  • Xitang: A charming water town with a more laid-back atmosphere and fewer tourists.
  • Nanxun: Recognized for its silk and its elegant gardens.

Food in Shanghai can range from very affordable to high-end gourmet experiences. For tourists, there are numerous street food vendors and local restaurants offering delicious meals at reasonable prices. You can find a variety of Chinese cuisines, including Shanghainese dishes like xiaolongbao and soup noodles, for a few dollars per meal. However, if you opt for upscale international restaurants or hotels, the prices can be significantly higher. Generally, food in Shanghai is quite accessible and budget-friendly for tourists who are willing to explore local eateries.

Private Tailor-made Shanghai Tours

Want to tour Shanghai with a tailor-made itinerary? No problem! Plan your itinerary with guidance from us for FREE and ensure a memorable trip!

GET IN TOUCH WITH A TRAVEL SPECIALIST

TO PERSONALIZE YOUR CHINA JOURNEY

 

Dedicated Assistance | Prompt Response | Professional Guidance

Della

Della Tian

panbi

Panbi Liu

Chen Yuan

Betty Chen

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Caroline Gao

What You'll Receive

Expertise in China
Our team is deeply knowledgeable about China's diverse culture, history, and geography.

24/7 Support
Our dedicated support team is available 24/7 to assist with any issues or questions that may arise during your trip.

Satisfaction Guarantee
We are committed to ensuring your satisfaction. If you're not happy with any aspect of our service, we will work tirelessly to make it right.

Customizable Itineraries
We specialize in crafting travel plans that cater to your specific interests, whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or an adventure seeker.

Value for Money
We offer competitive pricing without compromising on quality.

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