Shanghai: All Inclusive 2-Day Private Tour with Watertown

Review of the Shanghai: All-Inclusive 2-Day Private Tour with Watertown

Traveling to Shanghai? Then this 2-day private tour offers a thorough, flexible way to see the city’s highlights plus a charming water town. Designed for those who want a personalized experience without the hassle of planning, it covers iconic sights like the Shanghai Tower and Zhujiajiao Watertown in a comfortable, well-structured itinerary.

What makes this tour special? First, the all-inclusive approach means your entrance tickets, guides, private transfers, and even meals are covered—no hidden costs or stressful planning. Second, the private guide ensures your experience aligns with your interests and pace. And third, the balance of historic sights, modern architecture, and authentic countryside provides a well-rounded taste of Shanghai’s many faces.

A potential consideration is the fast-paced schedule that might feel a bit full for those wanting a leisurely experience. However, if you’re eager to maximize your time and cover a lot in just two days, this tour is a fantastic choice.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate guided comfort, want to explore both urban and rural parts of Shanghai, and prefer a schedule customized to their interests. Families, first-time visitors, or those with limited time will find this tour especially valuable.

Key Points

• All-inclusive pricing simplifies a busy schedule with everything covered.
• Private guides and transfers ensure a personalized, comfortable experience.
• Highlights include Shanghai Tower, Yu Garden, Bund, Zhujiajiao Watertown, and Longhua Temple.
• Cultural and modern contrasts are perfectly balanced in this tour.
• Authentic local experiences like boat rides and exploring historic neighborhoods.
• Ideal for travelers seeking efficiency combined with depth.

Exploring Shanghai in Depth: What to Expect

This tour packs a lot into just two days, but each element is thoughtfully curated to offer a genuine and memorable exploration of Shanghai’s diverse attractions.

Day 1: A Mix of Historic Charm and Modern Marvels

Yu Garden and Bazaar
The journey begins at Yu Garden, which isn’t just a pretty garden but also a vibrant market filled with small shops selling souvenirs, folk crafts, and local snacks. Reviewers mention that the admission ticket is included, so you can stroll without extra worries. We loved the bustling atmosphere and the chance to pick up unique souvenirs—something reviewers especially appreciated, noting the market as a lively hub of local crafts and food.

Former French Concession
Next, your guide takes you through the French Concession, a leafy neighborhood renowned for its European-style architecture, boutique shops, and old-world charm. Reviewers mention that you can customize your visit by choosing specific sights—like historic streets, cafes, or art galleries—making the experience tailored to your interests. Guides are flexible and happy to discuss additional points of interest once in Shanghai, providing you with insider tips.

Bund and Modern Architecture
A short stop at the Bund offers sweeping views of the city’s skyline, famous for its collection of historic buildings juxtaposed with ultra-modern skyscrapers. The free architecture exhibition gives you a quick intro to worldwide architectural styles—perfect for architecture buffs or those wanting a snapshot of Shanghai’s rapid evolution.

Shanghai Tower
The highlight of the day, the Shanghai Tower, is a must-see. As the second-tallest building in the world, it offers an elevator ride to the observation deck—and the views are breathtaking. Reviewers who’ve visited praise the bird’s-eye perspective of the city and river, making it a highlight for first-time visitors.

Day 2: Countryside Charm and Historic Temples

Zhujiajiao Ancient Town
This water town is a peaceful escape from the city hustle. You’ll enjoy a boat ride along the canals—an experience described by travelers as both scenic and relaxing. The three-hour visit allows plenty of time to explore narrow alleys, historic buildings, and quaint shops, with reviewers raving about the authentic countryside scenery and local lifestyle.

Longhua Temple
The journey concludes at Longhua Temple, Shanghai’s oldest temple, believed to be over 1700 years old. Visitors find its pagoda and serene atmosphere a perfect end to the tour. Reviewers mention that the admission is included, and note that the temple is a peaceful spot where you can reflect on Shanghai’s long spiritual history.

How the Tour Works: Logistics and Experience

Transportation
All private transfers make the day smooth and stress-free. From hotel pickups to transfers between attractions, the team ensures comfort and punctuality. This eliminates the hassle of navigating public transport or haggling with taxis, which is especially valuable for first-time visitors or those unfamiliar with Shanghai’s layout.

Guides
Your private guide is not just knowledgeable but also engaging. One reviewer highlighted that guides like Ruby are friendly, flexible, and attentive to individual preferences. They not only provide historical insights but also share local tips, like where to find the best snacks or hidden gems in neighborhoods.

Meals
Lunch is included for both days, giving you a chance to enjoy authentic local dishes without searching for options. Reviewers mention the meals as delicious and satisfying, providing energy for the busy afternoons. Dinner isn’t included, so travelers can explore local eateries on their own afterward.

Timing
Each attraction is allocated a specific time slot—like an hour at Yu Garden or two hours at Zhujiajiao—ensuring you see everything without feeling rushed. The schedule is quite full, but reviewers note that guides are good at adjusting timing based on your pace.

Weather Considerations
The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dressing appropriately is recommended. Comfortable walking shoes are advised, especially since some sites involve a fair amount of strolling.

The Experience: Authenticity Meets Comfort

What sets this tour apart is its blend of curated highlights and authentic local experiences. The boat ride in Zhujiajiao, in particular, offers a glimpse into traditional water town life, while visits to the historic Longhua Temple provide a peaceful retreat from the urban buzz.

Reviewers emphasize the quality of guides and the smooth organization, with many praising the flexibility and attentiveness of their guides. The inclusion of all entrance tickets and meals adds value, especially for travelers wary of hidden costs or complicated planning.

The Value of Private Tours

While the $500 price tag per person might seem steep, the all-inclusive nature and the private guide’s tailored approach often make it worthwhile. You get to skip long lines, avoid confusing public transport, and enjoy a personalized experience that matches your interests.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors wanting to get a rundown without the stress of logistics. Families will value the convenience and private guidance, while those short on time can maximize what they see in just two days. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a balanced mix of history, modern architecture, and local culture.

If you prefer a flexible schedule and enjoy curated experiences, this private tour will suit you. It’s especially suited to those who appreciate authentic insights from knowledgeable guides and enjoy a mix of sightseeing, food, and relaxed exploration.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

For its price, this all-inclusive private tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience covering Shanghai’s most iconic sights and a charming water town. The inclusion of private transfers, guided commentary, and meals means you can relax and soak in the atmosphere rather than worry about logistics.

Travelers who want the comfort of a private guide, combined with authentic experiences like boat rides and local markets, will find this tour very satisfying. It’s a great choice if you’re keen to see the city’s highlights efficiently, without sacrificing quality or depth.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or want to explore specific interests in more depth, you might consider customizing or spreading out your sightseeing over more days. But overall, this tour provides excellent value and a comprehensive introduction to the diverse facets of Shanghai.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult. The itinerary is active, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Does the tour operate in all weather conditions?
Yes, it runs regardless of weather. It’s wise to dress appropriately for the day’s forecast and bring umbrella or raincoat if needed.

What is included in the price?
All entrance tickets, private guide, private transfers, boat ride, and two meals (lunches) are included. Dinner is not included.

Can I customize the sights I visit?
Yes, at the French Concession you can specify up to six options or additional sights, which the guide can help you plan once in Shanghai.

How long are the visits at each attraction?
Typical time allocations are around an hour at Yu Garden, an hour at Longhua Temple, and three hours in Zhujiajiao, enabling a good balance of exploration without feeling rushed.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended since there’s a fair amount of strolling. Dress according to weather conditions, especially if visiting outdoor sites.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Absolutely. It’s suitable for family groups, with flexible timings and engaging sights that appeal to all ages.

How do I book or cancel?
Booking is straightforward online, and you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.

In essence, this tour offers a well-rounded, hassle-free way to explore the heart of Shanghai and its picturesque water town, all with the comfort and insights only a private guide can provide.