Your Gateway to China’s Treasures

Traveling to Shanghai and looking for an experience that balances iconic sights, cultural insights, and authentic local charm? This 3-day private tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of the city’s most beloved landmarks, artistic neighborhoods, and hidden gems—perfect for curious travelers eager to explore without the stress of planning. We’ll walk you through what makes this tour special, with insights into how it can fit different travel styles.

What we love about this tour is its flexibility and depth—you get to see Shanghai’s famous skyline, traditional gardens, and modern art, all in a manageable schedule. Plus, the small group or private format means you enjoy a more personalized experience, guided by knowledgeable locals who know the ins and outs. The included meals and seamless pick-up add to the convenience, making your trip smoother and more enjoyable.

One thing to consider is that transportation isn’t included, so you’ll want to be comfortable with local transit or arrange your own transfers for some parts, especially on Day 3. But overall, the value of this package lies in its curated content, flexible options, and insider tips.

This tour suits first-time visitors wanting a rundown, families seeking a paced experience, or anyone eager to combine sightseeing with culture. If you love having a guide tailor your day and can enjoy walking and exploring neighborhoods at a relaxed pace, this could become a highlight of your Shanghai trip.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Combines culture, architecture, art, and local flavor across three days.
• Flexible Activities: Options like the Shanghai Tower Observatory or rooftop cocktails provide personalized highlights.
• Family-Friendly & Relaxed: Well-paced, with engaging stops suitable for all ages.
• Authentic Local Touches: Markets, historic villas, and underground bars enrich the experience.
• Value-Driven: For $100 per person, meals, guided sightseeing, and unique city insights are included.
• Skip the Hassle: Pickup and mobile tickets simplify logistics, though transportation between some sites is not included.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: The Heart of Shanghai — Landmarks and Neighborhoods

The tour kicks off early with a visit to The Bund, Shanghai’s most famous waterfront. Strolling along the promenade from 9:00 to 10:30 AM allows you to enjoy the sweeping views of historic colonial buildings on one side and the modern skyscrapers across the river. This is a quiet time to appreciate the city’s skyline without feeling overwhelmed by crowds—a detail appreciated by travelers who value a peaceful start.

Next, the historic Yuyuan Garden provides a lush contrast to the bustling city. Built during the Ming dynasty, its pavilions, koi ponds, and zigzag bridges create a peaceful oasis. The lively bazaar surrounding the garden is perfect for browsing souvenirs or sampling local snacks. The included lunch here means you won’t need to worry about finding a good spot—just savoring traditional flavors amidst the vibrant market scene.

In the afternoon, Tianzifang offers an artsy vibe, with narrow alleyways filled with galleries, indie boutiques, and cafés housed in traditional Shikumen houses. The atmosphere here is relaxed yet lively, making it ideal for wandering and soaking up Shanghai’s creative spirit. As one reviewer put it, “I loved exploring the artsy alleys, especially the quirky boutiques and street art.”

Later, the Former French Concession presents tree-lined streets, charming villas, and hip cafés. Sinan Mansions, in particular, offers perfect photo ops and a taste of Shanghai’s colonial past. This area is cool and laid-back, perfect for enjoying a coffee or just people-watching.

The day ends with a visit to Lujiazui, where you can choose between an admission to the Shanghai Tower Observatory for panoramic views or a drink at the Flair Rooftop bar at the Ritz-Carlton. The observatory offers 360° vistas—ideal for photo buffs—while the rooftop bar is perfect for unwinding with city views. According to reviews, the skyline views here are “breathtaking” and not to be missed.

Day 2: Art, Culture, and Entertainment

Day two dives into Shanghai’s vibrant art scene. The Shanghai Museum is a treasure trove of Chinese art, from bronzes and ceramics to calligraphy. The Minorities Gallery attracts those eager for cultural insights beyond the typical tourist spots. It’s a museum that uses its collection to tell diverse stories, often highlighted by guides as a favorite part of the tour.

After a quick walk through the city’s shopping streets, the tour visits the Power Station of Art, China’s pioneering contemporary art museum. Housed in a repurposed power plant, it hosts rotating avant-garde exhibitions that challenge traditional art forms. Reviewers mention that the space feels industrial and gritty, adding to the edgy vibe of the artworks.

In the late afternoon, M50 Creative Park showcases Shanghai’s contemporary art scene—think murals, edgy galleries, and unique prints for sale. It’s a favorite for travelers interested in street art and underground culture. The district’s dynamic vibe is summed up by a reviewer who said, “I loved wandering through the murals and discovering new artists in this industrial setting.”

The day wraps up with a spectacular acrobatics show at Shanghai Circus World. Combining dance, technology, and gravity-defying stunts, this performance appeals to all ages and provides an energetic, awe-inspiring finish to the day.

Day 3: Historic Streets and Water Town Charm

The final day begins with a stroll along Wukang Road, known for its 1920s villas and the iconic Wukang Mansion. This quiet street offers a glimpse of Shanghai’s early 20th-century architecture and is perfect for photography. Travelers appreciate the peaceful atmosphere here after busy days exploring.

The highlight is Zhujiajiao Ancient Town, often called the “Venice of the East.” A 1-hour taxi or metro ride transports you to this charming water town, where narrow canals and Qing-dynasty stone bridges create a serene setting. A boat ride through the canals offers a different perspective of traditional life, and sampling sticky rice stuffed with pork adds a tasty local touch. One reviewer mentioned, “The boat ride was relaxing, and the food was surprisingly delicious.”

Finally, the tour visits Found 158, an underground bar district housed in converted bomb shelters. The vibe is cool and slightly rebellious—perfect for those interested in Shanghai’s lesser-known nightlife spots. Sipping cocktails at Sober Company or dancing at Arkham gives a fun, offbeat end to your trip.

Practicalities and Value

At $100 per person, this tour includes meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), guide service, and various entrance fees, making it a good value for a comprehensive city experience. While transportation between some sites isn’t included, the itinerary’s design minimizes long transfers, focusing instead on walking and local transit.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, thanks to its manageable pace and family-friendly activities. The guide’s local knowledge helps you navigate Shanghai’s complexities, and the flexible options—like choosing between the observatory or rooftop cocktails—allow for personalization.

With pickup included and mobile tickets, logistics are simplified. Travelers have noted that the experience is well-organized, with knowledgeable guides providing context and insider tips. However, those who prefer private transport might need to arrange it themselves for some parts.

The Sum Up

This 3-day Shanghai tour offers a thoughtfully curated blend of sightseeing, culture, and local flavor. It balances major landmarks like The Bund and the Shanghai Tower with hidden gems such as Wukang Road and Zhujiajiao Water Town, making it ideal for first-time visitors or those wanting a rundown without feeling rushed.

The inclusion of meals, flexible options, and expert guides enhances its value, especially for travelers who appreciate insider knowledge and authentic experiences. Whether you’re fascinated by architecture, art, or local life, this tour delivers a well-rounded taste of Shanghai’s many faces.

Overall, it’s best suited for travelers seeking an organized, immersive experience that combines the city’s highlights with some off-the-beaten-path moments. If you’re happy to walk, explore, and enjoy curated commentary, this tour will deliver a memorable journey through China’s most cosmopolitan city.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Transportation between some sites isn’t included, so you may need to use local transit or arrange your own taxis for certain parts, especially on Day 3.

What’s the tour start time?
The tour begins early at 7:00 AM with pickup at the designated meeting point at People’s Square.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included, making it easier to enjoy local cuisine without extra planning.

Can I choose between the Shanghai Tower and rooftop bar?
Yes, on Day 1, you can opt for either the Shanghai Tower Observatory for panoramic views or cocktails at the Flair Rooftop bar.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Absolutely. The pace and activities are family-friendly, with engaging sights and shows like the acrobatics performance.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before start are non-refundable.

This tour offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Shanghai, blending history, art, and modern city life—all in an accessible and thoughtfully organized package. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler, you’ll come away with meaningful insights and plenty of memorable moments.