Private Night Tour-VIP River Cruise and Shanghai Tower Option

Shanghai’s skyline is famous worldwide for its dazzling lights and futuristic architecture. But experiencing it illuminated from the water and atop one of the tallest towers offers a whole new perspective. This private night tour, offered by Sunny Private Tours, packs in a luxurious river cruise, optional access to the Shanghai Tower’s observation deck, and the chance to enjoy local Shanghainese delicacies—all at a reasonable price of $143 per person.

From the very beginning, what makes this tour stand out is its personalized approach. It’s ideal for travelers who value comfort, expert guides, and authentic views over crowded group excursions. But, as with any activity, there are a few things to consider—mainly the need to book well in advance since it’s popular, often planned around sunset hours. If you’re looking for a memorable, intimate way to see Shanghai’s nightscape, this tour is a solid choice.

What We Love About This Tour

• The VIP river cruise experience: Being seated in the VIP section with unobstructed views makes the cruise feel exclusive, and the lights along the Bund and Pudong glow beautifully from the water.

• The stunning skyline views from Shanghai Tower: The rapid ascent to the 118th-floor observation deck offers a 360-degree panorama of Shanghai’s glittering cityscape, especially breathtaking at night.

• Flexible options and good value: With optional upgrades like dinner and skipping lines at the tower, you can tailor the experience to your preferences. Plus, the package includes all entry fees, which simplifies budgeting.

• Authentic local dining (if booked with the dinner option): Many reviewers praised the quality of food, especially the famed soup dumplings and other local dishes, adding a delicious cultural touch to the evening.

A potential drawback is the need for advance planning—most travelers book around 39 days ahead—and the tour does not include food unless you opt for the dinner upgrade. Also, the tour is designed for those who enjoy a seamless, guided experience with a private vehicle, so it may not appeal to travelers who prefer DIY or larger group tours.

Who is this best for? If you want a curated, comfortable evening with excellent views, top-notch guides, and the option to combine sightseeing with culinary delights, this tour suits solo travelers, couples, or small groups seeking a luxurious night out.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with a dedicated guide and vehicle.
• Unobstructed VIP views during the river cruise.
• Option to visit the Shanghai Tower’s observation deck for panoramic cityscapes.
• Great value for a structured, all-included evening that covers transportation, entry fees, and guide service.
• Flexible upgrades available, such as dinner and skip-the-line access.
• Authentic local cuisine enhances the cultural experience (if chosen).

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Stop 1: The Bund

Your night begins with pickup from your hotel, which already sets the tone for a luxe experience. The guide—often praised for their friendliness and knowledge—leads you to the cruise terminal. Here, boarding a sightseeing ship and settling into the VIP section grants you a front-row seat to one of Shanghai’s most iconic sights.

While cruising along the Huangpu River, you’ll marvel at the illuminated colonial-era buildings on the Bund contrasted with the shimmering modern skyline of Pudong. Reviewers frequently mention the spectacular views, with one describing Pudong as “gorgeous from the river,” and another calling the cruise a “great way to see the lights of Shanghai.” The whole experience lasts around an hour, with plenty of opportunities to snap photos and soak in the city’s luminous charm.

Stop 2: Shanghai Tower

If you choose the “Tour with Tower” option, the adventure continues with a transfer to the Shanghai Tower, the city’s tallest and most architecturally striking building. Many reviewers note that the tower’s design is “super cool” and that the elevator ride to the 118th-floor observation deck is a highlight—reaching speeds of 55 meters per second.

Once at the top, expect breathtaking panoramic views of Shanghai at night. Reviewers rave about how the city’s lights stretch as far as the eye can see, and how the skyline becomes almost surreal when viewed from this height. One reviewer described the observation deck experience as “fantastic,” noting that it offers a full 360-degree panorama of both historic and modern Shanghai.

Optional Dining and Additional Perks

Many guests opt to upgrade their tour with dinner, often mentioning the deliciousness of local dishes like soup dumplings. Some reviewers highlight the helpfulness of guides in ordering and navigating local restaurants, which adds a layer of comfort for travelers unfamiliar with Shanghai cuisine.

In addition, the tour offers skip-the-line service for the Shanghai Tower during summer months— a real time-saver during busy times. The private vehicle, air-conditioned and comfortable, ensures a smooth, stress-free transfer between sites.

Why This Tour Is a Great Value

While $143 might seem steep at first glance, it includes many elements that would cost more if booked separately. The VIP river cruise, the entrance to the Shanghai Tower’s observation deck, a private guide, vehicle, and optional dinner all contribute to a seamless experience. Reviewers frequently mention the worthwhileness of the price, emphasizing the quality of guides and the exclusivity of the VIP seating.

On top of that, the tour’s flexibility means you can customize your evening: include dinner, skip the tower, or just enjoy the cruise, according to your preferences. Many travelers also appreciate the personalized service—not just a large group tour but a private experience tailored to your interests.

A Day-to-Night View of Shanghai: What You Can Expect

The Atmosphere and Timing

The tour usually begins around sunset, which is perfect for catching the city as it shifts from day to night. The cruise lasts about an hour, wrapping up just as the city lights intensify. The Shanghai Tower visit takes roughly 1.5 hours, including time to ascend and enjoy the views.

Timing is flexible depending on sunset times, but most travelers find that the combination offers a beautiful transition from daylight to luminous nightscapes. The entire experience lasts about 3 to 4 hours, making it a perfect evening activity—especially if you’re keen to maximize your night in Shanghai without feeling rushed.

Transportation and Comfort

The private, air-conditioned vehicle is often highlighted by reviewers as a significant perk, especially after a long day of sightseeing. The guide’s friendliness and knowledge make the journey enjoyable, turning travel time into a learning opportunity about Shanghai’s development.

The Experience Guides

Guides like Shirley, Roy, and Annie frequently receive praise for their friendliness, patience, and extensive knowledge. They help answer questions, share interesting facts, and even assist with ordering food—adding a layer of genuine hospitality that many travelers value.

Who Will Truly Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for those who appreciate comfort, personalized service, and stunning visuals. It’s ideal for travelers looking for a memorable night out that covers both scenic views and cultural enjoyment. If you’re a first-timer eager to see Shanghai’s highlights from the water and sky, this tour hits the mark.

Couples, small groups, or solo travelers who want to avoid the hassle of organizing their own transportation or tickets will find this private tour a practical and luxurious option. Food lovers will also appreciate the opportunity to sample local cuisine in a relaxed, guided setting.

The Sum Up

For anyone wanting a balanced mix of sightseeing, luxury, and local flavor, this private night tour delivers. You’ll experience breathtaking views from the Shanghai Tower, unwind on a VIP river cruise, and enjoy authentic food—all tailored to your pace and preferences.

The tour’s expert guides and the convenience of transportation make a memorable evening seamless and stress-free. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting a unique way to see Shanghai, this experience offers excellent value and a chance to see the city in its glowing nighttime splendor.

If you prioritize comfortable, guided experiences with top-notch views and the option to indulge in local cuisine, this tour ticks all the boxes. Just remember to book early, as it’s popular and fills up quickly.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult. The tour’s flexible nature makes it suitable for families, especially if they enjoy scenic views and comfortable transportation.

What is included in the price?
The price covers a private guide, private vehicle, VIP cruise tickets, and the entrance to the Shanghai Tower’s observation deck if you choose that option. Food is only included if you select the dinner upgrade.

Can I customize the experience?
Absolutely. You can add dinner, select the tower visit, or skip certain parts depending on your preferences. The guide can help tailor the experience to you.

How long does the tour last?
Typically, it lasts around 3 to 4 hours, including pickup, the cruise, the tower visit, and optional dining.

Is the tour available during summer?
Yes, skip-the-line service for the Shanghai Tower is available during the summer months, saving you time during busy seasons.

Are there any dress codes or special requirements?
There are no strict dress codes, but it’s advisable to wear comfortable clothes and shoes for the tower visit and cruise.

What if my flight or hotel pickup is delayed?
The guides are usually accommodating, and you should inform the provider in advance. The tour can be modified if notified ahead of time.

Is the tour offered in multiple languages?
Reviews specifically mention guides with excellent English skills, such as Roy and Shirley, making communication easy for international travelers.

What about tips or gratuities?
Tips are not included in the price; gratuities are appreciated if you enjoyed the service, especially the guides.

This private night tour offers a blend of stunning sights, expert guidance, and culture, making it a smart choice for those wanting to experience Shanghai’s luminous glow without the hassle.