Private Tour with Shanghai Tower, Shanghai Zoo and Nanjing Road plus Xiaolongbao

Exploring Shanghai in a Day: A Complete Review of the Private Tour with Shanghai Tower, Zoo, and More

If you’re planning a trip to Shanghai and want a well-rounded experience that combines iconic sights with authentic local flavor, this private 9-hour tour might just be your perfect match. Although we haven’t taken it ourselves, the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews suggest it offers a fantastic way to see the city without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

What stands out most about this tour is the balance it strikes—covering top landmarks like the Shanghai Tower and Nanjing Road while also giving you a taste of local life through visits to Shanghai Old Street and the Zoo. We love that it includes entrance fees and a knowledgeable guide, making it a convenient and insightful option. However, keep in mind that transportation is via metro and walking, which might be tiring if you prefer private transfers. This tour seems best suited for travelers who enjoy exploring cities like locals, want to maximize their sightseeing in a limited time, and appreciate authentic food experiences.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Mix of modern skyscrapers, historic streets, and nature with visits to Shanghai Tower, Old Street, and Zoo.
• Local Transport Experience: Traveling by metro offers a genuine Shanghai vibe and saves money.
• Inclusive Price: Entrance fees, guide, and snacks are covered, making it a good value for a full day of sightseeing.
• Authentic Food: Sampling of Xiaolongbao adds a delicious local touch to the tour.
• Flexibility & Personalization: Being a private tour, it allows a tailored experience with a professional guide.
• Potential Fatigue: A full 9-hour schedule with walking and metro travel might be tiring for some.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day at Shanghai Tower

The tour begins early, around 9:00 am, with a visit to Shanghai Tower, the tallest building in the city and a true marvel of modern architecture. Standing at 632 meters, this skyscraper is an impressive introduction to Shanghai’s skyline. The highlight is the Top of Shanghai sightseeing hall on the 118th floor, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the city.

The guide is likely to point out notable landmarks from above, and the admission fee is included, so you won’t need to worry about extra costs. Reviewers mention that the Tower’s rapid elevator and observation deck make for an exciting start. One vouches, “It was very good,” and appreciated the suggestions from the guide, although some noted the visit’s quick pace as a possible downside if you want more time to soak in the views.

Walking along The Bund

Next, the tour moves to the iconic Bund, regarded as Shanghai’s symbol. Here, you’ll stroll along the waterfront, marveling at the historic colonial architecture juxtaposed with modern skyscrapers across the river. It’s a place that captures Shanghai’s blend of old and new.

The view over the Huangpu River is a favorite with travelers, and many appreciate the free access, making it a relaxing yet visually stunning stop. The guide might share interesting tidbits about the area’s history, adding depth to your experience. This spot is perfect for photos and soaking in the city’s vibrant energy.

Visiting Shanghai Zoo

Two hours are dedicated to Shanghai Zoo, a large-scale, state-level zoo that houses over 6,000 animals, including around 600 rare species. The zoo’s layout includes five distinct areas—Primate, Herbivores, Carnivores, Birds, and Amphibians—so you get a diverse look at the animal kingdom.

The opportunity to see giant pandas up close is often highlighted as a favorite part, especially for animal lovers. Reviewers mention the zoo as a well-maintained place with a good range of animals, making it a family-friendly stop. The entrance fee, included in the tour, adds to the convenience.

Exploring Shanghai Old Street and Yu Garden

After the zoo, the tour takes you to Shanghai Old Street, a bustling marketplace that transports visitors back to Shanghai’s trading hub from over a century ago. Walking through, you’ll find small shops, local snacks, and a lively atmosphere. One reviewer likened it to stepping into a living museum, full of history and character.

From there, you’ll visit Yu Garden, a classical Ming dynasty garden known for its elegant pavilions, rockeries, and tranquil ponds. The garden’s long history—shaped through wars, ownership changes, and renovations—adds layers of story to its peaceful beauty.

This part of the tour is perfect for those interested in traditional Chinese architecture and garden design. Entrance fees are included, and the guide likely shares stories about the garden’s evolution, making it a memorable experience.

Ending at Nanjing Road

The tour concludes with a walk along Nanjing Road, China’s premier shopping street. Covering 5.5 kilometers, it features over 600 shops—ranging from luxury brands to local boutiques. It’s a lively, bustling area with energy that captures the essence of Shanghai as a commercial hub.

You’ll get about an hour here to browse, shop, or simply soak up the vibrant city atmosphere. Many travelers mention that this final stop is a great way to experience the modern side of Shanghai and perhaps pick up some souvenirs.

Snacks and Local Flavors

Throughout the day, the tour includes snacks—notably Xiaolongbao, the famous Shanghai soup dumplings. This addition gives you a taste of local culinary culture, which many reviewers highlight as a real highlight. One reviewer even described the tour as “a very good experience,” mentioning the bonus visit to a tea shop, which added an extra authentic touch.

Transportation and Practicalities

Traveling primarily by metro allows you to see a slice of local life, and it’s a cost-effective way to move around. The guide makes suggestions and helps with navigating the system, which can be a plus for travelers eager to explore independently later.

The tour is private, so the schedule can be flexible if needed, though most of the stops are well-timed. With a duration of approximately 9 hours, it packs in a lot but remains manageable, especially if you’re comfortable with walking and short metro rides.

The price of $190 per person covers entrance fees, the guide, and snacks, making it a reasonably priced full-day experience. You won’t need to worry about extra costs unless you decide to shop or visit additional attractions independently.

Review Highlights

One traveler, Luis_J, summed up his experience as “very good,” noting the punctuality of the guide and the inclusion of a bonus tea shop visit. His comment about the tour taking around five hours suggests that some might feel the itinerary is slightly condensed, but it’s a good value considering the number of sites covered.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private tour provides a well-rounded introduction to Shanghai, blending modern skyscrapers, historic streets, and wildlife encounters. It’s ideal for travelers who want an organized, guided experience that covers the highlights without the hassle of planning logistics. The inclusion of authentic food and local transportation makes it especially appealing for those eager to see the city as a resident might.

It’s perfect for first-time visitors, families, or anyone short on time but keen to get a comprehensive feel for Shanghai’s diverse attractions. If you enjoy walking, exploring local markets, and learning from knowledgeable guides, this tour will suit you well.

However, if you prefer private transfers or a more leisurely pace, you might find the metro-based approach a little fast-paced, especially for larger groups or travelers with mobility concerns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is designed to accommodate most travelers, including families, thanks to its varied stops and manageable pace.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for Shanghai Tower, Zoo, and Yu Garden are covered in the tour price.

What transportation is used during the tour?
Primarily, you’ll travel by metro and on foot, providing an authentic local experience and helping you see the city from a resident’s perspective.

Does the tour include food?
Yes, the tour features snacks, including the famous Xiaolongbao, adding a tasty local flavor to your day.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 9 hours, starting at 9:00 am and ending at the meeting point.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, you may have some flexibility to adjust stops or timing with your guide.

Is transportation from my hotel included?
Pickup is offered, but private transportation is not included, so confirm your meeting point accordingly.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as you’ll be exploring on foot and using metro transit.

How much should I budget for souvenirs or extras?
That depends on your shopping habits, but the tour itself is all-inclusive regarding entry fees and snacks.

To sum it up, this private Shanghai tour offers a fantastic way to experience a mix of the city’s highlights, authentic neighborhoods, and local flavors—all within a manageable schedule. It balances guided insights with opportunities to explore independently, making it suitable for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free day in Shanghai. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, you’ll likely walk away with great memories—and perhaps a few souvenirs from Nanjing Road.