Shanghai: After Dark Dinner and Huangpu River Night Cruise

Planning a night out in Shanghai that combines scenic beauty, authentic cuisine, and a touch of luxury? This tour, offered by Hippo Tour Shanghai, promises an evening that hits all those marks and more. With a stellar 5-star review and a well-rounded itinerary, it’s clear this experience has something special for those wanting to see the city’s illuminated skyline while enjoying local flavors.

We particularly love the way the tour balances off-the-beaten-path dining, a luxury cruise experience, and optional tower visits—each one adding a layer of unforgettable moments. Plus, the opportunity to upgrade to VIP cruise seating makes for a truly premium experience. However, one thing to keep in mind is that activities may switch order depending on cruise schedules, so flexibility is key. This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy a blend of scenic sightseeing, culinary delights, and a touch of luxury.

<h3 id="section-0">Key Points

• Authentic Local Dining: Dine in a neighborhood restaurant with genuine Shanghainese dishes, avoiding tourist traps.
• Scenic Night Views: Enjoy a Huangpu River cruise with options for VIP seating and panoramic skyline views.
• Flexible Options: Choose to ascend Shanghai Tower or Oriental Pearl Tower for breathtaking city vistas.
• Personalized Experience: Guided by a local expert, ensuring insider insights and smooth logistics.
• All-Inclusive: Hotel pickup, cruise tickets, dinner, and tower entrance fee included, making it a hassle-free night.
• Ideal for Couples & Food Lovers: The VIP seating and intimate dinner setup cater well to romantic evenings or foodies.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why Choose the Shanghai After Dark Dinner & River Cruise?

This tour offers a balanced look at what makes Shanghai special after sunset. We love that it’s designed for those eager to explore local life, culture, and stunning cityscape views—without sacrificing comfort or authenticity. The experience begins with hotel pickup and private transport, making logistics effortless, especially after a busy day of sightseeing.

The combination of a Huangpu River cruise and authentic dinner is at the core of this experience. For many, the highlight is the cruise itself. Whether you opt for standard seats or upgrade to VIP, you’ll enjoy unobstructed views of the sparkling skyline—an essential part of Shanghai’s nocturnal charm. The VIP option offers a quieter, more exclusive environment, perfect for couples or travelers seeking a bit of luxury.

Adding to the appeal is the optional tower visit—either Shanghai Tower or Oriental Pearl Tower. These are not included in the basic package but are available as a paid upgrade. From these heights, you’ll get a breathtaking perspective of the city lights, ideal for photography or simply soaking in the view.

The tour ends with a gentle return to your hotel, guided by a knowledgeable local who helps you navigate the evening seamlessly. The entire experience, priced at around $120 per person, provides solid value considering the inclusions and personalized touches.

What to Expect: A Night of Culture, Cuisine, and City Lights

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour usually begins with a convenient pickup from your downtown Shanghai hotel, where a friendly, English-speaking guide greets you and takes care of the transportation. Depending on the schedule, your first activity might be a scenic cruise on the Huangpu River or a delicious dinner at a hidden neighborhood restaurant.

Huangpu River Cruise: The cruise offers a relaxing ride, allowing you to marvel at the illuminated skyline. The boats are equipped for comfort, and choosing VIP seats means you’ll enjoy front-row panoramas from the upper deck—an experience that many travelers find worth the upgrade. As Juergen’s review highlights, the cruise provides “a spectacular view of the skyline of Shanghai,” making it the perfect way to start the evening.

The Dinner: After the cruise, you’ll head to a local restaurant—far from touristy spots—to enjoy authentic Shanghainese cuisine. The guide helps you select dishes based on your preferences, and you might find yourself savoring some of the best hot pots in China, just as Juergen did. This part of the tour is about tasting genuine flavors, not buffet-style or overly commercialized options, which adds to the experience’s authenticity.

Optional Tower Visit: Post-dinner, many choose to ascend either the Shanghai Tower or Oriental Pearl Tower. From these heights, you’ll be treated to breathtaking night vistas that showcase Shanghai’s sprawling metropolis in all its glittering glory. This part of the tour is paid separately, but it’s a worthwhile splurge for anyone wanting that extra wow factor.

The Experience from a Traveler’s Perspective

One of the standout features, based on reviews, is the knowledgeable guide—a local who not only manages logistics smoothly but also shares cultural insights along the way. Juergen’s experience with Jenny, for example, highlights how a good guide can elevate the entire evening, making it more than just a sightseeing trip but an engaging cultural journey.

The cruise’s VIP seating proved popular among couples and those seeking a more private experience, with one review noting the “quiet atmosphere” and “front-row panoramas.” The authentic dinner is praised for its quality and ambiance, offering a glimpse into what Shanghainese residents enjoy on a typical evening.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Details and Tips

• The price of $120 per person covers most of what you need—cruise tickets, dinner, the optional tower entrance, and hotel transfers within downtown Shanghai. Outskirts such as PVG Airport or Disneyland are available for an extra surcharge.
• The tour lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours, making it a comfortable evening activity without feeling rushed.
• If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, it’s recommended to inform the tour provider beforehand to ensure your meal is tailored accordingly.
• Booking is flexible—allowing you to reserve now and pay later, with full refunds available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Why This Tour Is Ideal

This experience is perfect for couples seeking a romantic night out, food lovers eager to taste local flavors, or anyone wanting a comprehensive evening tour of Shanghai’s night-time skyline. It combines scenic beauty with cultural authenticity, making it suitable for first-time visitors or seasoned travelers alike.

Travelers who appreciate personalized attention and insider insights will find this tour particularly valuable, especially with guides like Jenny, who go above and beyond to enhance your experience. The optional tower visit adds a layer of excitement and spectacular visuals, making it a well-rounded night in Shanghai.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for an evening that blends stunning city views, authentic local cuisine, and personal service, this tour checks all those boxes. The thoughtful balance of scenic cruise, delicious food, and optional panoramic towers makes it a standout choice for travelers wanting a comprehensive night out.

While the activities are flexible and adaptive to schedules, the core experience remains rich and fulfilling. The inclusion of VIP seating and local dining elevates the experience from ordinary to memorable. The trip’s affordability, considering everything included, means it’s a smart investment in your Shanghai memories.

In short, this tour is best suited for those who want a relaxed yet immersive way to see Shanghai after dark—a perfect blend of culture, cuisine, and cityscape that will leave you with vivid images and wonderful stories.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from downtown Shanghai hotels, making it easy to start your evening without additional logistics.

Can I choose between different cruise seating options?
Absolutely. You can opt for standard seating or upgrade to VIP seats, which offer a quieter space and front-row views.

What does the local dinner involve?
The dinner is served at a neighborhood restaurant, not on the boat, and features authentic Shanghainese dishes selected with your preferences in mind.

Are there any extra costs?
Optional activities like ascending the Shanghai Tower or Oriental Pearl Tower are paid separately. Outskirts hotel pickups also incur additional fees if applicable.

How long does the entire tour last?
Approximately 3 to 4 hours, creating a relaxed yet engaging evening experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, bookings can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

Is this experience suitable for families?
While it’s primarily designed for adults, families with older children who enjoy scenic views and good food should find it enjoyable.

What should I wear?
Smart casual is perfect—bring a light jacket if the evening is cool, especially for the tower visit.

This guided evening combines the best of Shanghai’s vibrant scenery, authentic flavors, and luxury touches, making it an experience you’ll remember long after your trip. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to see the city in a new light, it offers a well-rounded, memorable night out.

You can check availability for your dates here: