Shanghai Pub Crawl (Guided Bar Hopping) with Shots Included

When it comes to experiencing a city’s true vibe, few things beat hopping through its lively bars and clubs. This Shanghai Pub Crawl promises exactly that — a 3.5-hour journey through some of the city’s top night spots, led by a passionate local guide. While I haven’t personally been on this tour, the glowing reviews and well-structured itinerary suggest it’s a fantastic way to get a taste of Shanghai’s renowned nightlife scene.

What makes this pub crawl particularly appealing? First, the chance to visit 4 bars with distinctive atmospheres ensures you’ll experience a broad spectrum of the local bar culture. Second, the inclusion of shots and drink specials makes it budget-friendly, especially with many venues offering happy hour deals like 50% off or buy-one-get-one-free. Lastly, the small group size means you’ll enjoy a personalized experience with plenty of opportunities to connect with both your guide and fellow travelers.

One thing to consider is that the tour starts at 8 p.m., which might be a bit late if you’re arriving in Shanghai earlier in the evening or prefer a more relaxed start. It’s also tailored for those over 18, so families with kids or younger teens will need to look elsewhere. This experience suits solo travelers, groups, or anyone eager to dive into Shanghai’s energetic nightlife with a friendly crowd and knowledgeable host.

Key Points

• Authentic Night Out: Experience Shanghai’s top bars and a club, all within walking distance.
• Varied Venues: Each bar offers a unique vibe, from local favorites to lively international spots.
• Inclusive Drinks: Shots and drink deals like happy hours help keep costs reasonable.
• Personalized Experience: Small groups ensure attentive guides and better socializing.
• Flexible Timing: You can join at 8 p.m or 9 p.m., with options to skip the first bar if arriving later.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Kris and Chris get high praise for their friendliness and local knowledge.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience Breakdown: What You Can Expect

Meeting Point and Initial Impressions

The tour kicks off at Wework China on Yanping Road, easily accessible via Changping Road or Wuding Road Metro stations. The meeting spot is conveniently located for travelers arriving by subway, making the start hassle-free. From the moment you meet your guide — often described as friendly, knowledgeable, and engaging — the atmosphere feels relaxed and fun.

The First Bar: Warm Welcome and Introduction

Your night begins with a welcome drink at the first venue. Reviewers appreciated the personalized touch, noting how guides like Kris and Chris make everyone feel included from the start. One reviewer from the UK mentioned, “Chris was an amazing guide, very friendly, and looked after us all night.” This first stop sets the tone for a lively night, blending introductions and small talk, with plenty of opportunities to connect with others.

Exploring the Distinctive Bars

Over the next few stops, you’ll visit four bars, each with its own theme and ambiance. These venues are carefully chosen to showcase Shanghai’s diverse nightlife. For example, some might be trendy spots with a modern, sleek design, while others could be more traditional, focusing on local flavors. Reviewers loved the variety, with one noting, “Every bar and club had amazing taste, and Kris’s hospitality was outstanding.”

Many establishments offer happy hour deals—often 50% off or buy-one-get-one-free—making this a great way to enjoy quality drinks without overspending. If you prefer something more than the standard fare, you can also try specialty cocktails or even have the bartender create a custom drink.

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The Final Club: Dancing and Energy

The tour typically concludes at a lively club, like Revo, known for its energetic vibe and great music. One reviewer described the experience as “insane energy, packed dance floor, and fantastic music”—a perfect way to end a night of bar hopping. The small group size also means you get a more intimate experience, with guidance on navigating the busy scene and making the most of the music and dance floor.

Flexibility and Customization

If you want a more laid-back experience or prefer to skip the club, guides are happy to help arrange transport back to your hotel. This flexibility is appreciated by travelers who may want to wind down after a few drinks or avoid the late-night club scene.

The Social Side

Throughout the night, you’ll meet fellow travelers from around the world, as many reviews highlight the tour’s social nature. Several comments mention how the guide involved everyone in conversation, making it feel like hanging out with friends. A reviewer from Japan said, “Kris made sure to involve everyone and was very flexible with the schedule,” which is vital for a fun, relaxed atmosphere.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

While the tour isn’t free, it packs a lot into its 3.5 hours. The price includes multiple drinks and shots, plus access to some of Shanghai’s best-loved bars and clubs. The small group format ensures you get personal attention, making it feel more like a night out with friends than a touristy activity.

Considering the drink deals and the opportunity to discover hidden gems in the city, many travelers find this tour provides excellent value for money. Plus, the chance to avoid the hassle of planning and navigating alone makes it even more appealing.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

• The knowledgeable guides like Kris and Chris, who have received rave reviews for their friendliness and local insights.
• The diversity of venues ensures you’ll experience various atmospheres and styles, giving a well-rounded glimpse of Shanghai nightlife.
• The small group size fosters a more personal, engaging experience, especially for solo travelers or small groups.
• The flexibility in start time and the option to skip parts of the night caters to different energy levels and preferences.
• The drink specials and happy hour deals significantly enhance the experience’s affordability.

Practical Tips for a Great Night Out

• Arrive on time or a little early to meet your guide, especially if you want to visit the first bar.
• Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking between venues.
• If you prefer a quieter, more relaxed vibe, communicate with your guide—they’re happy to accommodate.
• Bring your ID, as venues typically require proof of age.
• For those arriving late, note that joining at 9 p.m. means skipping the first bar but still enjoying the rest.
• Make sure to hydrate and eat beforehand; you’ll be consuming drinks and dancing for a few hours.

The Sum Up: Is the Shanghai Pub Crawl Worth It?

This tour is a fantastic option for anyone looking to experience Shanghai’s nightlife without the stress of planning. It’s particularly ideal for solo travelers, first-timers, or groups who want a social night out with a knowledgeable guide. The inclusion of drinks, along with visits to distinctive venues that you may not find on your own, provides a well-rounded, authentic experience.

The small group size and flexible schedule make it a relaxed yet lively way to spend an evening. Plus, with highly positive reviews praising the guides’ friendliness, local knowledge, and effort to keep everyone involved, you’re likely to find this tour both fun and enriching.

If you’re keen to uncover Shanghai’s vibrant bar scene, meet fellow travelers, and enjoy a hassle-free night filled with good drinks and great company, this pub crawl might just be your best bet.

FAQs

What time does the pub crawl start?
The tour begins at 8 p.m. but you can also join at 9 p.m., which means skipping the first bar but still enjoying the rest of the night with the group.

Is there a minimum age requirement?
Yes, this tour is only suitable for guests over 18 years old.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 3.5 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy drinks, chat, and dance.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the tour includes shots and various drink specials, often with happy hour deals like 50% off or buy-one-get-one-free.

What is the group size?
The group size is intentionally kept small to ensure personal attention from the guide and an intimate atmosphere.

Can I customize the night?
Absolutely, guides are flexible and can help arrange transport or modify the schedule if you prefer a more relaxed experience.

What if I want to skip the club?
Your guide can assist in arranging transportation back to your hotel, so you can leave before the final club if you prefer.

Is this experience suitable for solo travelers?
Definitely. Many reviews emphasize how friendly guides and fellow travelers make it easy to meet new friends and enjoy the night together.

This guided Shanghai pub crawl delivers a well-balanced mix of authentic local flavor, social fun, and convenience. Whether you’re in town for a short stay or looking to toast your way through one of the world’s most exciting cities, it’s an experience worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: