Shanghai bar hopping tour in the former French concession

Exploring Shanghai’s nightlife can be an adventure in itself, especially when guided through the city’s charming French Concession area. This Shanghai bar hopping tour offers an engaging way to enjoy the city’s holiday spirit, with a focus on Christmas-themed bars, hidden speakeasies, and creative holiday cocktails. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a lively, authentic experience that’s perfect for those wanting to see a different side of Shanghai after dark.

What we love about this tour is its well-curated stops, the knowledgeable local guide, and the chance to meet international travelers in a festive setting. The tour’s short duration (around 3 hours) makes it a flexible option for evening plans. An important consideration is that alcohol is only served to those over 21, so younger travelers or non-drinkers will need to plan accordingly.

This experience suits solo travelers, groups of friends, expats, or travelers eager to explore Shanghai’s nightlife with an authentic local touch. Whether you’re looking to celebrate the holidays or simply want a fun night out with new friends, this tour offers a cost-effective and memorable way to experience Shanghai’s vibrant bar scene.

Good To Know

• Authentic Local Experience: The guide helps navigate smaller bars, avoiding tourist traps and language barriers.
• Festive Atmosphere: Christmas props, holiday games, and surprises create a lively, cheerful vibe.
• Unique Bars: Includes visits to 4 different bars and speakeasies, each with its own character.
• International Crowd: Meet fun people from around the world, adding to the social aspect.
• Flexible & Convenient: 3-hour tour starting at 8 pm, ideal for an evening activity.
• Affordable: At $29 per person, it offers good value for a guided night out with drinks included.

👉 See our pick of the 25 Best Guided Tours In Shanghai

An In-Depth Look at the Shanghai French Concession Bar Crawl

Why Choose a Guided Night Out?

Traveling in a foreign city at night can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially with language barriers or unfamiliar local customs. This tour eliminates those issues by providing an English-speaking local guide who knows the best spots, both popular and hidden. According to reviews, the guide makes the experience effortless and enjoyable—someone described her as “super nice and funny,” which is exactly what you want after a long day of sightseeing.

Having a guide also means you’ll avoid the common trap of touristy, overpriced bars. Instead, you’ll visit carefully selected venues that offer an authentic vibe, often missed by solo travelers or casual visitors. Small group sizes ensure a more intimate experience, allowing you to chat easily and soak in the atmosphere.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour kicks off at Chicken & Egg, located at 291 Fu Min Lu, a central spot in the French Concession area. Starting at 8 pm, you’ll meet your guide and begin a relaxed walk through the neighborhood, which is renowned for its tree-lined streets, historic architecture, and vibrant nightlife.

The stops are designed to showcase a variety of bar styles—from cozy speakeasies to lively holiday-themed venues. Each location provides a different atmosphere, from the hidden charm of speakeasies to more upbeat, festive environments. The short walking distances between bars make it a smooth experience, especially in colder weather where long walks can be less appealing.

What Makes Each Stop Special?

While specific bar names aren’t listed beyond the meeting point, reviews reveal that guests appreciated the diversity and authenticity of the venues. One reviewer mentioned that the guide knows “all the good places” and that the walk from place to place is “short,” making the evening relaxed and manageable.

In terms of drinks, guests are treated to 3 free shots, which allow you to sample different holiday cocktails or local spirits like tequila shots. The festive props and holiday games add a playful touch, perfect for capturing memorable photos and enjoying the holiday spirit.

What Do Reviewers Say?

One guest highlighted that even if only one person shows up, “Jill” (the host) still runs the tour and pays for her own drinks, emphasizing her dedication and knowledge. Another noted how the guide’s humor and friendliness fostered a relaxed atmosphere, making it feel more like hanging out with friends than a typical guided tour.

These reviews suggest that the tour’s strength lies in its authentic, friendly environment and the expert local guidance that introduces travelers to Shanghai’s bar scene in a relaxed, festive way.

The Price and Its Value

At $29 per person, this tour offers a solid value considering the inclusive drinks, guide, and access to exclusive bars. The price also covers the experience of meeting new people, enjoying holiday-themed entertainment, and discovering hidden gems in Shanghai’s French Concession—areas that might otherwise be tricky for travelers to navigate alone.

Practical Details and Booking

The tour is booked on average 7 days in advance, reflecting a moderate demand for this popular activity. It is a private tour, so only your group will participate, enhancing the personalized experience. The meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation, making it easy to get there.

Participants must be over 21 to be served alcohol, although non-alcoholic drinks are available for minors or non-drinkers. The tour ends back at the starting point, so there’s no need for additional transportation once it concludes.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This pub crawl is especially suited for solo travelers seeking an easy way to meet new people, expats looking for familiar faces in a foreign city, or groups of friends wanting a relaxed, festive night out. It’s also ideal for holiday visitors who want to get into the Christmas spirit while discovering a more authentic side of Shanghai’s nightlife.

It might not be the best fit if you’re looking for a longer, more in-depth tour or a full evening of bar-hopping, but for a quick, fun, and social experience, it hits the right notes.

The Sum Up

This Shanghai bar hopping tour offers a well-balanced mix of authenticity, fun, and convenience. For a reasonable price, you gain access to hidden bars, holiday cocktails, and a lively, international atmosphere. The knowledgeable guide and cozy venues make it a memorable way to explore the city’s nightlife, especially during the festive season.

If you’re a traveler who appreciates local insights, festive cheer, and social settings, this tour is a great choice. It’s perfect for those short on time but eager to experience Shanghai’s vibrant evening scene in an engaging, relaxed environment.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers or minors?
Yes, non-alcoholic drinks are available, and minors below 21 can participate but will only be served non-alcoholic beverages.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, starting at 8 pm and ending back at the meeting point.

Are transportation arrangements included?
No, private transportation is not included. The tour begins and ends at the meeting point near public transit.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the guide, 3 free shots of alcohol, and visits to 4 bars and speakeasies. Meals and additional drinks are not included.

Who is the tour guide?
The tour is led by Jill, who is praised for her friendliness, knowledge, and dedication to providing an authentic experience.

This detailed review should help you decide whether this lively, holiday-themed bar crawl in Shanghai’s French Concession fits your travel style and expectations. Whether you’re after a fun night with friends or a relaxed way to explore local nightlife, it’s an option worth considering.