Full-day Shanghai tours pack the city’s best sights into one efficient package. The top private tours hit all the must-sees – starting at the historic Bund waterfront and winding through the peaceful Yuyuan Garden. I’m especially impressed by guides who combine major landmarks with authentic food stops, where you can taste real Shanghai dumplings and local specialties.
The smartest tours balance old and new Shanghai, connecting the Shanghai Museum’s ancient treasures with modern neighborhoods. For a special treat, I love the tours that venture to nearby water towns – they’re like stepping into old China, complete with stone bridges and traditional houses.
These tours work great for all types of travelers, with easy booking and good accessibility. After testing many options, we’ve selected the very best tours that showcase Shanghai’s essence. Let’s explore our top picks.
Good To Know
Key Points:
- The Wuzhen & Xitang Tour offers a private full-day trip with a boat cruise, local lunch, and scenic riverside dinner.
- The Shanghai City Tour provides a comprehensive exploration of the city’s history and culture, including visits to the Bund, Yuyuan Garden, and Jade Buddha Temple.
- The Flexible Specialty Museum Tour allows for a personalized experience, with wheelchair accessibility and an authentic dumpling lunch included.
- The Zhujiajiao Ancient Water Town Tour includes a gondola ride, local snack tasting, and air-conditioned transportation with a 5.0 rating from travelers.
- The Suzhou & Zhouzhuang Tour explores renowned waterways and gardens, with a silk store visit and gondola cruise as part of the experience.
Wuzhen and Xitang Water Town Private Full Day Trip From Shanghai With Lunch and Dinner
For those seeking an immersive cultural experience, the Wuzhen and Xitang Water Town Private Full Day Trip from Shanghai with Lunch and Dinner provides a captivating glimpse into the charming ancient water towns located just outside the bustling city.
This private tour, complete with a knowledgeable guide and comfortable transportation, allows visitors to explore the historic waterways, pedestrian bridges, and local cuisine of these picturesque destinations.
Highlights include a relaxing boat cruise in Wuzhen, a delectable local lunch, and a scenic riverside dinner in Xitang as the sun sets.
With all-inclusive pricing, door-to-door service, and rave reviews, this tour offers an exceptional value for travelers seeking an authentic and immersive experience.
Read our full review: Wuzhen and Xitang Water Town Private Full Day Trip From Shanghai With Lunch and Dinner Review
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Private Shanghai Full Day City Tour With Old and New Highlights
This comprehensive Private Shanghai Full Day City Tour provides travelers with an immersive exploration of the city’s captivating blend of old and new.
With a 100% traveler recommendation, the tour features iconic attractions like the Bund, Yuyuan Garden, and Jade Buddha Temple, as well as the stunning observation deck of the Shanghai Tower.
Fully customizable, the experience includes a knowledgeable private guide, downtown hotel pick-up and drop-off, and an optional local lunch.
Boasting an impressive 659 reviews, the tour is praised for its flexibility, cultural insights, and exceptional service from guides like Kalvin, Shirley, and Annie.
Accessible yet personalized, this Shanghai city tour offers unbeatable value starting at €103.92 per person.
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Private Full Day Tour: Zhujiajiao Ancient Water Town With Best of Shanghai
Travelers seeking to enjoy the ancient charm of Shanghai’s scenic waterways can embark on a Private Full Day Tour: Zhujiajiao Ancient Water Town with Best of Shanghai.
This 5.0-rated tour offers a comprehensive experience, including a private guide, air-conditioned transportation, a gondola ride, local snack tasting, and a full sit-down lunch.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s suitable for those with moderate fitness levels.
Booking is flexible, with a reserve-now-pay-later option and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
To secure priority entry to Yuyuan Garden, travelers should provide their full name and passport number.
Tips are recommended, and an additional fee applies for pickup/drop-off outside central Shanghai.
Read our full review: Private Full Day Tour: Zhujiajiao Ancient Water Town With Best of Shanghai Review
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Private Full Day: Zhujiajiao Water Town and Modern Shanghai W/Tower and Maglev
Embarking on a private full-day tour, visitors can enjoy the ancient charms of Zhujiajiao Water Town and the modern marvels of Shanghai.
This excursion includes a guided exploration of the picturesque water town, a thrilling ride on the Maglev train, and access to the observation deck of the iconic Shanghai Tower.
With a private guide, air-conditioned transportation, and all fees covered, this tour offers a seamless and comprehensive experience.
Suitable for all ages and fitness levels, the tour ensures a comfortable and memorable journey through Shanghai’s past and present.
Offering free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later option, this tour is an excellent choice for those seeking to maximize their time in the city.
Read our full review: Private Full Day: Zhujiajiao Water Town and Modern Shanghai W/Tower and Maglev Review
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Private Full Day Tour: Shanghai Flexible Specialty Museum Tour
Visitors can embark on a private full-day tour that offers a flexible and immersive exploration of Shanghai’s diverse specialty museums.
Priced from $199 per person, the tour includes all fees, taxes, an authentic dumpling lunch, and recommended tips for the guide and driver.
Pickup is available from central Shanghai locations, with an additional charge for drop-offs outside the city center.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with infant seats and service animals allowed.
With a perfect 5-star rating based on verified reviews, this flexible museum tour provides a comprehensive and personalized experience showcasing Shanghai’s unique cultural offerings.
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Private Full Day Tour: Shanghai Colonial History Tour
For those seeking to uncover Shanghai’s fascinating colonial past, the Private Full Day Tour: Shanghai Colonial History Tour offers an immersive exploration.
With a 5.0 rating from 6 reviews, this private tour provides an air-conditioned vehicle, an authentic dumpling lunch, and a knowledgeable guide who’ll meet and return you to your centrally located hotel.
Priced at SEK 1,954.06 per person, the tour is accessible to wheelchair users and includes infant seats.
You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior. An extra charge applies for pickups and drop-offs outside central Shanghai, payable in cash upon meeting the guide.
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Full Day Private Tour Amazing Shanghai City Highlights
Enjoy the captivating essence of Shanghai on the Full Day Private Tour: Amazing Shanghai City Highlights.
This private tour offers an in-depth exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems. Led by an English-speaking guide, you’ll visit must-see attractions like the Bund, Jade Buddha Temple, and Yu Garden.
Enjoy a delectable local lunch and hassle-free transportation within the 2nd Ring Road. With an option to include taxi fare, this tour caters to your needs.
Suitable for moderately fit travelers, the experience promises an unforgettable day showcasing Shanghai’s rich history, culture, and vibrant energy.
Secure your spot with a flexible booking option and get ready to discover the best of this dynamic city.
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Private Full Day Tour to Suzhou and Zhouzhuang From Shanghai
This private full-day tour from Shanghai to Suzhou and Zhouzhuang offers an immersive exploration of the region’s renowned waterways and gardens, often referred to as the “Venice of the East”.
Travelers can expect a hassle-free experience, with pickup and drop-off from their downtown Shanghai hotel, air-conditioned transportation, and an English-speaking guide.
The tour includes a visit to a silk store, a Chinese-style gondola cruise, and a delicious local lunch.
With exclusive access for your party, you’ll avoid the wait times associated with larger group tours.
Priced from $285 per person, the tour provides excellent value and the option to reserve and pay later.
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Private Full Day Suzhou Zhouzhuang Tour From Shanghai With Chinese Lunch
Set out on a captivating private tour from Shanghai to the renowned waterways and gardens of Suzhou and Zhouzhuang, often referred to as the “Venice of the East.”
This comprehensive full-day excursion provides an immersive exploration of the region’s cultural and architectural treasures. Enjoy the convenience of air-conditioned transportation, a private English-speaking guide, and a traditional Chinese lunch.
Flexible pickup and drop-off options within central Shanghai neighborhoods are available, with additional charges for locations outside the listed areas. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and most travelers can participate.
Free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.
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Zhouzhuang Water Village Private Full Day Tour From Shanghai
Situated a mere 100 kilometers from the bustling metropolis of Shanghai, the idyllic water village of Zhouzhuang beckons visitors to venture beyond the city limits and enjoy a world steeped in centuries-old traditions.
This private full-day tour offers a comprehensive experience, including private transportation, an English-speaking guide, and admission to the water village. Guests will embark on a Chinese-style gondola cruise, savor local snacks and lunch, and enjoy the flexibility of a customizable start time.
Catering to a range of travelers, the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or certain medical conditions, but most can participate in this enchanting exploration of Zhouzhuang’s charming waterways and historic architecture.
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Wuzhen and Xitang Water Town Private Full Day Trip From Shanghai
Travelers seeking to enjoy the enchanting water towns just outside Shanghai need look no further than the Wuzhen and Xitang Private Full Day Trip.
Operated by China Memory Trip, this private tour whisks visitors away to two of the region’s most picturesque destinations. For $313.60 per person, the all-inclusive package includes round-trip transportation, a knowledgeable guide, a local cuisine lunch, and all necessary entrance fees and boat tickets.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is open to most travelers. With a flexible 24-hour cancellation policy and a reserve now, pay later option, this private excursion offers an effortless way to experience these historic water towns.
Read our full review: Wuzhen and Xitang Water Town Private Full Day Trip From Shanghai Review
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Full Day Shanghai City Sightseeing
This full-day Shanghai City Sightseeing tour offers a comprehensive exploration of China’s largest metropolis.
Travelers will explore the city’s history and culture, strolling along the ancient Old Street, visiting the historic Yuyan Garden, and exploring the iconic Bund waterfront.
The tour also includes a visit to the renowned Shanghai Museum, showcasing the city’s impressive art and artifacts.
Lunch is provided, and an English-speaking guide ensures a seamless and informative experience.
With hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as all entrance fees included, this tour is a hassle-free way to discover the best of Shanghai in a single day.
The tour operates on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, with a maximum of 20 travelers per group.
Read our full review: Full Day Shanghai City Sightseeing Review
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Full Day Private Tour of Classic Shanghai
For those seeking a comprehensive exploration of Shanghai’s classic attractions, the Full Day Private Tour of Classic Shanghai is an ideal choice.
This private tour provides a full-day immersion, allowing visitors to discover top sights like the Shanghai Museum, Yuyuan Garden and Bazaar, the Bund, and a Huangpu River cruise.
With private transportation, an English-speaking guide, and all entrance fees included, the tour offers a seamless and personalized experience.
Travelers can enjoy a local lunch and bottled water during the day.
Pickup and drop-off at centrally located Shanghai hotels add to the convenience.
Offered at a guaranteed lowest price, this tour is flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
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Private Full Day Shanghai 4-Water-Town Tour
Exploring the historic water towns surrounding Shanghai provides a captivating glimpse into the region’s traditional architecture and way of life.
The Private Full Day Shanghai 4-Water-Town Tour offers a comprehensive experience, taking visitors to four of these charming destinations. Priced from $377.60 per person, the tour includes private transportation, an English-speaking guide, entrance fees, and a traditional Chinese lunch.
Pickup and drop-off are flexible, with various locations available. The itinerary can be customized, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, including those with infants.
Booking is easy, with a low-price guarantee and the ability to reserve now and pay later. This immersive day trip is an excellent way to discover the unique water towns near Shanghai.
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Shanghai Full Day Private Cultural Tour
A captivating exploration of Shanghai’s rich cultural heritage awaits travelers on the Shanghai Full Day Private Cultural Tour. Priced from $148.27 per person, this comprehensive tour provides a hassle-free experience with private transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and all entrance fees and taxes included.
Visitors can enjoy bottled water, a delicious lunch, and the flexibility to choose their meeting point within central Shanghai. The tour is accessible to wheelchair users, stroller-pushers, and those with service animals, ensuring an inclusive experience.
With a 24-hour cancellation policy and the option to reserve now and pay later, this private tour offers unparalleled convenience and value for cultural enthusiasts in Shanghai.
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Full Day Private Cosplay Cultural Quest in Suzhou Garden City
Enjoy the captivating world of cosplay as you embark on the Full Day Private Cosplay Cultural Quest in Suzhou Garden City.
This private tour offers a unique cultural experience, transporting you to the historic gardens of Suzhou. Priced at €383.93 per person, the tour includes high-speed train tickets, costumes, and digital mementos to capture your adventure.
Explore the enchanting settings in Hanfu and Tangsuit attire, with a knowledgeable guide leading the way. Accessibility is limited, but the experience promises an unforgettable day of culture and photogenic moments.
Flexibility is ensured with the reserve now, pay later option and free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
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Private Full Day Shanghai Zhujiajiao And French Concession Tour, Chinese Lunch
This private full-day Shanghai Zhujiajiao and French Concession tour whisks visitors through two of the city’s captivating districts.
Travelers will enjoy private transportation, an air-conditioned vehicle, and an excellent English-speaking guide. The tour includes a typical Chinese lunch and entrance fees to all mentioned sites.
Pickup and drop-off are covered within select districts, with an extra charge for locations outside these areas.
The flexible itinerary features Zhujiajiao and the French Concession, and the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
This experience offers a comprehensive look at Shanghai’s heritage and modern charms, with a lowest price guarantee and the flexibility to reserve now and pay later.
Read our full review: Private Full Day Shanghai Zhujiajiao And French Concession Tour, Chinese Lunch Review
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Private Customized Shanghai Full Day Tour
Spend an unforgettable day exploring Shanghai’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems on a Private Customized Shanghai Full Day Tour.
This private tour offers flexibility, allowing you to tailor the itinerary to your interests. Priced from €120.09 per person, the tour includes lunch, private transportation, an English-speaking guide, and all entrance fees.
Accessibility features like wheelchair accessibility and infant seats make it suitable for a wide range of travelers. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, you can reserve your spot with confidence.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Shanghai explorer, this personalized tour promises an immersive and memorable experience.
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Private Full Day Tour: Terra Cotta Army
Travelers can embark on a comprehensive Private Full Day Tour: Terra Cotta Army to explore the renowned archaeological site located in Xi’an, China.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance fees, lunch, and an excellent English-speaking guide. However, it’s not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with heart conditions, as a moderate level of physical fitness is required.
The tour is private, meaning only your group will participate, and confirmation is received at the time of booking.
Pickup is at 6:00 am, and the non-refundable price starts from $289 per person, depending on group size.
Read our full review: Private Full Day Tour: Terra Cotta Army Review
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Private Full Day Tour: Shanghai Amazing Arts Scene
Shanghai’s arts scene is vibrant and diverse, offering visitors a captivating glimpse into the city’s cultural richness.
This private full-day tour allows you to explore the city’s impressive arts offerings, with a customizable itinerary that includes renowned museums like the Rockbund Art Museum, M50 Creative Park, and the Shanghai Museum of Arts and Crafts.
Enjoy an authentic local lunch of dumplings, noodles, or other dishes, and take advantage of round-trip transfers in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, and service animals are welcome, making it accessible for most travelers.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, this tour is a hassle-free way to discover Shanghai’s thriving arts scene.
Read our full review: Private Full Day Tour: Shanghai Amazing Arts Scene Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
How Can I Customize the Tour to Fit My Interests?
To customize a tour to fit your interests, you should discuss your preferences with the tour provider. They can tailor the itinerary, activities, and pace to match your interests and ensure you have an engaging and personalized experience.
What Is the Dress Code for the Tours?
The dress code for tours is generally casual and comfortable. Participants are advised to wear closed-toe shoes, light clothing, and bring sun protection. Some tours may require specific attire, so it’s best to check with the tour operator in advance.
Can I Take Photos During the Tour?
Participants can generally take photos during the tours, though they should be mindful of not disrupting the experience or infringing on others’ privacy. Tour guides may provide guidance on appropriate times and places for photography.
Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available?
Yes, many tour operators offer discounts and package deals for full-day tours in Shanghai. Bundling attractions or booking in advance can provide savings. Customers should inquire about special offers when making their reservations.
What Should I Bring With Me on the Tour?
When going on a full-day tour, it’s important to pack essentials like sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, a lightweight jacket, snacks, and plenty of water. Plus, bringing a portable charger and small amount of local currency can be helpful.
The Sum Up
Shanghai offers a wealth of full-day tour options, from exploring ancient water towns to discovering the city’s modern highlights. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or a mix of both, there’s a private tour tailored to your preferences. With knowledgeable guides and seamless logistics, these tours provide a comprehensive and enriching Shanghai experience.