Shanghai: Bund and Astor House Hotel Walking Tour

This walking tour promises a fascinating glimpse into one of Shanghai’s most celebrated areas—the Bund—highlighting its stunning architecture, historic hotels, and scenic river vistas. It’s suitable for travelers eager to understand Shanghai’s transformation from a colonial trading port to a modern financial hub. The experience is both educational and visually rewarding, with plenty of photo opportunities and insightful commentary from expert guides.

What we love about this tour is the chance to step inside the legendary Astor House Hotel, marvel at the European-style buildings lining the river, and enjoy sweeping views of the Lujiazui Financial District. The intimate group size—up to three people—means a more personalized experience, and the two-hour duration packs in significant highlights without feeling rushed. However, if you’re looking for a comprehensive deep dive into Shanghai’s history or architecture, this might be a quick overview rather than an exhaustive exploration.

This tour is ideal for visitors with limited time in Shanghai who want a focused, high-value introduction to the city’s iconic riverside area. It’s also suited for those interested in history, architecture, or simply capturing beautiful photos along the riverbank. If you enjoy guided experiences that blend storytelling with sightseeing, this walk offers a perfect blend of both.

Good To Know

• Historic Focus: Inside the Astor House Hotel, Shanghai’s first Western hotel, dating back to 1846.
• Architectural Beauty: European Renaissance-style buildings along the Bund, including the Peace Hotel.
• Scenic Views: Panoramic vistas across the Huangpu River towards the futuristic skyline of Lujiazui.
• Authentic Atmosphere: Walk through the Bund Origin area, where Shanghai’s international roots began.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable English-speaking guides enhance the experience with stories and context.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, with the option to reserve now and pay later.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Tour in Detail

Starting Point: China Securities Museum

The tour begins at the main entrance of the China Securities Museum, a practical spot in downtown Shanghai. Meeting here, you’ll find the guide ready to lead you through two hours of history, architecture, and scenic beauty. The coordinates (31.2443, 121.4909) make it easy to locate, whether you’re arriving by public transport or taxi.

Inside the Astor House Hotel

The first highlight is the Astor House Hotel, also known as the Pujiang Hotel. Founded in 1846, it holds the distinction of being China’s oldest Western hotel. During the guided visit, you’ll learn that it was once China’s first international hotel, serving as a hub for foreign visitors and Shanghai’s expatriate community. The interior has been renovated but retains key historic elements that echo its colonial past—think vintage decor, grand ballrooms, and stories of Shanghai’s early international days.

A reviewer noted that our guide was informative and engaging, sharing anecdotes about the hotel’s famous guests and its role in shaping the city’s modern identity. As the guide explains, this hotel symbolizes the city’s openness to international influence in the 19th century.

Walking Along the Bund

The walk along the Bund is where the true visual magic happens. The European Renaissance-style architecture is stunning, with each building telling a story of Shanghai’s international trading era. Key landmarks include the Peace Hotel, with its distinctive Art Deco style, and the Bank of China, an imposing structure that signifies the city’s financial importance.

The guide points out the Customs House, notable for its clock tower, and shares insights into their original functions and architectural styles. We loved the way the guide linked these buildings to Shanghai’s past as a sprawling port filled with foreign consulates, banks, and shipping companies.

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Panoramic River and City Views

One of the tour’s best features is the view across the Huangpu River towards the Lujiazui skyline. You’ll get plenty of chances to snap photos of the futuristic skyscrapers—like the Shanghai Tower and Jin Mao Building—that contrast sharply with the historic facades along the river.

Reviewers especially appreciated the guide’s commentary about how this view encapsulates Shanghai’s evolution—from colonial trading hub to global financial powerhouse. The panoramic vista makes the experience not just about architecture, but also about understanding the city’s rapid development.

Walk through Waibaidu Bridge and Bund Origin Area

The final stretch of the tour takes you past the Waibaidu Bridge, one of Shanghai’s oldest drawbridges, into the Bund Origin area. Here, you’ll see where Shanghai’s international legacy first took root, in the bustling ports and trading streets that attracted foreigners in the 19th century.

This section offers a more relaxed, atmospheric feel—perfect for soaking in the city’s historic ambiance. It’s a quieter, more local vibe compared to the bustling riverfront.

Practical Details

Duration, Group Size, and Cost

This 2-hour guided walk is priced at $188 per group of up to three people, which makes it a relatively intimate and personalized experience. Smaller groups mean more interaction and the chance to ask questions about specific buildings or historical events.

Accessibility and Flexibility

The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it possible for visitors with mobility limitations to enjoy the experience. Plus, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund or reserve now and pay later, booking is flexible and low-pressure.

What’s Included

Your guide, in English, will lead you through each site, sharing stories and answering questions along the way. It’s a walking tour, so comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate attire are advised.

Additional Recommendations

While the tour is quite focused, if you want to explore more of Shanghai’s riverfront or historic sites, consider supplementing this experience with river cruises or visits to nearby attractions such as Yu Garden or Xintiandi.

Is This Tour Worth It?

In terms of value, $188 for a highly personalized, expert-led two-hour tour focusing on Shanghai’s most iconic riverside landmarks is reasonable. You gain insider knowledge, exclusive access to historic sites, and spectacular views—making it a compact yet rich experience. It’s especially appealing for travelers short on time but eager to get a meaningful overview of the city’s architectural and historical landscape.

Why It Works Well

• The inside visit to the Astor House Hotel offers a tangible connection to the city’s colonial past.
• The stunning riverfront views make it ideal for photography and understanding Shanghai’s skyline.
• The small group ensures an intimate experience with more personalized storytelling.
• The flexible booking options provide peace of mind, especially for uncertain travel plans.

Limitations to Consider

If you’re seeking an in-depth architectural tour or a comprehensive history of Shanghai, this might feel somewhat brief. Also, weather can influence the experience, especially if rain dampens the outdoor parts of the walk. Be prepared for a 2-hour walk, which might be tiring in hot or humid weather.

Final Thoughts

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a concise, engaging introduction to the Bund’s architectural and historical significance, with the added bonus of inside access to a historic hotel. It combines scenic beauty, cultural storytelling, and a small-group setting for a memorable snapshot of Shanghai’s waterfront.

If you’re after an insightful, well-organized experience that balances history and imagery without overwhelming, this walk hits the right notes. It’s perfect for those short on time but keen to get a meaningful taste of Shanghai’s riverfront saga.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it accessible for most visitors with mobility limitations.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, including the time inside the Astor House Hotel and the walking along the Bund.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to three people, ensuring a personalized experience with the guide.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there an option to pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot without paying immediately, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

What language is the guide?
The tour is guided in English, suitable for most international travelers.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, as the tour involves outdoor walking.

Are there any age restrictions?
The data doesn’t specify age restrictions, but the walk is suitable for most age groups physically able to walk for two hours.

What are the highlights of the tour?
Inside the Astor House Hotel, the European-style architecture along the Bund, panoramic river views, and the historic Waibaidu Bridge.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. The panoramic views across the Huangpu River and the historic architecture are perfect for capturing memorable photos.

In summary, this Shanghai Bund and Astor House Hotel Walking Tour offers a compact yet insightful journey into the city’s riverside past and present. It’s especially ideal for travelers who want a guided experience that combines storytelling, scenic views, and historic architecture—all within a manageable timeframe and budget.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby