Shanghai Citybike/Citywalk at New Bund&Local Life Experience

Discover Shanghai’s New Bund & Local Life on a Guided Bike and Walk Tour

Navigating Shanghai’s vibrant streets can be overwhelming, but this Citybike/Citywalk experience along the New Bund offers a balanced way to see the city’s evolving landscape while soaking up the local atmosphere. With a knowledgeable private guide by your side, you’ll enjoy a thoughtful mix of panoramic river views, historic sites, and lively neighborhood stops—all at an accessible price.

What makes this tour stand out? We love the stunning views of the Huangpu River and iconic bridges, the chance to learn about Shanghai’s industrial transformation, and the opportunity to experience local life firsthand through cafes and community spaces. A possible drawback is that it’s not suitable for pregnant women, those with heart issues, or wheelchair users, so it’s best suited for active travelers in good health. If you enjoy cycling, history, and authentic city moments, this experience is a fantastic choice.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Good To Know

• Stunning river views: Panoramic scenes of bridges and skyline from the Huangpu River.
• Authentic neighborhood stops: Local cafes and community hubs offer genuine Shanghai flavors.
• Historic industrial sites: Discover Shanghai’s maritime and industrial roots through iconic landmarks.
• Modern art and architecture: West Bund and MOCA provide a contemporary cultural perspective.
• Flexible and private: Meet your guide at your hotel and enjoy a personalized experience.
• Value for money: At $69, it combines transportation, guides, and immersive experiences.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Highlights

This tour begins with a pickup from your central Shanghai hotel, making it easy and stress-free to start your exploration. The private guide leads you through a route that balances scenic views with cultural insights, all delivered at a relaxed pace. The approximately 3-hour experience promises flexibility, allowing you to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Cycling Along the Huangpu River and the West Bund

We loved the way this tour takes you along Shanghai’s new Bund, where the city’s industrial past blends seamlessly with modern architecture. The ride starts from the West Bund, an area that has transformed from warehouses and port facilities into a hub of contemporary art and design. Here, you’ll get sweeping views of the river, with sights like the historic Maritime Tower Square, built in the 1920s. This building isn’t just a pretty face; it symbolizes Shanghai’s maritime legacy and offers great photo opportunities, especially of the Lupu Bridge and Pudong skyline.

Exploring Maritime and Industrial Heritage

Cycling past the Long Museum, you’ll see how old industrial sites like coal wharves and railway tracks have been repurposed into cultural venues. Reviewers note that the museum’s design integrates industrial remnants, making it a visually engaging stop and a testament to Shanghai’s ability to blend history with modernity.

The nearby Xuhui Riverside Planning Exhibition Center provides insight into community development and offers options to stop for a coffee or local snack. Reviewers mention that this stop is an authentic taste of daily life in Shanghai, with some noting the cafes serve up surprisingly good local flavors.

More Great Tours Nearby

Iconic Bridges and Water Towns

The Lupu Bridge, completed in 2003, is a highlight—an impressive steel arch that spans the river and offers excellent photo ops. The tour also includes a visit to the Nanpu Bridge, another symbol of Shanghai’s connectivity and expansion. Both bridges are not just engineering marvels but integral parts of the city’s story of growth.

Further along, you’ll cruise past Shanghai’s historic shipyard area, which played a pivotal role in the city’s transition from a colonial port to an industrial powerhouse. The Shanghai Submarine Exhibition Hall allows for a peek into naval history, while the views of Pudong’s skyline across the river underscore Shanghai’s rapid modernization.

Modern Art and Cultural Highlights

The Shanghai Museum of Contemporary Art offers a sharp contrast with its former power plant setting. Opened in 2012, it acts as China’s first state-owned contemporary art museum, housed in a building with history dating back to 1897. Visitors have mentioned that this site adds a contemporary edge to the tour and provides a different lens on Shanghai’s creative scene.

Ending with a Classic Landmark

The tour concludes near the Pudong side, where the Shanghai Expo Center and the Water Town views are visible. The last stop at Lupu Bridge and the surrounding riverfront offers a chance to reflect on how far Shanghai has come—from riverside industrial hub to a global metropolis.

Practical Details and What to Expect

This experience is designed to be convenient and comfortable. Starting from your downtown hotel, you’ll meet your private guide, who will provide a bike and ensure you’re comfortable with the route. The inclusion of a private guide means you can customize the pace and focus on what interests you most.

At $69 per person, the tour offers good value, especially considering the personalized attention you’ll receive. It includes bike rental and hotel pickup/drop-off, simplifying logistics. Keep in mind, food and drinks are not included, but you’ll have opportunities to stop at local cafes, giving you a chance to sample authentic Shanghai flavors.

The tour runs in English, and reservations are flexible—book now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring sun protection, as you’ll be outdoors most of the time.

What’s Not Included?

Food and drinks are separate, so consider bringing some water or snacks if you tend to get hungry. Outskirt hotel pickup can be arranged for an extra fee, but the central location pickup is straightforward, especially if you’re staying in the downtown area.

Special Considerations

Because of the physical nature of the tour, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, people with heart problems, or wheelchair users. The total duration is about 3 hours, making it a manageable activity for most travelers in good health.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This guided bike and walk tour is perfect for travelers who love a mix of scenic views, history, and authentic city life. If you’re looking to avoid the typical tourist crowds while experiencing Shanghai’s river scenery and vibrant neighborhoods, this experience offers a balanced, immersive way to enjoy the city.

It’s especially suited for active travelers eager to explore at their own pace, with the safety and comfort of a private guide. The stops highlighting Shanghai’s industrial past, modern art, and lively community spaces make the experience well-rounded and meaningful.

While it isn’t a good fit for those with mobility issues or pregnant women, it provides a genuine perspective on Shanghai’s evolving landscape. The combination of cycling, sightseeing, and local flavors makes it a worthwhile addition to your Shanghai itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for people who are not very experienced cyclists?
Yes, the tour uses bike rentals suitable for most levels, and your private guide will help ensure you’re comfortable with the route. It’s designed to be relaxed and manageable.

Can I choose my start time?
The guide will meet you at your central hotel at your preferred time, allowing for flexibility based on your schedule.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, a sun hat, and some water. Since you’ll be outdoors, sun protection and hydration are recommended.

Is the tour available in languages other than English?
The tour is conducted in English, as indicated in the description. If you need another language, check with the provider for possible options.

How long does the entire tour last?
Approximately 3 hours, covering a scenic route along the river, industrial sites, and modern neighborhoods.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Rescheduling options can be discussed when booking.

This experience offers a well-balanced exploration of Shanghai’s historic and modern sides through an enjoyable bike and walk adventure. It’s a fantastic way to see the city’s riverfront, learn about its past, and enjoy authentic local stops—all for an accessible price and with the comfort of a private guide.

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