Shanghai Private Classical Tour with Top Attractions

Rating: 5.0 / 5 (based on 1 review)
Price: $169.50 per person
Duration: About 8 hours
Location: Shanghai, China
Tour Provider: Tracy Sky Tours in Shanghai

Introducing the Shanghai Private Classical Tour Experience

This private Shanghai tour aims to give visitors a well-rounded glimpse of the city’s most famous sights, all curated through 15 years of experience. While we haven’t taken this exact tour ourselves, reviews highlight its thoughtful design, professional guides, and flexible arrangements as major pluses.

What we love:

• The guides are described as knowledgeable and friendly, making the trip feel more like visiting friends than a typical tour.
• The logistics are seamless, with a variety of vehicle sizes to suit groups of any size and reliable drivers ensuring smooth transfers.
• The restaurant choices are authentic and intimate, avoiding the usual noisy, large-group eateries.

Possible drawback:

• Some attractions, like the Shanghai Tower, have admission fees not included in the tour price, so budget planning is necessary.

Who it’s best for:
Travelers wanting a comprehensive, flexible, and comfortable way to see Shanghai’s best without the stress of planning each detail themselves. Perfect if you value expert guidance and authentic local experiences.

Good To Know

• Personalized Service: Private tour with a knowledgeable guide who customizes the experience based on your interests.
• Flexible Transportation: A choice of over 100 vehicles, ensuring comfort regardless of group size.
• Authentic Dining: Lunch at a local, neat restaurant that reflects genuine Shanghainese cuisine.
• Seamless Experience: Hotel pickup and drop-off, bottled water, and a well-organized itinerary.
• Cultural Highlights: Visits to iconic attractions like the Shanghai Tower, The Bund, Jade Buddha Temple, and Yuyuan Garden.
• Value for Money: At $169.50, the tour covers major sights with private transport and a guide, making it a very good deal for a full day.

Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Shanghai Tower – A Modern Marvel

Your day begins with pickup from your hotel lobby by a friendly driver and guide, setting the tone for a relaxed exploration. The Shanghai Tower is one of the tallest buildings worldwide, featuring a unique twisting shape that’s instantly recognizable on the skyline.

While the admission ticket isn’t included (costs around CN¥220), the outside views alone make it worth the visit. Expect the guide to share insights about the tower’s innovative design and its place in Shanghai’s rapid modernization. Travelers should prepare for about 2 hours here—ample time to admire the architecture and capture photos.

Tip: The tour doesn’t include access to the observation deck, so if panoramic city vistas are high on your list, consider purchasing tickets separately or requesting this in advance.

The Bund – Shanghai’s Historic Face

Next, you’ll stroll along The Bund, a stretch of waterfront that dates back to 1840. The European-style architecture along Zhang Shan Road vividly illustrates Shanghai’s colonial past and its rise as a financial hub.

This stop lasts about an hour, and the best part is the free access to the historic facades—no admission fee needed. Your guide will likely point out the architectural details and share stories of Shanghai’s past prosperity. Expect plenty of photo opportunities with the iconic skyline of Lujiazui in the background.

Insight: Several reviewers mention the charm of standing on the Bund, feeling the pulse of old Shanghai with the modern skyscrapers looming behind.

Jade Buddha Temple – Spiritual Serenity

Built in 1882, the Jade Buddha Temple offers a peaceful break from the bustling city. The highlight is the Burmese jade Buddha statue, carved by Master Hui Gen who traveled to Myanmar for the task.

This stop lasts about an hour, and entrance is free, though donations are appreciated. The guide may explain the temple’s spiritual significance and the story behind the Buddha statues. It’s a quieter, more contemplative site that helps balance the day’s sightseeing.

Pro tip: The temple’s calm ambiance provides a great photo opportunity—just remember to dress modestly.

Yuyuan Garden and the Old Market – Traditional Charm and Local Vibe

The Yuyuan Garden is a highlight, with a history of around 500 years. It’s a classical Chinese garden that showcases traditional landscape design, complete with tranquil ponds, rockeries, and pavilions.

You’ll spend about 2 hours exploring this site, with the option to wander into the adjacent Yuyuan Old Street—a lively market area full of stalls, shops, and local eateries. Here, you’ll find souvenirs, snacks, and a taste of old Shanghai life.

Authentic experience: The review notes that the market feels vibrant and authentic, unlike heavily commercialized tourist spots. It’s a great place to pick up unique gifts and sample local snacks.

Additional info: The market is free to explore, but some attractions within the garden might have entrance fees.

Practical Aspects and Overall Value

The entire day is supported by private transportation, allowing for flexible timing and comfort. Having a dedicated vehicle means no waiting around or crowded buses, making the experience more relaxed and personalized.

Your guide will be knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive—someone who can tailor explanations and help you understand what you’re seeing. With group sizes small enough to foster conversation, this tour feels intimate without sacrificing the key highlights.

The lunch break is designed to give you a taste of genuine Shanghainese cuisine at a neat, local restaurant—not a large touristy spot. Reviewers appreciate this authenticity and the absence of big group restaurants.

The cost of $169.50 per person includes guide, private transport, bottled water, and hotel pick-up/drop-off, which collectively offers a solid value considering the comprehensive itinerary. Keep in mind that the Shanghai Tower admission fee is extra, so budget for that if you want to go up.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This private tour is ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive sightseeing experience without the hassle of organizing each detail. It suits those who appreciate authentic local flavor—from the restaurant choice to guides who treat guests like friends.

If you’re traveling with family or in a group of friends, the flexible vehicle options make it easy to accommodate everyone comfortably. The tour offers a balance of modern and traditional sights, making it suitable for first-time visitors eager to get a sense of Shanghai’s past, present, and future.

It’s also a great choice if you want a relaxed pace—each stop can be tailored to your interests, and there’s no rush to see everything in one go. Just be prepared for some extra costs for attractions like the Shanghai Tower.

Final Thoughts

This private Shanghai tour offers an excellent way to experience the city’s top attractions with ease and comfort. The combination of expert guides, flexible transportation, and authentic dining options makes it a standout choice for those who want to make the most of their day in Shanghai.

While the itinerary covers a lot, it’s curated thoughtfully to balance sightseeing with moments of reflection. The value for money is clear, especially given the personalized service and the chance to explore iconic sites without the stress of navigating public transport or dealing with large groups.

For travelers seeking a reliable, friendly, and comprehensive introduction to Shanghai, this tour fits the bill perfectly. It’s especially suited to those who prioritize quality guides and a more intimate experience over generic group excursions.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included? Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it very convenient for travelers staying in central Shanghai.

Are admission fees included in the tour price? No, the admission ticket for Shanghai Tower is not included, and you should budget around CN¥220 if you wish to visit.

What’s the group size? Since this is a private tour, only your group will participate, providing a personalized experience.

Can I customize the itinerary? The description suggests flexibility, especially with a knowledgeable guide who can adapt to your interests.

How long does each stop last? Roughly 1 to 2 hours per main site, giving you sufficient time to explore without feeling rushed.

Is lunch included? No, the lunch is not included but will be recommended based on your preferences; it takes place at a local, neat restaurant.

How comfortable is the transportation? With over 100 vehicles of various sizes, you can expect comfortable, reliable, and friendly drivers ensuring smooth transfers.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers? Most travelers can participate, and the private nature means it’s adaptable for different mobility levels and interests.

What’s the cancellation policy? Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, offering peace of mind in case your plans change.

Overall, this private Shanghai tour from Tracy Sky Tours combines expert guidance, authentic experiences, and flexible logistics at a reasonable price. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or looking to deepen your understanding of Shanghai’s landmarks, it offers a well-balanced day packed with memorable sights and genuine local flavor.