The Bund: Walk in Tour with Afternoon Tea and Cocktail

Traveling in Shanghai, the iconic Bund is often a must-see, but many visitors find themselves overwhelmed by crowds or rushing through the waterfront. This guided walk offers a much more personal, relaxed way to experience the area’s architectural treasures while enjoying a touch of elegance — from a cozy balcony with afternoon tea to jazz tunes and cocktails in a historic bar. We’re here to give you a detailed look at what makes this tour a worthwhile addition to your Shanghai itinerary.

What we love about this experience is the deep dive into architecture, the serenity of exploring inside historic buildings, and the upscale yet intimate atmosphere created by the afternoon tea and jazz bar. However, one thing to keep in mind is that this tour is tailored to a quieter, more refined experience — so if you’re looking for a bustling, photo-packed sightseeing day, this might feel a bit subdued. It’s best suited for those who appreciate history, art, music, and a slower pace. If that sounds like you, read on.

Good To Know

• In-depth exploration of four historic buildings more than a century old, avoiding crowded streets.
• Learn about Shanghai’s architectural evolution from a knowledgeable English-speaking guide.
• Enjoy elegant afternoon tea with views from a century-old balcony, creating a refined ambiance.
• Relax with jazz and cocktails at a historically significant bar, adding a lively yet classy touch.
• Private groups ensure personalized attention and a flexible, comfortable experience.
• The tour is wheelchair accessible and designed for adult travelers, making it convenient for most visitors.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Starting the Experience: Personalized Pickup and Introduction

The tour begins with your guide arranging a pickup at your hotel or designated location, with clear details provided the day before, including plate number, driver’s departure and arrival times, and estimated transfer duration. This personalized approach means you won’t have to worry about navigating public transport or crowded streets, allowing a smooth start to your afternoon.

Once you’re picked up, the small, private group setting ensures an intimate experience. The guide — usually a knowledgeable local — offers insights that go beyond typical tours, sharing stories behind each building’s architecture, the banks’ history, and how these structures have evolved over the last century.

Inside the Historic Buildings

The core of the tour takes you into four representative buildings, each more than a hundred years old, that once served as the hub for banking and trading in Shanghai’s heyday. These are not just facades; you’ll step inside to appreciate the architecture, design details, and the atmosphere that once housed major financial institutions.

One reviewer mentions how the guide, named Sarah, was “so personable and knowledgeable, explaining the architectural features and stories behind each building in engaging detail.” You’ll learn why these buildings were called the “Paris of the East” and how they’ve transitioned into modern art galleries, auction halls, and fine dining venues.

The Balcony with Afternoon Tea

After exploring the interiors, the tour offers a rare chance to step onto a century-old balcony with a view of the bustling waterfront. This spot provides a quieter vantage point to admire the skyline, with the added touch of afternoon tea — served with delicate pastries, sandwiches, and quality tea or coffee.

Guests have reported that “the tea was quite indulgent, and the view from the balcony was surprisingly peaceful” — a lovely contrast to the busy streets below. The experience combines elegance with history, making it perfect for those who enjoy a leisurely, high-quality break.

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Jazz and Cocktails at a Historic Bar

As the afternoon turns to evening, the tour concludes at a famous jazz bar, located in one of the historic buildings. This bar, a fixture on Shanghai’s jazz scene, offers a relaxing atmosphere where you can sip a well-crafted cocktail while listening to live jazz performances.

The jazz is optional but highly recommended; from reviews, many guests enjoyed the laid-back ambiance and talented musicians. Plus, the bar’s history — being one of the city’s most iconic jazz venues — adds a special touch to the experience.

Flexibility and Additional Options

Depending on your preferences, you can choose to leave after the cocktail, or stay for the evening jazz performance from 20:45 to 23:00. The tour is designed for flexibility, allowing you to enjoy the experience at your own pace.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Respect for Authenticity and Comfort

Unlike many crowded, rushed tours, this experience emphasizes calm, personal exploration. The private group format means fewer distractions, more tailored storytelling, and an environment where you can ask questions freely. The inside visits ensure you’re not just looking at facades, but truly appreciating the architecture and history.

Knowledgeable Guides

Guests consistently praise the guides’ expertise, highlighting their ability to weave stories and details that elevate the experience beyond a superficial overview. This makes the tour especially valuable for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.

Unique Setting for Afternoon Tea and Jazz

The combination of historical architecture, elegant tea, and live jazz is a rare find. It seamlessly blends culture, history, and entertainment into a sophisticated package that appeals to those seeking a more refined experience.

Accessibility and Practical Details

Being wheelchair accessible and tailored for private groups makes this tour adaptable for various needs. The flexible cancellation policy adds peace of mind, especially for travelers with unpredictable schedules.

The Value of This Experience

When evaluating the cost, it’s important to consider what’s included: private transportation, insider visits, afternoon tea with views, and jazz cocktails. Compared to typical sightseeing days that involve multiple paid entries, this offers a curated, immersive experience that feels both special and intimate.

The timing — about four hours — is perfect for fitting into a broader itinerary without feeling rushed. Plus, the personalized pickup and attention to detail from the guide make it feel like a bespoke journey rather than a cookie-cutter tour.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want more than just a quick glance at Shanghai’s architecture. Art lovers, history buffs, music enthusiasts, and those seeking a more luxe, relaxed way to explore will find it especially appealing. It’s perfect if you enjoy insider stories, elegant settings, and personalized service.

However, if you prefer lively, crowd-filled tours or are traveling with young children or seniors over 70, this might not be the best fit. The focus on a tranquil, refined experience suggests it suits adults and mature travelers seeking cultural depth over high-energy sightseeing.

The Sum Up

This walk-in tour of the Bund offers a rare opportunity to experience Shanghai’s iconic waterfront in a quiet, elegant setting. The inside visits to historic buildings, paired with afternoon tea on a century-old balcony, provide a refined yet authentic glimpse into the city’s past. The jazz bar creates a lively but sophisticated ambiance to cap off your afternoon.

Best suited for those who appreciate architecture, art, music, and history, this tour delivers a personalized, memorable experience that balances education with leisure. The knowledgeable guides and luxurious touches elevate it beyond typical sightseeing, making it a worthy addition for anyone wanting to see the real soul of Shanghai’s historic waterside.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The experience covers private transportation, visits to four historic buildings, afternoon tea with a view from a century-old balcony, and a cocktail at a historic jazz bar.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately four hours, starting in the afternoon and concluding with the jazz bar, usually around 18:00 if you choose to leave then.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it easier for travelers with mobility needs to enjoy the experience.

Can I choose to stay longer at the jazz bar?
Yes, the jazz performance from 20:45 to 23:00 is optional. You can stay as long as you like or leave earlier by informing your guide.

What should I wear?
Smart casual is appropriate, especially if you plan to enjoy the afternoon tea and jazz bar. Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking inside the buildings.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
The tour is designed for private groups, offering a personalized experience. The group size can be tailored to your preferences.

Are children allowed?
The tour is not suitable for children under 18 or people over 70, given the focus on a mature, relaxed experience.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

How far in advance should I book?
While availability varies, reserving a few days ahead ensures you secure your preferred date and time, especially during busy seasons.

This walk-in experience through the historic Bund blends art, architecture, and music into a chic, intimate journey that captures the essence of old Shanghai. Whether you’re a history lover or simply seeking a peaceful afternoon with a touch of elegance, it offers a memorable way to connect with the city’s waterside charm.

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