All-Inclusive Private Day Tour: Best Shanghai W/ River Cruise

Exploring the vibrant city of Shanghai has never been easier than with this all-inclusive private day tour. From the iconic landmarks to the serene river cruise, this comprehensive experience offers a well-rounded glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage and modern allure. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this tour promises to captivate your senses and leave you with a deeper appreciation for Shanghai’s unique blend of tradition and innovation. With convenient hotel pickup and a knowledgeable guide, you’ll embark on a journey that showcases the city’s most stunning sights and immersive cultural activities. Prepare to be enchanted as you explore the heart of this dynamic metropolis.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Shanghai.

Key Points

• Comprehensive tour covering the iconic landmarks of Shanghai, including the Bund, Confucius Temple, Yuyuan Garden, and a Huangpu River cruise.
• All-inclusive experience with private transportation, entrance fees, lunch, and a traditional tea ceremony.
• Personalized itinerary catering to individual preferences, with vegetarian meal options available.
• Knowledgeable private guide providing in-depth insights into Shanghai’s history, culture, and architecture.
• Flexible pickup from hotels or central locations, ensuring a seamless and convenient tour experience.

Tour Overview

This private full-day tour of Shanghai provides visitors with an in-depth insight into the city’s rich history and vibrant culture, making it an ideal option for those with limited time.

The tour covers both the east and west sides of Shanghai, including iconic landmarks like the Oriental Pearl TV Tower and the Shanghai World Financial Center. Guests will also explore the historic Bund, the Confucius Temple, and the picturesque Yuyuan Garden.

The experience is all-inclusive, with lunch, transportation, entrance fees, and a relaxing cruise along the Huangpu River. Vegetarian meal options are available, and the tour can be customized to meet individual preferences, ensuring a personalized and memorable experience.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with pickup at 9:30 AM, allowing visitors to explore iconic buildings like the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, Shanghai World Financial Center, JinMao Tower, or the tallest building in China, the Shanghai Tower. Guests can take in panoramic city views from the observation decks.

The adventure then transitions to cultural exploration, starting with a visit to the Bund’s 100-year-old architecture and views over the Huangpu River. Next, guests will discover the Confucius Temple and participate in a traditional tea ceremony.

Lunch at a century-old local restaurant featuring steamed buns and regional dishes provides an authentic culinary experience.

In the afternoon, the tour visits the classical Yuyuan Garden and strolls along the bustling East Nanjing Road shopping district.

Morning Activities

The tour begins with an energetic pickup at 9:30 AM, allowing visitors to explore Shanghai’s iconic skyscrapers and admire panoramic views from their observation decks.

The morning activities include:

• Visiting the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, Shanghai World Financial Center, JinMao Tower, or the towering Shanghai Tower – the highest building in China.

• Ascending to the observation decks of these architectural marvels for breathtaking 360-degree views of the city skyline.

• Gaining insight into Shanghai’s rich history and dynamic culture through the eyes of the knowledgeable private guide.

• Exploring the Bund, a historic waterfront promenade lined with 100-year-old buildings reflecting the city’s colonial past.

• Participating in a Confucius Tea Ceremony at the Confucius Temple, built in 1291, to immerse in traditional Chinese customs.

Cultural Exploration

After exploring Shanghai’s iconic skyscrapers and the historic Bund, the tour delves into the city’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors will get a chance to visit the Confucius Temple, built in 1291, and participate in a traditional Confucius Tea Ceremony to gain insights into the enduring influence of Confucianism on Chinese culture. The ceremony offers a unique opportunity to learn about the philosophy, rituals, and etiquette associated with this ancient practice. Following the culture, guests will enjoy a lunch at a century-old local restaurant, savoring traditional steamed buns and other regional delicacies.

Temple Highlights	Ceremony Highlights
– Built in 1291	– Explore Confucian philosophy
– Dedicated to Confucius	– Understand tea preparation rituals
– Architectural marvel	– Engage in traditional etiquette

Afternoon Activities

Following the cultural exploration and lunch, the tour continues into the afternoon with a visit to the renowned Yuyuan Garden.

Spanning over 400 years, this classical garden, founded during the Ming Dynasty, offers visitors a serene oasis amidst Shanghai’s bustling cityscape. Guests can stroll through its intricate pavilions, bridges, and rock formations, seeing the timeless beauty and tranquility of this historic site.

The tour then takes visitors to the vibrant East Nanjing Road, Shanghai’s premier pedestrian shopping street, where they can browse the array of stores, restaurants, and street vendors.

The experience concludes with a visit to the former French Concession area, known for its charming tree-lined streets, boutiques, and lively dining scene.

• Explore the serene Yuyuan Garden, a 400-year-old classical oasis

• Stroll along the bustling East Nanjing Road, Shanghai’s premier shopping street

• Discover the former French Concession, a charming neighborhood with boutiques and dining

• Immerse in the timeless beauty and tranquility of historic sites

• Experience the contrast of Shanghai’s modern and traditional sides

River Cruise

Concluding the tour, guests can enjoy a relaxing 1-hour cruise along the iconic Huangpu River, which offers breathtaking views of Shanghai’s skyline and the contrast between the city’s historic and modern architecture.

The river cruise provides a serene respite from the bustling city, allowing visitors to soak in the sights at a leisurely pace.

As the boat glides along the water, guests can admire the iconic Oriental Pearl TV Tower, the striking skyscrapers of the Pudong financial district, and the century-old buildings lining the Bund promenade.

This river cruise offers a picturesque finale to the day’s exploration of Shanghai’s diverse cultural and architectural wonders.

Meeting and Pickup

Where do guests meet for this tour, and how do they get picked up?

Pickup points are selected at the time of booking, with the option for additional pickup and drop-off outside central Shanghai areas, such as airports or railway stations, for an extra charge of $40.

The tour includes:

• Flexible pickup from your hotel or other location within central Shanghai

• Seamless transportation throughout the day in a private vehicle

• Instant confirmation and all-inclusive experience

• Payment in cash (USD or RMB) directly to the guide upon meeting

• Convenient pickup and drop-off, ensuring a stress-free start and end to your Shanghai adventure.

This personalized service ensures a hassle-free experience from beginning to end, allowing you to make the most of your time in this dynamic city.

Pricing and Reviews

The tour starts at $273.00 per person, though the exact price may vary depending on the group size.

With a Lowest Price Guarantee, this comprehensive full-day tour offers exceptional value, covering all transportation, entrance fees, meals, and a relaxing Huangpu River cruise.

The tour has received an outstanding 5.0 overall rating from 27 reviews across major platforms like Viator and Tripadvisor, attesting to the high-quality experience and customer satisfaction.

Customers appreciate the convenience of free hotel pickup and drop-off, personalized attention from the private guide, and the opportunity to explore Shanghai’s iconic landmarks, cultural sites, and scenic river views, all within a single day.

With flexible scheduling and vegetarian meal options, this tour caters to a wide range of travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Inclusions and Exclusions of the Tour?

The tour includes pickup, transportation, entrance fees, lunch or dinner, a river cruise, and a private guide. It excludes anything not explicitly mentioned, such as additional food, drinks, or activities beyond the outlined itinerary.

Can the Tour Be Modified to Fit Specific Needs or Interests?

Yes, the tour can be customized to accommodate specific needs or interests. The private guide is flexible and can adjust the itinerary to focus on areas of particular interest to the traveler.

What Are the Safety and Hygiene Measures Implemented During the Tour?

The tour operator follows strict safety and hygiene protocols, including sanitizing vehicles between tours, providing face masks, and implementing social distancing measures. Hand sanitizer is readily available, and guides are trained in COVID-19 prevention procedures.

Are There Any Discounts or Promotions Available for the Tour?

The tour company occasionally offers promotions or discounts, such as early booking incentives or group pricing. However, details on current offers can only be confirmed by contacting them directly or checking their website.

How Do I Contact the Tour Operator in Case of Any Questions or Issues?

You can contact the tour operator by phone or email. Their contact information is provided at booking. They’re available to address any questions or issues you may have before or during the tour experience.

Recap

This all-inclusive private day tour provides a comprehensive Shanghai experience, highlighting the city’s iconic landmarks, cultural heritage, and modern vibrancy.

From the breathtaking views at the Oriental Pearl TV Tower to the serene tea ceremony and a memorable Huangpu River cruise, the tour offers a well-rounded exploration of Shanghai’s rich history and contemporary charm.

With convenient hotel pickup and a leisurely lunch, this tour is an excellent way to make the most of a day in this dynamic city.