Three-hour tours in Shanghai pack big value into a short time. The best options focus on either landmarks, food, or cultural connections – all with expert local guides who speak good English.
I’m especially fond of two standouts: The evening Bund and Shanghai Tower combo lets you experience both old and modern Shanghai in one efficient outing. The Jewish Ghetto walking tour provides a fascinating look at a lesser-known but important piece of Shanghai’s history.
Other solid choices include neighborhood food walks, French Concession bike rides, and specialty drink tours featuring either traditional tea or craft beer. Transportation is comfortable, and groups stay manageably small.
Let’s look at our favorite Shanghai 3-hour experiences in detail.
Key Points
- The Shanghai Bund Swift Tour offers a 3-hour river cruise or skyscraper visit, providing breathtaking views of the city’s iconic landmarks.
- The Private Tour: The Bund and Shanghai Tower allows for an in-depth exploration of these renowned destinations, priced at $149 per person.
- The Private Tour to Jewish Ghetto and Shanghai Bund offers insights into the city’s rich Jewish refugee history, with premium transportation included.
- The Shanghai by Night Tour is a 3-hour culinary adventure, taking visitors to 4-5 local restaurants and featuring drinks and hotel pickup.
- The Old Shanghai City Tour is a 3.5-hour journey through Yuyuan Garden and local bazaars, with a 4.8/5 rating and a complimentary tea tasting.
3-Hour Shanghai Bund Swift Tour With River Cruise or Skyscraper
This private 3-hour Shanghai Bund Swift Tour takes travelers on a whirlwind exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks.
Rated 5 stars with 100% traveler recommendation, the tour offers a choice between a scenic river cruise or a visit to a stunning skyscraper, providing breathtaking views of Shanghai’s skyline.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the experience includes private transportation, hotel pickup and drop-off, and the river cruise or skyscraper entrance fee.
With wheelchair accessibility, stroller access, and infant seating available, the tour caters to a range of travelers.
Reviewers praise the guides’ expertise and the tour’s exceptional organization, making it an efficient and memorable way to discover Shanghai.
Read our full review: 3-Hour Shanghai Bund Swift Tour With River Cruise or Skyscraper Review
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Shanghai 3-Hour Afternoon Tea Tasting and Dessert Tour
Explore Shanghai’s vibrant culinary scene on a 3-hour Afternoon Tea Tasting and Dessert Tour.
For $77 per person, you’ll taste a variety of mooncakes, enjoy a traditional Chinese tea ceremony, and indulge in icy Shanghai desserts.
Led by an English-speaking guide, you’ll visit local pastry shops, a teahouse, and dessert stops along Huaihai Road.
The tour includes skip-the-line access and transportation.
Travelers praise the unique food experiences and informative guide.
While most enjoy the tour, some suggest skipping certain items like ice cream.
With a 4.6/5 rating and free cancellation, this 3-hour tour offers an immersive taste of Shanghai’s sweet side.
Read our full review: Shanghai 3-Hour Afternoon Tea Tasting and Dessert Tour Review
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3-Hour Private Tour to Jewish Ghetto and Shanghai Bund
A 3-hour private tour offers a chance to explore Shanghai’s Jewish Ghetto and the renowned Bund waterfront.
Rated 5.0 from 48 reviews, the tour is highly recommended by 100% of travelers. A professional English-speaking guide leads the way, providing insights into the city’s Jewish refugee history and iconic landmarks.
Pickup is available at designated points, and transportation is provided via premium Uber or air-conditioned minivan. The tour includes entrance fees, gratuities, and hotel drop-off.
Priced from $90 per person, the tour can be booked with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Wheelchair and stroller accessibility make it suitable for various travelers.
Read our full review: 3-Hour Private Tour to Jewish Ghetto and Shanghai Bund Review
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3 Hour Bike Tour With Coffee Break
Shanghai’s 3-Hour Bike Tour with Coffee Break invites travelers on a dynamic exploration of the city’s diverse landscapes.
Priced from $45 per person, this moderate-difficulty tour accommodates up to 10 participants.
Explore historical landmarks, bustling markets, and serene parks as you cycle through the Former French Concession.
Enjoy a coffee break at a local café, engaging with fellow adventurers.
The tour offers English and Swedish-language options, with a knowledgeable guide, helmet rental, and pick-up/drop-off service.
Reviewers praise the tour’s informative nature, scenic routes, and friendly guide.
Participants must be 12 years or older.
No prior biking experience is required, but an O-code scan for the bike is needed.
Read our full review: 3 Hour Bike Tour With Coffee Break Review
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3-Hour Private Tour: The Bund and Shanghai Tower
This private 3-hour tour takes visitors on an in-depth exploration of two of Shanghai’s most iconic landmarks – the Bund and the Shanghai Tower.
Priced from $149 per person, the tour includes an excellent English-speaking guide, taxi fare within the Outer Ring Road, and all entrance fees.
While meals and gratuities are included, any transportation outside the Outer Ring Road is at the traveler’s own expense.
Moderate physical fitness is required, and the tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant women, or travelers with serious medical conditions.
Confirmation is provided at booking, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
Read our full review: 3-Hour Private Tour: The Bund and Shanghai Tower Review
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Shanghai: 3-Hour Biking and Local Food Tour
Seeking a unique way to explore Shanghai’s local culture and cuisine? Consider the 3-Hour Biking and Local Food Tour.
This 11-mile cycling adventure showcases Shanghai’s historic neighborhoods and vibrant food scene. You’ll weave through Old Town back alleys, the Former French Concession, and Fuxing Park, all while enjoying authentic local snacks.
With an English-speaking guide to provide insights, the tour is suitable for riders of all skill levels. Expect top-notch service, from the free bike and helmet rental to the photo highlights.
Reviewers rave about the friendly guide and quality of transportation. At just $68.31 per person, this 3-hour tour offers an engaging and budget-friendly way to experience Shanghai like a local.
Read our full review: Shanghai: 3-Hour Biking and Local Food Tour Review
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Shanghai by Night: 3-Hour Private Evening Food Tour, Incl Drinks
Set out on a captivating evening exploration of Shanghai’s vibrant food scene with the “Shanghai By Night: 3-Hour Private Evening Food Tour, incl Drinks”.
This private tour takes you on a 3-hour culinary adventure, where you’ll savor a large meal across 4-5 local restaurants and enjoy alcoholic beverages.
With a professional guide, you’ll discover the city’s hidden gems and get a taste of the local culture.
The tour includes hotel pickup or a designated meeting point, and ends just a short walk from the Jiangsu Road subway station.
Wear comfortable shoes, come hungry, and get ready to learn about Shanghai’s nightlife and flavors.
Read our full review: Shanghai by Night: 3-Hour Private Evening Food Tour, Incl Drinks Review
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3-Hour Breakfast Walking Tour in Former French Concession
A 3-hour breakfast walking tour through Shanghai’s former French Concession promises an immersive culinary experience. Priced from $77 per person, this English-language tour takes small groups to discover over 10 local breakfast delights, including soup dumplings, savory noodles, and the iconic jian bing pancake.
Wheelchair-accessible and with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the tour offers a chance to explore the neighborhood’s food culture and try diverse regional Chinese flavors.
Reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and delicious cuisine, with one traveler describing it as “fantastic” and another as “amazing.”
The meeting point is at the South Huangpi Road metro station, making it easily accessible.
Read our full review: 3-Hour Breakfast Walking Tour in Former French Concession Review
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Shanghai 3-Hour Private Brewery Tour With Wine Tasting, Snacks
For those eager to explore Shanghai’s burgeoning craft beer scene, the 3-Hour Private Brewery Tour with Wine Tasting and Snacks offers an immersive experience.
This private tour takes visitors to three local breweries in the city’s French Concession area, where they can sample 8 glasses of Chinese craft beer.
The tour also includes local snacks like dumplings, pot stickers, and wontons.
Transportation, hotel pickup/drop-off, and soft drinks are provided, while alcoholic drinks beyond the beer tastings are available for purchase.
The tour is accessible to most travelers, with a minimum age of 18 and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
With an overall 5-star rating, this tour is highly recommended for beer enthusiasts.
Read our full review: Shanghai 3-Hour Private Brewery Tour With Wine Tasting, Snacks Review
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Shanghai: 3-Hour Old Shanghai City Tour
On this immersive 3.5-hour journey through the heart of old Shanghai, travelers will discover the city’s rich cultural heritage and striking contrasts.
Explore the renowned Yuyuan Garden, stroll through local bazaars and streets, and marvel at the trendy Xintiandi district.
Led by an English-speaking guide, the tour includes a complimentary tea tasting and entrance to Yuyuan Garden.
Priced from ₹6,044 per person, it offers excellent value.
With a 4.8/5 rating from 33 reviews, this tour is a must for those seeking an authentic Shanghai experience.
However, it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues. Comfortable shoes are recommended for the significant amount of walking.
Read our full review: Shanghai: 3-Hour Old Shanghai City Tour Review
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Shanghai: 3-Hour Local Food Tasting Tour
This 3-hour local food tasting tour in Shanghai offers travelers a delectable opportunity to savor the city’s vibrant culinary landscape.
Priced at $79 per person, the tour includes sampling 10-15 traditional dishes across three different restaurants and a dessert shop.
Highlights include classics like dumpling soup, parched chicken, and red-braised pork, as well as local favorites like scallion oil noodles and candied lotus rice.
Guests will also enjoy Longjing green tea or Fujian black tea.
With knowledgeable guides, diverse food offerings, and an overall rating of 4.9/5 from 330 reviews, this tour provides excellent value for money and an immersive insight into Shanghai’s dynamic food culture.
Read our full review: Shanghai: 3-Hour Local Food Tasting Tour Review
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The Sum Up
Shanghai offers a variety of 3-hour tours and experiences that cater to diverse interests. From exploring the Bund’s skyline to discovering the city’s Jewish heritage, visitors can enjoy the vibrant culture and history of this dynamic metropolis. Whether it’s a culinary adventure or a leisurely bike ride, these tours provide a well-rounded introduction to the best of Shanghai within a convenient timeframe.