Exploring the enchanting water towns of Suzhou and Zhujiajiao from Shanghai has never been easier. This private guided day trip offers an immersive cultural experience, showcasing the UNESCO-listed gardens, picturesque canals, and rich heritage of these renowned destinations. With personalized attention and flexible itineraries, travelers can explore the charming local atmosphere, savor authentic street food, and uncover the unique blend of history and modernity that defines these iconic Chinese towns. Whether seeking a day of tranquility or a deep dive into the region’s traditions, this private tour promises an unforgettable adventure just a short distance from the bustling city of Shanghai.
Key Points
- A private guided day trip from Shanghai to the water towns of Zhujiajiao and Suzhou, priced at £5,494 per person.
- Explore UNESCO-listed gardens, experience gondola rides, and sample local street food during the 8-hour tour.
- Includes pickup from downtown Shanghai hotels and transportation in a private, air-conditioned vehicle.
- Guided experience with an English or German-speaking guide, providing insights into local customs and culture.
- Flexible cancellation policy with full refunds available for cancellations made 24 hours in advance.
Overview and Pricing
This private guided day trip from Shanghai to the picturesque water towns of Suzhou and Zhujiajiao is priced from £5,494 per person.
The tour lasts 8 hours and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Travelers can reserve now and pay later.
The package includes pickup from downtown Shanghai hotels and transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned private vehicle. An additional surcharge of $45 per group applies for outskirts pickup from Pudong or Disneyland.
The guided experience explores ancient streets, local arts, handicrafts, and street food, with an English or German-speaking guide providing insights into the region’s customs and culture.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Zhujiajiao.
Itinerary Highlights
The day trip offers the chance to visit two famed water towns, Zhujiajiao and Suzhou, known as the "Oriental Venice".
In Suzhou, travelers will explore UNESCO-listed gardens, including the Humble Administrator’s Garden, Master of Nets Garden, Lingering Garden, and Lion Forest Garden. These classical Chinese gardens showcase ancient architecture, beautiful landscapes, and rich cultural heritage.
In the charming water town of Zhujiajiao, guests can experience the ancient charm and unique culture by taking a gondola ride along the canals.
The tour also includes ample time to wander the stone-paved streets, browse local arts and handicrafts, and sample delicious street food.
Transportation and Pickup
Pickup from downtown Shanghai hotel is included in the tour, providing a convenient and comfortable door-to-door transfer service.
Guests have the option to be picked up from the outskirts of the city, such as Pudong or Disneyland, for an additional surcharge of USD 45.00 per group.
The tour utilizes a private, air-conditioned vehicle to ensure a comfortable and efficient journey to Suzhou and Zhujiajiao.
This hassle-free transportation arrangement allows guests to focus on the immersive experience of exploring these historic water towns without the burden of navigating the journey themselves.
Guided Experience
Knowledgeable English and German-speaking guides accompany guests throughout the day, bringing to life the ancient charm and unique cultural heritage of Suzhou and Zhujiajiao. They share insights into the local customs and traditions, enriching the experience with their expertise. Guests explore the stone-paved streets, discovering local arts, handicrafts, and street food, while learning about the region’s history and way of life.
| What You’ll Do | What You’ll See |
|---|---|
| Explore ancient canals and waterways | Colorful water markets |
| Discover local arts and handicrafts | Unique cultural heritage |
| Learn about customs and traditions | Ancient stone-paved streets |
The leisurely guided experience allows visitors to enjoy the peaceful ambiance of these picturesque water towns.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyMeal and Additional Information
Included in the package is a lunch featuring local dishes tailored to guests’ dietary needs, with the cost paid on the day.
The tour doesn’t cover gratuities, which visitors can provide at their discretion.
Depending on time and interests, guests can opt to visit additional sites like Pan Gate, Beisi Pagoda, or Tiger Hill.
These add-ons provide opportunities to further take in the rich history and culture of the region.
Throughout the day, the knowledgeable guide is available to share insights and facilitate a memorable experience exploring the ancient water towns of Suzhou and Zhujiajiao.
Cancellation and Refund Policy
Travelers can cancel their Suzhou and Zhujiajiao day trip from Shanghai up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The tour offers flexible booking with a "reserve now, pay later" option. If travelers need to make changes, they can do so easily.
The cancellation policy includes:
- Full refund if cancelled 24 hours prior
- No refunds for cancellations within 24 hours
- Rescheduling options available for an additional fee
- Prompt processing of refunds upon cancellation
This policy ensures travelers can book with confidence and adjust their plans as needed.
The tour provides a worry-free experience exploring the charming water towns of Suzhou and Zhujiajiao.
Outskirts Pickup Option
For travelers who are staying outside the downtown Shanghai area, the tour offers an outskirts pickup option for an additional surcharge of $45.00 per group.
This allows guests staying in the Pudong district or near Disneyland to be conveniently picked up from their location. The private vehicle will then transport the group directly to the starting point of the tour.
This option provides added flexibility and convenience for those not centrally located in Shanghai.
Regardless of pickup location, the tour promises a comfortable air-conditioned journey to the ancient water towns of Suzhou and Zhujiajiao, where the guided exploration of their unique culture and heritage awaits.
Customizable Visit Opportunities
Alongside the core itinerary, this tour offers guests the flexibility to customize their experience by visiting additional sites as time and interests permit.
Depending on the group’s preferences, the knowledgeable guide can arrange for visits to:
- Pan Gate, an ancient water gate that once protected Suzhou’s historic city center.
- Beisi Pagoda, a 13th-century Buddhist tower with intricate architectural details.
- Tiger Hill, a serene hilltop parkland with a famous leaning pagoda and scenic vistas.
- Local markets, workshops, or other points of interest that provide deeper insight into Suzhou and Zhujiajiao’s unique cultural heritage.
This personalized approach ensures travelers can tailor the day to their individual interests and make the most of their time in these enchanting water towns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Book This Tour for a Small Group?
Yes, you can book this private guided day trip for a small group. The tour accommodates groups of any size and provides a personalized experience with door-to-door transportation and a knowledgeable guide.
Is It Possible to Visit Other Attractions in Suzhou?
Yes, the tour offers flexibility to visit additional sites in Suzhou, such as Pan Gate, Beisi Pagoda, or Tiger Hill, depending on time and interests. This allows travelers to customize their experience and see more of Suzhou’s renowned attractions.
What Is the Dress Code for This Tour?
There’s no formal dress code for the tour. Visitors should dress comfortably and wear weather-appropriate clothing, as the tour involves walking and exploring outdoor areas. Light layers and comfortable walking shoes are recommended for maximum comfort and ease of movement.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Children?
The tour doesn’t mention any specific discounts for seniors or children. However, it’s best to inquire with the tour provider about any potential discounts they may offer for these groups when booking the tour.
Can I Extend the Duration of the Tour?
Yes, the tour duration can be extended for an additional fee. Customers can discuss extended options with the tour provider to customize the experience based on their interests and needs.
The Sum Up
This private guided day trip from Shanghai to Suzhou and Zhujiajiao offers an enchanting experience exploring the UNESCO-listed gardens, picturesque canals, and rich cultural heritage of these renowned water towns. With personalized attention, flexible itineraries, and convenient transportation, it’s an excellent way to take in the beauty and history of these captivating destinations from the comfort of Shanghai.
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