THE 10 BEST Shanghai Tours & Excursions

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  • The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

shanghai experience tour

1. Zhujiajiao Water Town and Shanghai City Private Day Tour

shanghai experience tour

2. Private Shanghai Full Day City Tour with Old and New Highlights

shanghai experience tour

3. Authentic Local Food Tour in Central Shanghai

shanghai experience tour

4. Half Day Private Tour to Zhujiajiao Water Town with Boat Ride from Shanghai

shanghai experience tour

5. Private Amazing Shanghai City Day Tour in Your Way

shanghai experience tour

6. Suzhou Private Day Trip from Shanghai with Bullet Train Option

shanghai experience tour

7. Late Night Food Tour in the Shanghai's French Concession

shanghai experience tour

8. Suzhou and Zhouzhuang Water Village Day Trip from Shanghai

shanghai experience tour

9. Shanghai Half Day Guided Tour to Meet Past Present and Future

shanghai experience tour

10. Best of Shanghai Day Tour, including Jade Buddha Temple & Bund & Yuyuan Garden

shanghai experience tour

11. Private Full-Day Tour: Incredible Shanghai Highlights

shanghai experience tour

12. Private Shanghai Night River Cruise and Hot Pot Dining Experience

shanghai experience tour

13. Eat Like A Local: Shanghai Night Food Tour

shanghai experience tour

14. Private Evening Tour: VIP Huangpu River Cruise and Shanghai Lights

shanghai experience tour

15. Flexible Half Day Tour to Zhujiajiao Water Town with Boat Ride from Shanghai

shanghai experience tour

16. Shanghai Circus World: ERA Intersection of Time Acrobatics Show

shanghai experience tour

17. Yuyuan Garden Entrance Ticket

shanghai experience tour

18. Biking Real Shanghai& Enjoy Local Food

shanghai experience tour

19. Flexible Hangzhou Private Tour from Shanghai by Bullet Train

shanghai experience tour

20. Flexible Private Suzhou Day Trip from Shanghai by Bullet Train

shanghai experience tour

21. Shanghai Breakfast Walking Tour of Former French Concession

shanghai experience tour

22. 3-Hour Private Tour to Jewish Ghetto and Shanghai Bund

shanghai experience tour

23. Xitang Water Village Sunset Tour with Riverside Dining Experience from Shanghai

shanghai experience tour

24. Shanghai Tower Tickets Booking

shanghai experience tour

25. Shanghai Pudong Airport to Shanghai Hotels: Private with Meet & Greet Service

shanghai experience tour

26. 3-Hour Shanghai Bund Swift Tour with River Cruise or Skyscraper

shanghai experience tour

27. Private Cooking Class: Make Your Own Dim Sum In Shanghai

shanghai experience tour

28. Eat Like a Local: Street Breakfast Tour in Shanghai

shanghai experience tour

29. 4-Hour Shanghai City Private Flexible Tour in Your Way

shanghai experience tour

30. Shanghai Night River Cruise Tour with Xinjiang Style Dining Experience

What travelers are saying.

Esther B

  • Authentic Local Food Tour in Central Shanghai
  • Zhujiajiao Water Town and Shanghai City Private Day Tour
  • Private Shanghai Full Day City Tour with Old and New Highlights
  • Half Day Private Tour to Zhujiajiao Water Town with Boat Ride from Shanghai
  • Private Amazing Shanghai City Day Tour in Your Way
  • Amazing Shanghai Trip
  • Sunny Tours Shanghai
  • Shanghai Foodie
  • Jenny's Shanghai Tours
  • Shanghai Melody
  • Miki Tours & Transfer and Tickets Service
  • Culture Shock Tours
  • UnTour Shanghai Food Tours
  • SAT China - Day Tours
  • Shanghai Lily Tours
  • Shanghai Tower

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Best Shanghai City Tours and China Shanghai Package Tours 2024/2025

Shanghai, sitting on the eastern coast of China, has witnessed the most striking changes of China in the past seven decades and grown rapidly from a small village to today’s international metropolis, regarded by the world as China’s phoenix raising from old ashes. With the incredible co-existence of old relics and new skyscrapers, like Yuyuan Garden, Jade Buddha Temple, Zhujiajiao Water Town, the Oriental Pearl visible on the Bund and Disneyland, Shanghai appeals huge tourist volume to pour into each year, especially when the statues of world-class financial center bringing it priority of advanced convenient airports and railway stations connecting abroad and domestic cities, which also confirms its position as one of the three gateway cities together with Beijing and Hong Kong.

How Do I Plan My Shanghai Tour?

With a  Shanghai one day layover , you can go for a  Shanghai City Day Tour  to Shanghai Museum, Yuyuan Garden, Shanghai Old Street, Nanjing Road, the Bund, World Financial Center and French Concession.

With 2-3 days or  Shanghai 144-hours Visa-free Policy , you can consider deeper sites in downtown like Xintiandi and Jade Buddha Temple, and Shanghai side trips to Zhujiajiao Water Town, Suzhou gardens, and water villages as well as Hangzhou West Lake. See our Shanghai Visa-free Tours

With more days, you can extend your Shanghai tours to other popular China destinations by high-speed trains and flights: Shanghai Suzhou Tours , Shanghai Hangzhou Tours, Shanghai Huangshan Tours, Shanghai Beijing Tours , Shanghai Xian Tours, Shanghai Guilin Tours, Shanghai Zhangjiajie Tours .

See Shanghai Tours of different categories:

Best Shanghai Tours

Shanghai day tours, shanghai family tours, shanghai tours of different themes, shanghai side trips, shanghai small group tours, shanghai night tours, china tours including shanghai.

Shanghai Yuyuan Garden

These are our top-rated Shanghai tours including visits to the most classic attractions. Far beyond showing you around the city, we are dedicated to creating your in-depth local culture and life experience, and interaction with local people. Our English-speaking guides are local insiders who can help advise and are glad to share the knowledge they have.

Best Shanghai Day Tour

2 days best shanghai layover tour, 3 days classic shanghai city tour, 4 days shanghai private tour with zhujiajiao watertown tour.

The most popular gateway city in China, Shanghai offers a bulk of things to do. It is a world-famous metropolis blending ancient charms with thrilling modernization, East gardens, and ancient towns with West colonial architecture. The 144-hour visa-free transit policy in Shanghai and the nearby Jiangsu and Hangzhou Provinces makes it a great destination for stop-over travelers. We designed the Shanghai Day Trips of different themes for people with limited time in Shanghai. Upon your interests, you can follow a local expert guide to visit the Yuyuan Garden, the Bund, Shanghai Museum, Oriental Pearl TV Tower, and the surrounding ancient towns.

Half Day Shanghai Private Tour to Yuyuan Garden

Shanghai highlight day tour, seven treasure town & zhujiajiao water town tour, shanghai classic city tour, half day zhujiajiao water town group tour, shanghai highlight afternoon & evening tour, shanghai classic city tour – route b, one day modern shanghai tour.

Our Shanghai family tours will offer the best family vacations, being organized with  kid-friendly hotels, family-friendly activities and spots . Sit back in our private vehicle, you will follow the local English-speaking guides to have fun at  Disneyland Park, and Shanghai Ocean Aquarium,  explore the antique charm of Shanghai in  Yu Garden , wander around  the Bund  to appreciate many colonial buildings.

4 Days Shanghai Family Tour with Disneyland Park

Shanghai family day tour to disneyland park, 3 days shanghai family tour with shanghai ocean aquarium.

We collected some   Shanghai day tours of different themes to cater to people of different interests and styles. No matter whether you want a city walk to discover the charms of old Shanghai, want an exploration of nearby water towns or visit local bustling night markets and streets, we have the ideal itinerary for you. The following itineraries are just part of the possibilities in Shanghai, our travel consultants would be more than happy to tailor-make your perfect trip based on your interests, time schedule, budget, and other requirements.

One Day Old Shanghai City Tour

Shanghai night city walk tour at night market & snack street, half day shanghai tour for local food and zhujiajiao water town.

Besides the classic attractions like the Bund, Yu Garden, and Nanjing Road in  Shanghai, the nearby Suzhou, Hangzhou, and Huangshan also offer much to see and experience by making side trips.  Our Shanghai side trips include exploration of ancient water towns and exquisite gardens in Suzhou, the experience of Longjing tea culture and West Lake in Hangzhou, as well as awe-inspiring Huangshan Mountain and Hui-style architectures in Tunxi and Xidi Ancient Villages.

5 Days Shanghai Huangshan Highlight Tour by Bullet Train

7 days china private tour of shanghai-hangzhou-huangshan, 5 days shanghai-suzhou private tour, 2 days songyang leisure tour | jiangnan’s last wonderland.

Want to explore Shanghai but have limited time? The following group day trips in Shanghai may enlighten your ideas. Covering Shanghai city tours and tours to nearby Suzhou and Hangzhou, these Shanghai day trips will take you to Yuyuan Garden, the Bund, Huangpu River Cruise, Zhujiajiao Water Town, Zhouzhuang, West Lake, etc.

1 Day Shanghai Classic Group Tour

1 day zhujiajiao & huangpu river cruise tour, seven treasure town & zhujiajiao water town group tour.

As the largest metropolis in China, Shanghai is standout for its colorful nightlife and sceneries. Our Shanghai night tours cover some of  the best night activities in the city, like the acrobatic shows, food adventures in night markets or streets, Huangpu River night cruise, night walk around the Bund , etc. All these night tours in Shanghai are designed by local insiders, aiming to ensure your real experience of the metropolis.

Shanghai Night Walking Tour: the Bund & Acrobatic Show

Shanghai night food tour with huangpu river cruise, no suitable tour need advice, china tours including shanghai, shanghai beijing tours, shanghai chengdu tours, shanghai xian tours, shanghai silk road tours, shanghai tibet tours, shanghai guilin tours, shanghai yangtze river cruise tours, shanghai zhangjiajie tours, beijing xian shanghai tours, shanghai harbin tours, related articles, shanghai travel guide, shanghai skyline, when is the best time to visit shanghai, shanghai oriental pearl radio & tv tower, how to travel from shanghai to xi’an, shanghai old street, city gold temple of shanghai, zhujiajiao water town, shanghai huangpu river cruise, destinations, popular tours, travel blog.

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Best Shanghai Itineraries from 1 to 5 Days with Side Trips

Are you planning a trip to Shanghai but not sure how much time you need to explore the city and its surroundings? Let us help guide you with our ultimate Shanghai itineraries.

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How long to spend in shanghai.

  • Shanghai in 1-3 Days

Side Trip Itineraries from Shanghai

Generally speaking, we recommend spending one to three days in Shanghai. For the city highlights in Shanghai, one day is enough.

Two or three days will give you a more varied and relaxed itinerary. Besides the must-see attractions, you could also have some unique experiences like food hunting or interacting with locals. Additionally, you could relax in a water town in the suburbs or have fun with kids in Disneyland.

If you have a more extended holiday (over three days), you could consider an extended trip from Shanghai. There are many options to explore, such as Hangzhou, Huangshan, Suzhou, Jingdezhen, and Hengdian.

Shanghai in 1‒3 Days

Here is a classic 3-day itinerary to experience various aspects of Shanghai, including historical buildings, skyscrapers, Disneyland, and a pleasant water town:

  • Day 1: One-day city highlights tour (the Bund, Shanghai Tower, Yu Garden, food experience, etc).
  • Day 2: Have fun in Disneyland.
  • Day 3: Zhujiajiao Water Town (bridges, gardens, and a leisurely afternoon tea time).

On the city tour, you could walk around the Bund and embark on a Huangpu River Cruise to take a time travel trip from seeing the old buildings to the skyscrapers. It is like fast-forward from the 1920s Shanghai to the present Shanghai.

Walk through the alleys to hunt for Shanghai's most typical snack with a glimpse of the daily life of the local people.

Wander around the former French Concession where you could learn about the history of Shanghai's colonial past.

If you have a big interest in Shanghai's history, we recommend a visit to Shanghai's Former Jewish Settlement. Discover the memories of elderly Jews by visiting a Jewish ghetto and other old buildings.

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

We can tailor-make your itinerary according to your interests. Check out some of our other popular Shanghai itineraries for inspiration:

  • 2-Day Shanghai's Old and New Collision
  • 2-Day A Journey to the Future
  • 1-Day Shanghai Layover Tour

There are many worthwhile destinations around Shanghai that are easily accessible by high-speed trains. The tours range from 2 days to 1 week.

1. 5-Day Shanghai, Huangzhou, and Suzhou Itinerary

Hangzhou and Suzhou are the most classical choices for a trip from Shanghai. They are three of the most important cities in the Yangtze Delta region. They feature exquisite Chinese gardens, water towns, and tea experiences.

A trip combining Shanghai, Hangzhou, and Suzhou will take about 4 to 5 days: two days in Shanghai, one day in Hangzhou, and one day in Suzhou.

  • Days 1‒2: Shanghai city exploration.
  • Day 3: Hangzhou (West Lake and tea experience).
  • Day 4: Suzhou (visiting gardens and a water town).
  • Day 5: Back to Shanghai.

Don't miss West Lake in Hangzhou. Enjoy a relaxing boat ride and immerse yourself in its beauty. Visit a tea village and learn about the process of tea making while tasting China's most-adored tea.

In Suzhou, visit Lingering Garden, take a rickshaw through Suzhou's old town, and walk around Tongli Water Town to admire its ancient architecture.

2. A Trip to Huangshan from Shanghai

Huangshan is also a popular destination located about three hours from Shanghai by high-speed rail, especially if you are looking for a place to relax and get away from the busy city.

Spending three or four days in Huangshan is suitable:

  • Day 1: Visit Bishan village.
  • Day 2: Go up to the Yellow Mountain and stay a night.
  • Day 3: Go down the mountain, enjoy a hot spring, and return to Shanghai.

Bishan village is a quiet and quaint village where you could enjoy a cup of coffee while taking in the unspoiled natural beauty. Take a stroll through the village to see the Hui-style architecture and cycle around the field to breathe in the freshness of the air.

Go up to Yellow Mountain to see the stunning sunrise and sunset views. Experience the magnificence of the mountain amid the changing sea of clouds. Finally, enjoy a cozy hot spring to refresh yourself.

3. A Tour to Jingdezhen from Shanghai

If you are interested in China's porcelain and want to know the story behind this craft, Jingdezhen is the best choice. A journey of about 4 to 6 hours by high-speed trains will take you into the world of Chinese porcelain. You may need about three days in Jingdezhen:

  • Day 1: Visit a museum and ceramic galleries for a basic understanding.
  • Day 2: Visit the studios of reclusive artists and try to make your own ceramic.
  • Day 3: Go to Yaoli Ancient Town, where you could find the secret ingredient of porcelain.

If you are looking for lovely and delicate porcelain, you could pay a visit to a local porcelain market. An afternoon tea in a cafe converted from a 40-year-old porcelain factory will also be an interesting experience.

4. A Hengdian Tour from Shanghai

If you love watching Chinese costume TV series or movies and want to walk into the scenes, Hengdian World Studios, China's largest movie and television base, is recommended. To tour the highlights of Hengdian World Studio, you may need about 2 days:

  • Day 1: Visit 2 popular studios and enjoy a fun night at an amusement park.
  • Day 2: Visit 3 popular studios with cycling experience.

The five studios we selected are the most common scenes in movies and TV shows. You could try on different ancient costumes and take wonderful photos. If you're lucky, you could watch filming in action and meet a Chinese superstar.

Tour China with Us

All our tours can be adjusted as much as you like. We aim to create an ideal itinerary based on your interests, group size, budget, and other requirements. Feel free to contact us for personalized travel consultation .

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Shanghai Travel Reviews on Tripadvisor.com

With fascinating mix of East and West, Shanghai is honored as “Pearl of the Orient” and “Paris of the East”. Here you can discover present modern China. Visiting the Bund permits you to view 52 international buildings with various styles and overlook the modern skyscrapers in Lujiazui. Moreover, Shanghai enjoys enough art galleries and amazing nightlife. For the advantaged location, Shanghai is always served as a popular gateway to China as well.

As a leading travel China Agency, we have helped many tourists complete their Shanghai trips. Some of them shared their experience on tripadvisor.com. Read their reviews about their Shanghai tours, involving the landscape they savored and the service they got, to get inspired for your own journey.

Ccpt

I took a 13-Day private tour fo Beijin, Xi'an, Guilin, Yangchuo, Yangtze River Cruise and Shanghai. I first of all would like to thank China Discovery for such a great job before and during my trip. They promptly answered all of my questions and gave me peace of mind since I was traveling all by myself so far away from home. Alipay was a great suggestion because it not only helped with paying for just about anything but also kept us in touch throughout my trip with their chat feature. The trip you put together for me was exceptional, and along with some of the optional tours we added, and the cruise ship you picked made for a superb experience.

The hotels were very good, well located and clean, I was just a bit disappointed that most of the staff in the majority of hotels, even at the front desk, didn't speak English, but I was able to communicate through translation apps. The guides were excellent, their English was very good, they were very knowledgeable, attentive, flexible, and very helpful; what I'm very thankful for is that whenever I had train rides they helped me all the way into the train car, with my luggage and finding my seat, that meant a lot because without knowing Chinese I surely would have missed the train or gotten into the wrong one, they also gave me instructions as which way to go once I arrived to my destination to meet the guide. The vehicles and drivers were also very good.

The Victoria Sabrina cruise ship couldn't have been better, the staff and local guides with the exception of the very last one (I already contacted the cruise ship regarding this issue) were friendly and very very nice. There were very few non Chinese-speaking passengers but the cruise director made sure to take care of us at all times. They had shows, optional tours and activities that I enjoyed thoroughly.

I gladly recommend your company, I loved my China trip and if I had to do it all over again I wouldn't think twice about contacting Tracy and China Discovery!!!! Well done Tracy!

Beijing Tour

New Zealand

We did a private customised 2 week trip to China with China Discovery.

From the planning stage the process was very quick and efficient. Johnson Wang replied to my emails very promptly and the itinerary was finalised to what we wanted.

The trip went smoothly. We all had pick ups at the airport at different times but that did not pose an issue.

The English speaking guides were mostly excellent and really made sure we had a good experience and looked after us very well.

Then at the end due to bad weather in one location we made last minute changes to our flights and once again Johnson and his team made these changes with a few hours notice for us.

I feel they really went above and beyond to make the trip the best experience for us.

Amazing seamless service and I would recommend them highly to anyone considering a guided tour of China.

David S

Thanks to China Discovery tours for arranging an amazing travel experience. Outstanding tour consultant Leo Li coordinated every detail of our trip. Your English-speaking guides and private vehicle drivers are exceptional.

Highlights of our tour spanned from the Great Wall and Grand Palaces of Beijing to armies of Terracotta Warriors in Xi'an, the unique Panda Breeding sanctuary in the heart of Chengdu and a spectacular cruise down the Yangtze River to the Financial Capital of Shanghai.

China is Amazing!.. It's a living legacy from the ancient to ultra-modern. Rickshaws on cobblestone roads to high-speed trains on elevated rails, China is full of cultural contrasts and lovely people.

Thanks for making our China vacation possible.

We appreciate you and your team’s support.

Xièxie China Discovery tours!

Two Travellers from Canada.

Happiness51174163394

Happiness51174163394

Folks, if you are planning to visit the wonderful country of China, you must use China Discovery to make the most of your visit. The folks at China Discovery provide a friendly, engaging, highly informative tour service, with a personal touch. I’m returning in a year, and I’ll surely request their services once again. Enjoy!

Beijing Tour

Rosemarie S

The Most Amazing 21 Days - that is what I would name this vacation . If you really want to get to know the country, people, history and also see beautiful sceneries, then this is the trip for you.

The tour was well planned and we had very personal attention. The tour guide and driver would pick us up at the train station or airport, we then tour the particular city or town with them, had also some free time to explore on our own and then were brought again to the train station or airport. The tour guides were very knowledgeable and spoke good English. Since it was just my husband and I we could ask all the questions and could adjust schedule to weather and/or interests. The hotels were all 4 or 5 stars and were quite comfortable.

A highlight was also the River Cruise since we really could interact with the other guests, which in our case were Chinese traveling for Chinese New Year.

Here are the places we visited: Hong Kong, Guilin, Chengdu, Chongqing (start of river cruise), Zhangjiajie, Shanghai, Xian and Bejing.

Hong Kong Tour

BCTravelerBC

From Leo our Travel Consultant to Mark our tour guide and Mr. Wong our driver they were all great. Our tour was well organized and everything went perfectly. Mark our guide speaks perfect English and Leo the Travel Consultant delivered all that he promised with our tour. We would highly recommend Leo, Mark, Mr. Wong and their company China Discovery Tours.

Shanghai Tour

Wonder from China Discovery was amazing organising a dream China Trip!

Was so good, we even have now booked and gone on 2 trips with them! The first was a 22 day trip going through all of the major sites in China: Beijing, Xi’an, Chengdu, Zhangjiajie, Guilin, Hangzhou, Hengdian, Shanghai. There was a guide and driver personally there to greet us at each location, and all the internal train tickets were included. So were the attraction tickets.

Note we were given the option to book our own hotels and pay for our own lunches. If you rather the tour company organise that yourself - go for it, that’s the default option. But I think paying for your own lunches at least gives you more flexibility. You can also negotiate the locations and itinerary to your own liking.

In terms of cost - for the 22 days (with 2 rest days) it was $7160 USD for two people - ie around $325USD per day for us as a couple (no lunches/hotels - but including all trains/tickets/transport).

It was such a professional and wonderful experience, we got Wonder to organise a 3 day trip to Guangzhou just last week as well (using the 144 hour visa free transit rule China has). That was also amazing.

So regardless if you’re planning a big holiday or a short trip, Chinese Discovery is amazing and takes all the stress out of organising everything. Just have your passport and wechat pay enabled and you’ll be fine.

Beijing Tour

Highly recommended tour agency. The trip was well planned by Rita, the travel consultant according to our budget and itinerary. When we arrived into Shanghai, the guide was already there to pick us up. We had 2 guides, 1 in Shanghai and Suzhou and another in Hangzhou. Both were very friendly and well versed in the chinese culture and history. They provided detailed explanations at the various places we visited. Transport was also well organised. We visited during the CNY when it is most crowded with people everywhere. However, due to the planning of the agency, we were able to get entrance tickets to the attractions, shows and cruises without any problems and bypass the long queues. We had a really enjoyable family vacation. Will definitely book with them if we visit Chima again.

Hangzhou Tour

Took a family trip to China - Guilin, Shanghai, Xian , Beijing. It was well planned and executed trip by Wonder. We thoroughly enjoyed every step of the day. The sights, choice of hotels, guides and vehicles were spotless and well organised. Wonder was very accommodating and patient of suggestions. Quick to respond. Will highly recommend this agency especially Wonder for wonderful experience.

sharifahmed8

sharifahmed8

I am overwhelmed and very satisfied with this 13 day China trip! The service I got was beyond my expectations. We were taken care of every places we visited. All local guides and drivers were helpful.

We thought we would face difficulty to find suitable Muslim food but guides took us to the right places and we had very yummy food all over the trip. Even in the Yangtze river cruise, cruise manager instructed his chef to prepare special meals for us! All local guides speak very good English. We always felt safe there.

Special thanks to Leo Li for organising such a wonderful and memorable trip! Me and my family will cherish the memories of our China trip many years to come.

Dominik F

Overall I would highly recommend China Discovery as they did a really good job of planning our tour, putting us in touch with the guides and showing us the relevant sites.

All the guides spoke English quite well and the German was surprisingly good too.

benurajesh

China is diverse and fascinating with history nature and food. Rita at China discovery made all arrangements so we could enjoy most of China in comfort and efficiently with excellent guides at each stay. When our train ride from Shanghai to Beijing was cancelled by the railways, Rita promptly informed us and made alternate flight arrangements keeping the tour moving smoothly. The tour started with Beijing and the forbidden city and the Great Wall are an experience. Tibet is a different world with awesome artwork everywhere. Lin river cruise is a must. The caves were an experience, better than the ones in West Virginia and Virginia. Terracotta Army is a must see. The tourists outnumbered the army and the crowds were unbelievable. The Yangtze River cruise is so relaxing and pleasant. Shanghai is best for the shopping experience and the riverfront.

Thanks to Rita and her team at China Discovery in making this tour so memorable.

Beijing Tour

We had a great time in China thanks to China Discovery. We had a business meeting in Wuxi, asked them to organize a tour afterwards, but we did it very close to the traveling dates, as we were really struggling with the visa and the dates of the meeting. That left us almost no time to organize the tour, but Rita Jiang from China Discovery was really efficient in doing so. Everything was fast and smooth before going, and exactly the same after arriving there. Everything from hotels to vehicles, guides, tickets, etc., was perfectly arranged, what made that we had a very enjoyable trip and we hope to go back soon to such a beautiful country!

Xian Tour

As this was our first visit to China we were relying on Wing and the team to make all the necessary arrangements. Booking accommodation, buying advance tickets and supplying transport and guides.

We were very impressed. From pre-travel suggestions to final send off everything went very smoothly.

It was a bit of a whistle stop tour taking in a lot of the most famous sights in just over two weeks, but we always planned on returning. Next time will be more leisurely.

China Discovery were an excellent agency to work with and always very responsive when we had queries.

They come highly recommended.

Jane and Jon

eva s

9 day tour of Beijing/Xian/Zhangjiajie/Beijing

Overall, I cannot say enough good things about this trip! Starting with our travel consultant, Zeva Du. She was so patient and helped us make great decisions. I was hesitant about doing a private tour, but it was the best idea ever and allowed us to see the cities we wanted within our travel dates.

Every tour guide in each city was amazing and spoke English very well. They were very informative and knowledgeable. They could not have been more attentive. When leaving Beijing, we took a train to Xian. Linda, our tour guide, escorted us all the way to our seats on the train. Thank goodness we stayed on the train until the last stop! The train system over there is so efficient and a great way to travel.

Jessie in Xian was wonderful. I think seeing the Terracotta Army was my favorite.

David in Zhangjiajie and Liqi in Shanghai were equally great.

If you like Chinese food, each restaurant we were taken to for lunch was amazing.

Our Peking duck dinner in Beijing was the absolute best.

It was wonderful to see China up and running again. They suffered greatly during the pandemic and is working very hard to recover. I would highly recommend this tour company and would gladly use them again. Thank you to Zeva and her team for such a great trip!

J K

We are very happy with China Discovery (based in Chengdu). Our travel consultant was Wing Zheng. She is very helpful and has great attention to detail. She communicated with us very well, and was very flexible in arranging all the places that we wanted to visit. She is professional and very knowledgeable. Upon arrival to China, I was able to reach her immediately if I have a question. The tour guides were fantastic. we had two separate guides for different locations and they both speak excellent English. My husband’s birthday was during the trip, they were so thoughtful to arrange a nice birthday cake delivered to our hotel as a surprise. Overall, I’m very happy with Wing’s services and would highly recommend this company.

Ricky L

tq so much for China Discovery for arrangement due our trip in China, Wonder as our contact person for arranger our trips are so helpful and always monitoring our trips from we before departure till we are all arrived safe in our home, i recommend Wonder, he is so much helpful and understandable. We using their service before and never disappointed us till now, always pleasure and will using their service in coming trips.

Inspire37421218290

Inspire37421218290

Prompt response to query was appreciated with suggestions for daily guided tours with car and vehicle.

Always in time at the hotel for daily excursions. Very flexible with our request.

Beijing is a must for historical sites. Visit to Forbidden City and the Temple of Heaven and Great Wall is a must. Very safe to walk anywhere even late night.

Shanghai is a must to see the business capital of China and walk along the Bund.

Go the Buddha Jade temple and Yu Garden .

Guides are very helpful till the last minute. A joy.

They are the best.

Adrian S

We took a 20 day Chinese Silk Road trip starting in Luoyang and ending in Kashgar - the western most city in China close to the border with Kyrgyzstan. There were 8 of us in a small privately organised tour which Leo Li managed for us from China Discovery Chengdu.

I have been to China for work and twice before for holidays - this is definitely the best trip hands down. The itinerary was excellent and tailored to our needs. The hotels were fantastic (maybe except for one which was borderline) - all Chinese owned and operated hotels (there was only 1 international branded hotel in the entire 20 days). They were clean, spacious and very obliging to our needs.

The food organised by Leo was excellent on all days.

We requested English speaking guides and had 6 in all at various stages of our trip. They were all excellent, very knowledgeable about the history and significance of the locations in relation to the Silk Road and great company and humour too.

The guides went out of their way to ensure we were comfortable - even to the extent of organising special meals when a few of us got sick and another left his bag in the mountains!

The trip included historic cities beginning with Luoyang, Lanzhou, Xian, Xining, Qinghai Lake, Chaka Lake, Jiayuguan, Dunhuang, Turpan, Urumuqi and Kashgar. The trip utilised a combination of China's excellent bullet trains, private bus and flights (between Urumuqi and Kashgar and Kashgar to Shanghai)

Leo seemed to work all hours! Thank you Leo and your team for making our trip so memorable!

I highly recommend China Discovery Tours and will definitely without hesitation use them again.

Some tips for travelling in China:

1. Bring Cash! - WeChat Pay (linked to your credit card) works, but not all the time. Our personal success rate was about 40%. Even in the big cities like Shanghai. So definitely bring cash. PS - you will need internet connection to pay by WeChat - see internet connection below.

2. Watch for "Spit Bombs" (the Hark...Phui!) - its getting better especially after the pandemic. But in the smaller tier 2 and 3 cities definitely watch for it. Now you know why Chinese people take off their shoes when entering homes! :)

3. Chinese hotels are very warm and the aircon doesn't work in winter. Switching the aircon to cool will STILL give you heat!! So be prepared. However, despite this, as mentioned, our Chinese branded hotels were excellent.

4. Everything in China is huge! Except for the toilet rolls in the hotels! Don't ask me why. So if you need to have a big one, make sure you have sufficient toilet paper! Don't be afraid to ask, they are generous when you ask. (The 4-5 star hotels in the main cities are OK though)

5. Speaking of loos, we tried to make sure we only do No 1s in the public loos. Most of the tourist locations are OK but they are of the squatting kind... Of course the ladies have a tougher time than us guys. So before you embark on your daily tours - as much as possible make sure your system is all clear!

6. Internet connection seems to work fine (yes even Google, Messenger, YouTube etc)...BUT, BUT I think it is because I am on data roaming. Another member of the group had the same experience - No need for VPNs. But have a VPN loaded on your phone anyway as a backup. (We were on Australian Mobile network - Vodafone and Optus). Not sure how long this is going to last. Others not on data roaming had massive issues with the Great Firewall. Of course forget about the hotel wifi, the firewall is strongest there! Also 4G works better than 5G. So setting your phone to only 4G might make your internet connection more stable and reliable.

7. Enjoy the people - they are very friendly and patient (especially with our payment issues with WeChat). Trying to speak mandarin goes a long way!

8. Enjoy the food - it is generally safe but of course be sensible. We stuck to the main markets, hot cooked food and except for a short unexplained stint, we were good.

Above all - enjoy the experience!

Xian Tour

Our Tour with China Discovery well very well, I need to compliment them on their organization and choice of guides. Our consultant Wing was extremely helpful, kind and flexible. We did a 14 day, personalized tour and visited the imperial cities with Chengdu and a short cruise on Yangtze River. I would definitely recommend them and will plan another tour with China Discovery in the future (hopefully).

Claire P

We had a great experience with China discovery, our travel consultant and tour guides were incredibly friendly, helpful, and responsive, and they had a lot of knowledge about all the places we visited. The tour was very well organised and although we went during golden week - which was incredibly busy - the tour guides went above and beyond and were excellent at making sure it didn’t affect our trip. We were treated very well during our tour, got to see some amazing things, and would highly recommend using this service because of this.

Jen R

I had an amazing experience with my 8 days China trip to Beijing, Xian, Shanghai. I recommend anyone who is planning to go on a China trip with China Discovery. Please contact Wonder Wang, he assisted me all throughout my trip with competence, efficiency, done in a very responsive, responsible way. He responds quickly at all times no matter what time it it wherever you are in the world. And this is very important specially in visiting China where everything has its own system, tickets in place properly sibmitted accordingly including passports, different language, huge crowds....Thanks China Discovery for a memorable China experience!

gbg03

I had an absolutely incredible time in China with China Discovery. My trip (Chengdu, Chongqing, Changsha, Shanghai, Qingdao, Beijing) could not have gone any smoother. Every tour guide was extremely friendly and knowledgeable and every hotel was great. Every place that I visited was also absolutely spectacular in terms of scenery.

I also want to give a special mention to my travel agent Rita Jiang for putting up with me and my intricate demands (even at the last minute). I would highly, highly recommend China Discovery to anyone who wishes to visit China, especially the more "niche" parts which Western-based travel agencies do not typically offer.

I will definitely be travelling with them again!

Chongqing Tour

Our tour covered all of the main tourist attractions offered by this vast and beautiful country.

We chose China Discovery.com for our China holiday simply because, their website information was easy to understand and their holiday options were numerous and very detailed. From the start there was a strong sense of service and we got that from our very first email to the Travel consultant. Every email was answered promptly and clearly. We were able to tailor our preferred tour option to suit our budget and in the end the choices we made were perfect. The consultant continued to keep in touch either by email or through the agents until tour end.

At all city locations local guides with modern sedans and drivers ensured that we connected smoothly with our transport, accommodation and access to all tourist destinations. At many tourist sites, the long walks and climbing long stairways suited younger and/or fitter clients. We seniors with average fitness were blessed with guides who tailored our visits perfectly to our optimum enjoyment. And still got to enjoy most on offer.

Throughout our multicity itinerary we travelled on the superbly smooth and comfortable bullet trains, high class internal air flights and comfortable high standard river boat cruises. The three day 5 star Yangtse river cruise was very comfortable, modern stylish and the staff service standard was exceptional.

Lastly we believe that it would be very difficult to experience the numerous contrasting features of China, historical and modern and its cultural entity without all the aspects of the China Discovery private tour package.

Beijing Tour

We visited China in September 2023 for 16 days visiting Beijing, Xian and Shanghai . The attraction Great Wall, Forbidden City (Beijing) Terracotta Warriors (xian) and the gardens and the lights surrounding Shanghai organized by China Discovery (Chengdu) and our consultant Ms Wing Zeng were amazing. Discovery China ( Chengdu) provides a professional first class service. I highly recommend Ms Wing Zeng consultancy and China Discovery C

Victoria

South Africa

Rita Jiang was our travel consultant from China Discovery who worked with me to plan our 30 days in China. She helped with a suggested itinerary and when I added or removed destinations, she swiftly and efficiently adjusted it with clever additions I had not researched. I tried 2 other large Chinese travel agencies with my proposed itinerary before settling with China Discovery. China Discovery was not the cheapest, but they were certainly the most efficient in response time and also, most importantly, they created an excellent itinerary with clever routes and efficient transportation options between destinations. When you are travelling for this length of time as a family, efficient travel time is very important. The guides which met us in each location were well spoken and highly knowledgable. The drivers were excellent too. We covered Shanghai, Zhangzhou, Zhangjiajie, Fenghuang, Guilin, Kunming, Dongchuan Red Lands, Lijiang, Chengdu, Juizhaigou and Huanglong Valley, Xian, Luoyang, Zhangye, Dunhuang, Datong and Beijing with our two children aged 9 and 10.

There is no other way to travel efficiently through China and get to understand the culture and history without the help of a local travel agent. I highly recommend China discovery to help you plan your next trip!

Beijing Tour

The tour company's services were satisfactory, and the trip was enjoyable. Although there were some little mishaps, they were solved duely and professionally. The tour guide was also very helpful and knowledgeable.

Kar Tung Quek

Kar Tung Quek

My wife and I speak little Chinese and we did not want to join a package group tour. It was great that we found China Discovery online. Mr. Wonder Wang of China Discovery was just fantastic in helping us design a customised private tour itinerary for our China tour. Wonder Wang was very professional, responsible, and responsive. The resultant itinerary was just perfect for us. The english-speaking tour guides and drivers at each of the destinations we visited were just great making it a carefree, comfortable, and thoroughly enjoyable experience. We were connected with Wonder Wang and the respective tour-guides online via WeChat throughout the journey and the coordination from one destination to the next were perfect and smooth. We boarded the Century Oasis Cruise ship for a Yangtze cruise as part of the itinerary. On board we were serviced by one of the english-speaking cruise managers. The onboard service was just excellent. We were connected on WeChat with the cruise manager who kept us informed and instructed every step of the way. The cruise manager also connected with our tour guide at Yichang to perfectly coordinate our disembarkation arrangements. We would highly recommend China Discovery and Wonder Wang to all who wish to visit China with their own customised itinerary and at their own pace.

Beijing Tour

I have joined a 17 days trip to Shanghai, Beijing, Xian, Chengdu, Chongqing, including Yangtse Cruise. Besides enjoying all the places, they are amazing. I also enjoyed the hospitality from the tour guides on the gound and the cruise ship. They served good foods and yummy. We travelled by plane, ship, high speed train during the tour. The tour arrangement is good, my travel consultant is Mr. Leo Li. Overall, the tour was very nice and satisfying. I definitely will travel to China again next time.

Peter T

This tour company scheduled and organized our privet tour very professionally. I would strongly recommend using them.

Our trip was amazing, you could see how happy we were from 20 pictures I attached below. Two weeks of travel by plains, bullet trains, Starting in Beijing-Xian-cruising Yangtze river, Shanghai, Guangzhou, beautiful Guilin and finishing up in Hong Kong. We all had a great time and returned back with wonderful memories.

Beijing Tour

This was my third time to the “motherland “ born a fourth generation ABC that doesn’t speak a word Chinese, did Beijing,Xian, Lhasa, Chengdu, Yangtze River cruise and of course the greatest city Shanghai, Mr Leo Li of China Discovery arranged the trip we opted to go the 5 star route with group of two , Leo answered all my questions promptly and to my satisfaction, the local guides some the best we ever encountered very good English skills on many topics, a couple became friends, question who would I have arrange a China trip? Mr. Leo Li

Tibet Tour

At first actually i didn't expect much from this trip, however it turns out that me and my mom really enjoyed the whole trip. We visited beijing and shanghai for 4 days, and the whole 4 days have been amazing!! All of local guides are warm and super helpful. When we first arrived at beijing , i asked our guide for food recommendation, she give us a recommendation for peking duck restaurant. Me and my mom actually whrn there and the food was AMAZING. Not forget to mention that the cars the provided are comfortable, my car in shanghai even had heated seat and back massage feature. Perfect!!

Palvannanathan G

Palvannanathan G

Vivien Li made excellent tour arrangement for our 14 day trip to China. Replied to my 20 or more emails immediately, sent both during initial arrangements and also during our travel within China. Responded to all specific requests including last minute changes requested while we were traveling in China. Hotels and guides were excellent, price charged was very reasonable. Took great care of us including contacting us when there was a change in flight schedule due to anticipated typhoon in Southern China.

I requested to arrange travel in Shanghai Maglev train 4 days before arriving at Shanghai and took great effort to arrange this. Changed the flight schedule to fly out of Shanghai Pudong airport and we were able to take Maglev train to Pudong airport. I want to thank Vivien Li for making our China travel a wonderful experience.

Bryce H

China Discovery - particularly travel consultant Wonder Wang - did an outstanding job in organising and supporting our recent trip to the mainland of China. It was a memorable visit. We are now back in Hong Kong after a memorable trip to the mainland of China. The destinations - Shanghai, Beijing, Xi'an, Zhangjiajie and Guilin - were well chosen, with so many interesting and exciting things to see and do. The guides we had in each location were great - well informed, helpful, friendly and mainly with excellent spoken English. The hotels were also very good - comfortable and well located (the Yungshuo river resort was a particular highlight). And the travel logistics - trains and planes - worked seamlessly.

China Discovery was extremely responsive and flexible throughout in putting together and supporting our visit plans. The suggestions for travel options, and readiness to adapt as our plans changed, was greatly appreciated. China Discovery's performance was highly professional, first-class in fact, and I would have no hesitation in recommending the company to others who might be considering a trip to the mainland of China.

 Jas3363

Our trip was fantastic - we had wonderful tour guides that had gone above and beyond to make our journey a smooth sailing one. Our travel consultant, Wonder had been extremely accommodating in organizing our trip. Would highly recommend this agency to anyone looking to explore China!

Konstantin Y

Konstantin Y

We are very glad that China Discovery helped us organize our trip! It was a very memorable trip with great guides, great drivers and stunning scenery. China Discovery arranged a transfer for us from Shanghai airport when we first arrived in China. Later we were met and given excursions to Zhangjiajie, Chengdu, Shangri-la, Lijiang and Dali. They also organized a wonderful hiking trip for us through the Tiger Leaping Gorge - Everything went smoothly, everyone was very kind, punctual and friendly - although we had a lot of force majeure (airlines canceled flights, someone from the company caught a little cold) the guys from China Discovery held their hand on the pulse and responded quickly and efficiently to all these operational difficulties - Any adjustments were easily made, and everyone was flexible and understanding. I 100% recommend booking trips with these guys XD

I especially wanted to mention Mr. Johnson, who from the beginning of planning until the last transfer, took care of us like his own family!!!

Thank you, China Discovery!!!

Matthias W

We had a wonderful, custom-arranged, private trip as a family of three with China Discovery in summer of 2023 - going from Beijing via Xian, Zhangjiajie, Guilin, Longsheng, Yangshou, Kungming, Yangtze River to Shanghai.

As we expected, we left with many exciting new impressions and memories - really a trip worth taking.

Last not least, we must mention Tracy, our coordinator at the agency, who was from the earliest planning stage all the way through the trip the most competent, most friendly, and most helpful coordinator we could think of - we felt really well looked after! A big compliment and thanks to you, Tracy, and the entire team at China Discovery!

Steve C

We had a day trip in Shanghai which included the Yuyan Bazar, Jade Budda Temple and finished the evening with a cruise on the Huangpu River. Spectacular light displays on the buildings that are along the river.

Day 2-4, we traveled to the Huangshan/Yellow Mountain region. Even though there was rain and a low cloud cover, we were able to get glimpses of the beautiful scenery. The trails on the mountain are very accessible and well maintained for walking. Our travel guides were excellent and very knowledgeable. Their English was very good and were willing to assist throughout our trip.

Huangshan Tours

9-day private tour to Guilin, Xi’an, Zhanjgijie and Shanghai with China Discovery was beyond all expectations and I have to include the excellent China Discovery (Chengdu) travel services throughout the whole tour.

Our (my wife and I) sincere joyfull thank to our travel consultant, Jack Li for the programme designed .

Excellent assistance.

Congratulations !

Zhangjiajie Tours

Just a week tour with China discovery for Beijing and Shanghai. As a non local, it is very difficult to navigate with all china only app and regulations, not to mention the crowd. China discovery makes the logistics seemless. All smoothly run and avoid all the miles of queues. Highly recommended.

Bryan A

Amazing trip, very good service and memorable vacation. Putuoshan and Jiuhuashan both very aesthetic

Sunshine37348462762

Sunshine37348462762

Our China tour preparation starts from late May, during this preparation we were so lucky to be contacted with tour organiser Tracy Tan (China Discovery) who was extremely helpful, responsive always everything accurate, that made us so easy to be get ready for tour without any fuss.

On the day of each destination friendly, cheerful and helpful guides were ready to warmly welcome us.

The actual tour, 2 nights in Shanghai and 3 nights in Zhangjiajie was so beautiful memorable. I wish I could go again there. Our team of four persons extremely enjoyed very well organised tour.

I would recommend anyone to take this tour through China Discovery.

Many thanks to organiser Tracy Tan , and guides Vivian and Lily for this memorable tour from start to finish.

Zhangjiajie Tours

Wing Zeng did a custom private tour for five days, including trains, hotel and flights, and everything went as expected.

Beijing Tours

I was traveling to China for business reasons and wanted to extend my stay a little to see some of it. I had Beijing and the Great Wall in mind as well as the Terracotta soldiers in Xi’An. I knew that with the little time I had I would need all the logistical assistance I could get so when I stumbled onto China Discovery and they responded promptly with a well curated plan inclusive of hotel, drivers and guides I was all in!

They get a sense of your price range and adjust hotel bookings accordingly.

I wanted to travel by bullet train starting from Hangzhou and Rita figured it all out, including the hotel by the airport in Shanghai the night before leaving.

The guides were not only really knowledgeable but also lovely people, the same can be said for the drivers. In just four days I learned and experienced so much. As I was there over the weekend the sites in Beijing were busy, thankfully they took me to a section of the wall a little further out where they were much more manageable. In spite of the number of people, the experience was even better than I expected.

While Beijing is a cosmopolitan city I could easily relate to, Xi’An was simply magic. It is much more laid back, many went out of their way to say hello and welcome me to China and between the terracotta soldiers, the city wall (ride the bike on it!), the pagodas and the Muslim district I absolutely fell in love with it and will go back for sure to experience the archeological museum and the nearby mountains.

Massive thanks to you Jack and Lily!

Ron

I recently completed a 22 day rail tour with China Discovery. I let them know what I wanted to see and they planned the entire trip, rearranging my itinerary many times based on my feedback. I appreciated their patience as I made many changes over a period of months and never felt any pressure in any way. They generally got back to me within 24 hours with an adjusted itinerary for me to consider. My trip was well-organized and adjusted on the fly when needed (particularly when a typhoon blew in and things had to be changed at the last minute). The guides were good and the trip was stress-free, largely because of the work that Tracy did in organizing it. She checked on me regularly during the trip and even met me in Chengdu to present some nice gifts.

I would definitely use China Discovery again.

HH1

We did a customized tour of Beijing and Shanghai in about 4 days. The coordinator did a fantastic job communicating with us throughout the whole process, and really allowed us to see the sights we were most interested in. Our guides on the ground in both cities did a great job accommodating us, even to the extent of finding a specific restaurant we had in mind. It was an enjoyable trip and being able to put the planning in someone else's hand made it a stress-free vacation!

G S He

My wife and I had a private tour from Shanghai to Huangshan in late October 2019.

It was a 3-day visit. We stayed at the foothill of Huangshan. Hotel was clean and pleasant.

The trip was wonderful and the services of the tour guide and driver were also very good.Tracy Tan at China Discovery provided good and prompt service too.

One negative aspect was the private tour price could have been 20% lower. That would have been perfect.

chrisdR872JP

chrisdR872JP

Unsure of who to contact to organise my 8-day tour of China, I contacted China Discovery and they were excellent. I have no hesitation in recommending them to family and friends..

My contact at the company was Wing Zeng and, after a number of emails discussions options we finally agreed an itinerary that met all my needs.China Discovery organised my travel, hotels and guided tours for 3 cities and everything was excellent!

The real proof of the quality of the service came when I arrived at the wrong exit at Beijing station. Despite being 10pm I was able to text Wing Zeng who immediately resolved the situation. Brilliant customer service!! Thank you Wing Zeng for organising an excellent tour

kumarilm2016

kumarilm2016

China Discovery organised a 13 day China tour for us from 21/12/19 to 3/1/20. Wendy Dan was the consultant.Covered Beijing,Xian,Guilin,Huangshan and Shanghai. Overall, a great tour! and well organised,thanks Wendy!

Andy our guide in Xian was excellent as were the guides in Guilin and Huangshan.

Vehicles provided in general were good.Restaurants in Beijing were bad however the quality improved after we protested.

Hotels were neat and clean(chose all 5star) except in Xian and after we complained ,we were upgraded.

I would definitely recommend ChinaDiscovery tours and would book with them again on my second tour.

We were a family of 4, all adults.

ElmiraNick

We would like to thank our tour operator Ms Wing Zeng, all our drivers and tour guides (Melody in Shanghai, Cherry in Chongqing, Fay in Yichang, Derrick in Zhangjiajie, Vivien in Kunming, Peter in Shangri-La, Ya Lan in Lijiang) from China Discovery/Yangtze River Cruise/Tibet Discovery (based in Chengdu) for our holiday.

In December we had 17 amazing days - a very-well organised and detailed individual tour tailored for us to see and visit everything planned by us. During our we felt very safe and looked after at every stage.

The tour guides were also very informative and spoke English well. Special mention goes to:

The itinerary (Shanghai-Chongqing-3-night Yangtze River Cruise-Zhangjiagie-Kunming-Shangri-La-Lijiang-Shanghai) was perfect but the people implemented it were even better. Our tour operator, the guides, and the drivers were all professionals and worthy of high appreciation for a well-done job. We learned so much thanks to our local tour guides, and we are grateful to them for sharing their knowledge with us. Every place we visited was amazing with interesting history, culture, beautiful scenery and unbelievable landscapes. We enjoyed our relaxing Yangtze River cruise on Victoria Anna with all the activities on board and the arranged shore excursions very much. We really did have a great time.

The tour was our second trip arranged with Ms Wing Zeng, and we are very happy to have chosen China Discovery. If in future we have a chance to visit China again, we'll definitely do it with this company and we highly recommend it to our friends and other travellers.

rameshdhoorgapersadh

rameshdhoorgapersadh

Shanghai visit included two days at the Disney resort. Magic experience with my wife and 19 year old son. Then a transfer to Beijing on high speed train. Tours in Beijing City followed by trip to Great Wall. Snow had fallen the previous night so going up the pass to the Great Wall was a fabulous experience as i come from South Africa where we have very little snow. Left Beijing on high speed train back for Shanghai to check into the "Sunrise on Bund" hotel. Classy Hotel well positioned to explore the city. My agent Lyn Wang did an excellent job of putting my package together. Lyn was constantly communicating with me via email in the run up to my departure date. Tour guides and drivers were friendly, helpful and on time. Special thanks to our young guide Ms Tina in Shanghai who did our transfers to and from the train station and airport. Was with us till we got onto train as well as made sure we had our boarding pass in hand for our return journey before saying goodbye to us. This tour company and my agent Lyn will be recommended to family and friends travelling into China - for a hassle free holiday. Thank you Lyn Wang.

866sybils

We used China discovery for a private tour ( 2 people ) of 12 days Beijing, Xian, Hangzhou and Shanghai. Riley was our contact. She presented us a very good program covering all the highlights, with a good combination of sightseeing and free time; She was very helpful and quickly replied to our questions, gave advice on questions we had related to the trip and was also flexible and open to change .

We had good guides and guidance , but our Xian guide Gin and our Hangzhou guide Lulu were really exceptionally good , they gave good explanations and really helped us out , also we had our personal car with driver and tour guide and we were dropped at the entrance of the sightings and the tour guides organized the tickets and the food at noon , taking into account our preferences. The timing spent and the program offered were really adapted to what we want. We also recommend to visit Hangzhou, very nice. So we are extremely happy with the service we have received from China discovery and i would certainly recommend them for a china trip. ( i was bit unsure before i booked because you never know via internet , but for those in doubt , really they give good service).

patricetan95

patricetan95

Everything was really organized and well-planned. All our activities matched the itinerary. Lily was remarkably helpful, accommodating, and patient even though our group had some changes nearing the D-Day of the trip! We truly appreciate the panda chopsticks souvenir she sent us :’) & also when she came to see us in person on our last day and sent us off to the airport!

Our local guides in Shanghai, Zhangjiajie, and Chengdu were all friendly and speak good English. Special shout out to our guide in Zhangjiajie Mrs. Tutu who accompanied us till late at night! She also had such soothing voice when she sang to us ;)

Would definitely recommend this agency if my friends & colleagues are looking to visit China.

Shanghai Travel Photos

russellm510

My wife and I have been regular international travellers over the past decade but had not made it to China's mainland until last month. A conference nearby presented the ideal opportunity to remedy this with a short Yangtze River Cruise to celebrate a significant birthday for my wife and to satisfy our curiosity about other places in this vast country. We are travellers rather than tourists, so I would like to endorse the travel agency (China Discovery) which helped us with our internal travel arrangements. In the first instance, all we had to do was indicate our intended arrival and departure points and our intended length of stay and our assigned agent Echo Gou cheerfully and efficiently provided us with multiple options. Over a couple of weeks we settled on an itinerary including various sites in Beijing, Xian, Chongqing, Three Gorges Dam, Yichang, Shanghai and Hangzhou over 12 days. Highlight was probably West Lake in Hangzhou. Hotels were all of high standard, local individual guides were well-educated and fluent English speakers and drivers were confident and cheerful. Most travel tween cities was by high speed rail, but when we chose to vary this for convenience once in China to include an internal flight and a private car transfer to an airport in another city, this was expertly arranged by our contact agent Echo in Chengdu at minimal additional cost. This flexibility made what might otherwise have been some difficult aspects of our trip into a smooth and enjoyable experience. I can't fault the professionalism and expertise of China Discovery and our agent, and I recommend others who like to travel independently to consider using such an efficient service at such reasonable cost.

HarikaSetty

HarikaSetty

Our tour was organized by China Discovery [Rita Jiang] for 15 days covering five beautiful places. Though there were different means of communications available we just used Email and our Journey to china was all set.

Everything was perfectly organized starting from planning, implementing and executing.

We Didn't face any problem anywhere while travelling or while interchanging stations.

Security: We didn't face any problem anywhere either with baggage or other property. Everything was Secured.

Comfort: spacious cars, Door to door services, Hotels in the city center were provided, which was very convenient.

Food: food which was served was exactly the way we liked [Indian Vegetarian]

Awesome and Honest tour guide and Driver treated us like a family.

Incredible People of China !!

ChuckTheTravelingGuy

ChuckTheTravelingGuy

Prior to a Princess cruise which departed from Shanghai, we took a nine day China Discovery Tour of three of China's most well-known cities...Beijing, Xian and Shanghai. Catherine Liu, our travel consultant in China, was outstanding to work with as we had numerous questions before flying to Beijing.

Included in the China Discovery Tour she arranged were tours of the Forbidden City and the Great Wall in Beijing, the amazing Terra cotta warriors in Xian and the Pudong and Bund areas in Shanghai. These tours and the many other stops we visited were excellent.

We chose the small group tour of usually 7-15 people that included numerous stops at various sites, five star hotels, excellent guides and drivers, a bullet train ride from Beijing to Xian and a flight from Xian to Shanghai. We met interesting please, saw amazing sites and were thoroughly pleased with our China Discovery Tour.

One suggestion, avoid July and August if possible as students are out of school and visit these three cities with their families which makes for crowded sites. The reason we decided on an August tour was so we could take the cruise from Shanghai which was only offered in August.

Visiting China was extremely educational. We could have never accomplished as much as we did if we had tried to tour on our own. We highly recommend the China Discovery Tour and especially Catherine Liu. Catherine was very professional, was quick to answer our questions via email and made sure our guides were excellent. Ask for her when you book a China Discovery Tour. You will be glad you did.

Kieran W

Beijing-Xi’an-Zhangjiajie-Guilin-Yangshuo-Shanghai (Hangzhou & Suzhou)

Riley Guo did a brilliant job organising our trip. After reviewing the original itinerary, we made some adjustments for logistical efficiency. Riley was always quick to respond to my queries and even shared her WeChat number for even faster response. This was invaluable when we had a minor problem due to my mixing up a day trip time. Riley was quick to change train tickets and saved the day.

As with many other prudent travellers dealing with an unfamiliar Chinese tour operator, I was concerned about making the deposit and subsequent balance. However, I made each payment via Paypal without a hitch.

The greatest benefit of a private tour is the peace of mind at every stop. Driver and guide were at hand and took care of all tickets (no queuing) and lugging of suitcases. All breakfasts and lunches were included - all good to excellent depending on the hotel/venue.

We were able to save time and energy, thereby enjoying the sights and culture to the fullest.

Not only would I recommend China Discovery, I will be using them for our next trip to China.

Sean G

I'm a meticulous vacation planner and while the pre-planned packages available from various tour companies were good, none specifically met what my wife and wanted to do on vacation. I did some research on where to go and what to see and we originally were going to do 12-13 days to include some trips into the rural areas to see some scenery, etc. We ended up limiting the trip to the three big cities and received bids from multiple tour companies based in China. China Discovery stood out in the quality and completeness of their responses and had the most competitive pricing. The reviews on Trip Advisor were also very positive and helpful.

We ended up booking 8 days in China with visits to Hong Kong, Shanghai and Beijing. We had a list of everything we wanted to see and China Discovery made it happen -- an advantage of booking a private tour is that you can go and see what you alone want to do. (We booked our own air travel to and from China using miles earned on an airline)

In Hong Kong I was not able to find a private guide -- they are all group tours. The buses are designed for around 30 people and we had 10 in our group one day on a Lantau Island tour (fantastic) and just the two of us the next day (Victoria's Peak, Aberdeen Fishing Village/Stanley Market -- avoid it, just find a way to go to Victoria's Peak).

In China's mainland private tours are the only way to go. Why? You are only as fast as the slowest people in your group. And when it was just the three of us (us plus guide/driver) we were much more nimble at getting through crowds and we were in a car or minivan, not a bus, for driving around. The tour company gets the tickets for everywhere you are going so you don't have to wait in line. And we were able to customize portions -- like no Shanghai Museum, but add Tongli water town and a night cruise in Shanghai. Add high-speed train instead of plane between Shanghai and Beijing ... with first class tickets.

I read reviews of the hotels they had chosen to put us up at and all got good to great reviews -- and they lived up to expectations. Note: you can ask for different hotels if you want higher quality or different location -- a China four-star is Western three-star, etc. The Regal Oriental Hotel in Hong Kong was 2 1/2-3 star compared to the other two hotels. Food was average -- I had to teach the cook how to do Over Easy Eggs. The Yangtze Boutique Shanghai was fantastic -- huge room and great service -- 4-4.5 stars! Beijing hotel was the Ramada Park Plaza Wangfujing that was also great ... 4 stars. Food was great at both Shanghai and Beijing hotels. Breakfast at the hotels was included every day and lunch on most days which was in local Chinese restaurants. Extra expenses were tips for our guides and drivers, dinner, snacks, souvenirs, taxis -- we ended up spending much less than anticipated in this regard.

We had different guides each day in Hong Kong because they were group tours, then a guide + driver for the Shanghai area and guide + driver for the Beijing area. All of them spoke English well and were able to answer questions that we had. They were all very knowledgable about the subjects of each tour and even got into nitty gritty details. We were VERY impressed. At meals we would talk about all sorts of things -- especially about how we all lived and family, things like that. The guides had no problem taking photos of us with our phones and were never hurried us along if we wanted to take additional photos or video.

We happened to encounter an annual holiday when we were in Shanghai -- with millions of people pouring into the city to celebrate -- and then rehearsals for a 70th anniversary of the PRC parade and celebration in Beijing shut some roads and attractions. Both could have really thrown a monkey wrench into our plans, but the guides were adept at rearranging the schedule to our advantage and to avoid crowds and juggle going to sights that were open.

What did we see? Each line is what we did in a day

Hong Kong -- Lantau Island tour (4 sights to see) .... rating A

Hong Kong -- HK Island tour ... rating C (avoid as Aberdeen Fishing Village doesn't exist, Stanley Market is OK if you want to shop for clothes, artwork and souvenirs, and you are forced to do a Jewelry Factory Tour that is really a way to try and get you to buy some jewelry, only Victoria's Peak was good on that tour)

Shanghai -- Yu Garden, the Bund, Nanjing Road (shopping), World Financial Center (100th floor observatory), nighttime cruise ... rating A

Shanghai -- Tongli Water Town (has canals like Venice) ... rating B (very touristy, but still interesting)

Beijing -- The Mutianyu Great Wall, the Ming Tombs ... rating A

Beijing -- Hutong Tour/Rickshaw Ride, Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven ... rating A

Beijing -- Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City ... rating A (the Square is kind of meh, but the Forbidden City more than made up for it)

One piece of advice save the Forbidden City for last ... it is so impressive it may make other sights seem much less interesting.

Temple of Heaven

I took a 2 week personalized vacation with Chendu Bamboo tours through China. I wanted to put some thoughts down to the TripAdvisor community as I had a lot of reservations going into it, and I hope my review will help clarify some of the items that I was uncertain of.

First, while I researching, I determined that I wanted to do a custom tour as none of the packages that I saw had everything I wanted. The towns I chose were Beijing, Xian, Dunjuang, Chendu, Guilin and Shanghai. I submitted inquiries to multiple companies and ChinaDiscovery came back to me promptly with a very comprehensive tour that was detailed and in line with my expectations. The scary part of communicating my requirements was that it had to be done mostly through email, although the Leo of Chengdu Bamboo was also quick to Skype call me to handle some of my more advanced questions.

If you decide to book a tour like this (and you are firmly in the middle class) this is and expensive endeavor. For you to pull the trigger, you can expect a number of big expenditures. First, you will need to put an initial balance down on the trip to reserve the reservation. That amount was placed through PayPay, and the Paypal account that I placed it to did not look anything like the business I was dealing with. It was a bit unnerving sending the money to such a strange account, but in the end, the transaction was fine and 100% legitimate. One point of confusion...you may research and book through ChinaDiscovery, however the invoice then turned into Chengdu Bamboo International Tours Co, Ltd. From a payment standpoint, this was fine. I found myself having fears about placing so much money to the this travel company which I only researched on the internet...but in the end, all my fears were unfounded and the execution of my trip was as perfect as it gets.

Expect to pay a few big expenses. In addition to the trip costs, you will also have some other big expenses. You will need to coordinate the buying of your international plane tickets, which I handled shortly after the deposit. If you are a US citizen, you will need to get a visa. In my case, the Chinese Visas costs about $160 per person for a 10 year visa, and to get it, you must carefully submit a form to the Chinese consulate in a designated region of the country. Because I delayed doing this, I needed to do expedited service. And because the form is brutal and requires you to send your passports to the Chinese consulate, I enlisted a visa expert (CIBT.com) in order to get in processed. Long story short, about $1K later, I received the last of the passports back from the consulate with about 2 days to spare. So plan ahead.

The final expense is that you will be advised (not mandated) to give them tips to the drivers and tour guides. You will find yourself wanting to give them tips for the great service they provide, but you should calculate 2 weeks and 2 persons a day, and understand that it will cost you hundreds of dollars or thousands of Yuan as part of your trip costs.

Last warning to give about going to China...you'll need cash. Only some (not most) banks and stores are hooked up to the Visa and Mastercard system. This means, (1) you may need to search for the right bank to get cash in China in order to withdraw funds and (2) the vendors that you'll see only will take your cash. This caused some stress the first couple of days as I had trouble finding a bank that worked.

Now...for the good stuff. Once prepping for all that, the trip that was designed by Chinadiscovery (or Chengdu Bamboo Tour Company) was pretty spectacular. The guides were beyond great, and did a truly amazing, amazing job of being everything you would want as a tour guide. Prompt, flexible, funny, sometimes motherly, sometimes brotherly, open, honest, kind, insightful, human, knowledgeable and ...simply great. Each one in each town was different...but each of them took such pride in their cities/country that you are given a great gift. The coordination of the planes, trains and automobiles was flawless and as we traversed our way around each city, we never missed a single connection, nor did our guides ever fail to meet us at our designated meeting points.

The hotels were as good as it gets as well. Breakfast was included in all hotels...some food good, and other food great. The hotels were within walking distance to all the good things. For Beijing, 15 min walk to the Forbidden City. Shanghai? 5 minute walk to the River and 20 minutes to The Bund. I could go on, but the accommodations were really good. Combine that with flawless execution of all travel arrangements, it made for a stress free trip. The lunches were all Chinese and again, and food ranged from good to great. They always gave our family of 3 too much food for one sitting, and I felt embarrassed about leaving so much food behind.

In Beijing, our guide took us through Tienanmen Square, Forbidden City, Summer Palace, The Great Wall, and Temple of Heaven (among other places). When she took us to the train station for our trip to Xian, she insisted in walking us down to our seat on the High Speed railway car. When I asked if that is the company policy, she said 'that MY policy' (to ensure her clients get to where they are going). Amazing. We reached Xian for a day and Zoe gave us great insights of the growing city, the crowds, and life in China. Then onto Dunjuang, where Lily and her driver rearranged the schedule to ensure that we saw all the Silk Road sites. The schedule changes included her and the driver starting at 6AM (after we were picked up at the airport 10PM the night before) in order to ensure we saw everything. Then in Chengdu, Cherry helped so patiently with my wife's shopping at the Panda sanctuary. And in Guilin, Kennedy was awesome describing the land and China's ethnic minority. The insight for the rice fields and rivers were wonderful. We ate probably the best Chinese food of the trip in the fresh country air. Then finally, to Shanghai, where Zack was truly a joy, and one of the friendliest and enjoyable people I have ever met in my life. The city of Shanghai was amazing, and my son enjoyed it tremendously.

Two things I would do over if I could. First, I would plan to take it in June, not late July. We had to compete with the rest of China, which has summer break at this time. As a result, the places were packed with China tourist going to the same sites, which made the crowds a bit much. Second, I would have also altered the trip to spend 1 less day in Guilin and 1 more day in Shanghai. Other than that, I would not have changed anything.

Bottom line...if you are planning a trip to China, I highly recommend planning it with Chengdu Bamboo and if you are lucky enough to work with Leo, you will not be dissapointed.

Beijing Tour

We booked an 16 days guided trip to China with China Discovery Tour. Tracy Tan was our booking agent. With her, during the months before the departure, we have carefully studied the journey itinerary. Tracy has helped us make the itinerary according to our whishes. She went well above our expectations to make sure that we could have a wonderful experience in China. If you are considering a trip to China we are strongly recommending this agency and of course our agent Tracy! They sure know how to recommend and customise the best tours for any tastes! We started our visit in Shanghai and then visited the main attractions of the south of China. We went on to spend 2 day in Zhangjiajie visiting "Avarar" park and then travelling by train or car visiting Fenghuang town, Guilin/Yangshuo with a beautifull cruise on the Li River, and Kumning city with the Stone Forest. We reached Dali, Lijiang and Shangri-La to finish with a fantastic experience with Pandas in Chengdu. All the guides, who accompanied us, were top quality and spoke almost flawless English and were very knowledgeable. An absolutely unforgettable trip of a lifetime!!! Thank you Tracy and China Discovery Tours for all your dedication and help to make us experience extra special!!!

Jennifer H

Wendy Dan helped us plan our vacation. We added and subtracted from the vacation package. All of our guides were helpful, kind and informative. Mark our tour guide in Beijing felt like part of the family. We travelled with our 14 year old son and 17 year old daughter who were not always up for the challenge of the day. Each tour guide was engaging with the kids and helped to accommodate our needs as they unfolded. It was everything we read about and more.

Xi’an was a wonderful city with a beautiful nightlife for the entire family. Landscape, interactive lit up sidewalk, and a beautiful city park. The park has a rubber track to run, music pumped in and more landscape. Terra cotta warriors was overwhelming with the size of the site. Biking the ancient city wall was a must , fun and inexpensive.

Zhangjaijie was amazing and many unexpected parts. There are gardens within the park and monkeys! We spend a long time watching the monkeys swimming in the river. The town was easy to walk and we enjoyed shopping in the local supermarket.

Shanghai is an easy city and very modern. The Bund at night is a must. Seeing the sun set with the new Shanghai on one side of the river and the old on the other was unforgettable.

I loved every part of our trip. The suggestions that I gave to China Discovery was to provide a street map as I like to explore. The other tip I would suggest so to be aware that WeChat pay is the most preferred method of payment. We had cash which works but I was planning on Visa which was not taken at a few restaurants.

We saw many beautiful gardens, Beijing Olympic Park, historical sites, and modern cities. I wish I could list them all. I did a lot of reading and research before committing to the trip to China. We completely embraced the experience and hope more people take the opportunity to China. Highly recommend China discovery and a trip to China. Our whole family loved it.

Thomas G

I am a history major and I went to China to study ancient Chinese history. The tour guides were very knowledgable and would always answer my questions. It was by far my favorite vacation. Visiting the grottoes, Buddhist temples, museums, ancient fortifications, and cities were the highlights of this history major's experience. My favorite experience was visiting Pingyao ancient city. The walls were first built during the Western Zhou dynasty and the buildings are mostly from ancient China. I stayed in a hotel inside the ancient city, ate the local food, bought traditional clothing, and went to the bar at night. There are many bars that stay open late and some of the locals dress in traditional clothing. It felt like living in ancient China! If you are interested in shopping, there is a gift shop near the terracotta warriors museum that shows you how they are made. You can buy pretty much anything there from a replica terracotta statue with your face on it to furniture, pottery, and replica weapons. I bought a replica sword for 960 RMB and they shipped it to my house. There is also a silk museum in Shanghai where you can buy beautiful clothing. The local people were always very friendly, polite and interested in talking with you. I never felt nervous or disrespected during my stay. The tour guides will go out of their way to ensure you enjoy your visit. I would highly recommend China Discovery for anyone who is interested in visiting China. It is much nicer to have a tour guide show you all the fascinating things to explore and explain Chinese culture and history than visiting China without a tour guide and being blind to all these things.

Awkwardtrip

Awkwardtrip

Ms.Lyn wang was very cooperative & professional right from the time of enquiry, booking & arranging the customized China tour for 12 days covering Beijing, Yangtze river cruise, Zhangjiajie & Shanghai. We really appreciate her for organizing the tour in a very professional manner. We were bit apprehensive initially as we booked directly without any tour operator from my country of origin. It was very wonderful & pleasant experience and we really enjoyed every moment of it.

All all tour guides were very professional & cooperative giving all the required info of the tour. Yangtze river cruise by “president No-7” was very good & enjoyed the way they organised.

Zhangjiajie is a must visit place with such a scenic beauty & we feel three days there would have been more justified to enjoy thoroughly such a natural scenic beauty spot. But the only disappointment was the hotel “Wulingyuan Hotel” arranged was close to the hills but the food was really bad & couldn’t eat at all. The least we expected that the breakfast could be to suit overseas travellers, but was really not up to any standard. Suggest you to recommend any other hotels for overseas guests.

In Shanghai, there was much free time left after covering all the listed places as per itinerary & suggest tour guide could provide some local shopping tips in China as in Nanjing road it was all expensive which are otherwise generally available in any other country. Don't miss Bund walk in the evening, the skyline under lights is most delightful to watch /gaze.

Overall it was very nicely organised & we really appreciate your professionalism for well organised tour. I certainly recommend "China discovery" tour operator & happy to avail for any future tours in china.

uday196626

We have just returned from our holiday organized by Jack Li in China Discovery. This amazing tour lasted twenty days and we visited Beijing,Xi’an,Chengdu,Lijiang,Guilin, Yangshuo, Hangzhou and Shanghai. We found China Discovery to be an absolutely reliable tour company,responsible and very attentive. The service was of the highest quality- hotels,guides,drivers and all the restaurants attended and recommended. We have full confidence in recommending China Discovery for anyone needing a stress free holiday in China. In each location the guides were professional,enthusiastic and delighted to give us an insight into their community-history,customs,religions,fauna and flora. In fact each location was a highlight and we have a lifetime of unforgettable memories. We would like to thank Jack Li for customizing our tour and for taking such good care of us. It was a remarkable holiday made possible by the expertise and efficiency of China Discovery and its wonderful team.

daniela1122

daniela1122

We've just come back from 2 amazing weeks in China booked through China Discovery based in Chengdu, our travel consultant was Johnson. We chose a bespoke tour taking in Beijing, Xi'an, Chengu, then a short river cruise on The Yangtze, followed by a night in Zhangjiajie and finishing off in Shanghai. We had the most amazing time. Johnson organised the trip and was very patient with our infinte changes to the itinerary,

Johnson arranged all the transport within China, hotels, and guides in each of the cities, all guides spoke excellent english, were really well organised and knowlegeable. Ruby (in Chengdu), Kimi (in Xi'an) and Johnson (in Zhangjiajie) were absolutely excellent and made our stay really special. Having a guide cuts down the queueing time considerably as tickets are prebooked for you and they only need to be picked up, in some places there are preferential queues for guided tours.

We travelled mainly by high speed train, which is by far the most convenient way of seeing the country. We were astounded by how efficient, clean and punctual the trains were. We also used the underground system of most of the cities we stayed in, we found them all easy to navigate, modern, clean and punctual.

We had 3 days in Beijing , we stayed at the Park Plaza: excellent breakfast comfortable and clean rooms, excellent location. In Beijing we saw the Forbidden city, the Temple of Heaven and the Summer Palace and had a great day on the Great Wall, which is astoundingly impressive, coming down on the tobbogan was great fun. We were supposed to visit the Hutongs and have a go at some calligraphy, but unfortunately due to a mix of Beijing traffic, an early afternoon train to catch and the calligraphy person being called away, we were unable to do this last activity.

The second stop was Xi'an , we stayed at the Grand Mercure on Remnin Square, Less impressive than the other hotels in the square, but comfortable and excellently located. It was built in the Soviet era and had an air of faded grandeur. The Terracotta Warriors were breathtaking and we had a lovely time cycling round the town walls. Xi'an is a really pretty city by night with bustling markets and pretty lights everywhere. We took the opportunity to learn to make dumplings and have lunch with a local family. This was a great experience. It was in one of the super-modern high rise buildings that are ubiquitous, the host was a former guide and it was one of the best meals we had in the holiday. It was more a demonstration of how to fill the dumplings rather than a cookery lesson, but we enjoyed it nevertheless.

Next stop Chengdu , home of the pandas. We stayed in the Dorset Grand, the only way to describe the hotel is WOW! The highlight was the Pandas, we enjoyed Renmin park and the Opera. We mentioned to our guide that we wanted to try the local hotpot so she stayed with us into the evening to help us with ordering and show us how it was done.

The next stop was Chongqing , from here we took a 3 day cruise on the Yangtze on the Century Legend, which was a lot of fun and restful after the busyness of the previous week. Food was ordinary at best. The cruise had group excursions, which made us really grateful that we booked a private tour with China Discovery for most of the holiday (rather than a group tour with a UK based agency) as there was a lot of hanging around waiting for other people. The quality of the guides provided by China Discovery was also much higher. Breathtaking scenary and an amazing feat of politics and engineering.

Second last stop Zhangjiajie , the slow train was incredibly interesting, and it was the first look of small town, rural China we caught. It had a completely different feel from the other places we visited. As we got there we wished we had followed Johnson's advice and stayed an extra day. To sum the place up in one word: spectacular, we saw Tianmen Mountain and the Yellow dragon cave.

Finally a last few days in Shanghai , we stayed at the Sunrise on the Bund, a beautiful hotel, but not really on the bund. We were unlucky that there were night roadworks going on outside our window, but the staff did their best to mitigate their impact. Shanghai does not really need a guide, it is quite westernised and it is easy to navigate. The advantage of having a guide is that you will pack much more into the day. Again, we were grateful to have one of China Discovery's guides for one of the 3 days we spent here. As when we asked the concierge at the hotel for direction for a shopping centre, he arranged for a taxi to take us to a really hard sale place that made us feel quite uncomfortable. During the rest of the holiday only twice we had been taken to places where we felt in some way obliged to buy something, but it was not a hard sell, the trips were listed on the itinerary and we could have said we did not want to go there.

Overall it was a great holiday and we have been so impressed by the organisation and value for money provided by China Discovery and Johnson that we are planning to do a tour of Southern China in the next couple of years.

Tamsin1802

When researching tours of China we found that China Discovery was the perfect company to book with as we were able to customise our own trip.

We traveled to multiple destinations within China where we had our own personal guides which made the language barrier a breeze as we were able to thoroughly enjoy ourselves with no stress. The guides had excellent English and local knowledge and showed us many things that we would have otherwise missed.

I would not hesitate to recommend China Discovery and our tour coordinator Wing Zeng. She was excellent at planing the whole tour for us, including the internal travel arrangements. I was also very impressed with how she kept in contact with us throughout the entire trip.

When traveling domestically in China, we soon noticed that there were no signs in English at the airports so we were very grateful to have our tour guides assist us with the flight check-ins.

Overall, we thoroughly enjoyed our time in China and would definitely recommend this company to others.

MunWC

Our group from Singapore & Malaysia with family members of 14 pax, had enjoyable trip in Shanghai 3D2N, by our tour guide Ms Laura, and itinerary planner Ms Rita. We actually be in Shanghai for Royal Carribean 5D4N “Quantum of the Seas”, where we boarded frm Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal. Many of our group members have been to Shanghai years ago, but now this re-visiting have been excellent pleasant experiences. We visited Yu Garden, Shanghai World Financial Centre, Starbucks Roastery, Tian Zi Fang, Buddha Temple. As limited time, we missed Shanghai Museum. But still everything is perfectly well arranged. Will definitely engage the team for next tour in China :).

Icantap222

We booked the 6-Day Shanghai Yangtze Cruise with China Discovery and had a blast! I was very nervous about booking everything online, but Yanny He, our travel consultant, was excellent! All my fears and concerns were handled and I was assured that guides would be there to pick us up and drop us off for the entire trip. It was like clockwork! The cruise was excellent---the ship well appointed (Century Sun), the included excursions wonderful, the lectures and entertainment on board outstanding, the crew delightful, and the scenery mind-blowing. Our days in Shanghai were chilly but lots of fun & our guide gave us some excellent suggestions beyond the tour. All in all I highly recommend China Discovery. Yanny He (my online consultant) was patient, knowledgeable in all aspects of the trip, and very organized---as were all the guides throughout the trip. If you love China or are curious about it, take this trip!

David R

Wonder Wang organised an incredible memorable tour for us. our ten day trip in China was faultless - from the minute we put our feet in China right up to our flight home we were cared for in every detail. our guides and their drivers were simply amazing. Forest in Beijing, besides being very knowledgeable was a caring and lovely human being. Avril in Shanghai and Vivian in Xian were excellent as well. Their English was excellent. Punctual, arranged great lunches and simply excelled in all areas. Wonder arranged lovely hotels in the best locations. I would highly recommend China Discovery to anyone who wants to travel in China. 110% all the way!!

Pam J

My son and I just returned from a seven day trip to Beijing, Xi'an and Shanghai. The trip was booked with China Discovery and I would like to express my satisfaction and appreciation for a well organized and extremely enjoyable trip from beginning to end. The guides - Lindsay and Vivienne in Beijing , Timo in Xi'an , Laura in Shanghai were all organized, punctual, pleasant and professional. Everything went smoothly and we really enjoyed the 5-star hotel package. The food that was included exceeded our expectations for most of the time and the drivers were courteous and safe . Many thanks China Discovery for helping us to experience such a wonderful time.

Pecos2019

Every step of this tour from China Discovery was proactively, kindly and professionally managed by Rita Jiang. I was not sure where to start to safely book this once in a lifetime trip in China from the US. I found China Discovery and so glad I did. The trip to off the beaten path Putuoshan was gorgeous, spiritual and inspiring. I never could have done it by myself. My flight from the US to China was delayed by 24 hours and Rita quickly made accommodations for the delay during a stressful travel time for me. You can’t underestimate kindness, responsiveness and advocacy when traveling abroad, and I will be forever grateful to Rita and China Discovery for this life enhancing journey to China and Putuoshan Island. When headed back to China, I’ll be contacting them again. Highest recommendation from New Mexico, USA.

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Winston and his wife have traveled to many world places during the past 21 years and experienced the best vacation this time to explore China's west and east, north and south parts!

  •  Winston (USA)
  •  (22 Days) 2019.05.17~2019.6.07
  •  Beijing - Xian - Lhasa - Chengdu - Guilin - Longsheng - Yangshuo - Yangtze River Cruise - Shanghai - Suzhou - Beijing

Returning Hometown to Regain Adopted Daughter's Confidence

Lawson's Family had an amazing family China tour with their two adopted daughters from China and touchingly helped their adopted ethnic little girl regain confidence.

  •  Lawson (UK)
  •  (19 Days) 2018.10.17~2018.11.04
  •  Shenzhen - Xiamen - Yongding - Guangzhou - Zhaoxing - Rongjiang - Congjiang - Yangshuo - Guilin - ... - Shanghai

China Ancient Capitals Tour

William and his wife traveled to Huangshan and Zhangjiajie with us in 2017. This time they laid more emphasis on culture and history, so hey went to several ancient capitals.

  •  William (USA)
  •  (11 Days) 2018.03.22~2018.04.01
  •  Beijing - Taiyuan - Pingyao - Xian/Luoyang - Dengfeng - Zhengzhou - Kaifeng - Qufu - Mount Tai - Beijing

China attractions - Great Wall

In 22 days, we managed to see a far bit of the country. We started in Beijing had 4 days there and we went to The Forbidden City, go to the top and overlook Tiananmen Square which was amazing.

  •  Paul (Australia)
  •  22 Days (2017.07.31~2017.08.21)
  •  Beijing - Datong - Pingyao - Xian - Chengdu - Guilin - Yangtze - Shanghai

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  • Shanghai Highlight Day Tour from Cruise Port with Round Way Transfer This one day Shanghai highlight city tour is suitble for all the visitors who want to pick up or drop off at any Shanghai cruise port (Wusongkou Cruise Terminal,Shanghai International Cruise Terminal on Dongdaming Road).
  • Full-Day Shanghai Private Tour: Exploring Shanghai Splendid Highlights of Past and Present The past endowed Shanghai with treasure house of important cultural and historical sites while the new Shanghai leads the latest trends.Book this private 8-hour tour exploring Shanghai Splendid Highlights of Past and Present.
  • Shanghai Night City Tour with Huangpu River Night Cruise Book this Shanghai Night City Tour with Huangpu River Night Cruise,you will have the chance to enjoy the amazing lights of Shanghai city and the amazing architecture at night.
  • 6 Days Hangzhou and Huangshan Highlight Tour from Shanghai by High-Speed Train This is a wonderful tour for all the travelers, you will fell in love with the chinese natural landscape in East China from Shanghai by high-speed train. Such as Hangzhou and Huangshan and Qiandaohu Lake.
  • Shanghai Zhujiajiao Ancient Water Town with City Sky Line Watching Day Tour Zhujiajiao is a well-known ancient water town,featured with rivers criss-crossing the village and hundreds of ancient buildings stand at the banks. This is a perfect tour that get away from Shanghai and see something cool.
  • Suzhou Highlights Day Tour from Shanghai by High Speed Train Take a bullet train from Shanghai to suzhou for a day. Visit the must-see highlights in Suzhou: Suzhou's biggest garden - Humble Administrators Garden and the ancient city Panmen Gate built in 2,500 years ago...

Shanghai Private Tours

Welcome to Your Way Holiday - Your Gateway to Shanghai's Marvels! Explore Shanghai Your Way: Embark on a uniquely tailored Shanghai tour with our flexible packages, ensuring a personalized experience.

Your Trusted Travel Agency : As a premier travel agency in Shanghai, we offer seamless journeys, blending local expertise for an authentic exploration of culture, history, and cuisine.

Best Shanghai Day Tours & Packages : A Glimpse into Heritage: Discover Shanghai's rich history and vibrant culture on a day tour with passionate local guides, exploring both iconic landmarks and hidden gems.

Day Trips and Weekend Trips From Shanghai : Expand Your Horizons: Explore beyond the city with our day trips, discovering ancient water towns and picturesque landscapes. Or, unwind on weekend getaways to scenic retreats and cultural havens just a short journey away.

Introducing Private China Tours , Luxury China Tours , and China Family Tours: Elevate your travel experience with our exclusive offerings. Explore China privately with our Private China Tours, indulge in opulence with Luxury China Tours, or create lasting memories with your loved ones on our family-friendly China Family Tours.

Your Way Holiday invites you to unlock the wonders of Shanghai with our personalized and immersive approach. Book your adventure today!

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Top shanghai private tours.

Shanghai 1 Day Tour: Incredible Shanghai Highlights

Duration: 6 - 8 hours

Attractions(Cities): Yuyuan Garden & Bazaar, Nanjing Lu (Nanjing Road), Jade Buddha Temple, Old French Concession

Tour Style: Incredible Shanghai Highlights Day Tour is a fully guided tour for those who have just one day to see the best of Shanghai. Make the most of your time with your knowledgeable Shanghai Private Tour guide, see all top Shanghai attractions. With complete flexibility, follow this itinerary or create your own for a unique Shanghai experience. You'll get an insight into the city's culture, history, local lifestyle and future.

Exploring Shanghai with Kids 3 Days of Interactive Fun and Cultural Wonders

Duration: 3 Days, 2 Night

Attractions(Cities): The Bund, Yuyuan Garden & Bazaar, Shanghai Confucian Temple, Tianzifang, Jade Buddha Temple, Nanjing Road, Old French Concession, Boat cruise on the Huangpu river, Pudong New Area, Shanghai World Financial Center (SWFC)

Tour Style: Shanghai is an intoxicating hybrid of ancient China and a prosperous modern metropolis, as such, it's full of variety. 2 Days Shanghai City Tour with Old and New Landmarks is the best way to explore the Old and New Shanghai, from traditional gardens, bustling shopping streets, historic buildings, and even to the top of a skyscraper! Experiencing both parts of this mix, you will never forget this extraordinary trip in Shanghai.

Zhujiajiao Water Town Half Day Tour From Shanghai - The Secret Hidden Under the Modern City

Duration: 4-5 hours

Attractions(Cities): Zhujiajiao Water Town

Tour Style: Nestled amidst the tranquil waterways and boasting the poetic moniker "Pearl Stream," Zhujiajiao, with a history spanning over 1,700 years, stands as the most impeccably preserved among Shanghai's four ancient water towns. Embark on a captivating half-day tour led by your knowledgeable local guide, as you venture into the heart of this enchanting town. Discover the charm of ancient bridges gracefully spanning lively streams, wander along tree-lined canals, and marvel at courtyard-style houses that narrate tales of a bygone era. Escape the bustling pace of the modern metropolis, surrender to the allure of Zhujiajiao, and relish the leisure, antiquity, and tranquility that define this quaint town.

3 Day Shanghai Essential with Zhujiajiao Water Town Vacation Package

Duration: 3 Days, 2 Nights

Attractions(Cities): The Bund, Yuyuan Garden & Bazaar, Shanghai Confucian Temple, Tianzifang, Jade Buddha Temple, Nanjing Road, Old French Concession, Boat cruise on the Huangpu river, Pudong New Area, Shanghai Oriental TV Tower, Zhujiajiao Water Town

Tour Style: Book this Shanghai Vacation Packages: 3-Day Shanghai Essential with Zhujiajiao Water Town Tour experience Shanghai's most incredible city attractions and the remarkable "Oriental Venice" water town Zhujiajiao with your knowledgeable local shanghai tour guide. This private tour is particularly designed for first-time travelers to Shanghai to get an insight into its people, culture, history and the dynamic urban life.

5 Days Hangzhou Suzhou Heavenly Tour from Shanghai by High Speed Train

Duration: 5 Days, 4 Nights

Attractions(Cities): Hangzhou: Westlake, Lingyin Temple, Leifeng Pagoda, Longjing Tea Village... Suzhou:Lingering Garden, Hanshan Temple, Tongli Water Town

Tour Style: "Above there is heaven, below are Suzhou and Hangzhou." This 5-day Suzhou Hangzhou private tour from Shanghai will help you burst through the language barrier and get the absolute most out of Hangzhou and Suzhou with a priavte vehicle and knowledgeable tour guide. You will not only enjoy the tranquil west lake and beautiful scenery, learn about the history, admire Chinese classic gardens and get an insight of their people. What a wonderful tour experience you'll have!

7 Days Shanghai Xian Beijing Golden Triangle Tour by Bullet Train

Duration: 7 Days, 6 Nights

Attractions(Cities): Shanghai, Xian, Beijing

Tour Style: 7 Days Shanghai Xian Beijing Golden Triangle Tour by Bullet Train is perfect for travelers who is the first time traveling to China. This China tour coviers the most popular destinations in China with Beijing, Xian as well as modern Shanghai. Accompanied by your knowledgeable guide, take an insight into the must-see sights of China and get deep understanding of its profound history and culture.

9 Days Best Scenic and Culture Tour Around Shanghai

Duration: 9 Days 8 Nights

Attractions(Cities): Shanghai, Hangzhou, Suzhou, Huangshan

Tour Style: Take in the highlights of this 9-day Shanghai Suzhou Hangzhou and Huangshan tour package covering the best cities around Shanghai, accompanied by a private guide and including accommodation, meals and transport. Cruise down the Grand Canal in Suzhou, visit Suzhou's ancient gardens and spend a leisure time in water town. Soak up the scenery of Hangzhou visiting the famous West Lake, the Longjing Tea Plantation and village. Then, explore the "No.1 Mountain under the Heaven"-Huangshan, hike through the surrounding mountains and explore the UNESCO-listed Village Hongcun Village.

Shanghai Private Tour Guide, Translator, Interpreter Service

Duration: 8 Hours

Attractions(Cities): Shanghai private tour guide service,Shanghai Translator Service,Shanghai Interpreter Service,etc.

Tour Style: Shanghai Private Tour has full time private guides with a professional license or tour guiding certificate with expertise in history, shopping, business, nightlife and pretty much anything else you can think of. There aren't only tour guides either - assistants and interpreters too! They will help you learn a lot about the region, get a great price by skipping the middlemen and ensure you have a pleasant experience.

Suzhou Through Local Eyes: Suzhou Classic Day Trip From Shanghai by Bullet Train

Duration: 9-10 hours

Attractions(Cities): Humble Administrator's Garden, Tiger Hill, Shantang Street

Tour Style: Book this Shanghai to Suzhou Day Trip riding on a bullet less than 30 minutes, accompanied by your private guide, visit the winding canals, historical buildings, ancient street, classic Chinese gardens and much more on this private customized day tour to Suzhou. We will book the entrance tickets in advance to escape the crowds, let you jump the queue to make your trip comfortable and enjoyable.

‘Heaven On Earth’ Hangzhou Day Trip from Shanghai by Bullet Train

Duration: 10 hours

Attractions(Cities): The hangzhou Westlake(including the boat cruise), Fish Viewing at the Flower Pond, Lingyin Temple and Meijiawu Tea Plantation, Anmanfayun Village, The Song Dynasty Imperial Street

Tour Style: Described Hangzhou as "one of the most beautiful cities in the world" by Marco Polo, it is renowned for its historic relics and natural beauty. This private day tour departures from Shanghai to Hangzhou by the high speed train is perfect for sightseeing. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, admire the architecture of Hangzhou Old Street, learn about China's most renowned tea at Meijiawu Tea Village and Buddhism Culture, and cruise on West Lake where the views have inspired poets and artists for centuries.

Private Shanghai Evening Street Food Walking and Huangpu River Cruise

Attractions(Cities): Boat Cruise on Huangpu River, Yuyuan Bazaar (Shanghai City God Temple)

Tour Style: Book this private Shanghai evening tour, stroll the most famous food street-Yuyuan Bazaar (Shanghai City God Temple) in downtown Shanghai, which can offer you opporunity to taste the city from a local's perspective, taking the Huangpu River Cruise to enjoy the stunning light view and the amazing architecture of the city. It's the best way to admire Shanghai's classic skyline view.

Shanghai in Your Way: Customizable Half Day Shanghai City Tour

Duration: 4 - 5 hours

Attractions(Cities): Pick two or three attractions as you are interested

Tour Style: Want to see the top sights in Shanghai with a professional private tour guide? Then go on this half day Shanghai city tour that puts the power in your hands to decide what attractions you visit. Avoid lengthy itineraries of places that don't interest you. You can customized the tour entirely on your preferences and discuss with your guide for advice. Flexible on the start and finish time.

  • One Day Tour in Shanghai For Old and New Highlights
  • 2-Day Shanghai Family Vacation Package with Disneyland Park
  • Private Customized Airport Layover Tour of Shanghai City Highlights
  • Private Shanghai Old Town Walking Tour with Tea Ceremony Experience
  • Hassel Free Shanghai Highlights Day Tour with Round-Way Cruise Port Transfer
  • Shanghai Private Contemporary Art and History Walking Tour
  • 2-Day Shanghai Highlights & Hidden Door Explore with Acrobatic Show Holiday Package
  • Flexible Shanghai Self-Guided Shanghai Chauffeured City Tour
  • Private Tour: China Acrobatics Show and Shanghai Evening Tour
  • Shanghai Full-Day Private Guided Tour Featuring Modern and Ancient Architectures

China Private Tours

7 Days, 6 Nights

Guaranteed departures

9 Days Best Scenic and Culture Tour Around Shanghai

9 Days 8 Nights

18 Days Scenic China With Jiuzhaigou & Zhangjiajie Avatar Tour

18 Days 17 Nights

  • Best 14 Days China Silk Road Tour
  • 14 Days China Ancient Architecture and Culture Tour
  • 11 Days China Golden Triangle Tour with Yangtze Cruise
  • 7 Days Guizhou Ethnic Minority Tour
  • 13 Days Best of China Tour with Yangtze River Cruise
  • 7 Days Shanghai Beijing High-speed Train Tour
  • 8 Days Beijing, Xian, Luoyang, Shaolin Temple Tour by Bullet Train
  • 14 Days China Experience Tour With Panda
  • 7 Days China Tibet Highlight Tour Package
  • 15 Days Scenic China and Rice Terraces Tour

Related City Tour

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Suzhou Private Tour

Most Asked Questions about Shanghai by Travelers

1. Do I need to apply for a visa to Shanghai? Is the 144-Hour Visa Free Transit implemented in Shanghai?

Yes, you should apply for a Chinese Visa when you come to China for tour. 144-hour Visa-free transit is implemented in Shanghai for foreign citizens from 53 countries, including Canada, Brazil, Denmark, France, UK, USA, Italy, Japan, Poland, etc. Moreover, the online application system was put into use since Nov, 1st, 2018, shortening the application time to 20 minutes. Apart from the 53 countries, citizens from other foreign countries are expected to obtain a valid visa before visit. 

2. Is it safe to go to Shanghai China?

Shanghai is one of most popular tourist destinations in China and it’s a quite safe non-violent city. Travelers are often victims of petty crime, but this can be prevented by taking precautions. Transportation there is also very convenient and safe to go around Shanghai. Tourists can take a bullet train from Shanghai to nearby cities such as Suzhou, Hangzhou, Beijing and farther cities in China.

3. Long layover at PVG--Can I go into Shanghai?

Shanghai is one of the “Layover cities” in China. For the convenience of tourists, Shanghai municipality offers the Transit Without Visa (TWOV) policy, which lets you visit Shanghai visa-free for up to 144 hours. You can not only travel within Shanghai Municipality but also neighboring Jiangsu and Zhejiang provinces. This policy requires that passengers must be in transit to a third country or region.

4. What is the weather in Shanghai?

Shanghai has a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons . The best time for travelling in Shanghai is spring(March to May) and autumn (Sep. to Nov.), the temperatures is around 20°C. Summer is hot and humid, the hottest month is July; Winter is cold and wet, the coldest month is January. 

5. Is Shanghai expensive to visit?

Shanghai, as the largest city in China, the cost of living in Shanghai is more expensive than other cities in China. The cost is getting higher to travel in China. You can choose to join in the big group and use comfort hotels if you travel with a budget. We provide Shanghai private tours and group tours for different levels of tourists. The cost is higher during Spring & Autumn and Chinese holiday, lower cost during the winter. We also have the winter discount for our customers.

6. Should we bring Chinese currency or can we exchange when we get to Shanghai? I assume the use of credit cards is quite acceptable?

You should plan ahead and bring some cash with you since it’s easier to use cash in China rather than credit card or traveler’s check. Yes, we suggest change some Chinese currency in advance. You can also change the money when you arrive if you don’t change enough cash. There are several places you can exchange currency in China, including the airport, some big hotels, local Chinese bank.

7. What is Shanghai known for?

Shanghai is known as “East New York” by people. Shanghai is China`s most comprehensive industrial and commercial city.  Shanghai is famous for its monument of Chopin, the tallest statue dedicated to the composer in the world. Shanghai is the most famous place shopping in China. 

8. When is the best time to go to Shanghai?

With a humid subtropical monsoon climate, Shanghai has four distinct seasons. Shanghai climate features with pleasant warm spring, a hot rainy summer, a comfortable cool autumn, and an overcast cold winter. The best time for a Shanghai trip will be around springtime (March to May) and autumn (October to November). The springtime is recommended as the best time to pay a visit, while autumn is also a wise choice. If possible, avoid June, July and August with travel crowds, scorching hot weather, and frequent summer showers.

9. Where to stay in Shanghai?

Where to do stay is depends on what you want to see. For tourists, we would suggest you to choose hotels in city center of Shanghai for the most convenience, such as hotels near the Nanjing Road, People Square, Yu Garden and The Bund Area. 

10. Things to do at night in Shanghai?

After the tour in the daytime, you can find some things to do at night, such as watch a show to get to know fantastic art, or take a cruise to admire wonderful night view at the bund of Huangpu River, or take a Leisure walk in Xintiandi and have a cup of café.  You can also do shopping at night, there are many shopping streets and malls in the city. 

11. Where are the places for shopping in Shanghai?

Shanghai has always been a shopper paradise continuing on from its traditional heritage of offering the best of the east and the latest from the west. Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, Xintiandi, Tianzifang and Yu Yuan Mart at Yu yuan Garden are good place to do some shopping in Shanghai.

12. Which cites are recommended to visit near Shanghai ?

Shanghai is one of the main ports for entry, there are many cities around Shanghai you can visit, such as Hangzhou, Suzhou, Huangshan, Wuxi, Nanjing. You can visit ancient classical Chinese in Suzhou, appreciate the beauty of West Lake in Hangzhou, Spend a leisure time at the Yangtze River Water Town, Hike on the Yellow Mountain in Huangshan City… You can plan a Southeast China Tour when come to Shanghai.

13. Do you also do tours of Beijing or Xi'an and other parts of china?

We not only provide Shanghai local tour, but also affordable china tour package, single city tour package, customized tour. We can make the tour according to your requirements. 

14. How much is a meal cost in Shanghai?

The cost for a meal in Shanghai is depending on what dishes you order and the level of restaurant you order. Shanghai is twice the size of Chicago and has about a million restaurants of every kind and cost. It usually cost around CNY 100-200 per person at normal restaurant, for some good restaurant, it might cost CNY 500 per person, so it really depends on what your order. For more dining information, feel free to contact us.

15. What are the family-friendly activities in Shanghai?

Shanghai is a family-friendly vacation destination with many attractions to entertain your children while providing adult family, such as Spend a day in Shanghai Disneyland Park, it is a world-class family entertainment destination designed and built especially with Chinese tourists in mind. It is a world full of creativity, adventurous spirits, and infinite happiness, and a paradise for children too; Take a tour bus to observe the life of wild animals like Siberian tigers, African lions, and black bears. You can also watch elephants, giraffes, flamingos and other animals perform in Shanghai Wild Animal Park; Take a chance to stroll through the Undersea Tunnel to open your eyes at Shanghai Ocean Aquarium; spend a leisure day with your family at Shanghai Happy Valley.

16. What is the best way to get around in Shanghai?

With lots of transportation options, and a concentrated area of attractions, shopping, and restaurants, getting around downtown Shanghai is easy. You can choose city bus, metro, taxi, rickshaw ride or hop-on hop-off city bus, etc. The best way to get around Shanghai city is by metro due to the traffic in Shanghai, Metro in Shanghai is a fast and cheap way to travel within the city, and its extensive reach will put you close to all the top attractions and hotels. Taxis or private transfer are other convenient and useful option, but they'll cost you a bit more.

17. Is it safe to drink tap water?

The tap water is undrinkable in Shanghai. All local water should be considered contaminated. Bring all tap water to a good rolling boil if you want to drink, brush your teeth or make ice cubes. Otherwise, buy capped bottled water from reputable brands.

18. Can I get an Uber in Shanghai?

There is no Uber service in China, but you will find similar service ‘DiDi”, also call ‘Chinese Uber’. You can try to use Didi when you in China now, it is what everyone uses. In the past, it was only available to those who could speak Chinese. Luckily, the popular DiDi taxi app now has an English version that become a huge hit for expats living and working in China.

19. Is there any metro in Shanghai?

Yes, the Shanghai Metro is the longest rapid transit system in the world and it’s very convenient to get around Shanghai city by metro. Shanghai by metro is a cheap and popular way among young travelers. There are over 10 metro lines serving the city.

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  • 8 reviews of Hangzhou Private Tour in Hangzhou

Most Popular Half Day Shanghai Tours

  • Shanghai in Your Way: Customizable Half Day Shanghai City Tour
  • Shanghai Old Blocks Discovery with Street Food Tasting Food Tour
  • Shanghai Sightseeing Tours: Hop-on Hop-off City Sightseeing Bus
  • Shanghai Sightseeing Tour of Modern Art-Walking to China Art Museum
  • 3-Hour Private Walking Tour of Shanghai to Jewish Ghetto in Shanghai

Most Popular Shanghai Day Tours

  • Zhujiajiao Water Town and Shanghai City Highlights Private Day Tour
  • Shanghai 1 Day Tour: Incredible Shanghai Highlights
  • Private Tour: One Day in Shanghai of Old Time Memory
  • One Day Tour in Shanghai Of Jewish Culture & History
  • Private Full-Day Tour: Shanghai Old and New Highlights
  • SKIP THE LINE: Admission Ticket to Shanghai Disneyland with Optional Transfer Service

Most Popular Shanghai Muti-Day Tours

  • 2 Days Private Shanghai Old and New Landmarks Vacation Package
  • 3-Day Shanghai Essential with Zhujiajiao Water Town Vacation Package
  • 3-Day Shanghai Impressive Vacation Package with Half Day Cycling Experience
  • Shanghai 4-Day Magic Tour Package with Disneyland Park

Most Popular Shanghai Water Town Tours

  • Zhouzhuang Water Village Day Tour From Shanghai
  • Tongli Water Town Tour From Shanghai
  • One Day Xitang Water Town Tour From Shanghai
  • Shanghai to Nanxun Water Town Day Tour
  • Incredible Shanghai to Wuzhen Water Town Day Tour
  • Zhujiajiao and Qibao Water Town Sightseeing Tour From Shanghai
  • Shanghai to Luzhi Water Town Day Tour

Most Popular Shanghai EveningTours

  • Private Evening Tour: Huangpu River Cruise and Shanghai Lights
  • Eat Like A Local: Shanghai Night Food Adventure Tour With Beer Testing
  • Luxury Night Tour in Shanghai: VIP Huangpu River Cruise with Dinner Included
  • Shanghai Acrobatic Show Watching with Round Way Transfer

Most Popular Shanghai Bus Tours Sightseeing

  • Half Day Shanghai City Bus Tour with Afternoon Departure
  • Shanghai Small Group City Tour with Morning Departure
  • Small Group Day Tour of Shanghai City and Zhujiajiao Water Town
  • Shanghai One Day Mini-Group Tour of Shanghai Highlight
  • One Day Shanghai & Zhouzhuang Water Town Seat-in-Coach Tour
  • Shanghai Night Group Bus Tour with Huangpu River Cruise
  • One Day Suzhou and Zhouzhuang Bus Tour From Shanghai

Shanghai Private Tour Guide/Transfer Service

  • One Way Transfer Service from Shanghai Cruise Port to Shanghai Downtown Hotel
  • Private One Way Airport Transfer: Shanghai Pudong Airport (PVG) to Shanghai Hotel
  • One Way Transfer by High-Speed Maglev Train: Shanghai Pudong International Airport to Hotel
  • Private Transfer Service from Shanghai Train Station to Shanghai hotel

Our Special Offer Shanghai Private Tours

  • Shanghai Half Day Walking Tour to Explore Hidden Door Highlights
  • Eat Like a Local: Old Street Breakfast Walking Tour in Shanghai
  • Shanghai Wet Market Visit and Dim Sum Cooking Course Tour
  • Shanghai Day Trip to Discover Zotter Chocolate Factory
  • 2 Days in Shanghai: Shanghai Business Tour with Yiwu Small Commodity Market

Most Popular Shanghai Suzhou Tours

  • Suzhou Classic Day Trip From Shanghai by Bullet Train
  • All Inclusive Suzhou Gardens and Tongli Water Town Discovery Tour From Shanghai
  • Suzhou Tour From Shanghai: 2 Days Suzhou Highlights with Zhouzhuang Water Town
  • Ultimate 3-Day Private Shanghai Suzhou Sightseeing Tour
  • Travel to Suzhou From Shanghai: Full Day Zhouzhuang Water Village Tour from Shanghai
  • Shanghai to Suzhou Day Trip: Suzhou Garden Exploration Tour
  • Shanghai to Suzhou Day Trip: Rickshaw Ride and Grand Canal Ride Tour

Most Popular Shanghai Hangzhou Tours

  • Shanghai to Hangzhou Day Trip for Serenity,Nature,and History
  • Shanghai to Hangzhou Day Trip: Ultimate Hangzhou Tour with High Speed Train Ride
  • Travel From Shanghai to Hangzhou: Hangzhou Highlights Day Tour With Impression West Lake Show
  • Hangzhou Tea Culture & History Day Tour From Shanghai By Train
  • Shanghai to Hangzhou Day Trip: Hangzhou Classic Day Tour with Alibaba Company Visiting
  • Shanghai to Hangzhou Day Trip to Experience City Intelligent life
  • Weekend Getaways from Shanghai: 2-Day Hangzhou Highlights Package Tour with Impression Westlake Show
  • Shanghai Weekend Trip: 3 Days Hangzhou and Wuzhen Water Town Highlights Tour Package

Most Popular Shanghai Huangshan Tours

  • Huangshan Tour From Shanghai: One Day Huizhou Ancient Town sightseeing Tour
  • Shanghai to Huangshan Tour: One Day Shexian County Explore Tour
  • Huangshan Tour From Shanghai: 2 Days Huangshan Classic Tour From Shanghai By Train
  • Huangshan Tour From Shanghai: 2 Days Huangshan Hot Spring Relaxing Tour in Winter
  • 3 Days Mt.Huangshan Essential Tour From Shanghai By Train
  • Huangshan Tour From Shanghai: 3 Days Yellow Mountain Hiking with Huizhou Culture Tour
  • Huangshan Tour From Shanghai: All Inclusive 4-Day Huangshan Tour with Xidi Ancient Village
  • Yellow Mountain Tour from Shanghai: 4-Day Huangshan Tour with Shexian County

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8 Unique Things to Do in Shanghai Only

Shanghai is a modern metropolis preserving traditional Chinese characteristics. The diverse and rich culture endows her unique charm everywhere and providing its tourists many unique things to do in Shanghai only. Below are top 8 of them to help you have a memorable trip in Shanghai. 

Huangpu River Night Cruise

Huangpu River Night Cruise

Observation Deck in Shanghai Tower

Observation Deck in Shanghai Tower

'World Architecture Expo’ on the Bund

''World Architecture Expo’ on the Bund

Shanghai International Circuit

Stroll along old narrow alleys lined with shikumen residence.

Tianzifan

Experience the Speed of Maglev Train

Experience the Speed of Maglev Train in Shanghai

Customize a Hand-Made Cheongsam

Customize a Hand-Made Cheongsam

Overlook Night Scenery on Flair Rooftop

shanghai experience tour

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Best Things To Do In Shanghai For The Trip Of Your Dreams

According to locals, these are the 20 best things to do in china's biggest city, shanghai, for an unforgettable experience..

By: Kriti Nayyar Published: Feb 09, 2023 10:00 AM UTC

Best Things To Do In Shanghai For The Trip Of Your Dreams

“ People don’t take trips, trips take people. ” This quote by John Steinbeck rightly reverberates in today’s time, when travelling has become an intrinsic part of our lives.

If you’re an avid explorer looking to indulge in the best landscape views, unravel ancient architecture or experience tranquillity in the lap of nature, we’ve got the perfect place for you. Known as the ‘Paris of the East’, China’s largest city Shanghai offers exceptional sightseeing opportunities and activities for tourists. Take a stroll along the Bund, filled with stunning colonial buildings or hop onto Maglev, the world’s fastest train, for the ride of your life.

The city also harbours world-class museums , art galleries and boutiques to soothe your senses. In addition, the ancient temples and pagodas add to the old-world charm of this erstwhile busy city. Here’s a list of the 20 best things to do in Shanghai for an unforgettable experience.

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Free Things To Do In Shanghai If You're Travelling On A Budget

Free Things To Do In Shanghai If You're Travelling On A Budget

20 best things to do in shanghai, 1. soak in shanghai’s classic skyline views at the bund.

The Bund

The Bund is a legendary waterfront area of Shanghai, flaunting the city’s exquisite skyline and colonial architecture transporting you to an old European era. Located on the west bank of the Huangpu River, the place is straight out of a postcard.

Opt for the Bund Sightseeing Tunnel to get across the river or hop onto the Huangpu River cruise to gaze at the skyline.

How to reach : Take the subway to Nanjing East Road Station and walk towards the river.

2. Spend some peaceful time at the Yuyuan Garden

Yuyuan Garden

Yuyuan or Yu Garden dates back to the 16th century Ming Dynasty. After years of renovation in the late 20th century, it became a significant tourist attraction. The garden is exceptionally tranquil and filled with colourful pagodas, stone carvings and inscriptions by eminent personalities, little ponds, and pillars. You can also visit the Yuyuan Bazaar right next to the garden. It’s the best place to collect souvenirs and antiques to take back home.

How to reach :  Take the line 10 subway to reach the Yuyuan Gardens

Timings : Tue-Sun, 8:45 am – 4:15 pm (Closed on Mondays)

Entry fee : CNY 15 (USD 2) onwards

3. Unravel China’s rich history at Shanghai Museum

Shanghai Museum

The museum is filled with 120,000 artefacts, relics, art pieces and more, displaying Chinese culture in all its glory. Its expansive collection is segregated into 11 galleries and about three exhibition halls. You’ll find pieces from different centuries as well as reigns of various dynasties here. 

The new museum revolves around the Chinese concept of  tianyuan difang,  which means heaven is round and the earth is square. Visit the museum for a wholesome Shanghai experience.

How to reach : Take the line 8 subway from Shanghai’s Lujiabang Road Station to reach the museum.

Timings : Tue-Sun, 9 am – 5 pm

Entry fee : Free entry

4.  Blaze through the city on Maglev, the world’s fastest train

Maglev train

Shanghai is blessed with the  latest technology , a testament to which is the world’s fastest train, Maglev. The ride takes you from the Shanghai Pudong International Airport to Longyang Road Metro Station at a whopping speed of 430 Km/per hour (although you hardly feel you’re moving). You can also tour the Maglev Museum to understand how this engineering marvel came to fruition.

Ticket price : CNY 50 (USD 7.36) for a single trip and CNY 80 (USD 11.78) for a round trip in seven days

5. Climb the glass observation deck of Shanghai’s World Financial Cent re

Treat yourself to the best sunset views at the World Financial Centre,  China ‘s third-highest building. It is also the fifth-largest building largest in the world. The 100th floor houses the stunning glass observation deck, The Sky Walk. It gives you the best panoramic views of the city and the Huangpu River. Make sure to visit the Park Hyatt Hotel’s cocktail bar on the 87th floor because the views are better with your favourite drink in hand.

How to reach : From the Pudong International Airport, take the line 2 subway and get down at Lujiazui. The building is within walking distance from Lujiazui.

Entry fee : CNY 180 (USD 26.51) for adults

6. Explore Shanghai’s historic side at French Concession

French Concession

Escape the bustle of the city and experience a  European  affair at the French Concession, housing the city’s iconic historical buildings. You can’t miss the plethora of vintage cafes, boutiques, breweries and antiques while at the Concession. Make your visit worthwhile with the special Shanghai Gangster tour, which takes you through the lives of China’s notorious gangsters.

How to reach : The best way is to take metro line 10 or line 13 and get down at the Xintiandi Station.

7.  Visit Oriental Pearl TV Tower, an architectural marvel

Pearl Tower

Like the Financial Tower, Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl TV Tower offers breath-taking landscape views. However, the tower is a delight to look at rather than looking out from it. The minaret-shaped structure rests on four other vertical compositions. The spheres at various levels offer different activities, including the Space Module, a sightseeing floor, a revolving restaurant , a science fantasy city, and a hotel. The list is endless. 

How to reach : Use metro line 2, get down at Lujiazui Station, and take exit 1.

Entry fee: CNY 120 (USD 17.68) onwards

8. Shop till you drop at Nanjing Road

Nanjing road

The 5km long stretch from the Bund to Jing’an Temple is filled with fancy shopping outlets, cafes and whatnot. Stroll through the area to get a feel of Shanghai’s fast-paced life from day to night. The many buildings with exciting architecture glimmer beautifully at night, making the road no less attractive than  New York’s  Time Square.

How to reach : The Shanghai metro line 2 runs along the road, so it’s best recommended.

9. Bring out your inner child at Shanghai Circus World

Shanghai circus

Can there be a better recreational activity than watching a circus bringing together the best entertainers? Certainly, not! The Shanghai World Circus offers local and international shows, where performers display exceptional dance and acrobatic moves with the best special effects backdrop. Trampoline shows, bowl balancing, and motorcycle stunts are just some of the many activities you can witness here. Visit their  website  to know more.

How to reach : Use the line 1 subway and get off at the Shanghai Circus World station.

Timings : Daily, 7:30 pm – 9 pm

Entry fee : CNY 130 (USD 19) to CNY 160 (USD 23)

Book your flight to Shanghai here

10. Ride a gondola in the water town of Zhujiajiao

Zhujiajiao town

The old water town of Shanghai is perfect for a day trip filled with gondola rides and numerous charismatic bridges and canals (lit with lanterns at night). In addition, Zhujiajiao has many old shops and handicraft stores for buying souvenirs for your loved ones back home.

How to reach : The Shanghai West Bus Station has a particular Shanghai-Zhujiajiao bus line to get to the water town.

11. Have a perfect family day out at Shanghai Ocean Aquarium

shanghai ocean aquarium

The fourth biggest aquarium in Asia, Shanghai’s Ocean Aquarium, is famous for its 120-meter underwater tunnel. The museum displays various marine species, including the rare poison dart frogs, jellyfish, sea dragons and more. It is divided into special zones like China Zone, America Zone and Africa Zone, each displaying its speciality. 

How to reach : Using the line 2 subway, get down at Lujiazui station and walk for 8 minutes.

Entry fee : CNY 160 (USD 23) for adults and CNY 110 (USD 16) for children

12. Visit the magical Shanghai Disneyland Park

Shanghai disneyland

Shanghai’s  Disneyland  adventure park is filled with unique elements of China , spread across six theme parks. Hop to Mickey Avenue for a meet and greet with your beloved characters or walk along the Chinese gardens. For all adventure enthusiasts, the park also offers you the world’s fastest rollercoaster.

How to reach : Take the subway line 11 and get off at the Disney Resort Station.

Entry fee : CNY 435 (USD 64) on regular days but can be more on various holidays and weekends.

13. Visit the exquisite China Art Museum

China art museum

The China Art Museum was built for the Shanghai World Expo in 2010 and is the most extensive art gallery in Asia. Explore paintings of renowned Chinese artists or spend time at the Oriental Art Centre, where major opera performances and theatrical productions happen.

How to reach : Use the line 8 subway and get off at the China Art Museum station, two minutes away from the destination.

Timings : Tue-Sun, 10 am – 6 pm

14.  Visit the European-style ghost towns of Shanghai

Shanghai ghost towns

The ghost towns in the suburbs of Shanghai could tingle your nerves. So, the Shanghai Planning Commission undertook a project to construct six European-style ghost towns. They look incredibly scenic from a tourist’s point of view.

How to reach : From People’s Square station, take line 9 subway and get down at Xujiahui station to reach Thames Town.

15. Relax at the 1000-year-old town of Qibao

shanghai experience tour

The ancient town lies 18 km from downtown Shanghai, spread over just two square km in the lap of nature. It lures tourists with its stunning pavilions, temples and gardens and more. Enjoy your day by sipping Chinese tea at the teahouses here, or walk alongside the water lanes to soothe your senses.

How to reach : Use the line 9 subway and get down at the Xingzhong Road Station.

Most Spectacular Chinese New Year Events And Displays In Hong Kong

Most Spectacular Chinese New Year Events And Displays In Hong Kong

In Pics: Chinese New Year Celebrations In China And Around The Globe

In Pics: Chinese New Year Celebrations In China And Around The Globe

16. walk the jinmao tower sky walk for some thrill.

shanghai experience tour

Located on the 88th floor of Jin Mao tower, this skywalk is one of the highest skywalks in the world. What’s more thrilling about this skywalk is that it has no rails or fences. If it’s any relief, they give you a harness to cover the 1,115 feet high walkway. There’s an observatory as well for the best skyline views as well as dining options.

How to reach : Use metro line 2 and get off at the Lujiazui Station. Take exit 6 and walk towards the south for about five minutes to reach the tower.

Entry fee to the 88th floor: CNY 120 (17.68) for adults and CNY 60 (USD 8.84) for kids

17. Stop by Jade Buddha Temple for a spiritual experience

Jade Buddha Temple

Lying amidst bustling Shanghai is the beautiful Jade Buddha Temple, built in the early 1900s. The earlier site was destroyed in a revolution. It houses a stunning sitting Buddha and a reclining Buddha. In addition, the temple has a Grand Hall, which also displays many other statues.

How to reach : Take metro line 13, get down at Jiangning Road Station and take exit 4.

Entry fee :  CNY 20 (USD 2.95)

18. Know all about the metropolis at Urban Planning Exhibition Centre

Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center

The exhibition centre has documented the city’s past, present and future planning, making it a must-visit place in Shanghai. You’ll find models depicting how  Shanghai  has transformed over the centuries, housing some of the tallest structures across the globe. The prime attraction is the gigantic model of Shanghai on the 6th floor.

How to reach : Reach directly via the city sightseeing bus.

Entry fee : CNY 30 (USD 4.42) for admission and CNY 40 (USD 5.89) for special exhibitions

19. Bargain and browse through Yatai Xinyang fashion and gift market

Yatai Xinyang market

This fashion market is super fun to explore, offering everything from rip-off designer goods to local jewellery, bags, shirts and more. Overall, it’s a fun place to pick up something for your peers back home.

How to reach : It’s just a four-minute walk from Shanghai Science & Technology Museum. Hop onto the line 2 subway and get off at the Shanghai Science & Technology Museum station.

20. Shanghai Astronomy Museum for all astrophiles out there

shanghai experience tour

Among the newest of Shanghai’s architectural marvels is the Shanghai Astronomy Museum, which gives you a hands-on experience of all things extra-terrestrial. Opened in 2021, it’s the world’s largest planetarium in scale. Know all about China ‘s history of space exploration on your visit here.

How to reach : Take the metro line 16 to the Dishui Lake terminal station.

Entry fee : Entry is free but one needs to make advance reservation online using a valid ID.

Book these hotels in Shanghai

Bulgari Hotel Shanghai

Bulgari Hotel Shanghai

PRIMUS Hotel Shanghai Hongqiao

PRIMUS Hotel Shanghai Hongqiao

YaTi by Artyzen Hongqiao Shanghai - Korean Street

YaTi by Artyzen Hongqiao Shanghai - Korean Street

(Hero image credit: Yiran Ding/Unsplash)

(Feature image credit: Li Yang/ Unsplash)

This story first appeared on Lifestyle Asia Hong Kong

Related: Things To Know About Shanghai Before Travelling To The City

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Answer: All travelers must undertake a PCR test within 48 hours of departure and board the flight only with negative nucleic acid result.

Answer: 5 days is enough to explore what Shanghai has to offer.

Answer: Visit the Shanghai Museum, French Concession or check out sculptures of Red Town.

Answer: March to May and September to November are the best time slots to visit Shanghai.

Answer: Yes, it is absolutely safe.

  • china cities
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Kriti Nayyar

Kriti Nayyar

Kriti is a stay-at-home dog mama, whose knack for telling interesting stories keeps her erstwhile monotonous life sane. A literature & journalism degree holder, you'll find her binging on Agatha Christie novels while critiquing the everyday state of affairs. On Kriti's seldom social outings, she's seen devouring coffee sangria with appetizing bread .. Read More on the side. Read Less

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Shanghai Private Tours, 20 Best Shanghai Private Tours 2024

Stepping into Shanghai is like diving into a dynamic dance of eras, where tradition and modernity gracefully intertwine. Often the entry point for many global travelers, Shanghai sets the stage, offering a vivid introduction to the splendors of China. As you navigate its streets, you'll witness its transformative journey. On one hand, you have the bustling Lujiazui skyline with futuristic skyscrapers like the Shanghai Tower, and on the other, the serene beauty of the Yuyuan Garden and the historic architecture of The Bund .

Beyond its physical allure, Shanghai's essence lies in its diversity. The city warmly embraces its multi-faceted identity: it's where East meets West, where classic meets contemporary, and where art meets everyday life. From the European-influenced French Concession with its quaint cafés and tree-lined avenues to the vibrant Chinese opera performances , there's a slice of the world in every corner. Art aficionados will be enthralled by Shanghai's thriving art scene . Whether it's contemporary installations at tje M50 Art District or ancient artifacts at the Shanghai Museum , the city offers a canvas of experiences that continually evolve and inspire.

For first-timers , Shanghai provides a perfect introduction to China, setting expectations high and often exceeding them. For return visitors , the city unfurls new layers, showcasing its ever-changing character and indefatigable spirit.

Why Choose Shanghai Private Tours?

Exclusivity:  Shanghai Tailored Tours Just for You. Forget cookie-cutter experiences and crowded groups.

Versatile : Be it cityscapes, historic tales, or culinary delights, we curate tours to your preferences.

Authenticity: Beyond landmarks, our local experts unveil Shanghai's untold stories and hidden treasures.

Flexibility: Adjust on the go. More time here or a change there? We adapt to your wishes.

Affordably: Relish Shanghai's finest without the hefty price tag. Quality experiences at great value await.

Broaden Your Horizons: Extend Your Private Tour Beyond Shanghai

Using Shanghai as your starting point, tap into the treasures of the East, such as the classical gardens of Suzhou or the picturesque splendor of Hangzhou 's West Lake, the majestic peaks of Huangshan . Each tour can be fully customized to match your unique interests and preferences, all at the best possible local prices.

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If you're looking to fully experience the amazing city of Shanghai for 1-4 days , we've got just the thing for you - our all-inclusive private tours! Immerse yourself in the vibrant blend of old-world charm and modern skylines as you explore the rich historical heritage of Shanghai. And if you're traveling with your family, make it extra special by indulging in the wonders of Disneyland Park . Want to add more to your adventure? Extend your journey to the picturesque Zhujiajiao Water Town . Get ready to make unforgettable memories right in the heart of Shanghai! Check out Best Shanghai Private Tours now!

The Bund

Experience the diverse charm of Shanghai with our Themed Journeys! Explore our Private Shanghai Featured Tours . Whether you're a museum enthusiast, enjoy city walking or biking adventures, crave the excitement of Shanghai's nightlife, or have a layover to make the most of, we have a tour crafted just for you. Customize your itinerary for an unforgettable Shanghai adventure tailored to your interests.

The Bund

Embark on a captivating journey through China's eastern gems: Shanghai , Suzhou , and Hangzhou . From the vibrant heart of Shanghai, venture seamlessly into the neighboring jewels of Suzhou and Hangzhou with convenient high-speed train connections. Explore the mesmerizing backyard of these vibrant cities and immerse yourself in the splendor of classical gardens that transport you to a timeless realm of natural beauty. Experience the poetic serenity of West Lake, where tranquility and harmony converge amidst breathtaking scenery. Your eastern odyssey awaits!

Suzhou

China Private Tours from Shanghai

We offers many Shanghai China Tours to meet different travelers’ needs. Based on years’ experience, travelers’ choices and feedback, we highly recommend you to choose from the following 6 China tours from Shanghai for first-time visitors. You will explore from classic discovery in China’s golden triangle cities (Shanghai, Xian , Beijing ) to scenic exploration in Guilin with Karst landscapes, from Potala Palace ( Tibet ) to Hometown of Giant Pandas ( Chengdu ). Any of them can be tailor-made according to your interests and needs. Contact us for guaranteed best prices!

Forbidden City, Beijing

Shanghai Private Tours Planning & Useful Articles

Unveil the secrets to curating your perfect Shanghai Private Tour ! Planning a tour in this mesmerizing city may seem overwhelming, but fret not! We're here to be your trusted guides every step of the way. Access our wealth of Shanghai travel information , offering invaluable insights to help you design the ultimate group tour. Immerse yourself in our latest and informative articles, covering topics like " How to Plan a Shanghai Tour ," " Shanghai's Top Attractions ," " Unmissable Things to Do in Shanghai ," " Discovering the Best Time to Visit Shanghai ," and " Answers to Your Shanghai Travel FAQs ." With our comprehensive resources, you'll possess all the tools necessary to create an unforgettable Shanghai experience. View Latest Shanghai Travel Guide >>

The Bund

Shanghai Private Tours FAQs - Plan Your Shanghai Private Tours Worry-Free

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While Mandarin Chinese is the official language in Shanghai and throughout China , English is becoming more widely spoken in major cities like Shanghai , especially among younger generations and those working in the tourism industry. However, it's important to note that the level of English proficiency can vary among individuals.

In popular tourist areas, hotels, upscale restaurants, and larger shopping centers in Shanghai, you can usually find staff members who can communicate in English to some extent. Many signs, menus, and transportation announcements also have English translations . Additionally, Shanghai has been investing in English language education and promoting bilingualism to support international visitors.

However, it's still advisable to be prepared for language barriers, especially when interacting with locals outside of tourist areas or when venturing into smaller local establishments. It can be helpful to learn a few basic Mandarin phrases or carry a translation app to assist with communication.

If you require assistance or have specific needs, consider using the services of a local guide or interpreter who can facilitate your interactions and help navigate language challenges.

Overall, while English is gradually becoming more prevalent in Shanghai , it's wise to be patient, flexible, and open to non-verbal communication to overcome any language barriers you may encounter during your visit.

The best time to visit Shanghai is during the spring (April to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These periods offer pleasant temperatures, moderate humidity, and fewer chances of rain compared to other times of the year. Here's a breakdown of the seasons in Shanghai : 1) Spring (April to May): Spring in Shanghai brings mild temperatures, blossoming flowers, and vibrant greenery. It's an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring the city's parks and gardens. However, do note that April can be a bit unpredictable with occasional rain showers. 2) Summer (June to August): Shanghai's summer is hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). It can be uncomfortable for outdoor activities, and the city experiences frequent rain showers and occasional typhoons. If you visit during summer, be prepared for high humidity and consider indoor attractions and air-conditioned spaces. 3) Autumn (September to November): Autumn is considered the best time to visit Shanghai. The weather is pleasant, with cooler temperatures and lower humidity. It's a great time for sightseeing, strolling along the waterfront, and enjoying outdoor activities. However, early autumn (September) can still be a bit warm, so be prepared for some lingering summer-like weather. 3) Winter (December to February): Shanghai's winter is chilly and damp, with occasional cold spells. Temperatures can drop to around 0°C (32°F), but snowfall is rare. Winter is a quieter time in Shanghai, and you can enjoy fewer crowds and lower hotel rates. It's a good time to explore indoor attractions, visit museums, and experience traditional Chinese New Year celebrations if your visit coincides with late January or early February.

Shanghai cuisine , also known as Hu cuisine , is a prominent culinary style in China known for its delicate flavors, emphasis on freshness, and meticulous cooking techniques. Here are some popular Shanghai dishes you should try and where you can find them in Shanghai: 1) Xiaolongbao (小笼包): These steamed soup dumplings are a Shanghai specialty. The delicate dumpling skins encase a flavorful filling with a burst of hot, savory soup. You can find excellent Xiaolongbao at renowned establishments like Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant and Jia Jia Tang Bao. 2)Shengjianbao (生煎包) : Similar to Xiaolongbao, Shengjianbao are pan-fried soup dumplings. They have a crispy bottom and a juicy filling. Yang's Fry-Dumpling and Jia Jia Tang Bao are popular spots to savor this local favorite. 3)Lion's Head Meatballs (狮子头) : Lion's Head Meatballs are large, tender meatballs made from a mixture of ground pork, water chestnuts, and seasonings. They are usually braised in a savory sauce and served with vegetables. You can find them at local Shanghainese restaurants like Jesse Restaurant and Fu 1088. 4)Shanghai Fried Noodles (阳春面) : Shanghai-style fried noodles, known as Yangchun noodles, are stir-fried noodles with a light sauce. They are often topped with a variety of ingredients like pork, shrimp, and vegetables. Try them at renowned noodle shops such as Lao Zheng Xing and Da Hu Chun. 5)Drunken Crab (醉蟹): This seasonal delicacy involves marinating fresh crabs in rice wine or Shaoxing wine. The crabs are then steamed to perfection. For an authentic experience, visit restaurants like Fu Chun Xiaolong and Songyue Lou during the crab season (usually autumn). 6)Braised Pork Belly (红烧肉Hongshao Rou): This dish features succulent pork belly braised in a fragrant sauce, resulting in tender and flavorful meat. You can savor this classic dish at renowned Shanghainese restaurants like Lvbolang and Yangzhou Restaurant.

Absolutely! Shanghai is surrounded by several fascinating destinations that make for great Shanghai day trips or short getaways . Here are some interesting places near Shanghai worth exploring: 1). Suzhou (苏州): Known as the "Venice of the East," Suzhou is renowned for its classical gardens, tranquil canals, and charming water towns. Visit the Humble Administrator's Garden, Tiger Hill, and explore the picturesque water town of Tongli. 2). Hangzhou (杭州) : Just a short train ride away, Hangzhou offers scenic beauty with its iconic West Lake, historic temples, and tea plantations. Don't miss the chance to sample the famous Longjing tea. 3). Zhouzhuang (周庄): This ancient water town near Shanghai is famous for its well-preserved Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture. Take a boat ride along the canals, visit historic residences, and immerse yourself in the town's rich cultural heritage. 4). Nanjing (南京): As the capital of Jiangsu Province, Nanjing is steeped in history and offers a wealth of cultural attractions. Explore the magnificent Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, walk along the ancient city walls, and visit the Confucius Temple. 5). Wuzhen (乌镇): Another charming water town, Wuzhen showcases traditional architecture, stone bridges, and serene canals. Take a leisurely stroll through its ancient alleyways and experience the town's timeless beauty. 6). Huangshan (黄山)Yellow Mountain: If you're up for a longer trip, consider visiting Huangshan, one of China 's most iconic mountain ranges. Marvel at its dramatic peaks, hike scenic trails, and witness breathtaking sunrises or sunsets.

The number of days you should spend in Shanghai depends on your interests, the activities you plan to undertake, and the pace at which you prefer to explore the city. However, a suggested duration for a well-rounded visit to Shanghai is around 1 to 5 days. This time frame allows you to experience the city's major attractions, delve into its rich culture, and also have some time for day trips to nearby destinations. Contact us to tailor your Shanghai Tour according to your interests and the experiences you seek.

Here's a sample itinerary to give you an idea: Day 1: Explore the Bund, visit Shanghai Museum, wander along Nanjing Road, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city center. In the evening, take a Huangpu River cruise to admire the illuminated skyline. Day 2: Discover the traditional side of Shanghai by visiting Yu Garden, City God Temple, and exploring the charming alleys of Tianzifang or Xintiandi. Indulge in local cuisine and experience Shanghai's vibrant street food scene. Day 3: Take a day trip to a nearby water town such as Suzhou or Zhouzhuang, where you can experience the classical gardens, historic architecture, and tranquil canals. Day 4: Visit modern landmarks like the Shanghai Tower, Shanghai World Financial Center, and the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center to gain insight into the city's futuristic development. Explore the trendy district of Jing'an or French Concession for shopping and dining. Day 5: If you have an extra day, consider another day trip to Hangzhou to visit the stunning West Lake, and Lingyin Temple, and experience the famous Longjing tea culture.

Of course, you can adjust this itinerary based on your preferences and the specific attractions you wish to prioritize. Shanghai has a lot to offer, including museums, art galleries, markets, parks, and a vibrant nightlife scene. So, the more time you have, the more you can explore and immerse yourself in the city's diverse offerings.

Shanghai is known for several notable features that have contributed to its international reputation. Shanghai is a global metropolis that seamlessly blends tradition and modernity while offering a unique and dynamic experience for visitors. Here are some of the key aspects for which Shanghai is most renowned: 1). Modern Skyline: Shanghai is famous for its iconic modern skyline, dominated by towering skyscrapers and futuristic architecture. The Pudong district, particularly the Lujiazui area, is home to landmarks like the Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai Tower, Jin Mao Tower, and the Shanghai World Financial Center. These structures create an awe-inspiring panorama that has become synonymous with the city. 2). The Bund: The Bund is a historic waterfront area along the Huangpu River that showcases Shanghai's blend of Eastern and Western influences. It features grand colonial-era buildings on one side and the modern skyline on the other, creating a distinctive contrast that encapsulates the city's past and present. 3). Economic and Financial Hub: As China 's leading economic and financial center, Shanghai plays a crucial role in global commerce and trade. It houses the Shanghai Stock Exchange, and numerous multinational corporations, and serves as a vital business hub attracting professionals and entrepreneurs from around the world. 4). Art and Culture: Shanghai has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with numerous galleries, museums, and theaters. The Shanghai Museum, China Art Museum, and the Power Station of Art are notable institutions that showcase Chinese art, history, and contemporary works. The city also hosts various international events, including the Shanghai International Film Festival and the Shanghai International Arts Festival. 5). Cosmopolitan Lifestyle: Shanghai is renowned for its cosmopolitan vibe and diverse international community. It offers a rich blend of Eastern and Western cultures, reflected in its fashion, cuisine, nightlife, and entertainment options. The city boasts a thriving dining scene, luxury shopping districts, trendy neighborhoods, and a bustling nightlife. 6). Historical and Cultural Sites: Shanghai's history and culture are showcased in its ancient temples, traditional gardens, and historic neighborhoods. Places like Yu Garden, Jing'an Temple, Longhua Temple, and the Old Town area provide glimpses into Shanghai's past and offer a contrast to its modern developments.

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Latest Shanghai Private Tours Reviews from Our Customers

Maziar

Destination(s): Beijing, Xian, Shanghai, Tibet, Chengdu/Sichuan

Date of Experience: Jul 07, 2023

Tour Customized by: Isaac

You May be Interested in This Tour: 16 Days Classic China, Panda & Holy Tibet Tour in Small Group

Wayne C

I'm a Singaporean traveller who booked a private solo tour. I chanced upon AOT after I googled and decided to travel last min. My planner from AOT named Rita was very patient towards all my request and changes, she is knowledgeable and provided excellent advice for my 8 days trip arrangement from Shanghai, Zhangjiajie N Chongqing. Although there were very minor hiccups just like any overseas holiday, it was still a well planned trip.

I would like thank all my tour guides and drivers (师父) for looking after me so well. Special mention to Zhangjiajie Tour Guide named Ms Rita Wang, she looks after her client with her sincerest heart into the smallest details such as eating habits and my lifestyle. (Example: Turning A/C on knowing we Singaporeans can't live without A/C in car & also I don't even have to look at menu to order food becos she knows what I want to eat) Also thank you 杨师父 who tagged team with Rita, he is a very good skilled safe driver and knows how look after me during long haul journey drive inter cities.

I would strongly reccomended anyone who wants to travel to look for Rita or her colleagues from Asia Odyssey Travel.

Lastly, thank you to all whom I've crossed path during my trip. I'm grateful to all people in China for the warm hospitality. 感恩大家的招待和爱。

I left my heart in Zhangjiajie

shanghai experience tour

Destination(s): Shanghai, Zhangjiajie, Chongqing

Date of Experience: Apr 06, 2024

Tour Customized by: Rita

You May be Interested in This Tour: Customized Tour

Scott Wilkinson

Scott Wilkinson

Destination(s): Beijing, Xian, Shanghai, Guilin/Yangshuo

Date of Experience: Feb 13, 2024

Tour Customized by: Vincent

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Shanghai Express, A Free Layover Tour Service

shanghai experience tour

Introduction

Shanghai Express is a free layover sightseeing tour provided for international transit passengers arriving at Shanghai Pudong International Airport with a layover of over 8 hours.

Tour Routes

How to join.

Check Your Schedule

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FAQ *For more information, you can get in touch with us by email at [email protected].

What is shanghai express, is this shanghai layover tour open to everyone, how can i obtain a 24-hour temporary entry permit, which countries and regions are eligible for the 144-hour visa-free transit, which countries and regions are eligible for the mutual visa exemption, is this activity free of charge, in which language will the activities and local guides be conducted in, in which airports can i join this shanghai layover tour, when is the registration deadline, where should i register for this shanghai layover tour activity, can i register for the tour online, how early should i arrive at the counter for registration, is there a limit on the number of participants for the tour, do i need to prepare any documents in advance, what should i do if i miss the tour i booked, can i leave midway if i change my mind, how many times can i participate in a day, what if i miss my next flight due to delay, does this layover tour include meals and transportation in shanghai, does this activity include insurance, does this shanghai layover tour include accommodation, does this shanghai layover tour include luggage or pet storage.

shanghai experience tour

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Science News

Explore a map of the next 15 total solar eclipses.

In case you miss this year’s solar eclipse, there are 14 more in the next 20 years

A map of mostly the eastern hemisphere shows multicolored tracks of 13 total solar eclipses over the next 20 years

This map of eclipse paths from 2024 to 2044 reveals that Australia hit the jackpot: Over just 11 years, the continent (lower right) will see four total solar eclipses — in 2028, 2030, 2037 and 2038.

Alley Interactive, A. Buki

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By Christopher Crockett

April 4, 2024 at 12:00 pm

It’s never too soon to start thinking about the next solar eclipse.

On April 8, the moon’s shadow will sweep across North America , bringing a total solar eclipse over the homes of more than 30 million people ( SN: 1/4/24 ). But even as the shadow departs the continent in eastern Canada, the stage will be getting set for the next total eclipse. And the one after that. And the one after that.

That’s because there’s an order underpinning the mechanics that lead to any eclipse. The breathtaking celestial event is driven by the relentless, repeating rhythms of the Earth’s and moon’s motions. And that means that eclipses of all kinds — not just total solar ones — are predictable across millennia.

Thanks to that predictability, it’s possible to precisely map upcoming solar eclipses. To make this interactive map, Science News relied on NASA’s “Five millennium canon of solar eclipses”  database, a detailed accounting of every solar eclipse from 2000 B.C. to A.D. 3000.

That time span encompasses nearly 12,000 solar eclipses, roughly 3,200 of which are total eclipses. Showing them all would be a bit much. Instead, we show the tracks of the next 15 total solar eclipses, from 2024 to 2044.

In the map, the path for nearly every eclipse (differentiated by color) is marked with three lines: the northern- and southernmost edges of the band in which people will see a total eclipse and the centerline of that band. Along that line, totality lasts longer than near the edges. People in a wide swath to either side of each outer band will be able to see a partial eclipse.

Clicking on a path will offer up some details about that eclipse: The date, the time (in Universal Time ) at which the sun will be eclipsed the longest, the duration of that maximum extent and the width of the eclipse path. And typing a city, landmark or address into the map’s search bar will zoom to that spot, so you can see if any eclipses are due to visit any of your favorite haunts.

And for this year’s eclipse, clicking on any of the white flags along the path will reveal the exact time (also in Universal Time) and duration of totality at that spot.

There is one eclipse here that is a bit unusual. That one will pass through eastern Siberia on April 9, 2043 . On the map, only one line appears — the southernmost limit of totality — because the centerline doesn’t intersect with Earth’s surface. In this “noncentral eclipse,” the centerline and the whole northern half of the shadow will miss Earth entirely, cast off into the depths of space.

Hardcore eclipse fans, intent on seeing every kind imaginable, might want to plan for that one. The next noncentral total eclipse won’t happen until 2459 .

More Stories from Science News on Space

A black and white image of Apollo 17 astronaut Harrison Schmitt standing next to a lunar boulder on the moon.

50 years ago, scientists found a lunar rock nearly as old as the moon

A Hubble Space Telescope picture captures the spectacular view of a star-forming region, the Orion Nebula.

How a sugar acid crucial for life could have formed in interstellar clouds

shanghai experience tour

What  Science News  saw during the solar eclipse

total solar eclipse April 2024

​​During the awe of totality, scientists studied our planet’s reactions

Web-like structures are visible in a map of the universe.

The largest 3-D map of the universe reveals hints of dark energy’s secrets

A chromolithograph of the sun during the total solar eclipse in 1878

How a 19th century astronomer can help you watch the total solar eclipse

About a dozen people with their backs turned to the camera watch the August 21, 2017 eclipse. The people are looking up into the sky at a white sun with a black dot in the center. The sun is at the top center of the image. The sky is dark blue gradually darkening to midnight at the upper corners of the picture. The horizon is yellow and orange as if at sunset. Several people are taking pictures with cell phones held aloft. One person at the center right in the back of the group wears a red hooded sweatshirt with an Adidas logo on the back and a skirt.

During a total solar eclipse, some colors really pop. Here’s why

Close up image of the Milky Way's central black hole showing magnetic field lines seen in polarized light

A new image reveals magnetic fields around our galaxy’s central black hole

Subscribers, enter your e-mail address for full access to the Science News archives and digital editions.

Not a subscriber? Become one now .

IMAGES

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    Affordable and valuable price. 100% tailor-made packages. Highly rated customers reviews. Efficient customer support. 2 Days Classic Shanghai Tour is our most popular & classic itinerary which takes you to discover top highlighting attractions of Shanghai in the most time-efficent way.

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    Discover old and modern Shanghai on a private, fully customizable tour. With a personal guide direct from your door, explore attractions like the Bund, Ming-Dynasty Yuyuan Garden, Jade Buddha Temple, and the observation deck of one of Shanghai's highest skyscrapers. Upgrade to add transport by your choice of private car and rideshare or metro; or keep things simple with a package that ...

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    Book a private tour for 4 or 8 hours and inform the local partner of your preferences so that you can be assigned a like-minded guide to take you around the city. With complete flexibility, follow this itinerary or create your own for a unique Shanghai experience. After meeting your guide at your downtown location, start this 8-hour private ...

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    Afternoon Tea and Dessert Tour on the Huaihai Road in Shanghai. 11. Lift the lid on Shanghai's tea culture and sweet treats on this small-group afternoon tea and dessert tour. Stroll along Huaihai Road and after sampling Chinese mooncakes, visit a tea house for a classic tea ceremony.

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    Top 10 China tours 2024/2025 for first visits and returns: embark on a lifetime experience. Learn more. Home Travel Guide. Shanghai Travel Guide. Written by Ruby Zhao ... 6-Day Beijing and Shanghai Tour. Travel from China's capital to its prosperous largest city. Feel the contrast of old and new. View More.

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    Here is a classic 3-day itinerary to experience various aspects of Shanghai, including historical buildings, skyscrapers, Disneyland, and a pleasant water town: Day 1: One-day city highlights tour (the Bund, Shanghai Tower, Yu Garden, food experience, etc). Day 2: Have fun in Disneyland. Day 3: Zhujiajiao Water Town (bridges, gardens, and a ...

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    Read China Discovery's reviews about Shanghai travel and tour experience on tripadvisor.com to know tour arrangements, attractions, guides, drivers/car, transportation in Shanghai. Tailor-made Tour Package Refundable Quick Response 3,630+ comments (1,830+ reviews)

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    With complete flexibility, follow this itinerary or create your own for a unique Shanghai experience. You'll get an insight into the city's culture, history, local lifestyle and future. View Details. From $50 p/p. 7 reviews. One Day Tour in Shanghai For Old and New Highlights. Duration: 6 - 8 Hours.

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    Observation Deck in Shanghai Tower, the world's highest indoor observation deck, is one of the popular sites to gain such Shanghai unique experience. The observation deck is located at the 118th floor with the height of 546 meters (1,791 feet). Here, you can overlook the Oriental Pearl Tower & Jinmao Tower & World Financial Center in 360 degrees.

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    Throughout the 5-6 hours layover tour, we provide transportation, guides, and internet services - all FREE of charge. Travelers will have the opportunity to visit the Bund, Yu Garden and other famous attractions in Shanghai, and to experience the city's history, culture, and cuisine.

  21. Explore a map of the next 15 total solar eclipses

    This map of eclipse paths from 2024 to 2044 reveals that Australia hit the jackpot: Over just 11 years, the continent (lower right) will see four total solar eclipses — in 2028, 2030, 2037 and 2038.