Shanghai Tours

Private & Bespoke | Discover Old and New Highlights of Shanghai

On a tour to Shanghai, which once enjoyed the fame of "Paris of the East" and is now China's most potent economic engine, you'll see China's past, present, and future in such a concrete way. The colonial architecture is still evident at the Bund and former French Concession. An unparalleled birds-eye city view from the top of the Jinmao Tower. The old Shanghai lifestyle in the hidden alleys around Tian Zi Fang.

China Odyssey Tours has put together a list of Shanghai itineraries combining essential sightseeing with hidden treasure exploration. Whether you seek a classical image of Shanghai or a more profound understanding, our Shanghai tour packages below have something for you, or we will help you tailor-make your own Shanghai tour.

Classic Shanghai Tours

Check out our most classic sample tours of Shanghai. Or, contact us to customize a private tour based on your preferences.

Shanghai Tours with Surrounding Excursions

Here are some tour packages combining Shanghai's highlights with its surrounding destinations. Treat them as inspiration, as we'll customize an itinerary to match your interests.

China Tours Including Shanghai

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Why Private Tours

A hassle-free trip at your own pace for your own group

Your Own Party, Guides & Transfer
If you and your party purchase a "private" tour, you won't have to share the experience with anybody else. At every step, you'll have access to knowledgeable local guides who can fill in the blanks in your understanding. A private car will be used for every stage of the trip. Your trip, beginning with your arrival at the airport and ending when you have dropped off again, will be completely stress-free and enjoyable.
Hand-picked Hotels & Restaurants
We're well aware of the need of maintaining a healthy diet and getting enough rest when traveling. In order to provide you with a wide range of options, we take the time to carefully assess each location and choose a wide range of high-quality hotels and restaurants every year. Our goal is straightforward: to provide you with the convenience and coziness of home while you are away from it.
Travel with Full of Flexibility
When taking a private tour, you can expect individualized attention focused on your specific needs. You can travel with complete peace of mind and just have fun, as everything about your vacation is being handled. Simply tell your tour guide what you're most interested in seeing and what you'd rather skip entirely, and he or she will adjust the schedule accordingly.

Shanghai Travel FAQ

Can I spend some time exploring Shanghai while waiting to transfer?
When taking an international transfer via Pudong International Airport, Hongqiao International Airport, railway stations, and cruise ports in Shanghai, passport holders of 53 countries and regions, including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, enjoy a 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit. Please visit the relevant embassy or consulate website for information about the document requirement.
How many days should I spend in Shanghai to see the main attractions?
2 to 3 days are sufficient to see the majority of Shanghai's top sights, including the Bund, Yu Garden, Shanghai Museum, the former French Concession, etc. If your trip takes four days, you can plan to spend one of those days in the nearby Zhujiajiao Water Town.
What is the best season to visit Shanghai?
It is generally in spring and autumn, that is, from March to May, and from October to November. In the spring, the weather is warm and comfortable, and you may enjoy the blossoms of plum and peach everywhere. While autumn is the greatest time to taste hairy crabs, with their plump crab roe and fat getting thick.
Any dishes can't I miss in Shanghai?
Other than the classic Fried Buns and Steamed Buns, you must try the pork Moon Cake, Zui Xia (shrimps marinated in yellow rice wine), and Xie Ke Huang (fried soft crab shells filled with meat). These are, of course, just a few of the many delicious Shanghai dishes that are waiting for you to discover on your own in local restaurants.
Where to stay in Shanghai?
-Near People's Square: Shanghai s attractions are easily accessible on foot from this area, which is considered Shanghai's hub. -Lujiazui: On the opposite side of the Bund, it is one of the most concentrated areas of high-end hotels in Shanghai. -Near Jing'an Temple: This region is ideal for experiencing local life with a strong cultural flavor.
What are some good souvenirs from Shanghai?
In addition the classic souvenir – silk, there are also many unique products that you can bring home: - Li Tang Gao, made from white sugar, almonds, and 14 kinds of Chinese herbal medicines, is used to treat cough and stimulate appetites. - White Rabbit creamy candy, native to Shanghai, is one of the most popular candies in China. - Shanghai Coffee, the oldest coffee brand in China. - Jingfeng Yellow Rice Wine, brewed with high-quality sticky rice. - Jingjing fermented bean curd, with a unique flavor, is one of the most popular seasonings in Shanghai.
Is tipping generally common in Shanghai?
There is no local custom of tipping. Sometimes tipping is even considered impolite or embarrassing. If you want to express your gratitude to those who serve you, saying a "Xie Xie" and a polite will suffice.
Things to do in Shanghai for family and child?
Visit the Shanghai Natural History Museum, which has over 290,000 global collections. Explore the Yuyuan Market and sample a variety of regional treats. Visit the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium to unlock the secrets of marine life. Or enjoy a wonderful day at Shanghai Disneyland Park.
Are there any other tourist destinations close to Shanghai?
Hangzhou, Suzhou, and Huangshan are popular tourist destinations close to Shanghai and are known for their stunning landscapes and vibrant cultures. You can add these destinations to your Shanghai trip if you have enough time.
Are there only squat toilets？
Although Chinese toilets are typically squat-style, Shanghai’s modern airports, hotels, and popular tourist destinations now feature western types. Always keep in mind to bring tissues, in case some public restrooms do not provide toilet paper.

Top Places to Visit in Shanghai

THE BUND

Since 1844, the area has been designated as the British Concession, which has become the starting point of Shanghai's modern urbanization. Since then, foreign banks, commercial firms, associations, and newspaper offices began to gather here, and the Bund has developed into China's and even the Far East's financial hub. Hundred years later, 52 different western-style buildings are still standing, serving as Shanghai's most significant landmark and symbolic structures in contemporary China.

YU GARDEN
A local official constructed it as a part of his private property. Yu, which translates as "peace" and "safe," represents the builder's desire for a better life. It has been opened to the public since 1961. One of the highlights is the Spring Lantern Festival that takes place here.
FORMER FRENCH CONCESSION
It was the first, biggest, and most prosperous of the four French Concessions in contemporary China, mostly situated in Shanghai's Huangpu District and Xuhui District. It attracted a lot of European and American expatriates to dwell here after the First World War.
SHANGHAI TOWER
Rising 127 stories above the ground with a height of 632 meters, this iconic skyscraper in Shanghai is the third-tallest building in the world and the tallest building in China, which is mostly used for public facilities such as offices, hotels, and tourist attractions.
ZHUJIAJIAO WATER TOWN
Zhujiajiao has grown into a large town since 1612 as a result of its easy access to water transportation. With more than a thousand houses constructed along the river, it displays the Jiangnan water town's traditional style, and become one of Shanghai's most renowned towns.