Alexander P.

Guide: Guide in China

Discover Shanghai with us!

Book your sightseeing tour

Sightseeing tour of Shanghai — all the main attractions in one day

First time in China? Welcome to Shanghai — a city where eras meet. Here the grandeur of an ancient empire coexists with dazzling skyscrapers, creating a unique atmosphere of contrasts.

Shanghai, the most Europeanized metropolis in China, amazes with the blend of ancient pagodas and glass business centres, traditional neighborhoods and boutiques of world brands. It is the economic heart of the Celestial Empire, where you can trace the entire history of China, immerse yourself in its authentic culture and, of course, enjoy the delights of local cuisine. Shanghai's unique charm will stay with you forever.

🏙️ All must‑see places
🚇 Metro + taxi
⏱️ 8 hours
📸 Best photo spots

Main attractions of the route

Old Town — an authentic quarter with historic buildings

Yuyuan Garden — a masterpiece of landscape art from the 16th century

City God Temple — the guardian spirit of Shanghai

French Concession — a European enclave in the heart of Shanghai

The Bund — the famous panorama of Shanghai

Lujiazui — the financial heart of Shanghai

Jade Buddha Temple — a famous Buddhist temple

What awaits you on the Shanghai sightseeing tour

  • Get to know the Bund. Walk along the famous promenade with a view of the Pudong skyline, see historic colonial‑era buildings and take classic photos against the backdrop of skyscrapers.
  • Visit the Old Town. Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of traditional China in the labyrinth of narrow streets where time stopped centuries ago.
  • Tour of Yuyuan Garden (Garden of Joy). Explore a masterpiece of Chinese landscape art from the 16th century with artificial ponds, pavilions and "singing" bridges.
  • Walk through the French Concession. Dive into the European atmosphere on the streets of the former French Concession with its plane trees and colonial architecture.
  • Visit the Jade Buddha Temple. See one of Shanghai's most famous Buddhist temples, which houses unique jade Buddha statues.
  • Ascend an observation deck (optional). Climb one of Shanghai's highest observation decks (Shanghai Tower, Jin Mao or World Financial Center) for a panoramic view of the city.
  • Shopping on Nanjing Road. Stroll along China's most famous shopping street, where global brand stores and local shopping centres are concentrated.
  • Visit the City God Temple. Learn about traditional Chinese beliefs by visiting the temple dedicated to the guardian spirit of Shanghai.
  • Lunch at a traditional restaurant. Try famous Shanghai delicacies, including xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) and other local dishes.
  • Walk through the Xintiandi area. Visit the fashionable district with restored traditional shikumen houses, where boutiques, galleries and restaurants are located.
  • Visit a local market. Experience the true atmosphere of Shanghai life and buy souvenirs.
  • Tips for further independent exploration and souvenir photos. Get recommendations for other interesting places in Shanghai and take many beautiful pictures.

Approximate one‑day tour program

*Times may be adjusted according to your wishes and traffic conditions.

Time Program stage Details and transport
10:00 Meeting with the guide We meet at your hotel or a metro station (arranged in advance).
10:30–11:30 The Bund Walk along the famous promenade, get to know the history of the buildings, best angles for photos.
11:30–13:00 Old Town and Yuyuan Garden Visit the garden (ticket paid separately) and wander through the narrow streets, nearby market.
13:00–14:00 Lunch Lunch at a traditional restaurant (xiaolongbao, Shanghai‑style duck, etc.). Cost ~100–200¥.
14:00–15:00 French Concession Walk through the former concession: streets with plane trees, fashionable cafes, old villas.
15:00–16:00 Jade Buddha Temple Visit the temple (ticket 50¥), see the jade statues.
16:00–17:30 Observation deck (optional) Ascend the Shanghai Tower or another skyscraper. Ticket paid separately (180–240¥).
17:30–18:30 Nanjing Road + Xintiandi area Walk along the main shopping street, then visit the fashionable Xintiandi district.
18:30 End of the tour Return to hotel/metro.

💡 Important notes:

  • Comfortable shoes are a must – a lot of walking.
  • Entrance tickets are paid separately, the guide will help with purchase.
  • Dress for the season – indoors (metro, shopping centres) strong air conditioning, bring a light jacket.
  • Camera/smartphone – there will be many beautiful shots.

Cost and conditions

Cost of the Shanghai sightseeing tour

Walking tour

Economy

Services of a Russian‑speaking guide, accompaniment all day. Transfer between locations – metro and taxi.

149$ per group 1–3 persons
Groups larger than 3 – individually

By car

Comfort

Guide services + sedan rental (up to 3 persons) for the whole day, including transfer between attractions.

250$ per group 1–3 persons
Groups larger than 3 – individually

Approximate expenses per person

  • Ticket to Yuyuan Garden 40¥ (~6$)
  • Ticket to Jade Buddha Temple 50¥ (~7$)
  • Observation deck (your choice) 180–240¥ (~25–35$)
  • Lunch at a restaurant 100–200¥ (~14–28$)
  • Transport (metro+taxi) paid separately
*Prices are approximate, exchange rate may vary.

Tour duration

8 hours
of exciting exploration of Shanghai

Additional services

Airport transfer to/from
+100$
Minivan rental
+80$

Frequently asked questions

How long does the tour take?
The tour is designed for 8 hours. It usually starts at 10:00 and ends around 18:00. The time can be adjusted to your schedule.
Are entrance tickets included in the price?
No, tickets to museums, gardens and observation decks are paid separately. The guide helps with purchasing and gives recommendations on what is worth seeing.
What transport is used?
In the basic option we travel by metro and taxi. In the 'By car' option you will be accompanied by a car (sedan/minivan) for the whole day.
Can the itinerary be changed?
Yes, the tour is private. We can remove or add any attractions according to your wishes. Just let the guide know your preferences.
Should I buy observation deck tickets in advance?
It is recommended, especially on weekends and holidays. The guide can help with online booking or buy tickets on site (queues can be long).
What to do in bad weather?
The tour operates in any weather, but the itinerary can be adjusted to focus on indoor attractions (temples, museums, observation decks).
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Booking terms

The indicated prices are valid at the time of offer for private individuals. The cost and availability of vehicles, interpreter and guide services may change.

Booking is confirmed only after receiving a 100% prepayment. The conversion rate is calculated at the current exchange rate of the Central Bank on the payment date.

If cancellation occurs less than 24 hours before the start of the event, the payment is non‑refundable.

In the event of force majeure that makes the execution of the tour program fully or partially impossible (national holidays, large‑scale forums, official visits, etc.), the organizer reserves the right to make changes to the program and its duration.

The cost of services does not include and is paid separately: transport expenses, event tickets, entrance tickets and other similar expenses.