Shanghai: Bike tour of Shikumen, French Concession & Bund

Summary

Cycle old Shanghai’s hidden lanes & taste real street food

You’ll cycle through Shanghai’s historic Shikumen neighborhoods with a local guide, sample real street snacks near Yu Garden, and pause under leafy trees in the French Concession. From bustling bazaars to quiet lane houses, this day trip lets you feel both old and new Shanghai — moments you’ll remember long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to feel so small weaving between those old Shikumen walls in Shanghai. The morning air was thick with that city smell — a mix of steamed buns and something sweet I still can’t name. Our guide, Li, waved us down a narrow nongtang where neighbors were already playing cards on folding tables. She pointed out the faded red doors and told us about families who’ve lived here for generations. I tried to repeat “Shikumen” in Mandarin; Li laughed and said I sounded like her nephew learning to talk.

We pedaled past Yu Garden’s bazaar — honestly, it’s louder than I thought it’d be, but in a good way. There was this moment when a vendor handed me a sesame pancake straight from the griddle (included in the tour, by the way). It was hot and flaky, and I nearly dropped it because my hands were still cold from riding. The French Concession felt different — wide plane trees overhead, sunlight flickering through leaves onto old stone houses. At one point we stopped for bottled water and just watched an old man practicing Tai Chi in Lu Xun Park. No one hurried him.

Duolun Road surprised me most. Antique shops next to tiny galleries — you could smell incense drifting out of one bookstore, which made me want to linger longer than we had time for. The Bund at the end was wild: all that glass skyline across the river, but behind us these quiet lanes where life moves slower. It’s weird how you can see both sides of Shanghai in just a few hours on a bike.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Shanghai's Historic Sites

• Visit Yu Garden bazaar
• Tour ancient French Concession
• Cycle Duolun Road shops
• View Huangpu River skyline

Top questions

How long is the Shanghai bike tour?

The bike tour lasts approximately 4 hours.

What attractions are included on this day trip?

You’ll visit Yu Garden bazaar, the French Concession, Duolun Road, and the Bund.

Is food included during the tour?

Yes, snacks such as local street food are included along with bottled water.

Do I need to bring my own bicycle or helmet?

No, both bicycle and helmet are provided as part of the tour.

Is this bike tour suitable for children?

Yes, children can join if accompanied by an adult; child seats are available upon request.

Are there any health restrictions for this tour?

The tour is not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health.

How many people are on each tour group?

The maximum group size is 8 people per booking.

Does the tour include pickup or transportation?

No hotel pickup is included; public transportation options are nearby.

What’s included

Your day includes use of a bicycle and helmet throughout the ride, guidance from a professional local guide who knows these neighborhoods well, bottled water to keep you hydrated as you go, plus authentic local snacks along the route so you get a real taste of Shanghai street food before finishing up at the Bund.