Shanghai Night Tour: River Cruise, Bund & Xintiandi Bars

Summary

See Shanghai’s lights from the river then wander old streets

You’ll feel Shanghai come alive at night—cruising down the Huangpu River as neon lights flicker on both banks, wandering historic Bund streets with your local guide, then relaxing in Xintiandi’s outdoor cafés. This private tour includes all entry fees and ends near lively bars if you want to keep exploring.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest, I didn’t know what to expect from a Shanghai night tour. I’d seen photos of the Bund all lit up, but standing there with our guide Li, it felt different—like the city was showing off just for us. The air had that faint river smell, mixed with something sweet from a food cart nearby. We started at the pier for the Huangpu River cruise, and as we boarded, Li pointed out how locals use the river to orient themselves in this maze of a city. The boat moved slow enough that you could really take in both sides—old colonial buildings glowing gold on one bank, neon towers on the other. There was this moment when someone’s phone played a pop song quietly behind me and it just fit somehow.

After about 50 minutes on the water (felt shorter), we walked along the Bund itself. It’s busy but not overwhelming—families taking selfies, couples sharing snacks, an older man selling glowing toys to kids who were way too excited. Li told us about some of the buildings’ histories; I tried repeating one of their names in Mandarin and she laughed (I definitely butchered it). The lights here aren’t harsh—they’re kind of soft around the edges, which surprised me. Our group drifted toward Nanjing Road next. It’s loud and bright and honestly a little dizzying with all those shops and people moving in every direction. But there’s energy here that makes you want to keep going.

Xintiandi was our last stop—a total shift in vibe. Suddenly it was quieter, more relaxed, with people sitting outside cafés under strings of lights. You can see old shikumen houses mixed with glassy new bars; it feels like both Shanghai’s past and future are hanging out together. We ended up staying longer than planned because nobody wanted to leave yet (plus someone ordered another round). If you’re thinking about a day trip or night tour in Shanghai, this is one where you actually feel part of things—not just watching from outside. I still think about that view from the river sometimes when I hear city sounds at night.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Shanghai Night Tour Highlights

• Huangpu River Cruise
• Visit The Bund waterfront
• Explore Nanjing Road shopping street
• Stroll through Xintiandi nightlife area

Top questions

How long does the Shanghai night tour last?

The suggested duration is from 5:00pm to 10:00pm, but timing is flexible.

Is pickup included for this Shanghai night tour?

The tour includes metro/subway transport but not hotel pickup.

What attractions are visited during this tour?

You’ll visit Huangpu River (with cruise), the Bund, Nanjing Road, and Xintiandi.

Is this private night tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, it is wheelchair accessible throughout all stops.

Are admission fees included in the price?

Yes—all admission fees are included with your booking.

Does this Shanghai night tour include food or drinks?

No meals or drinks are included; you can buy snacks or dine at Xintiandi after.

Can infants or small children join this night tour?

Yes—infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller during the tour.

Is there a local guide for the entire duration?

Yes—a professional local guide accompanies you throughout the experience.

What’s included

Your evening includes all entry tickets for attractions plus a guided Huangpu River cruise by boat; your local guide stays with you throughout as you explore Nanjing Road and finish near Xintiandi’s restaurants and bars before heading back whenever you’re ready.