Shanghai: Private City Tour with Local Guide & Pickup

Summary

See Shanghai’s top sights your way with a private local guide

You’ll explore Shanghai’s most iconic sights with a local guide who adapts the day to your pace—wander Yu Garden’s hidden paths, sip tea in Old Town, stroll along the Bund’s skyline views, and pause for reflection at Jade Buddha Temple. Includes hotel pickup and flexible timing so you can really feel the city as it unfolds around you.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit it — we almost missed our pickup because I couldn’t find my second shoe (classic). Our guide, Li, just grinned when we finally tumbled into the van, apologizing in two languages. She said not to worry; “Shanghai waits for you,” which felt oddly comforting. The city was already humming outside — scooters weaving past, someone selling steamed buns on the corner. It smelled like fried dough and rain on concrete.

First stop was Yu Garden. I’d seen photos but didn’t expect the quiet corners or how the air changed — kind of mossy and floral at once. Li pointed out a stone dragon curled along the wall (“Qing dynasty style,” she said), then led us through Old Town where vendors called out in Shanghainese. We ducked into a tea house that looked older than my grandparents’ house back home. The jasmine tea was so fragrant I almost forgot to sip it.

People’s Square was busy — families feeding pigeons, couples posing for selfies with City Hall in the background. We skipped the museum this time (next visit maybe), and wandered through Xintiandi instead. The French Concession had these sycamore trees that made dappled shadows everywhere; I kept losing track of what century we were supposed to be in. Lunch was on our own but Li gave us tips (“try shengjian bao if you see them!”) and laughed when I tried to say it in Mandarin — probably butchered it.

The Bund felt bigger than I imagined — wind off the river, neon signs flickering even before sunset. Pudong’s skyscrapers looked like something from another planet across the water. Last stop was Jade Buddha Temple; incense smoke curling up while monks chanted somewhere behind closed doors. There was this moment of quiet I still think about now and then, standing barefoot on cool stone tiles while everyone else drifted around me.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Shanghai Highlights Tour

• Visit Yu Yuan Garden and Old Street
• Explore People’s Square and Shanghai Museum
• Stroll Xintiandi in Former French Concession
• Walk along The Bund waterfront
• Visit Jade Buddha Temple
• See Pudong Financial and Business Center
• Customize your own Shanghai tour

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included in this Shanghai private tour?

Yes, hotel or port pickup and drop-off are included.

Can I customize my Shanghai day tour itinerary?

Yes, you can choose your own stops within 8 hours and 80 km driving.

What main attractions are visited on this tour?

The suggested route includes Yu Garden, Old Town, People’s Square, French Concession/Xintiandi, The Bund, Jade Buddha Temple, and Pudong Financial Center.

Is lunch included during the Shanghai city tour?

No, lunch is not included but your guide can recommend places to eat.

How long does this private Shanghai tour last?

The tour lasts up to 8 hours total.

Is this Shanghai city tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

Are entry fees included in the price?

No entry fees are mentioned as included; check with operator for details.

What’s included

Your day includes private transport by vehicle with a professional local guide who picks you up from your hotel or port and drops you off at the end of your adventure. Bottled water is provided throughout—lunch is on your own but you’ll get plenty of tips from your guide along the way.