2-Day Shanghai Highlight Tour Combo Package

A Detailed Look at the 2-Day Shanghai Highlight Tour Combo Package

Exploring Shanghai in just two days might sound ambitious, but this all-inclusive combo tour makes it entirely doable—without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. It’s a carefully curated experience that combines some of the city’s most iconic sights with insightful commentary, tasty meals, and convenient transport, all organized by China Travel Service. Perfect for first-timers or travelers with limited time, this tour packs in the essentials while still leaving room to enjoy the city’s vibe.

What we really love about this tour is how it balances guided exploration with the freedom to enjoy the sights at a comfortable pace. Plus, the inclusion of meals and entrance fees means no surprises on the day—just show up and soak in Shanghai’s essence. That said, the tour is quite busy, so if you prefer a slower, more relaxed pace, you might find the tight schedule a little overwhelming. It’s best suited for travelers eager to see as much as possible and who enjoy guided insights along the way.

If you’re planning your first visit to Shanghai and want to hit all the main highlights efficiently, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s also ideal if you value good food, cultural insights, and comfortable transport. Keep in mind, hotel arrangements are up to you, so it’s perfect for those who want to stay flexible about their accommodation.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Convenience: Meals, entrance fees, and private transfers make this a hassle-free way to see Shanghai.
• Guided Insights: Knowledgeable guides offer personalized commentary, enriching your understanding of the city’s history.
• Iconic Highlights Covered: From The Bund to Yuyuan Garden, the tour hits all the must-see spots.
• Flexible Lunch Options: Vegetarian choices are available, catering to different dietary preferences.
• Time-Effective: Designed for travelers with limited time, packing key sights into just two days.
• Group Size: Small group or private, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

Day 1: Diving into Shanghai’s Past and Present

The adventure begins early, with a pickup at your hotel lobby—a VIP door-to-door service that saves you from navigating Shanghai’s busy streets on your own. The first stop is the Shanghai History Museum, where exhibits trace the city’s evolution from a humble fishing village into a global metropolis. You’ll have about 1.5 hours here, enough to get a feel for the city’s transformation but not so long as to drag.

Next, you’ll visit the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall at People’s Square, which showcases stunning models and visuals of Shanghai’s rapid development. If urban growth fascinates you, this is a must-see; it helps you understand how a city can morph so dramatically over decades.

Then, it’s a stroll along Nanjing Road, one of the world’s busiest shopping streets. While the shops are modern and bustling, this walk offers a lively, authentic glimpse of daily Shanghai life—ideal for people-watching and soaking in the city’s energy.

The highlight of the day is the Bund, where historic colonial architecture meets the modern skyline across the river. Walking here, you’ll sense the city’s blend of old-world charm with futuristic ambition.

Finally, you’ll hop on a Huangpu River cruise, passing by 26 buildings of diverse architectural styles—from Gothic to Baroque to Renaissance. Many reviewers, like Philipp, appreciated the guide’s knowledge and the way the boat ride offered a unique perspective on Shanghai’s past and present.

To end the day, the Pearl Market provides an opportunity to browse and purchase fine pearl artworks, with an option to skip this shopping stop if preferred. The guide’s friendly advice and local tips make it a worthwhile visit.

Day 2: New Sights, Traditional Charms

The second day kicks off with a visit to the Oriental Pearl Tower, where panoramic views of Shanghai unfold from the observation deck. Nearly all travelers comment on how this provides amazing photo opportunities and a great overview of the cityscape.

Next up is Yuyuan Garden, an exquisite classical Chinese garden built for leisure, featuring intricate pavilions, rockeries, and tranquil ponds. Two hours here allow you to wander at your own pace, appreciating the artistry and history behind each turn.

Adjacent to the garden is Yuyuan Bazaar, a lively market packed with traditional architecture and local snacks. It’s a whirlwind of colors and smells, perfect for picking up souvenirs or tasting street foods.

After lunch (at your expense), the tour continues with a visit to the Jade Buddha Temple, famed for its two jade Buddha statues brought from Burma. The temple’s peaceful ambiance and historical significance make it a highlight for many.

In the afternoon, you’ll explore Xintiandi, a modern entertainment district set in renovated Shikumen houses—think European-influenced cafes, boutique shops, and lively bars. It’s a fantastic place to relax and see how Shanghai blends old architecture with contemporary style.

The tour wraps up with a visit to the Former French Concession, where tree-lined streets and European-style buildings tell stories of Shanghai’s international past. If time permits, a visit to the Silk Market offers insight into Chinese silk traditions and craftsmanship, with an option to skip this if you prefer not to shop.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $445 per person, this tour provides a comprehensive experience that covers entrance fees, meals, and private transport—elements that often cost extra when exploring independently. The inclusion of delicious Chinese meals, with vegetarian options if needed, elevates the experience by offering genuine local flavors.

The private transfer ensures comfort and flexibility, especially given Shanghai’s sprawling layout. The guided commentary, delivered by knowledgeable guides like Melody (as noted by a reviewer), adds depth to the sightseeing, turning a simple walk into an educational journey.

Reviewers mention the well-organized timing and the ability to see “all of the highlights” without feeling rushed. This makes it a practical choice for first-time visitors eager to maximize their limited time.

Considerations

The tour schedule is quite packed, which might be tiring for some travelers. It’s best suited for those who appreciate a well-structured day and are comfortable walking or standing for extended periods. Also, hotel pickup is available within the inner ring road, but beyond that, additional transfer fees may apply—something to keep in mind when booking.

Authentic Insights from Past Travelers

Reviewers consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. Philipp mentioned that Melody, the guide, was “knowledgable and good,” which made the experience more engaging and personal. Other guests appreciated the delicious meals, especially the opportunity to try local dishes, and found the visits to places like Yuyuan Garden and the Pearl Market particularly memorable.

People also noted the convenience of the all-inclusive setup, which allowed them to focus on enjoying the sights without worrying about extra costs or logistics. The flexible lunch options, especially vegetarian choices, were appreciated by travelers with dietary restrictions.

A common theme was the well-paced itinerary, which balanced sightseeing with enough time to explore and relax. Many reviewers felt they gained a well-rounded understanding of Shanghai—its history, architecture, and modern culture—in just two days.

The Sum Up: Who Should Book This Tour?

This 2-Day Shanghai Highlight Tour Combo is ideal for travelers who want to see the city’s icons without the stress of planning each detail. If you’re new to Shanghai or short on time but eager to get a rich, guided experience, this tour offers excellent value. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy guided commentary, local cuisine, and seamless transportation.

While the schedule is busy, the variety of sights and cultural stops makes it worth it—especially for first-timers eager to get an authentic snapshot of what Shanghai has to offer. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or as a small group, the private or small-group setting ensures personalized attention.

However, if you prefer a slower pace, more time to explore each site independently, or have specific interests beyond sightseeing, this might feel a little hurried. Nonetheless, it remains a solid choice for a comprehensive introduction to China’s most vibrant metropolis.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The $445 fee covers private transfers, an English-speaking guide, entrance fees to all scheduled sights, and one bottle of mineral water per day. Meals are also included, with the option for vegetarian choices.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour is fixed in structure, but you can opt to exclude the Pearl Market and Silk Market stops by selecting the “No-shopping” options when booking.

What’s the best time to book?
Most travelers book about 45 days in advance, which helps secure your preferred dates and ensures availability.

Do I need to arrange my hotel?
Yes, you should provide your hotel details when booking. Pickup and drop-off are available within the inner ring of Shanghai; outside that, additional transfer fees might apply.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Yes, children under 18 are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.

Is vegetarian food available?
Absolutely, vegetarian options are offered, so just specify your preference at the time of booking.

What should I wear on the tour?
Comfortable shoes are recommended because there will be a good amount of walking each day.

How long are the sightseeing stops?
Most stops range from 30 minutes to around 2 hours, giving enough time to enjoy each site without feeling rushed.

Will I have free time during the tour?
The itinerary is quite full, but some stops, like the Yuyuan Bazaar or the Pearl Market, give you brief opportunities to browse at your own pace.

In essence, this tour is a smart, well-organized way to tick off Shanghai’s major sights with ease, all while enjoying local flavors and expert insights. Perfect for first-timers wanting a complete yet manageable introduction to the city.