Shanghai: All Inclusive 2-Day Private Tour with Watertown

If you’re heading to Shanghai and want a comprehensive, hassle-free way to see the city’s highlights—plus a scenic escape to a traditional water town—this 2-day private tour from Catherine Lu Tours might just be your best bet. With everything from entrance tickets to private transfers, guided commentary, and even a boat ride, it’s designed to maximize your time and minimize stress.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the carefully curated itinerary that balances the city’s modern marvels with its historic charm. Plus, the inclusion of local cuisine and private guides means you’re not just ticking off landmarks, but also getting insights and authentic flavors.

However, as with any organized tour, you’ll want to consider how much walking is involved—comfortable shoes are a must—and whether you’re comfortable with the tight schedule, especially on the second day. This tour suits travelers who value expert guidance, convenience, and a well-rounded taste of Shanghai and its surroundings.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Value: Entrance tickets, guides, transport, boat rides, and lunches are included, making it easy to budget without surprises.
• Diverse Highlights: From the traditional Yu Garden and Longhua Temple to modern skyscrapers and a charming water town, this tour covers a lot of ground.
• Expert Guides: Highly praised for guides like Ruby and others who are knowledgeable and engaging, enriching the experience.
• Authentic Experiences: Scenic boat rides and visits to historic neighborhoods offer genuine insights into local life and scenery.
• Flexibility & Customization: Options to customize some sights, with the guide’s input, make the experience more personal.
• Great Reviews: Consistent 5-star ratings suggest a high-quality, memorable visit for most travelers.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect

Day 1: A Taste of Shanghai’s Historic and Modern Marvels

Yu Garden and Bazaar
Starting your day at Yu Garden, you’ll step into a beautifully preserved classical Chinese garden. It’s a peaceful oasis amid the city’s hustle, with winding pathways, pavilions, and a tranquil pond. The adjacent bazaar offers a lively market scene filled with vendors selling souvenirs, folk crafts, and snacks—great for picking up authentic keepsakes or snacks for later. One reviewer mentioned that the market’s charm lies in its lively atmosphere and array of handmade crafts, giving an authentic glimpse into local artistry.

Former French Concession
Next, a drive or walk through the Former French Concession allows you to admire tree-lined streets, historic European-style architecture, and quaint cafes. You can select six sights to focus on, tailoring the experience to your interests—be it shops, cafes, or landmarks. This flexibility is appreciated by travelers who want a personalized touch. One reviewer noted guides are very accommodating, and the area is perfect for strolling and soaking in local vibe.

Bund International Architecture Exhibition
A quick stop at the Bund offers impressive views of Shanghai’s skyline and a chance to marvel at the contrast between historic colonial buildings and the ultra-modern skyscrapers across the river. It’s a stunning photo spot, especially during sunset. Visitors often comment on the breathtaking views and the sense of standing at the heart of Shanghai’s transformation.

Shanghai Tower
No visit to Shanghai is complete without seeing the Shanghai Tower, China’s tallest building and the second tallest globally. You’ll ride up to the observation deck for panoramic views of the city and the Huangpu River. The experience is enhanced by the guided commentary, helping you appreciate the skyline’s scale and ingenuity. One guest praised the bird’s-eye view for showcasing the city’s impressive urban sprawl.

Day 2: Water Town Charm and Historic Temples

Zhujiajiao Ancient Town
A highlight of the tour, Zhujiajiao is a picturesque water village about an hour outside Shanghai. You’ll enjoy a boat ride along narrow canals, observing traditional architecture and daily life. The scenery transports you to a different pace, offering insights into rural Shanghai history and lifestyle. Reviewers have raved about the scenic boat ride and the chance to see local life unfold along the waterways—truly a peaceful escape from city bustle.

Longhua Temple
The historic Longhua Temple, over 1700 years old, provides a serene environment for reflection and exploration. The temple’s pagoda is a distinctive feature, and the guide will share interesting tales about its history and significance. Visitors appreciate the tranquility of this site, especially after the busier city attractions.

Practical Insights: What This Tour Means for You

Transportation & Comfort
The tour includes private transfers, so you avoid the hassle of navigating public transit or haggling with taxis. Vehicles are comfortable and punctual, according to reviewer feedback, ensuring you stay on schedule.
Timing & Pacing
Each stop is timed to balance seeing the sights and allowing time for photos, exploration, or simply taking in the ambiance. The second day involves a fair amount of walking—wear comfortable shoes, as recommended by previous guests.
Guides & Personalization
Guides like Ruby are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and adaptability. They’ll share historical facts, local tips, and even adjust the itinerary if you’d like more time somewhere.
Food & Dining
Lunch is included both days, with reviews mentioning the quality and variety of the meals. You’ll enjoy local flavors, which enhances the culture.
Flexibility & Customization
You can specify your preferred sights within certain options, making the experience more tailored. This flexibility is especially helpful if you have particular interests or want to spend more time in specific areas.

Value Analysis: Does the Price Match the Experience?

At $500 per person, this tour offers quite a lot—inclusive of entrance fees, private guides, transfers, boat rides, and meals. Compared to the cost of individual entries and private guides booked separately, this package streamlines everything, making it a good value for those who prefer convenience and quality.

Most reviews highlight how smoothly the logistics run, and the guides’ knowledge adds significant value, transforming sightseeing into a more educational and engaging experience. For travelers eager to hit major highlights without the stress of planning, this tour delivers well on its promise.

Authentic Experiences You’ll Cherish

Beyond the landmarks, many travelers mention the personalized insights from guides like Ruby, who shares stories and local tips. The boat ride in Zhujiajiao is a serene, authentic activity that offers a glimpse into Shanghai’s water-bound past. The evenings by the Bund or exploring the vibrant markets provide lively, memorable moments that go beyond just taking photos.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after a well-organized, rundown of Shanghai, this private tour ticks most boxes. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want to see the highlights without the hassle of individual bookings and who appreciate guided commentary to deepen their understanding of the city’s history and architecture. The inclusion of a water town adventure adds a layer of charm that’s hard to replicate independently.

The tour’s flexibility, guided expertise, and all-inclusive setup make it ideal for first-time visitors or travelers short on time who want to make the most of their trip. The positive reviews highlight that the overall experience is enjoyable, well-paced, and full of authentic moments.

However, if you prefer more free time, spontaneous exploration, or are on a tighter budget, you might prefer a self-guided approach or a less structured day. Also, be prepared for some walking, especially in the water town and historic sites.

FAQs About the Shanghai Private Tour

How long is the tour each day?
The first day is approximately 4-5 hours, and the second day is a longer 4-hour adventure, totaling around 8-9 hours, including transfers and meals.

Are entrance tickets included?
Yes, all entrance fees to sites like Yu Garden, Longhua Temple, Shanghai Tower, and Zhujiajiao are covered.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult. The tour involves walking, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Can I customize the sights I visit?
Yes, you can specify up to six options for the French Concession area, allowing some tailoring based on your interests.

Does the tour operate in bad weather?
Yes, it runs in all weather conditions, but be sure to dress appropriately for rain or sun, and bring an umbrella if needed.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as there’s a fair amount of sightseeing on foot.

Are meals included?
Yes, two lunches are included, allowing you to enjoy local cuisine without additional expense. Dinner is not included.

How do I book or cancel?
Booking is straightforward, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if your plans change.

This 2-day private tour offers a thorough, comfortable way to experience the best of Shanghai and its nearby water town. Combining iconic architecture, historic temples, lively markets, and scenic waterways, it promises a balanced and memorable introduction to one of China’s most dynamic cities.