3-Hour Private Tour: The Bund and Shanghai Tower

This 3-hour private tour offers a fantastic way to see some of Shanghai’s most famous sights without feeling rushed. It’s designed for travelers with limited time who still want a meaningful, guided experience. The tour combines the towering presence of the Shanghai Tower with the historic elegance of The Bund, giving you a well-rounded glimpse of the city’s modern marvels and colonial past.

What we love most about this experience is the flexibility—it’s private, so you can stroll at your own pace and hear personalized stories from your guide. Plus, the inclusion of a ferry ride across the Huangpu River adds a touch of local flavor and scenic beauty. One thing to keep in mind is that this tour is quite focused on the highlights, so if you’re craving an in-depth exploration, you might find the time a bit tight.

This tour best suits travelers who want a snapshot of Shanghai’s essence in a short period, especially those who appreciate stunning views and engaging storytelling. It’s also ideal for first-timers who want reassurance with a knowledgeable guide leading the way.

Key Points

• Efficient 3-hour private experience focusing on Shanghai’s iconic landmarks
• Includes a ferry ride across the Huangpu River for scenic views and local flavor
• Guided by a fluent English speaker who shares fascinating stories about each site
• Visit the Shanghai Tower with included entrance, offering panoramic city views
• Explore The Bund’s colonial architecture and learn its historical significance
• Transportation within the city is arranged, reducing hassle
• Ideal for travelers with moderate physical fitness, comfortable walking shoes recommended
• Customer reviews highlight the stunning vistas and personalized attention from guides

A Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Visiting Shanghai Tower: The City’s Modern Marvel

Your adventure kicks off with a pick-up from your hotel, making the process seamless and hassle-free. From there, you’ll be taken to the Shanghai Tower, a true skyscraper icon towering as the second tallest building in the world. Designed by the renowned American firm Gensler, this structure is a feat of modern architecture and engineering.

Once inside, your guide will help you soak in the breathtaking views of Shanghai from the observation deck. Expect a panoramic sweep of the city’s skyline, with its futuristic skyscrapers and historic neighborhoods blending into one stunning vista. The admission ticket is included, which means you won’t have to worry about extra costs or long lines.

One reviewer, Harold, mentioned, “My tour with Miss Mary was excellent. She showed me parts of Shanghai not normally seen by travelers.” This highlights how a private guide can tailor the experience, giving you insights beyond standard city tours.

Strolling the Iconic Bund and Crossing the Huangpu River

Next, you’ll head to The Bund (Wai Tan), one of Shanghai’s most recognizable areas. You’ll cross the Huangpu River either by ferry (which closes at 6 pm, so timing is key) or by car, depending on your schedule. The ferry ride is a highlight—a perfect way to see the skyline from a different perspective, and it adds a fun, local touch to the experience.

Once on the Bund, you’ll have approximately 45 minutes to wander along the promenade. You’ll pass by notable landmarks such as the Fairmont Peace Hotel, HSBC building, and the Bund Bull sculpture. Your guide will share stories about Shanghai’s colonial history, explaining how this area served as a financial and diplomatic hub during the early 20th century.

A fellow traveler, Antonio, commented, “She helped us avoid crowded spots and shared detailed stories about each place. Plus, she took great photos of us,” emphasizing the tour’s personalized, relaxed pace.

Exploring the Garden Bridge and Suzhou Creek

The final stop is the Garden Bridge, the first steel bridge built in Shanghai. This picturesque spot links Suzhou Creek and the Huangpu River, making it a significant piece of engineering history. The bridge has appeared in films like Empire of the Sun and Romance in the Rain, giving it an air of cinematic charm.

Though only about 15 minutes are allocated here, it’s enough to appreciate the blend of functional infrastructure and aesthetic appeal. While free to access, it’s a picturesque setting perfect for photos and soaking in the local ambiance.

End of Tour and Return to Your Hotel

After these highlights, your guide will transfer you back to your hotel, wrapping up a well-paced, insightful journey. The tour totals approximately 3 hours, but the hours pack in a wealth of sights and stories.

What the Tour Includes and What to Consider

Included

• English-speaking guide who personalizes your experience
• Taxi fare within the 2nd Ring Road to streamline travel
• Entrance fees to Shanghai Tower

Not Included

• Meals and drinks
• Gratuities (which are encouraged but not mandatory)
• Taxi fare outside the 2nd Ring Road
• Any expenses beyond what’s listed

Practical Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes—there’s walking involved, especially at the Tower and along the Bund.
• Confirm your pick-up time and location in advance.
• Ideal for those with moderate physical fitness, as some walking and climbing is involved.
• Since the ferry operates until 6 pm, plan accordingly if you want that experience.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Harold praised the guide’s warmth and knowledge, saying, “Mary is a wonderful person and an excellent guide, helping me see parts of Shanghai I wouldn’t have found alone.” His comment about the tour being “packed with places to see” reflects how efficiently the itinerary maximizes your limited time.

Antonio’s review highlights the value of a guide who knows how to avoid crowds and captures the essence of Shanghai’s local life while sharing detailed background stories. He appreciated the guide’s cultural knowledge and her effort in taking great photos, making the experience both informative and personal.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re short on time but want a personalized, well-organized introduction to Shanghai, this private tour hits the mark. You’ll visit the city’s tallest skyscraper for stunning views, walk along the historic Bund, and see a significant piece of engineering at the Garden Bridge—all at a relaxed pace with a knowledgeable guide.

The tour’s focus on highlighting key landmarks combined with personalized storytelling makes it especially appealing to first-time visitors or those with limited time. The inclusion of a ferry ride adds a memorable local touch, making the experience more than just a sightseeing list.

While it doesn’t cover every aspect of Shanghai’s vast attractions, it offers a balanced snapshot of the modern and historic sides of the city. If panoramic city views, history, and authentic local flavor appeal to you, this tour will likely be a worthwhile investment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can participate as long as they are accompanied by an adult, and the tour involves moderate walking.

What’s included in the price?
The tour price covers a private guide, taxi within the 2nd Ring Road, and admission to Shanghai Tower. Meals, gratuities, and costs outside the included services are extra.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. You’ll receive a full refund if you cancel within this window.

Is the ferry ride included?
You can choose to cross the Huangpu River by ferry or by car, depending on the schedule. The ferry ride provides scenic views of the skyline.

How long do I spend at each site?
Expect about 2 hours at Shanghai Tower, 45 minutes at the Bund, and 15 minutes at the Garden Bridge.

Are tickets for Shanghai Tower included?
Yes, your ticket is included in the package, allowing you to skip long lines.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended due to walking and exploring, especially at the Tower and along the riverfront.

Will I see anything off the beaten path?
While the focus is on major landmarks, the guide’s local knowledge may lead you to small details and stories not found in typical guidebooks, as noted by reviewers.

This private tour offers a practical, engaging, and visually stunning introduction to Shanghai in just a few hours. Perfect for first-timers eager to get their bearings and capture some incredible views along the way.