Shanghai Authentic Dinner and Night River Cruise with Rooftop Bar Hopping Option

Planning an evening in Shanghai that combines authentic local flavors, stunning skyline views, and a relaxed vibe? This private dinner and night river cruise with optional rooftop bar stops offers just that—a blend of culture, scenery, and a touch of glamour. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, this tour promises an intimate, hassle-free way to soak up the city’s vibrant night scene.

What really stands out about this experience is the flexibility it offers: you can choose whether to dine before or after your cruise, and you can add on a rooftop bar visit with a complimentary drink. Plus, the tour is highly praised for its knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and excellent value for money. That said, it’s worth noting that the cruise can get a little crowded, which might not appeal to those seeking complete serenity.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love a balance of culture, scenic sightseeing, and socializing in a stylish setting. If you’re after a relaxed but enriching evening that highlights Shanghai’s iconic skyline alongside authentic cuisine, this could be your ideal outing.

Key Points

• Flexible itinerary allows you to choose dining before or after the cruise.
• Private transport and hotel pickup/drop-off make it a seamless experience.
• Authentic local restaurant serves traditional dishes, including must-try soup dumplings.
• Stunning 50-minute river cruise offers incredible views of Shanghai’s skyline at night.
• Optional rooftop bar stop with a complimentary house wine or beer enhances the evening.
• Top-rated guides ensure personalized, friendly service that elevates the experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

This private tour kicks off with hotel pickup in downtown Shanghai—a real plus for travelers who want to avoid the hassle of navigating busy streets or finding meeting points. The tour’s flexibility means you can opt to start with dinner or the cruise, depending on your mood or weather conditions.

Dinner at a carefully selected local restaurant is a highlight. Reviewers rave about the quality and authenticity of the food, with many mentioning the delicious soup dumplings and a variety of fresh vegetables and meats. One reviewer shared, “Sunny took us to an excellent, authentic restaurant that we would have never discovered on our own,” emphasizing how guides can unlock hidden gems in the city.

The dinner lasts about 1 hour 20 minutes—ample time to relax and enjoy the flavors without feeling rushed. The menu is customizable, with vegetarian options available on request. This focus on local cuisine offers an immersive taste of Shanghainese food culture, far removed from generic buffet options.

The Scenic River Cruise

After dinner, the tour guides you to the Bund area, where you’ll board a 50-minute sightseeing boat cruise along the Huangpu River. It’s a perfect way to see Shanghai’s skyline lit up at night, with landmarks like the Shanghai Tower, Oriental Pearl TV Tower, and Jin Mao Tower glowing against the dark sky.

Many reviews mention how spectacular the views are, with some guests describing the skyline as “glittering” and “breathtaking.” One reviewer noted that “the scenery and sites were amazing,” despite the cruise being somewhat crowded—a common occurrence given the popularity of the cruise. But even with a little bustle, the illuminated buildings make for fantastic photo opportunities.

Rooftop Bar Hopping and Drinks

For those who want to extend their evening, the optional rooftop bar stop is a real treat. The bar is described as one of the trendiest spots by reviewers, with great DJ music and a spectacular view over the river. A complimentary glass of house wine or beer adds a touch of luxury without extra fuss. Guests love the relaxed ambiance, making it a perfect way to unwind and reflect on the night’s sights.

The Guide and Transportation

Throughout the experience, your guides—like Sunny, Roy, Shirley, and Calvin—are consistently praised for their knowledge, friendly attitude, and fluency in English. One guest highlighted how Sunny added a personal touch, making the tour memorable, while another appreciated how Calvin answered all their questions about Shanghai’s modern development and history.

The private driver and transportation ensure smooth transitions between each activity. The tour’s group size is just your party, which allows for a more intimate and flexible experience. The hotel pickup and drop-off are included within downtown Shanghai, a significant plus for ease and comfort.

What to Expect in Terms Price and Value

At $139.60 per person, this experience offers excellent value, especially considering the private guide, authentic dinner, river cruise, and optional rooftop bar. Multiple reviewers mention how well-organized and friendly the service is, making it worth the cost. It feels like a personalized night out with the city’s highlights thoughtfully arranged.

Additional Details and Practicalities

• The tour lasts about 3 to 4 hours, giving enough time to enjoy each segment without feeling rushed.
• The dress code is smart casual, suitable for a relaxed yet presentable appearance.
• Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience, offering flexibility if your plans change.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, but children must be accompanied by an adult.

Why This Tour Works

This experience shines because of its combination of authentic local food, breathtaking views, and personalized service. The guides’ deep knowledge and friendly manner turn a simple dinner and cruise into a meaningful introduction to Shanghai’s iconic sights.

Many guests point out that the river cruise provides a different perspective of the city, with the illuminated skyline offering a visually stunning backdrop. The optional rooftop bar adds a chic twist, making it perfect for a romantic date night or a special outing with friends.

The Authenticity and Local Flavor

Travelers genuinely appreciate the effort to include local restaurants and hidden spots that you might not discover on your own. This is not a tourist trap but a taste of real Shanghai life, shared with passionate guides.

The Scenic Views

The Shanghai skyline at night is undeniably impressive. The combination of modern skyscrapers and historic buildings lit up creates a breathtaking cityscape that you’ll want to capture and remember.

The Personal Touch

Guides like Sunny and Shirley are frequently praised for their warm, engaging manner and wealth of knowledge, making the experience both educational and fun. Their local insights and attention to detail elevate the entire night.

The Value for Money

Compared to other tours that may only include one activity, this combo offers multiple experiences for a reasonable price, especially since it includes private transport, dinner, and a cruise. The option to upgrade with bar hopping adds a touch of luxury without a hefty surcharge.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is ideal for couples seeking a romantic night, travelers wanting an authentic taste of Shanghai, or anyone interested in seeing the city from a different perspective. It suits those who appreciate good food, stunning views, and personalized service. If you’re after a stress-free, well-organized experience that combines culture, scenery, and a bit of nightlife, this tour ticks all those boxes.

Final Thoughts

In essence, this Shanghai evening tour offers a well-rounded, memorable way to experience the city after sunset. The combination of delicious local cuisine, breathtaking river views, and optional rooftop drinks makes it a versatile option for many types of travelers.

The private nature and attentive guides make it particularly appealing for those who value personalized service and authentic local experiences. The added flexibility—choosing the order of activities and the bar stop—means you can tailor it to your preferences.

While the cruise can get crowded, the overall experience remains highly praised, with many guests calling it “a must-do” in Shanghai. The excellent reviews and consistent glowing feedback suggest you’re in good hands.

In summary, if you want a relaxed, scenic, and authentic night out that combines great food, unforgettable views, and the chance to enjoy Shanghai’s lively atmosphere, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a mix of culture, scenery, and socializing—delivered in a private, thoughtfully curated experience.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included if you’re staying in downtown Shanghai. Outskirts can be arranged for an additional surcharge.

Can I choose whether to dine before or after the cruise?
Absolutely. The itinerary is flexible, so you can start with dinner and finish with the cruise, or vice versa, based on your preference.

What does the dinner include?
The tour features a local, well-selected restaurant serving authentic Shanghainese dishes, including soup dumplings, fresh vegetables, and meats. Vegetarian options are available if advised at booking.

How long does the river cruise last?
The cruise is approximately 50 minutes, providing ample time to enjoy Shanghai’s illuminated skyline.

Is there an option to extend the tour with bar hopping?
Yes, you can add an optional stop at a rooftop bar, where you’ll receive a complimentary house wine or beer and enjoy a great view over the river.

What should I wear?
Smart casual attire is recommended, suitable for a relaxed yet stylish evening.

This experience offers a rich blend of culinary delight, scenic beauty, and personalized service, making it a wonderful way to spend an evening in Shanghai. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to see the city from its most dazzling perspective, this tour offers both value and authenticity in one package.