Private Tour of Shanghai with History Museum and Lunch

Travelers often dream of experiencing Shanghai beyond the usual tourist spots, seeing its vibrant streets, towering skylines, and deep-rooted history. This private tour offers just that—a full, immersive day navigating the city’s most iconic sights with an expert guide, finishing with a traditional Chinese lunch. For $148.27 per person, the experience combines culture, history, and modernity in a way that feels authentic rather than touristy.

What we genuinely appreciate about this tour is the thoughtfully curated itinerary that balances historic sites with contemporary attractions. The inclusion of public transportation allows guests to see the city the way locals do—buses, metro, and taxis—adding a layer of immersion that many organized tours miss. However, the full day of walking and multiple stops could be a lot if you’re not used to active sightseeing. This experience works best for travelers eager to cover a lot in one day, embracing the bustling energy of Shanghai with ease.

Key Points

• Authentic Local Experience: Using public transportation offers a genuine feel for city life.
• Comprehensive Sightseeing: From historic neighborhoods to futuristic skyscrapers, the tour covers a broad spectrum.
• Expert Guidance: The knowledgeable guides provide insights that enrich the visit beyond just photos.
• Balanced Itinerary: The mix of cultural, historic, and modern sights appeals to diverse interests.
• Value for Money: Including lunch, entrance fees, and transportation, the price offers solid value for a full day.
• Flexible for Private Groups: Personalized attention makes this a great choice for families or small groups.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting at People’s Square

The day kicks off at 09:00 a.m. with hotel pickup, which is a convenient start for those staying within central Shanghai. Using public transportation, your guide will whisk you to People’s Square, the bustling hub of the city, surrounded by significant buildings and a lively atmosphere. Historically, this area was once a horse racetrack dating back to 1861, now a place where locals gather, shop, and relax. The ruins of the former main building hint at Shanghai’s colonial past, providing a tangible link to the city’s evolving identity.

Exploring the Shanghai History Museum

Next, about an hour is dedicated to the Shanghai History Museum, situated right in the square. The museum’s collection spans over 6,000 years, making it an ideal spot for history buffs or those curious about how this modern metropolis came to be. It’s divided into sections covering Ancient Shanghai and Modern Shanghai, showcasing relics that reveal the city’s political, social, and cultural shifts from 4000 BC to 1949.

In reviews, visitors appreciated the museum’s comprehensive coverage and the way it makes old Shanghai feel alive. One guest noted, “It’s a perfect introduction to understanding the city’s roots, with plenty of relics and stories that make history accessible.”

Admiring the Architectural Jewel: Shanghai Grand Theater

From there, you’ll see the Shanghai Grand Theater, a striking building blending Western and Chinese architectural styles. Its glass curtain walls and elegant arches resemble a crystal palace, and many find it a photo-worthy highlight of the square. It’s a perfect example of the city’s architectural diversity and modern design.

Visiting Mu’en Church

A short walk takes you to Mu’en Church, designed by Laszlo Hudec, a famed European architect. The gothic design, with its brick-and-wood structure and artificial stone details, offers a glimpse into Shanghai’s religious architecture. The interior features concrete ribbed vaults and a spacious main hall, making it a peaceful contrast to the bustling city outside.

Strolling Nanjing Road and the Thinnest Building

Next, the tour ventures along Nanjing Road, known as China’s top shopping street. Over 5.5 kilometers, you’ll see over 600 shops, ranging from budget souvenirs to luxury brands. This street isn’t just about shopping; it’s a symbol of Shanghai’s commercial vibrancy.

A highlight here is the Paper Building, claimed by the British Daily Mail to be perhaps the world’s thinnest building. Standing diagonally, it’s a quirky sight and a fun photo op, especially for architecture buffs or those who enjoy offbeat sights.

Delving into Old Shanghai at Yuyuan Old Street

The tour then explores Yuyuan Old Street, a lively area packed with traditional shops, tea houses, and historic alleys. It’s a window into early 20th-century Shanghai, with narrow lanes, old-style architecture, and signs of the city’s commercial past. The Zigzag Nine Bend Bridge adds a touch of local superstition—walking across it is believed to bring good luck.

Visitors say this part of the tour provides a much-needed contrast to the high-rise modernity, offering a taste of the city’s traditional side. It’s a favorite for those wanting authentic street scenes and a peek into local life.

Modern Pudong and the Shanghai World Financial Center

Crossing the Yangpu Bridge into Pudong, the tour highlights the city’s incredible skyline. Here, you’ll visit Lujiazui and the Shanghai World Financial Center, the second tallest skyscraper in Shanghai. Known as the “bottle opener,” its observation decks on the 94th, 97th, and 100th floors provide panoramic views. The 100th-floor deck with transparent glass walkways is especially popular—think of it as a real-life version of a thrill ride.

The views of the city’s futuristic skyline and the Huangpu River make this a standout. Many reviews mention the stunning visuals and the thrill of walking on the glass-paneled walkway.

Riverside Promenade and Tianzifang

Afterward, a walk along Binjiang Avenue offers a quieter perspective of Pudong’s skyline, often called the “new Bund.” Overlooking the Huangpu River, it’s perfect for relaxed sightseeing, away from the crowds.

Next, the tour takes you to Tianzifang, a lively arts and crafts enclave with lanes full of boutiques, cafes, and art studios. Once an industrial area, it has become a hub for local artists and designers. Visitors love strolling through its lanes, discovering unique souvenirs, and sampling local snacks.

The Bund: The Iconic Waterfront

The final stop is the world-famous Bund, a stretch of historic buildings representing architectural styles from the early 20th century. Here, you’ll see landmarks like the Peace Hotel, Shanghai Customs House, and Shanghai Pudong Development Bank. The skyline across the river, filled with glittering modern skyscrapers, offers a striking contrast—highlighting Shanghai’s blend of old and new.

Guests often mention the beautiful evening views and the opportunity to stroll along the waterfront, soaking in the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

Practicalities and Value

This tour packs a lot into roughly 8-9 hours, including lunch, entrance fees, and transportation. The inclusion of public transportation is a key feature—buses, metro, and taxis—which not only cuts costs but also provides a more authentic city experience. If you’re comfortable navigating busy streets and moving at a brisk pace, you’ll find it adds authenticity and local flavor.

The lunch, featuring Xiaolongbao (traditional Chinese dim sum), is a real highlight for food lovers. It’s a tasty, filling way to experience local cuisine without the fuss of a sit-down restaurant. Reviews often praise the lunch as delicious and well worth the included cost.

Given the private guide arrangement, your experience can be tailored and personalized, which is a big plus for those wanting a flexible, intimate tour. The price of about $148.27 per person is quite reasonable considering the breadth of sights, the guide’s expertise, and the included attractions.

What could be improved?

While the itinerary is rich in sights, it involves quite a bit of walking and moving between locations. If you’re less active or have mobility issues, this could be tiring. Also, since the tour covers both historic and modern sites, it might feel rushed if you prefer slow, leisurely exploration.

Who is this tour best suited for?

This experience suits travelers who want to see a wide variety of Shanghai’s highlights in one day. It’s ideal for first-timers, history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and those eager to experience local life via public transport. It’s less suitable for travelers seeking a relaxed pace or leisure time in each spot, as the schedule is packed.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This private tour offers a comprehensive, well-rounded introduction to Shanghai that balances history, modernity, and local culture. The inclusion of public transportation and a variety of sights helps you feel like a local explorer rather than just a tourist. The guides are praised for their knowledge, and the views from the skyscraper observatories are breathtaking.

You’ll love the chance to walk through historic streets, marvel at futuristic skyscrapers, and enjoy authentic Chinese dim sum—all in one day. The curated stops ensure you get a taste of both the old and new Shanghai, making it a great value for a full-day experience.

However, be prepared for a busy schedule and some walking. If you’re comfortable with active sightseeing and want an immersive, guided day, this tour will deliver.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your hotel, making the start seamless and convenient.

How long does each stop last?
Most stops range from about 20 minutes to an hour and a half, depending on the attraction and the guide’s recommendations.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, the tour includes the entrance fees for all the listed attractions, like the Shanghai History Museum and the World Financial Center.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
It’s best suited for those comfortable with walking and active movement; younger children or seniors with mobility issues may find it tiring.

What do I need to bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and perhaps a small backpack for water and souvenirs are recommended.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a private tour, you can likely discuss adjustments with your guide, but the core stops are fixed for a comprehensive experience.

Final Words

This private Shanghai tour offers a rich, balanced exploration of the city’s history, architecture, and street life—all with the comfort of a guide and the authenticity of public transportation. It’s a fantastic choice for curious travelers eager to see the city’s contrasts, taste local cuisine, and learn from knowledgeable guides. Whether you’re new to Shanghai or revisiting with a desire for a deeper understanding, this experience is designed to leave you with a well-rounded appreciation of China’s most vibrant metropolis.