Private Shanghai Night Tour : Shanghai Tower Observation Deck and Amazing Lights

Traveling through Shanghai’s skyline at night is a spectacle that never gets old. This private evening tour offers a chance to see the city sparkle from one of its tallest landmarks, the Shanghai Tower, along with options for a river cruise and local dinner. With a focus on personalized experience and flexible add-ons, it promises a memorable way to appreciate Shanghai’s vibrant lights and architectural marvels.

What we really love about this experience is how it combines breathtaking panoramic views with insightful commentary from guides who really know their city. The convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off means you can relax and focus on the sights. The only thing to keep in mind is that, depending on the time of year, lines to get into the tower might be long, which could affect your schedule slightly—something important to consider if you’re on a tight timeline.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want an authentic, guided night experience that blends cityscape, history, and local flavor. It’s suited for those with a curiosity for Shanghai’s skyline, who enjoy stunning vistas, and are open to adding a river cruise or dinner for a full evening out.

Key Points

• Spectacular nighttime views from Shanghai Tower’s observation deck at 118 floors high.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with insightful commentary.
• Flexible add-ons like river cruises and local dinners boost the value.
• Hotel pickup and drop-off provides convenience in downtown Shanghai.
• Booking in advance ensures availability, especially during peak seasons.
• Group discounts can make this a more budget-friendly option for families or friends.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

A Stylish Welcome and Smooth Pickup

From the moment you book, this tour feels tailored and exclusive. Tours are typically booked about 18 days in advance, reflecting its popularity, especially among those wanting a carefully curated evening. Your guide, such as Sunny or Mason, will pick you up directly from your downtown Shanghai hotel—no fuss, no stress. This personalized approach means no worries about navigating the metro or figuring out transport after a busy day.

As several reviews highlight, the guides are a highlight. Christopher mentions that Roy, their guide, was “highly informative” and took his time explaining the sights, adding layers of context that you might not get on a standard visit. Michelle recalls Mason providing an “exceptional” tour, even when the conditions were cold, going out of his way to show her the city’s different facets.

Visiting Shanghai Tower: The Skyline from Above

The core of the tour is the visit to Shanghai Tower, the tallest building in Asia and a true symbol of the city’s rapid development. Once at the base, you’ll pay an entrance fee to the observation deck on the 118th floor, where a super-fast elevator whisks you up in just 55 seconds. This high-speed lift is a feat of engineering, and the ride itself is part of the thrill.

From the observation deck, the views are spectacular, especially at night. You’ll see the illuminated skyline of Pudong, with landmarks like The Pearl Tower and the Shanghai World Financial Center highlighted against the night sky. Reviewers like Bradley express that the guide’s commentary made the experience richer, pointing out iconic buildings and sharing stories that painted a vivid picture of Shanghai’s growth.

Some guests note that the sunset and evening views offer different moods—golden hues during sunset morph into the twinkling city lights, a visual spectacle that makes it worth visiting at this time. If you’re lucky, the weather will be clear, providing unobstructed vistas of the sprawling city.

Optional River Cruise: The Charm of the Huangpu at Night

For those who opt for the “Tower + Cruise” package, a relaxing cruise along the Huangpu River is included. The cruise offers a different perspective, with views of the historic Bund architecture glowing under the night sky. This part of the tour allows you to see Shanghai’s colonial past and modern skyline in one panoramic sweep.

Reviews from past travelers underline how pleasant and photo-worthy this cruise is. As Michelle notes, it’s an opportunity to capture classic images and simply soak in the city’s splendor. The guide shares interesting tidbits about the area’s history, enriching the visual experience.

Dining Options: Local Flavors and Tapas

If you choose the “Tower with Dinner” option, you’ll enjoy a local, tasty dinner after the tower visit. The review mentions that the meal is quick but flavorful, offering a chance to taste Shanghai’s local cuisine in a relaxed setting. Since the dinner is included in the package, it delivers good value, especially considering the prime location and quality of the food.

Travel Logistics and Comfort

The transportation for this tour varies based on the group size. Solo travelers or small groups get to enjoy the comfort of a premium Uber, while larger parties are transported in a private MPV van. This ensures comfort regardless of group size, and many reviews mention the ease of getting around without the hassle of public transport.

The tour duration of about 3 to 4 hours makes it a manageable evening activity—enough time to enjoy the sights without feeling rushed. The flexibility to add on the river cruise or dinner allows you to customize the experience based on your interests and energy levels.

Authentic Insights from Past Travelers

Several reviewers have praised the guides for their knowledge and personable approach. Bradley emphasizes that Sunny was “very thoughtful,” and Chris was both “knowledgeable and personable,” which made the experience particularly enjoyable.

One reviewer, Erika, expressed disappointment about waiting in line for over two hours, which underscores the importance of booking well in advance, especially during high seasons or weekends. This is a reminder that, while the experience is fantastic, some logistical patience might be required.

Michelle highlights how her guide Mason went out of his way to show her things outside the typical tour, emphasizing the value of a private tour where the experience is tailored to your interests.

The Value for Money

At $123 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the access to one of the world’s tallest observation decks, guided commentary, and optional add-ons. For those wanting a comprehensive evening to see Shanghai at night, it’s a worthwhile investment, especially when compared to the cost of individual tickets and transport.

Who is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience is perfect for night owls and city lovers who want a personalized, insightful glimpse of Shanghai’s skyline. It’s ideal for those who appreciate stunning views, local guides, and flexible options like river cruises and dinners.

Travelers seeking convenience will also appreciate hotel pickup/drop-off, making it a hassle-free way to explore without worrying about transportation or navigating unfamiliar public transit.

However, if you’re sensitive to long lines or are on a very tight schedule, consider booking well in advance or verifying the best time to visit the observation deck to avoid disappointment.

The Sum Up

This private night tour of Shanghai is a compelling way to see the city’s skyline illuminated after dark. The combination of spectacular views from Shanghai Tower, engaging commentary from knowledgeable guides, and optional experiences like a river cruise or local dinner make it a well-rounded and memorable outing.

It’s best suited for travelers who value comfort, flexibility, and authentic insights, especially those who want to avoid crowded tours and enjoy a more personalized approach. The tour’s focus on high-quality access and local expertise offers excellent value, capturing the essence of Shanghai’s vibrant night scene.

While the wait times can sometimes be longer during peak seasons, proper planning and booking ahead will ensure a smooth experience. This tour provides a wonderful way to appreciate Shanghai’s skyline, history, and culture—perfect for evening explorers eager to see the city in a new light.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup offered?
Yes, pickup and drop-off in downtown Shanghai are included, making the experience convenient and stress-free.

How long does the tour last?
The tour duration is approximately 3 to 4 hours, allowing enough time for sightseeing, photos, and optional activities.

Can I add a river cruise or dinner?
Yes, you can choose to add a Huangpu River cruise or a local dinner, both of which are popular options that enhance the experience.

What is included in the price?
The tour covers hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance to Shanghai Tower Observation Deck, and, if booked, a tasty local dinner. Transportation is provided based on group size.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Multiple reviews mention guides like Roy, Mason, and Chris for their helpful, informative, and friendly manner, adding great value to the tour.

What if I encounter long lines at the tower?
Lines can be longer during peak times or holidays. Booking in advance helps, and some reviews suggest that waiting times may extend to around 2 hours, so plan accordingly.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. The experience is ideal for those interested in architecture and city views.

This private Shanghai night tour offers a practical yet immersive way to see the city’s iconic skyline. With stunning vistas, expert guides, and flexible options, it’s a worthwhile addition to any Shanghai itinerary for a memorable evening out.