Shanghai craft beer tour with local food tastings

If you’re visiting Shanghai and looking to get a genuine taste of its local brewing culture, this 3-hour craft beer tour offers an engaging way to explore, sip, and savor. Led by a knowledgeable private guide, the experience takes you through the vibrant streets of the French Concession, with visits to three distinct breweries paired with authentic Chinese snacks. It’s a blend of city walking, culture, and beer tasting — all in a compact, well-rounded package.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines personalized attention with authentic local flavors. The small-group or private setting ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the guide’s familiarity with both the breweries and the neighborhood adds a special touch. Plus, the inclusion of local snacks like dumplings, pot stickers, and rice wine makes the experience genuinely delicious and immersive.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour is quite focused on the craft beer side and local street food. If you’re a strict beer connoisseur or someone not keen on walking around different neighborhoods, this might not be the perfect fit. However, for those wanting a balanced mix of city exploration, craft brews, and local flavors, it hits the right notes.

This tour is ideal for travelers who love craft beer, enjoy discovering authentic neighborhoods, and want a personalized guided experience. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate local snacks and cultural insights alongside their drinks. If you’re after a fun, relaxed, and informative way to spend a few hours in Shanghai, this tour hits the spot.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Guided by a private, friendly expert who knows the local scene.
• Authentic Neighborhoods: Walks through Xintiandi, Old Town, Sinan Mansions, and the French Concession offer a glimpse into Shanghai’s diverse districts.
• Diverse Beer Tasting: Eight glasses of craft beers, including pilsners, lagers, and stouts, served at three breweries.
• Local Food Pairings: Tasty Chinese street foods like dumplings and rice wine are included, giving a true taste of Shanghai.
• Comfort and Convenience: Free hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics simple.
• Flexible Scheduling: Choice of afternoon or late-night departure suits different travel plans.

In-Depth Review of the Shanghai Craft Beer Tour

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins in Xintiandi, a stylish and lively district known for its modern boutiques, cafes, and preserved Shikumen architecture. Here, we love how the guide helps you ease into the experience with a quick tasting of pale ales and IPAs. It’s a relaxed start, perfect for warming up and getting acquainted with the local beer scene. The fact that admission is free at this stage allows you to enjoy the environment without feeling rushed.

Next, the group strolls through Old Town (Nanshi), a pocket of Shanghai that retains its traditional charm. Here, you’re treated to delicious Shanghai-style dumplings, such as pot stickers and wontons, alongside a sip of local rice wine. This stop offers a real taste of local life and culinary tradition, with the guide providing insights into the significance of these dishes. Reviewers mention how the guide’s knowledge enhances the experience, making the food tastings more meaningful.

The walk continues for about 15 minutes to Sinan Mansions, a beautifully renovated area of luxurious 1920s villas. It’s a striking setting — a perfect backdrop for visiting Boxing Cat Brewery, which is known for its award-winning beers. Here, you get to sample a selection of fresher, craft-style beers, including Pilsners, lagers, and stouts. The brewery’s reputation for quality is clear, and the variety allows everyone to find something they like.

Finally, the tour concludes in the Former French Concession, near Fuxing Park, at Shanghai Brewery. This microbrewery rounds out the experience with a laid-back atmosphere, where you can enjoy your last few beers and reflect on the tour. Reviewers highlight the convenience of the free hotel transfer back, making the whole experience stress-free.

What Makes Each Stop Special?

• Xintiandi: A perfect intro, combining a modern vibe with a sense of Shanghai’s evolving character.
• Old Town: Authenticity and local flavor, with food and drinks that tell stories of Shanghainese tradition.
• Sinan Mansions: Upscale, historic setting with award-winning local beers, emphasizing quality and craftsmanship.
• French Concession: Gateway to the city’s colonial past and lively nightlife, with a microbrewery to wrap up the evening.

What to Expect at Each Location

At each brewery, you’ll likely meet the brewmasters or staff, who are eager to share their knowledge about the brewing process and the beers on tap. Reviewers mention that Jim, the guide, is fluent in English and very friendly, making interactions smooth and informative. You can expect a relaxed pace, plenty of opportunities to ask questions, and a chance to try a variety of beers.

The included local snacks aren’t just an add-on; they’re thoughtfully paired and reflect Shanghai’s culinary culture. Dumplings and rice wine are classic, but the focus remains on quality and authenticity.

How the Experience Comes Together

What sets this tour apart is its intimate nature and focus on local flavor. The walking component allows you to see the city’s streets and neighborhoods without feeling hurried. The private guide ensures your questions are answered and your experience is tailored to your interests.

Reviewers like Pattawit R particularly appreciated how the tour started in the evening, giving them a great introduction to Shanghai’s nightlife. The flexibility of choosing afternoon or late-night timings makes it adaptable for different travel schedules.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $150 per person, this tour offers a fairly comprehensive experience considering the inclusion of eight craft beers, local snacks, private transportation, and personalized guiding. When you factor in the quality of the breweries and the local food, the price provides good value, especially for those wanting a mix of city exploration and craft beer sampling.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for beer lovers, especially those interested in local Chinese craft beers. It’s a great way to combine culinary curiosity with urban exploration. If you’re a traveler who appreciates personalized tours and enjoys learning about local neighborhoods, this tour will likely satisfy.

It also appeals to those who want a relaxed, social evening without the hustle of large group tours, thanks to its private setup. The inclusion of local snacks and beverages adds a cultural dimension that makes it more than just a beer crawl.

FAQs about the Shanghai Craft Beer Tour

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers free hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics simple and hassle-free.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, starting at either 3 pm or 7 pm depending on your choice.

Are food and drinks included?
Yes, the tour includes eight glasses of local craft beer, soft drinks, and local snacks like dumplings, pancakes, and barbecue.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended since the tour involves walking through neighborhoods, and the tour operates in all weather conditions — so dress appropriately.

Can I participate if I’m under 18?
No, the minimum age is 18 years, as alcohol is involved.

What if I want to order extra drinks?
You can purchase additional drinks at the breweries. The guide is happy to help you with that.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, only your group will participate, providing a more tailored experience.

Final Thoughts

This Shanghai craft beer tour offers a thoughtfully curated introduction to the city’s local brewing scene combined with cultural insights and delicious street food. Its private nature, knowledgeable guides, and well-chosen stops make it a particularly valuable experience for those wanting to enjoy Shanghai’s nightlife with a local touch.

If you’re seeking an authentic, relaxed, and fun way to explore Shanghai’s neighborhoods, paired with quality craft beers and delicious snacks, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s especially perfect for foodies and beer aficionados eager to see a less-touristy side of the city.

For travelers who love guided experiences with a personal touch and are open to spending a few hours discovering local flavors, this craft beer tour will be a highlight of your Shanghai trip.