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Private Guided Tours·Classic China·2 days / 1 night·RELAXED

Shanghai 2 Day Tour: Explore Shanghai Heritage & Zhujiajiao Water Town Charm

From Shanghai’s Skyline to Zhujiajiao’s Historic Canals

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Overview

About This Tour

$103

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Tour Highlights

Shanghai’s Iconic Landmarks & City Views

Explore Shanghai’s must-see attractions, from the historic Yuyuan Garden and lively Nanjing Road to the stunning skyline views at The Bund.

Old Shanghai Charm & Local Neighborhoods

Discover the city’s unique character through Wukang Building and Tianzifang, where historic architecture meets artistic streets and local life.

Modern Shanghai Lifestyle Experience

Visit the Starbucks Reserve Roastery and experience one of Shanghai’s most stylish urban lifestyle destinations.

Zhujiajiao Water Town Discovery

Step into the peaceful world of Zhujiajiao, exploring ancient canals, stone bridges, traditional houses, and authentic Jiangnan culture.

Discover the best of Shanghai and Jiangnan culture with our Shanghai 2 Day Tour, combining iconic city landmarks, local neighborhoods, and the charming Zhujiajiao Water Town. Experience Shanghai’s unique blend of historic streets, modern architecture, traditional gardens, and vibrant city life, then escape to one of the region’s most beautiful ancient water towns. This journey offers the perfect balance of urban discovery and authentic cultural experiences.

Duration

2 days / 1 night

Tour Type

Private Guided Tours

Theme

Classic China

Group Size

Only Your Group

Start City

Shanghai

Activity Level

RELAXED

Route Map

Key places on this route

Map pins show the primary places guests will visit on this route.

Shanghai 2 Day Tour: Explore Shanghai Heritage & Zhujiajiao Water Town Charm route mapMapbox route preview
  1. 1Yuyuan Garden & Bazaar
  2. 2Wukang Building
  3. 3Tianzifang
  4. 4Starbucks Reserve Roastery
  5. 5Nanjing Road
  6. 6The Bund
  7. 7Zhujiajiao Water Town
Day by Day

Your Itinerary

Download Itinerary

Start your tour at Yuyuan Garden & Bazaar. Your guide will lead you to explore exquisite Jiangnan classical gardens and old town lanes, sharing centuries-old local stories. Afterwards, travel to Wukang Building, the iconic art deco landmark. Admire its distinctive ship-shaped facade and enjoy vintage street views lined with plane trees before stopping for authentic Shanghainese lunch. Continue to Tianzifang, where the guide takes you through interwoven shikumen lanes to experience the mix of local residential life and creative culture. Next, visit Starbucks Reserve Roastery to watch coffee roasting and appreciate its industrial-style design. Wander bustling Nanjing Road pedestrian street, and finish the day at The Bund. The guide will interpret the history of the world-famous architecture complex, offering stunning views across the Huangpu River towards Lujiazui.

Today's Highlights

  • Well-preserved Jiangnan classical garden layout
  • Traditional handicraft stores and local snack stalls
  • Famous ship-shaped art-deco landmark
  • Leafy boulevard and vintage street scenery
  • Intertwined century-old shikumen lanes
  • Blend of local daily life and artistic vibes
  • Large-scale on-site coffee roasting equipment
  • Unique industrial-style interior design
  • Famous bustling commercial pedestrian street
  • Century-old time-honored local shops
  • Famous Bund Exhibition of World Architecture
  • Panoramic overlook of Lujiazui skyline

Route Segments

Yuyuan Garden & Bazaar

Yuyuan Garden & Bazaar

attraction

Begin your tour at Yuyuan Garden & Bazaar. Your guide will lead you through exquisite classical Jiangnan gardens and bustling old town lanes, introducing the garden’s centuries-old history and traditional folk culture. Wander lanes decorated with red lanterns, admire ancient architectures and handicraft shops, and soak up authentic Shanghai old-town vibes.

Segment Highlights

  • Well-preserved Jiangnan classical garden layout
  • Traditional handicraft stores and local snack stalls
Wukang Building

Wukang Building

attraction

Next, visit Wukang Building, a landmark art-deco building. Your guide will share stories of this century-old structure and the evolution of Wukang Road. Capture photos of the iconic ship-shaped facade, and appreciate the blend of vintage European architecture and leafy street views.

Segment Highlights

  • Famous ship-shaped art-deco landmark
  • Leafy boulevard and vintage street scenery
Lunch

Lunch

free time

Pause your sightseeing for a classic Shanghainese lunch. Your guide will recommend authentic local restaurants to taste representative Benbang cuisine. Savour tender sweet-savoury regional dishes and experience the time-honored dining culture of Shanghai.

Tianzifang

Tianzifang

attraction

Continue to Tianzifang, a lively shikumen creative block. Your guide will walk you through crisscrossing stone-gate lanes, introducing the shikumen culture of old Shanghai. Explore art studios, boutique shops and small cafes hidden inside the alleys, experiencing the coexistence of local residential life and creative culture.

Segment Highlights

  • Intertwined century-old shikumen lanes
  • Blend of local daily life and artistic vibes
Starbucks Reserve Roastery

Starbucks Reserve Roastery

attraction

Then arrive at Starbucks Reserve Roastery. Your guide will introduce the design concept of this immersive coffee space. Watch the whole coffee roasting process, admire unique industrial interior design, and explore exclusive coffee merchandise you cannot find in ordinary stores.

Segment Highlights

  • Large-scale on-site coffee roasting equipment
  • Unique industrial-style interior design
Nanjing Road

Nanjing Road

attraction

Head to Nanjing Road, Shanghai’s iconic pedestrian street. Your guide will stroll alongside you, pointing out time-honored brands and introducing the street’s commercial development. Neon lights brighten the street at daytime and evening, with retro trams shuttling along. Browse specialty shops and taste classic Shanghai snacks.

Segment Highlights

  • Famous bustling commercial pedestrian street
  • Century-old time-honored local shops
The Bund

The Bund

attraction

Conclude Day 1 sightseeing at The Bund. Your guide will lead you to ideal viewing spots and share the history of the "Exhibition of World Architecture". Enjoy panoramic views of 52 neoclassical buildings, facing the modern Lujiazui skyscrapers across Huangpu River.

Segment Highlights

  • Famous Bund Exhibition of World Architecture
  • Panoramic overlook of Lujiazui skyline

Optional Excursions

Depart downtown Shanghai and travel to Zhujiajiao Ancient Water Town. Your guide accompanies you wandering quiet ancient alleys, stone bridges and waterside residences, introducing the thousand-year history and folk customs of this authentic Jiangnan water town. Immerse yourself in the leisurely pastoral charm away from urban crowds. Pause for a traditional water-town lunch featuring fresh river ingredients and classic Jiangnan flavours. After lunch, enjoy free time to ramble the water town at your own pace. Conclude your exploration and transfer back to downtown Shanghai, marking the end of the water town day trip.

Today's Highlights

  • Well-preserved original Jiangnan water-town layout
  • Ancient stone bridges and waterside folk houses

Route Segments

Zhujiajiao Ancient Water Town

Zhujiajiao Ancient Water Town

attraction

Travel out of downtown Shanghai to Zhujiajiao, a well-preserved authentic Jiangnan ancient water town. Your guide will walk you through ancient lanes, introduce the thousand-year history, local folk customs and architectural characteristics. Wander traditional alleys, ancient stone bridges and waterside dwellings, and embrace the laid-back pastoral charm of a water town away from the bustling city.

Segment Highlights

  • Well-preserved original Jiangnan water-town layout
  • Ancient stone bridges and waterside folk houses
Lunch

Lunch

free time

Take a sightseeing break and enjoy authentic water-town lunch. Your guide arranges dishes featuring fresh river ingredients, presenting classic Jiangnan rural flavours. Taste local specialties and experience unique waterfront catering customs.

Optional Excursions

Optional Experiences

Enhance Your Trip

Add upgrades while reviewing the itinerary. Availability is confirmed by the team before final payment.

Shanghai Imperial Palace Banquet Experience
DININGper person

Shanghai Imperial Palace Banquet Experience

Elevate your Shanghai itinerary with an immersive imperial-style banquet experience. Dine in elaborately decorated palace-style halls. Secure premium front-row seating to enjoy unobstructed views of graceful live traditional performances. Savour exquisitely crafted imperial cuisine while surrounded by stunning oriental decor, indulging in an extraordinary feast for your eyes and palate.

From $154

Adult $154 · Child $154 · Infant $0

Details

What's Included

Included

  • Cozy Ride: Enjoy the comfort and spaciousness of our air-conditioned car, offering scenic views.
  • Bilingual Expert Guide: Benefit from a personalized experience with a guide fluent in your language, catering to your needs.
  • Entrance Fees: Access all attractions and activities mentioned in the itinerary without worrying about additional entrance fees.
  • Seamless Transfer: Enhance your experience with convenient hotel or train station pickup and drop-off service in the city.
  • Connect Seamlessly: Stay connected with complimentary onboard WiFi, allowing you to share your experiences in real-time.
  • Complimentary Water: Receive a complimentary bottle of water for each person, keeping you refreshed throughout your journey.
  • Travel Protection: Enjoy extra peace of mind with travel agency liability insurance coverage.

Not Included

  • Personal Expenses: This includes phone bills, laundry, additional tours, postage, and any entertainment fees not covered in the itinerary.
  • Meals: While meals are not included, our guide will recommend the best local food spots, giving you the chance to explore and choose based on your preferences. (Average cost per person for a regular meal at local eateries: 40RMB/6USD-80RMB/12USD)
  • Tips: Tips are not mandatory but are recommended for excellent service. If you feel satisfied with the service, you may consider leaving a tip.
  • Optional Activities: Any optional activities listed in the itinerary are not included in the tour fees, allowing you to choose and participate based on your preferences.
  • Accommodations with breakfast.
Your Ride

Transportation & Vehicles

Comfortable, safe, and well-maintained vehicles throughout your journey.

Our Vehicle Service Standards

🚗

Late-Model Vehicles (2022+)

All vehicles are 2022 or newer models — modern, safe, and meticulously maintained.

🧹

Daily Deep Cleaning

Every vehicle is sanitized and detailed before each use.

👨‍✈️

Professional Drivers

Licensed, uniformed drivers with 5+ years of tourist transport experience.

🛡️

Full Insurance Coverage

Comprehensive commercial insurance for all vehicles and passengers.

📱

Onboard Amenities

Complimentary water, Wi-Fi, phone chargers, and tissues on every ride.

❄️

Climate Comfort

Dual-zone climate control ensures perfect temperature year-round.

Premium MPV cabin reference image
Private car cabin reference image
Premium MPV exterior reference image
Private car exterior reference image

We usually arrange a 5-seater for 1–2 guests, a 7-seater for 3–5 guests, and a 12-seater for 6–9 guests, and so on. All vehicles have ample luggage space. Photos are for reference only. Vehicle brands and models may vary by destination.

Dining Experience

Dining & Meals

Have a specific restaurant or dietary need in mind? Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, halal, and other requests can be accommodated with advance notice.

Our Dining Philosophy

🏛️

Heritage Restaurants

Historic establishments with decades of culinary tradition — where locals celebrate.

🏠

Local Family Kitchens

Home-cooked meals with local families — authentic recipes passed down generations.

🍜

Street Food & Night Markets

Guided tastings through iconic food streets with a local foodie guide.

🌾

Farm-to-Table Fresh

Seasonal dishes with ingredients grown on-site, set against scenic backdrops.

Fine Dining & Michelin

Award-winning restaurants with tasting menus, wine pairings, and unforgettable culinary artistry.

Dining Preferences & Dietary Requirements

Share dietary needs, restaurant preferences, or food interests before travel so the advisor can confirm practical arrangements.

Guide & Service Quality

Guide & Service Quality

Your private guide oversees the day's logistics, including the visit order, pacing, walking routes, attraction entry arrangements, and coordination with the driver. By adjusting the schedule based on traffic, crowd conditions, and your interests, the guide ensures a seamless, flexible, and personalized sightseeing experience.

Our Guide Service Standards

🎓

Licensed & Certified Guides

All guides hold national tourism licenses and have 5+ years of experience.

🌍

English Proficiency (IELTS 7+)

Fluent communication — guides can discuss history, culture, and current events with ease.

🗣️

Multi-Language Available

English, French, German, Spanish, Japanese, and Korean-speaking guides available on request.

📻

Wireless Audio Headsets

Every guest receives a headset so you never miss a word, even in crowded sites.

🛡️

No Forced Shopping Guarantee

Zero pressure — we never force you into souvenir shops. Your time is yours.

🛍️

Local Shopping Recommendations

Want authentic gifts? We'll recommend trusted local markets and artisan shops — no tourist traps.

Our “No Forced Shopping” Promise

We guarantee zero shopping stops unless you specifically request them. If you ever feel pressured, contact us immediately for a full refund of that day's service.

Request a Specialist Guide

Interested in a specific topic? We can arrange historian guides for cultural sites, photographer guides for scenic spots, or foodie guides for culinary tours. Just let us know when booking.

Traveler Reviews

External Review Sources for Shanghai 2 Day Tour: Explore Shanghai Heritage & Zhujiajiao Water Town Charm

Current traveler feedback should be read through the configured external review sources.

Review sources

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Open the Google Reviews profile to compare public traveler feedback alongside Tripadvisor.

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FAQ

Common Questions

How do we travel to Zhujiajiao Water Town from Shanghai?

We provide comfortable private transportation between Shanghai and Zhujiajiao, making the journey convenient and hassle-free. The travel time is usually around 1–1.5 hours depending on traffic conditions.

Where will we have lunch during the tour?

Your guide will recommend carefully selected local restaurants where you can enjoy authentic Shanghai cuisine and Zhujiajiao specialties. Meals are usually not included, allowing you to choose dishes based on your preferences.

Can we take a boat ride in Zhujiajiao Water Town?

Yes. A traditional boat ride is available in Zhujiajiao and can be arranged as an optional experience depending on your preference and time. Cruise fees need be paid on-site.

Does the Shanghai Starbucks Reserve Roastery tour include or offer complimentary coffee?

Admission to the Starbucks Reserve Roastery is free, but coffee is at your own expense.

How long is the itinerary each day?

The daily itinerary lasts 8 hours, which is ample time to flexibly visit all the attractions. The tour guide will also adjust the time and pace of each attraction visit according to your preferences.

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