Elite Cityscape—A 5-Day Shanghai Tour
Yu Garden + The Bund + Former French Concession + Shanghai Tebie Shizhengfu Site + Zhujiajiao Ancient Town + Lujiazui Skywalk + Shanghai Disney Resort
From $699
Elite Cityscape—A 5-Day Shanghai Tour
Yu Garden + The Bund + Former French Concession + Shanghai Tebie Shizhengfu Site + Zhujiajiao Ancient Town + Lujiazui Skywalk + Shanghai Disney Resort
From $699
🗓️ 5 Days 4 Nights 👥 Max Guests: 15 💬 Bilingual Guides 🏨 5-Star Hotels ➕ Min. Guests: 2
Details
Stroll along the Bund and Nanjing Road, wander through Shanghai's 600-year-old old town, and cruise the Huangpu River by night. Take a city walk in the former French Concession, ending at St. Ignatius Cathedral. Enjoy an exclusive one-day tour of two water towns, with visits to Qushui Garden. Finally, head to Shanghai Financial City to enjoy the stunning night view, all unfolding the rich diversity of Shanghai.
Price Includes
✔️ - Accommodation: 5-Diamond (5-Star) hotels with daily breakfast for two.
✔️ - Transport: Private vehicle (e.g., Buick GL8, Toyota Coaster) for all transfers.
✔️ - Guide: Professional bilingual guide. All guide tips are included.
✔️ - Tickets & Experiences: All entrance fees to attractions listed.
✔️ - Meals: Breakfast * 4, Lunch & Dinner NOT included in this itinerary, but a customized itinerary is available, and/or recommendations and reservations can be made by the tour guide.
Price Excludes
✖️ - Single Room Supplement: Additional charge for solo travelers requiring a single room.
✖️- Personal Expenses: Souvenirs, extra meals/drinks, laundry, etc.
✖️- International Airfare: Flights to/from China.
✖️- Visa Fees: Chinese visa application costs (if applicable).
Itinerary
Day 1: Pick up in Shanghai & Hotel check-in & In-depth Tour of Shanghai Old City
Morning:
 Arrive in Shanghai, Free pickup service from areas within Shanghai. Free time to relax and adjust to the time zone. It is recommended that lunch on this day be enjoyed either at the hotel or in its vicinity, and the itinerary will officially commence after lunch.
Afternoon:
This afternoon's four-hour tour delves into Shanghai's Old City, the pre-1840 urban center. Starting at the ancient city wall, we'll visit Chenxiang Pavilion, the City God Temple, Yuyuan Garden, and the surrounding Nine-Zigzag Bridge commercial area.
Yu Garden: Yu Garden, a Ming Dynasty private garden in central Shanghai, offers serene pathways and pavilions away from the city bustle. Admire its historical plaques and stone carvings, and browse nearby Yuyuan Bazaar for souvenirs.
The City God Temple: The City God Temple, a 600-year-old Taoist center in Shanghai's old town, honors historical figures like General Huo Guang. A popular site for blessings and peace, it's a must-visit for its deep cultural roots.
Chenxiang Pavilion: Chenxiang Pavilion is a distinctive bhikuni temple in Shanghai, renowned for enshrining the precious "Agarwood Guanyin." The original statue was lost, and the current "Ruyi Wheel Guanyin" was donated by Hong Kong devotees. Its halls feature unique Buddha statues and layouts, rare among Jiangnan temples.
Dajing Pavilion: Dajing Pavilion is the only remaining section of Shanghai's Ming Dynasty city wall. Built for defense against pirates, this unique "convex"-shaped structure now houses a Guandi Temple and offers a glimpse into the city's 700-year history through its exhibits.
Evening:Â
The Nine-Zigzag Bridge area in Shanghai's Old City is a hub for classic traditional restaurants, famous for its most authentic xiaolongbao and eateries that have hosted heads of state.
Jiuqu Bridge: Don't miss the iconic Nine-Bend Bridge at the City God Temple. This winding bridge, adorned with stone carvings of seasonal flowers and lotuses, leads to the Huxin Pavilion Teahouse and offers picturesque views of carp swimming below.
After dinner, witness the Nine-Zigzag Bridge and Yuyuan Mall transform into a glittering "crystal palace" at night. This uniquely classical lightscape offers a vivid journey back in time—perfect for a leisurely stroll before heading back.
Lujiazui Skywalk: Lujiazui Skywalk is an elevated circular walkway connecting Shanghai’s iconic skyscrapers. Glide above the bustling financial district for breathtaking views of the Oriental Pearl Tower, Jin Mao Tower, and the sweeping Huangpu River. Perfect for a sunset stroll or capturing the neon-lit skyline.
Lujiazui Financial City, China's premier financial hub, is defined by its iconic skyscrapers—including the 632-meter Shanghai Tower. Walking among these giants creates an immersive "mountain range" feel, letting you experience the pulse of modern Shanghai.
Yu Garden
The City God Temple
 Chenxiang Pavilion
Dajing Pavilion
Jiuqu Bridge
Lujiazui Skywalk
Day 2: A Journey Through Time and Light: From Historic Settlements to the Neon River
Morning:
This morning's tour explores Shanghai's former International Settlement by foot and car. Starting at the Bund, we'll pass key historic landmarks before arriving at People's Square for visits to the Shanghai Museum and the Shanghai History Museum.
The Bund: The Bund is Shanghai's iconic waterfront promenade, famed for its stunning historic architecture that traces its past as an international financial hub. This essential Shanghai experience offers perfect riverside views and photography opportunities.
Shanghai Shengsanyi Church: Shanghai Holy Trinity Cathedral, known as the "Red Chapel," is the city's earliest surviving Anglican cathedral. Located in Huangpu District, it historically served as a central cathedral for the Anglican Church in China.
Shanghai Museum: Located on the southern side of People’s Square, the Shanghai Museum showcases Chinese art and history. Founded in 1952, it has preserved many historic artifacts through periods like the Cultural Revolution. Its building blends traditional culture with modern design, and its ten galleries offer a broad view of Chinese history and culture. A top cultural museum in China, it is well worth visiting.
People's Square: People's Square, transformed from a historic racecourse into Shanghai's central public square, is the symbolic heart of the city. Surrounded by key institutions like the Shanghai Museum and Grand Theatre, it serves as a major gathering place with iconic skyscraper views.
Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street : Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street stretches 1,500 m from People’s Square to the Bund and is known as China’s Fifth Avenue. A top shopping destination, it features well-known brands and lively nightlife. Packed with locals and tourists, it is a must-see Shanghai attraction.
Lunch is recommended on Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, home to century-old shops like Shen Dacheng for Shanghai dim sum, Shenbao Café for Western pastries, and Laobanzhai for noodles. Choose one with your guide for a satisfying meal.
Afternoon:
This afternoon includes a 2-hour tour of the area dubbed the "Shanghai Vatican"—the city's earliest Western-influenced enclave, independent of the former settlements. Key sites are Shanghai's grandest Catholic church, the Tushanwan Museum, and the memorial site of Jesuit scholar-official Xu Guangqi.
St. Ignatius Cathedral: Xujiahui Catholic Church, one of Shanghai's largest, is a striking Gothic landmark with red brick walls and twin bell towers. Built by French Jesuits, its grand interior can seat nearly 3,000. Today, it remains an active place of worship and a popular spot for wedding photography.
Shanghai Tou-Se-We Museum: The Tushanwan Museum, housed in the former Qing Dynasty Tushanwan Orphanage, showcases the institution's legacy as a historic arts and crafts training center. Its exhibitions, spread across themed halls, use historical documents, photos, and multimedia to recreate the orphanage's daily life and workshops.
Xu Guangqi Memorial Hall: The Xu Guangqi Memorial Hall, a relocated Ming Dynasty structure, honors the legacy of Xu Guangqi—a Ming Dynasty scientist, Catholic scholar, and key figure in East-West cultural exchange. Its exhibitions focus on his life, scientific works like the Agricultural Encyclopedia, and his lasting impact on Shanghai.
 Xu Guangqi's Tomb: Xu Guangqi's tomb is the centerpiece of Guangqi Park. The oval-shaped cemetery features traditional stone statues and a stele gallery with his calligraphy. As a pioneer in agriculture and astronomy, Xu Guangqi’s burial here gave the Xujiahui area its name.
This afternoon features a 3-hour panoramic walk through the former French Concession. Starting from the iconic Wukang Building, the route passes historic sites including the former St. Nicholas Orthodox Church and the former French Club, designed by the celebrated architect Léonard Veysseyre, known as the "soul architect of the French Concession."
This segment progresses through the historic heart of the French Concession. From the leisure hub of Xintiandi and the site of the First CPC National Congress, the walk continues past the Shanghai Concert Hall and the Great World entertainment center, ending at the Bund section of the former French Concession.
(including explanation—Lao Kele's explanation of Wukang Road) You can contact the butler to make an additional purchase
Wukang Road: Wukang Road is a picturesque, tree-lined street in Shanghai's former French Concession, famed for its historic architecture like the iconic Wukang Building. It's a popular spot for photography and leisurely strolls among its cafes and side streets.
Wukang Mansion: The Wukang Mansion, built in 1924, is a historic French Renaissance-style landmark at the intersection of Wukang and Huaihai Roads. Its distinctive eight-story, three-section facade with long balconies and adaptive design, such as its arcaded ground floor and north-facing patios, showcases unique architectural ingenuity.
Anfu Road: Anfu Road is a cultural hub centered on theater and the arts, lined with cafes and wine cellars. It offers uniquely quiet Shanghai mornings, perfect for a coffee, and is so associated with drama that even taxi drivers will remark, "Going to see a play!"
Shengnigulasi Church: This small, exquisitely designed church is a fine example of Russian Orthodox architecture, featuring a classic Byzantine layout centered around a dominant dome. Notably, it has now been repurposed into a French restaurant.
Sinan Road: Sinan Road, a tree-shaded sanctuary in Shanghai's former French Concession, is famed for its tranquil atmosphere, Western-style villas, and over 20 historic garden houses. Originally named "Rue Massenet" after the French composer, it offers a quiet escape from the city bustle.
Maoming Road
Xintiandi: Xintiandi, transformed from historic shikumen alleys, is a premier lifestyle destination blending 1920s architectural charm with modern style. Its South Block focuses on fashion and global dining, while the North Block offers vibrant nightlife, together creating a perfect blend of Shanghai's past and present energy.
Shanghai Concert Hall: The Shanghai Concert Hall, a key venue for world-class orchestras and soloists, gained architectural fame for its remarkable 2002-2004 relocation—the 5,650-ton building was lifted and moved to its current site. It continues its musical legacy today as the Cadillac Shanghai Concert Hall.
The Shanghai Great World: The Shanghai Great World, established in 1917, is a historic entertainment complex that was once the city's most influential indoor amusement arcade. Its iconic exterior, impressive at night, offers a perfect photo opportunity from the elevated crosswalk opposite.
Evening:
Cruise: The Huangpu River night cruise is a must-do activity in Shanghai, renowned for offering one of the most stunning night views in the world. The international-style buildings of the Bund and the skyscrapers of Lujiazui shine brilliantly together, creating a spectacular feast of light and shadow.
If the Huangpu River cruise is suspended due to force majeure (such as a typhoon or river closure), the itinerary will be changed to the Bund Sightseeing Tunnel (round-trip ticket).
The Huangpu River Cruise: A Huangpu River cruise offers a classic way to view Shanghai's contrasting skylines: the historic Bund on the west bank and the modern Lujiazui district on the east, especially stunning at night.
After the Huangpu River night cruise, we will take the Bund Sightseeing Tunnel from the Bund to Lujiazui on the opposite bank of the Huangpu River to enjoy the night view.
Bund Sightseeing Tunnel: The Bund Sightseeing Tunnel offers an immersive journey beneath the Huangpu River in a transparent carriage. Connecting the Bund to Lujiazui, it combines colorful light displays and sound effects to create a unique "time travel" experience between Shanghai's historic and modern skylines.
The Lujiazui Observation Overpass (Skywalk) is a perfect spot for viewing night scenes. With an unobstructed view, it offers multi-angle views of the brightly lit Oriental Pearl Tower and other landmarks, providing a safe and comfortable immersive night view experience.
Lujiazui Skywalk
The Bund
Shanghai Shengsanyi Church
Shanghai Museum
People's Square
Nanjing Road Pedestrian StreetÂ
St. Ignatius CathedralÂ
Shanghai Tou-Se-We Museum
Xu Guangqi Memorial Hall
Xu Guangqi's Tomb
Wukang Road
Wukang Mansion
Anfu Road
Shengnigulasi Church, Shanghai
Sinan Road
Maoming Road
Xintiandi
Shanghai Concert Hall
The Shanghai Great WorldÂ
The Huangpu River Cruise
Bund Sightseeing TunnelÂ
Day 3: A Delightful Day at Shanghai Disneyland
Morning:
Shanghai Disney Resort: Shanghai Disney Resort is located in Pudong New Area, Shanghai, and is the first in mainland China. At Disney Resort you can experience many things here. Disneyland Classic attractions include the grand Disney castle, pirate-themed areas, and the extended Disney parade route, immersing you in the magic of the Magic Kingdom.
Shanghai Disney Resort: divided into eight uniquely themed lands, including "Mickey Avenue," "Gardens of Imagination," "Fantasyland," "Disney•Pixar Toy Story Land," "Adventure Isle," "Treasure Cove," "Tomorrowland," and "Zootopia." Everyone, regardless of age or gender, can find their own happy place here.
Mickey Avenue: As soon as you enter the gate of Shanghai Disney Resort, you step into "Mickey Avenue." Here, Minnie, Donald Duck, Daisy, Goofy, Pluto, and other beloved characters gather, where you can meet your favorite Disneyland friends, warmly embrace, and take photos together. Among the diverse shops on the street, "M Street Shopping Arcade" offers a wide selection of gifts and souvenirs within the park.
Gardens of Imagination: The Gardens of Imagination consists of seven magical gardens with different styles. You can spin with joy on the Fantasia Carousel or soar through the sky on Dumbo the Flying Elephant. There are also iconic Shanghai Disney Resort entertainment shows such as castle stage performances and the "Momentous" nighttime spectacular. Visitors can also enjoy views of the world's longest route from different angles here. Disneyland Mickey's Storybook Express Float Parade
Afternoon:
Fantasyland: Fantasyland is one of the larger areas in the park and home to the magnificent Enchanted Storybook Castle. In this fairy-tale wonderland, animation fans can explore the Hundred Acre Wood with Winnie the Pooh, wander through Alice's Wonderland Maze with Alice, join the Seven Dwarfs on a mine train adventure, soar over London skies aboard Peter Pan's Flight, or drift along the Voyage to the Crystal Grotto past familiar scenes. Disneyland Story.
Disney Pixar Toy Story Land: Here, you can hop on Slinky Dog's spiraling spring for a joyful ride around a giant dog bowl filled with toy bones. Rex will invite everyone to board remote-controlled rocket cars for an exciting adventure along a long U-shaped track. Additionally, you can visit Al's Toy Barn to purchase your favorite games, toys, clothing, pins, and more.
Adventure Isle: Upon arriving at Adventure Isle, you'll feel as if you've stepped into a newly discovered ancient tribe. The towering Roaring Mountain will guide your journey through Adventure Isle. You can forge your own path at Camp Discovery, traverse the world and time in "Soaring Over the Horizon," or venture deep into the heart of Adventure Isle on the Roaring Rapids raft to explore the dark domain of a massive mysterious beast.
Treasure Cove: "Treasure Cove" is the first pirate-themed land in Disney parks worldwide. "Pirates of the Caribbean: Battle for the Sunken Treasure" transforms a water ride into an exhilarating adventure. Adventurous visitors can paddle through the beautiful cove on "Explorer Canoes," board a pirate ship, and feast at "Barbossa's Bounty."
Tomorrowland: "Tomorrowland" is filled with endless possibilities and showcases a bright vision of the future. The Interstellar Adventure project "Buzz Lightyear Planet Rescue" leads visitors to forge ahead and transcend limits; "Jet Packs" let people break free from gravity's constraints; the "Tron Lightcycle Power Run," enveloped under a massive semi-transparent dome structure, transforms with dazzling colors, inviting visitors to mount the two-wheeled lightcycle formation and take on a global challenge. Disneyland One of the more thrilling and intense roller coaster rides.
Zootopia: "Zootopia" is another unique highlight at Shanghai Disney Resort, where new attractions, entertainment shows, merchandise, and dining options will provide visitors with even more exciting experiences. The all-new themed land will immerse guests in the vibrant metropolis of Zootopia, where "every animal has infinite possibilities." Visitors will also join Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde, the beloved protagonists from the Oscar-winning film, on thrilling adventures.
Evening:
Disneytown: Disneytown is a large shopping, dining, and entertainment district at Shanghai Disney Resort, adjacent to the resort and open to the public free of charge. Visitors can enjoy international cuisine while taking in the stunning views of Shanghai Disney Resort at this charming global-themed neighborhood. The Walt Disney Grand Theatre in Disneytown stages classic Broadway musicals.
Park Dining: Shanghai Disney Resort features multiple themed restaurants scattered throughout its various themed lands, including Barbossa's Bounty, Royal Banquet Hall, Pinocchio Village Kitchen, Tribal Table, Mickey & Pals Market Café, Stargazer Grill, and Tangled Tree Tavern. These dining venues offer a wide selection of Eastern and Western cuisine, specialty snacks, and tempting desserts, ensuring your magical journey is filled with unforgettable flavors.
Shanghai Disney Resort
Micky Avenue
Gardens of Imagination
Fantasyland
Disney Pixar Toy Story Land
Adventure IsleÂ
Treasure Cove
Tomorrowland
Zootopia
Park Dining
Day 4: Wandering Through Timeless Waters and Stones: From Academic Gardens to Classical Retreats
Morning:
Shanghai's Zhongshan Park, originally the British-designed Zhaofeng Park (1914), and the adjacent Changning Campus of East China University of Political Science and Law, formerly China's first Western-style university, St. John's University (1879), both occupy land once owned by the Hoggs brothers, shareholders of the former International Settlement Racecourse.
Zhongshan Park: Zhongshan Park, originally Zhaofeng Park built in 1914, is a peaceful oasis within Shanghai's bustling city center. Blending English natural landscaping with classical Chinese garden art, it is famed for its twelve poetic scenic spots, such as the "Marble Pavilion at Sunset."
East China University of Political Science and Law: East China University of Political Science and Law (ECUPL), with campuses in Changning and Songjiang, is housed in the historic former St. John's University—one of modern China's most prestigious institutions. Its picturesque campus, centered around the iconic Taofen Building, retains its missionary-era architecture and is a popular filming location for period dramas.
Zhujiajiao, known as "Shanghai's Venice," is a renowned Jiangnan water town in western Shanghai. It retains ancient buildings from the Ming and Qing dynasties, with nine old streets stretching along rivers and 36 ancient bridges spanning the waterways. Gardens like Kezhi Garden showcase Jiangnan charm. Visitors can take gondolas, try local snacks like braised pork and water chestnut cakes, and experience the blend of tradition and modernity in this water town.
Zhujiajiao Ancient Town: Zhujiajiao, one of Shanghai's four renowned historic towns, is crisscrossed by waterways and lined with Ming and Qing residences, earning it the name "Shanghai's Venice." Its traditional charm now blends with modern boutiques and cafes, attracting artists and travelers.
Afternoon:
Qingpu City God Temple and Qushui Garden were originally one complex. Built during the Qianlong era of the Qing Dynasty, Qushui Garden—once the temple’s attached garden—is known as “One Coin Garden” and is among Shanghai’s earliest public gardens.
Featuring elegant pavilions and waterside corridors in classic Jiangnan style, the temple embodies local folk beliefs. Though later separated, the two remain historically connected and form a key part of Qingpu’s cultural landscape.
Shing Wong Temple: Shing Wong Temple is the principal Taoist temple in Zhujiajiao Ancient Town, showcasing elegant Jiangnan-style architecture set beside a river, making it a key stop in western Shanghai.
Qushui Garden: Qushui Garden is located in Shanghai’s Qingpu District. It is recognized as one of the city’s top five classical gardens. Built in the Jiangnan style, it was first created in 1745 during the Qing Dynasty. Qushui Garden is known for its wide range of flowers, Chinese wisteria, ancient trees, and large ginkgo trees.Â
Panlong Tiandi is a cultural and lifestyle destination in Shanghai that blends traditional Jiangnan water town charm with modern amenities. It features ancient bridges, heritage buildings, and waterways alongside trendy cafes, boutiques, and art spaces.
Visitors can stroll along stone lanes, admire classic architecture, and enjoy cultural events. It offers a peaceful yet stylish escape where history and contemporary life harmonize.
Shanghai Panlong Tiandi—Ancient Town Commercial Area
Evening:
Free time to relax and walk around
Zhongshan Park
East China University of Political Science and LawÂ
Zhujiajiao Ancient TownÂ
Shing Wong Temple
Qushui GardenÂ
Shanghai Panlong Tiandi - Ancient Town Commercial Area
Day 5: From Natural History to Architectural Heritage: A Shanghai Tour Finale
Morning:
Shanghai Natural History Museum is located in Jing’an Sculpture Park, covering 45,257 square meters. It originated from the former Xujiahui Museum and Shanghai Museum of the Royal Asiatic Society. The new museum opened in 2015, housing over 280,000 specimens across ten permanent exhibition areas. With the theme "Nature · Human · Harmony," it presents natural evolution and serves as a key venue for science education and cultural exchange.
Shanghai Natural History Museum: Located in Jing'an Sculpture Park, the Shanghai Natural History Museum features a distinctive nautilus shell design with natural motifs on its façades. Its 44,517 square meters of exhibit space display over 10,000 artifacts from all seven continents. Visitors can learn about the universe's history, observe diverse animals, and participate in hands-on activities like fossil excavation, making it an excellent destination for families.
Afternoon:
The former Shanghai Special Municipal Government Building, Yangpu District Library (ex-Municipal Library), and Jiangwan Stadium (ex-Municipal Stadium) were key components of the 1929 "Greater Shanghai Plan," which aimed to build a new city center around Jiangwan Wujiaochang, bypassing concessions to create a "new Shanghai." Part of the plan remained unfinished due to wars. Today, the people's government has preserved and renovated these buildings as public facilities in universities or administrative districts, serving teachers, students, and citizens.
Old Shanghai Special City Hall
Yangpu District Library
Jiangwan Stadium, Shanghai
Tour Ends
Transportation: Arrange airport drop-off service in advance according to your return travel time.
Your happy journey concludes with a transfer to your hotel, station, or airport.
Friendly reminders:
1. The itinerary is for reference only. The driver may adjust the schedule based on traffic/weather while ensuring all attractions and duration, thank you for your understanding.
2. If any attraction is closed/unavailable, it will be replaced with a similar one or refunded, thank you for your understanding.
Shanghai Natural History Museum
Old Shanghai Special City Hall
Yangpuqu Library
Jiangwan Stadium, Shanghai
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