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Cultural & Theme Tours in Shanghai

Live prices, traveller ratings and availability. Shanghai guide

1,202 tours & activities

All-inclusive Half-day Private Tour To Zhujiajiao Water Town (opens in a new tab)

65 5 h 30 min

What better way to explore one of the last remaining hidden sites—not yet touched by modernization—than by having an indigenous inhabitant tell you stories about the history and evolution of this great city. Escape the hustle and bustle of Shanghai with a getaway to Zhujiajiao Water Town merely 45km from downtown Shanghai.Explore traditional architecture and take a relaxing boat ride through the waterways. This half-day tour includes pickup/drop off from any location in Shanghai and entrance fees,BOAT RIDE on the meandering canal, an authentic Shangese Lunch/dinner(Vegan option available).Choice of morning or afternoon departure to suit your schedule .Professional English-speaking guide for an unforgettable experience. Includes all entrance fees: No hidden extras Hassle-free pickup and drop-off from your Shanghai hotel

from$141

Huangpu River Crystal Princess Cruise Ticket with dinner (opens in a new tab)

3 4 h

The Crystal Princess is scheduled to enter maintenance from March 4 to March 31, and is expected to resume sailing at the end of March. *Exchange the ticket of the Crystal Princess Cruise at 17:00-18:00.Then enjoy the buffet dinner at 17:30-19:30. *The cruise starts at 19:00 and finishes at 21:00.From the cruise you can have the best view to see the Oriental Pearl Tower,the Shanghai World Financial Center,the Shanghai International Convention Center, Jin Mao Tower and many other buildings with amazing night views. *To experience the best way to enjoy the scenery along Huangpu River, a night cruise has to be the top choice. A Huangpu River cruise has now become a must-have activity when visiting Shanghai.you can enjoy the breathtaking night view. The Bund's historical architecture complex and the modern skyscrapers in Lujiazui on both sides of the river are lit up at night.

from$92

Shanghai Uncommon Historic Sites Tour (opens in a new tab)

4 8 h

This tour provides historic and cultural insight into the people and sites that lead to today's Shanghai and China. You'll visit a range of unique, fascinating and memorable sites that provide a rich understanding of Shanghai.

from$175

Shanghai Circus World Era Acrobatics Show Ticket (opens in a new tab)

5 1 h

Visit the best China acrobatics at Shanghai Era Theatre. Prepare to be amazed, inspired, and moved by this captivating art form that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime. Join us for an evening filled with awe-inspiring performances. Get ready for a feast for the eyes! 1: Prebook to save time and stress 2: Fun for adults and kids 3: Immerse yourself in Chinese Acrobatics World 4: Choose to have a hotel transfer if you like

from$55

Shanghai Huangpu River Sightseeing Cruise Ticket (opens in a new tab)

45 min – 1 h

See Shanghai from the Huangpu River on an independent sightseeing cruise. Enjoy panoramic views of the Bund and Lujiazui skyline, photograph famous waterfront landmarks, and choose between a daytime cruise or a night cruise with illuminated city views. A separately delivered e-ticket or QR code provides convenient admission.

from$25.24

Shanghai Acrobatic Show Tickets (opens in a new tab)

4 1 h – 1 h 40 min

ERA Acrobatic Show is a Shanghai stlye Acrobatic Show which is created according to the characteristics of proscenium stage.It tells the story of a group of young people occurred in different places of Shanghai,display Shanghai style and city spirit.... It is not only a wonderful acrobatic show,but also the envoy of spreading the culture of Shanghai.The domestic and foreign audience will follow the artists get into "SPIRAL" and feeling Shanghai.

from$50

Shanghai Yu Garden & Old City God Temple: Private 460-Year walk (opens in a new tab)

1 3 h

Skip rushed, photo-only group sightseeing, and join this private half-day deep dive into Yu Garden and the Old City God Temple. Wander elegant Ming-dynasty pavilions, ponds and rockwork, uncovering layered stories within this 460-year-old classical garden. The tour concludes at the City God Temple, the spiritual heart of Shanghai’s Old Town for more than 600 years. Unlike standard tours, we move at a gentle pace and welcome your questions. Explore the lesser-known tales most guides leave out: the literati ideals built into the garden landscape, the dramatic history of Dianchun Hall and the Small Sword Society uprising, and the waterside scholar-gathering traditions celebrated in this garden.

from$89

Small Group Shanghai After Dark Food Tour with 9 tastings (opens in a new tab)

32 3 h 30 min

Explore the magic of Shanghai after dark! As dusk falls, Shanghai lights up—and so does its food scene. On this 3.5-hour guided walking tour, you'll explore the city's most cherished local eateries and historic food streets. Throughout the evening, you’ll dig into authentic Shanghai flavors while soaking up the city’s electric atmosphere. Highlights include sinking your teeth into legendary Pork Chops with Sticky Rice Cakes and crispy Spring Rolls, exploring bold Sichuan dishes, enjoying traditional dim sum, and finishing with a heritage dessert. Along the way, your guide will bring the city to life with stories of old Shanghai and the diverse culinary traditions that shape it today. What makes this tour special? You’re not just a guest—you’re treated like family. We skip the tourist crowds and head straight to the neighborhoods where locals go after dark, so you can experience the real warmth and hospitality of Shanghai’s nightlife. Trust us—this is a night you won’t forget.

from$40

Shanghai Matcha Lake and West Lake Day Trip by Train (opens in a new tab)

2 9 h

This tour will take you to Matcha Lake, which is currently at its most beautiful season and has become a viral sensation on TikTok. Unlike West Lake, which is world-famous for its long history and cultural heritage, Matcha Lake offers a rare and dreamy forest landscape that you simply cannot find in most countries or regions. This tour is perfect for travelers who love taking stunning photos and immersing themselves in a magical, secluded forest atmosphere. You can also see deer leisurely walking through the shallow parts of the lake and enjoy kayaking on the water. This tour then brings you to West Lake, where you will not only admire its timeless beauty but also immerse yourself in centuries of Chinese history and storytelling—from the romantic legend of the White Snake to the poetic journeys of emperors and scholars. You will gain deep cultural insights, unforgettable photo opportunities in a magical forest setting, and a genuine connection to Hangzhou's rich heritage.

from$127

Shanghai Open Top Sightseeing Bus with Audio Guide (opens in a new tab)

3 h – 11 h

Discover Shanghai at your own pace aboard an open-top sightseeing bus and enjoy a convenient way to explore the city’s most famous landmarks. Travel through vibrant streets and iconic districts while taking in panoramic views of Shanghai’s impressive skyline, historic architecture, and bustling waterfront. Pass highlights such as the Bund, People’s Square, Nanjing Road, Lujiazui Financial District, Oriental Pearl Tower, and other must-see attractions. Listen to informative commentary to learn about the city’s rich history, culture, and rapid transformation into a global metropolis. Capture stunning photos from elevated viewing decks and enjoy the flexibility to experience Shanghai from a unique perspective. Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning traveler, this sightseeing experience offers a comfortable and memorable introduction to the city's top attractions, combining convenience, great views, and fascinating insights into one unforgettable journey.

from$29

Private Walking Tour in the Former French Concession (opens in a new tab)

76

The former French Concession is always the highlight of a visit to Shanghai. It also becomes the city's hottest and hippest neighborhood, where trendy bars and clubs multiply like mushrooms after a rainstorm. The area still holds something of the alluring mix of scrappy Shanghainese street life, shopworn European colonial charm, Art Deco edifices, hidden brick courtyards and film noir intrigue that have, along with the proud stone edifices of the bund and the twisting alleys of Shanghai's Old city, long defined Shanghai in the Western popular imagination. Shanghai's idiosyncratic push-pull between new and old, development and preservation, takes a special form in the French Concession, making it an absolutely unique urban experience.

from$95

3-Hour Private Tour to Jewish Ghetto and Shanghai Bund (opens in a new tab)

78 2 h 30 min – 3 h

Explore the historical heart of Shanghai's ancient Jewish quarter in a private tour to Hongkou District, known as the little “Vienna”. Pay a visit to the historic Jewish Refugees Museum (Ohel Moishe Synagogue) and learn the captivating Jewish history and footprints in Shanghai. Moreover, take a stroll along the century old Huoshan Park, old Jewish community and backstreet lanes to catch a fascinating insight into local daily life and culture. In addition, enjoy the splendid view along the famous Shanghai Bund area and stop over the Peace hotel, built by Sassoon's family and appreciate the beautiful art-deco architecture.

from$90

Shanghai Tang Dynasty Royal Banquet with Show ALL LANDS at Xuyan (opens in a new tab)

1 h 40 min

Wan Bang Lai Chao (All Nations Pay Homage) is Xuyan’s flagship immersive Tang banquet, blending modern life with ancient Tang splendour. Centered on the scene of nations paying tribute to the Tang court, it combines live theatre, imperial cuisine, an interactive ancient market, Hanfu styling and photo zones for a complete cultural experience. Staged on a 360° circular central stage, the performance features Tang dances, acrobatics and Silk Road folk acts recreating Chang’an’s prosperity. Guests enjoy refined palace-style set menus during the show. The venue includes a mini Tang Silk Road market with heritage stalls and interactive costumed performers, plus optional Hanfu and traditional makeup to let guests live as Tang nobles. Three seating tiers (SVIP, VIP, Standard) are available for lunch and dinner, with individual tickets and full venue buyouts for corporate bookings. It fuses fine food, rituals, music and history to create an interactive cultural dining feast.

from$32

Zhujiajiao Water Town Self-Guided Tour with Private Transfer from Shanghai (opens in a new tab)

10 4 h – 5 h

Have a great and fun visit to the charming water town Zhujiajiao from Shanghai. Enjoy the ease and convenience of the private transfer and travel with your own professional driver in the air-conditioned vehicle. Explore the water at your own pace and leisure. Exclusive private door to door transfer only for you and your travel party with flexible departure time base on your own travel schedule. The service does NOT include any guide service, driver is only for door to door transfers, you will explore and visit the town by yourself.

from$75

Full-Day Private Tour of Shanghai with Hotel Pick Up (opens in a new tab)

1 7 h – 8 h

New visitors to Shanghai can get acquainted with the city at an easygoing pace on this small group tour. With an expert guide, travel the city by private vehicle, stopping at major attractions like the Bund City Sculptures, Heping Fandian, Shanghai Museum, Shikumen Museum and local food street. Get oriented as you pass through local communities like People’s Square, Former French Concession area, Nanjing Road, Fuxing Park, Sinan Mansions and Xintiandi. According to your preference, your guide will recommend some delicious local foods to eat. 1. See the 26 various buildings of different architectural styles and modern skyscrapers along the Bund 2. Visit the central origin of Shanghai urban coordinate axis at Park Hotel 3. Learn about profound history and culture at Shanghai Museum 4. Appreciate the SHIKUMEN style old houses and the relaxing atmosphere of Xintiandi 5. Experience Shanghai like a local by public transportation(Bus/Metro/Taxi)

from$117

Red Route Tour- Chinese Communist Party (opens in a new tab)

40 3 h

Shanghai is the birthplace of Chinese Communist Party. This tour will allow you to travel along the roller coaster developing route of Communist Party from 1921 First Congress, through Long March; Civil War; Korean War; Great Leap Forward; Culture Revolution; Ping Pang Diplomacy; Birth Control to 1986 end of "Coupon Age‘’ and social stability. The tour reveal some unrecorded history. If you are history lover, if you are curious about Mao Ze Dong, don't miss it out!

from$85

Art, History, Food Mini-Group Walk in Old & New French Concession (opens in a new tab)

14 3 h 30 min

This walk through French Concession is designed for those who want to make the most of a half-day discovering the city’s culture, history, art & food. Each stop has been carefully chosen to tell layered stories that reveal how Shanghai has evolved over 900 yrs! Your guide, a native Shanghainese, brings 30+yrs of personal witness to the city’s shaping & 15+yrs of cross-cultural exp, serving as your living link between the past & present. Our Core Uniqueness: 1. Systematic, Tangible History: Chronologically explore Shanghai’s eras, with the rare chance to feel ancient artifacts in a local Antique Market. You touch the history. 2. Gourmet Storytelling: This is not a generic food crawl. Each curated tasting at a local eatery represents a different Shanghai’s era or influence, creating a delicious timeline of city evolution. 3. The "Living Museum" Route: We bypass crowded tourist streets to explore the authentic neighborhood. Discover hidden gems like old villas, alleyways, and markets.

from$79.20

4-Hour Private Shanghai Art Deco Walking Tour With City Master (opens in a new tab)

2 4 h

Embark on an architectural day trip through time on this private walking tour that showcases Shanghai's most iconic buildings from Art Deco masterpieces to modern engineering wonders. This carefully curated route highlights the city's unique blend of Eastern and Western architectural influences, from the historic Bund to the soaring Pudong skyline. Your guide will provide fascinating insights into the design philosophies and cultural significance behind each landmark, revealing how Shanghai's architecture tells the story of its transformation into a global metropolis. • Discover Shanghai's rich Art Deco heritage along the Bund. • Experience the dramatic juxtaposition of historical European-style buildings with ultramodern skyscrapers. • Learn about the fusion of Eastern and Western design elements that define Shanghai's unique architectural identity. • Enjoy breathtaking views from both river level and the Shanghai Tower's observation deck.

from$123

Zhujiajiao Water Town and Shanghai City Highlights Private Day Tour (opens in a new tab)

4 8 h

Explore beautiful Zhujiajiao Water Town and Shanghai's most incredible city attractions during this amazing private day tour. Accompanied by local professional guide, stroll around the old lanes with antiquated architecture, wander along the canal with old bridges and take the boat on tranquil canals in Zhujiajiao ancient water town for a half day. Lunch will be arranged at a nice local restaurant by the canal. Followed by another half day tour to see Shanghai city attractions like Jade Buddha Temple, M50 contemporary art center or any other attractions you want to see.

from$204

Explore Shanghai Ancient Downtown with Authentic Local Food (opens in a new tab)

25 4 h

Beyond the history, treat your taste buds to a curated selection of Shanghai's most iconic snacks, from steaming Xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) to crispy Shengjianbao, tucked away in the hidden lanes only locals know. Pedal your way to a new perspective in Shanghai. Specifically, explore the Shikumen architectural style that blends design characteristics of eastern and western cultures, reflecting the history of this great Chinese metropolis. Learn about Shanghai’s ‘nongtang,’ or lane houses, on a 4-hour bike tour that explores these traditional Shikumen buildings. Pedal along Lu Xun Park, Duolun Road, Linong histrical block neighbourhood, and more with your guide as you gain insight into daily life including local food, culture, and folk entertainment.

from$85

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