Shanghai is a city that offers more than just towering skyscrapers and bustling streets. Its culinary scene is equally impressive, especially when it comes to buffet experiences that combine spectacular views with delicious food. Whether you’re looking for a quick visit to the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower, a relaxed dinner cruise along the Huangpu River, or an elegant night tour with onboard dining, Shanghai has something to satisfy every appetite. Among these, the Oriental Pearl Tower Ticket – Optional Tower Ticket or Buffet stands out as a top choice for its combination of stunning city views and convenient access.
Our favorite? The Huangpu River night cruise with buffet dinner offers a memorable way to see Shanghai’s skyline while enjoying a relaxed meal on the water. The third tour, a Shanghai Night Tour to Huangpu River Cruise + Dingtaifeng or Buffet at Cruiseship, also earns high marks for its comprehensive night experience. But which one suits your style best? Keep reading to find out.
1. Oriental Pearl Tower Ticket – Optional Tower Ticket or Buffet
For a bird’s-eye view of Shanghai’s skyline, this experience combines entry to the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower with a chance to enjoy Western-style buffet dining inside the revolving restaurant. Pre-booked tickets make it easy to skip long lines—show your QR code and head straight up to the observatory, which sits 1,536 feet (468 meters) above the city. The view from the 360-degree observatory is impressive, especially at sunset or at night when the city lights sparkle.
What makes this tour special is the seamless combination of sightseeing and dining. Inside the second sphere, the revolving restaurant offers a buffet that allows you to dine while taking in the skyline. The inside of the tower has a slightly dated charm but remains a must-visit for first-timers. The reviews highlight its ease of access, with many praising the breathtaking views and the glass floor experience.
Bottom line: This is perfect for travelers who want quick, iconic views with the added bonus of a buffet lunch or dinner, especially if you’re pressed for time. The combination of admission to the Shanghai History Museum and the tower makes this a well-rounded, hassle-free visit.
2. Shanghai Huangpu River Night Cruise with Buffet Dinner
Taking a night cruise along the Huangpu River is one of the most relaxing ways to see Shanghai’s illuminated skyline. This tour includes hotel pickup, making logistics simple, and a 2-hour boat ride with dinner onboard. You’ll pass by landmarks such as the The Bund, Peace Hotel, Oriental TV Tower, and Shanghai World Financial Tower, all lit up against the night sky.
The buffet dinner features a variety of dishes, including soft drinks, with some reviews mentioning that the food is “okay” but that the overall experience is worth it for the views. Guests enjoy the chance to move freely around the boat’s multiple decks, with many noting that seeing the famous skyline at night is unforgettable. The guide, Shirley, is frequently praised for her knowledge and friendly attitude, adding a personal touch to the experience.
Bottom line: This tour offers excellent value for those who want an authentic night out, combining scenic views with a relaxed dinner on the water. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a calm, scenic experience with the chance to photograph Shanghai’s skyline at its most dramatic.
3. Shanghai Night Tour to Huangpu River Cruise + Dingtaifeng or Buffet at Cruiseship
This evening tour combines a Huangpu River cruise with an optional dining experience at Dingtaifeng or a buffet onboard the cruise. It’s a great way to experience Shanghai’s nightlife, with the added bonus of a guided introduction to the city’s illuminated buildings. The cruise lasts about 2 hours, giving plenty of time to take in the sights like the Jinmao Tower and Oriental Pearl Tower, which look especially striking when lit up.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on nighttime scenery and providing a more personalized experience with a knowledgeable guide. The reviews are glowing, especially highlighting the stunning night views from the boat and the enjoyable onboard dining, which can be tailored with options like Dingtaifeng or a buffet. The tour’s shorter duration makes it ideal for travelers with limited time who still want an in-depth look at Shanghai’s nightscape.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who want a guided, intimate experience of Shanghai’s nighttime skyline, combined with the flexibility of choosing between different dining options onboard. It’s a little more exclusive and provides a lovely blend of sight, sound, and flavor.
How to Choose the Best Buffet Experience in Shanghai
When deciding among these options, consider your priorities. If you’re after spectacular city views combined with quick access, the Oriental Pearl Tower is a no-brainer. For a relaxing evening on the water, the Huangpu River night cruise with buffet offers a peaceful way to see the city at night. Meanwhile, the guided night tour with cruise and dining suits travelers who want a more personalized, comprehensive experience that combines sightseeing and dining in a shorter time frame.
Think about your budget, preferred pace, and whether you want to focus on views from above or scenic cruises. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure you secure your preferred time slot and avoid disappointment.
Final Thoughts
From panoramic views at the Oriental Pearl Tower to relaxed night cruises along the Huangpu River, Shanghai offers buffet experiences that are as diverse as its skyline. For travelers with limited time, the tower visit provides a quick, iconic snapshot of the city. If you prefer a leisurely dinner with a view, the river cruise is hard to beat, especially with the added comfort of hotel pickup and drop-off.
For those wanting a more personalized night tour, the third option offers an engaging combination of scenery, guided insights, and onboard dining. No matter which you choose, early booking is wise to secure a spot and make the most of your Shanghai adventure.
If you’re planning your trip, consider your interests and schedule—these buffet experiences can turn an ordinary evening into a memorable highlight of your visit.