Shanghai isn’t just about stunning skyscrapers and bustling markets—it’s also a city that truly comes alive after dark. Its diverse neighborhoods, including the French Concession and The Bund, boast a wide range of bars, clubs, and unique experiences perfect for those eager to explore its nightlife. Whether you’re into hopping from lively pub to swanky club or tasting local beers and bites, Shanghai offers memorable ways to enjoy a night out. The 4-Hour Shanghai Pub Crawl is a personal favorite for its energetic route and social vibe, while the Shanghai Night Vibes Pub and Club Crawl provides an authentic dive into the city’s underground music scene. For a more refined experience, the Shanghai Authentic Dinner and Night River Cruise combines a traditional dinner with skyline views, and the Secret Noodle and Wonton Tour offers a delicious taste of local alleyway eateries. No matter your style, Shanghai’s nightlife scene will impress.
Quick Overview
Our list of the best drinking tours in Shanghai covers a wide range of experiences. From guided pub crawls in prime neighborhoods like the French Concession (see #2) and the vibrant bars along the Bund (see #5), to craft beer tastings (see #6) and luxury river cruises (see #3). There are options for solo travelers, groups, and couples seeking a memorable night out, whether you want to mingle or indulge in fine drinks and views. Now, let’s explore each tour in detail.
1. 4-Hour Shanghai Pub Crawl (bars & nightclub hopping)
If you love trying different drinks and meeting new people, this pub crawl is the perfect choice. It’s the No.1 nightlife tour of Shanghai, rated an impressive 4.9/5 from over 114 reviews. The tour includes visits to 3 bars and 1 club, with a free shot at each stop and free access into the club. The route changes on Thursday and Saturday, making it flexible for your schedule.
During the roughly 4-hour experience, you’ll start at the Side Bar, then move to Shanghai Beer, Shanghai Cocktail bars, and finally into a nightclub for the night’s climax. The tour is great for solo travelers or small groups eager to explore Shanghai’s vibrant nightlife without the hassle of planning. Guests rave about the lively atmosphere and the energetic guide, Tony, who “knew all the best spots.” The $23 price makes it an incredible value for a night of fun.
Bottom Line: This tour suits those who want a lively, social night and enjoy making friends over drinks. The mix of bars and a club, plus free shots and club entry, keeps things simple and exciting.
2. Shanghai bar hopping tour in the former french concession
For around $29 per person, this 3-hour tour offers a relaxed way to experience Shanghai’s famous French Concession nightlife. It’s rated 5/5 based on 43 reviews, highlighting its personable guide and intimate vibe. The tour kicks off at Funkadeli and takes you through various bars, including Shanghai Aperitif, Beer, Cocktail, Spirits, Wine, and even whiskey tasting.
What makes this tour unique is its focus on chilling out and socializing in some of the coolest spots in the city. Guests mention Jill, the guide, as outgoing and tailored the experience to match the group’s vibe—sometimes ending on a secret second-floor bar with a balcony. The tour is ideal for travelers who prefer small group settings and want to soak up the local nightlife ambiance.
Reviews emphasize the laid-back atmosphere and the chance to try locally brewed beers like the seasalt lychee IPA or jasmine-flavored beer. It’s perfect for a casual evening with new friends and a taste of the real Shanghai.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a relaxed, social experience in the French Concession, this tour offers excellent value and genuine local flavor.
3. Shanghai Authentic Dinner and Night River Cruise with Rooftop Bar Hopping Option
For about $140, this combo tour blends a delicious local dinner with a cruise along the Huangpu River. Rated 5/5 by 32 reviewers, it’s perfect for romantics or those who want to see the city lights from the water. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off and the option to add a rooftop bar stop, where you get a complimentary drink with a view.
The dinner features Shanghai’s famous soup dumplings and other local dishes, served either before or after the 50-minute river cruise. The cruise offers a spectacular view of landmarks like the Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai Tower lit up at night. Guests appreciate the hassle-free logistics, and many mention their guide’s knowledge about Shanghai’s skyline.
This tour is ideal for couples or small groups looking for a romantic, scenic experience combined with good food. The $139.60 cost is quite reasonable for a high-quality evening that captures the city’s historic and modern sides.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking a romantic, scenic evening with dinner and skyline views, especially if you value comfort and convenience.
4. Secret Noodle and Wonton in Shanghai Alleyways with Local Beer
This 3-hour food tour in the French Concession area focuses on local alleyway eateries serving noodles and wontons. With a rating of 5/5 from 19 reviews, it’s ideal for foodies eager to enjoy authentic Shanghai cuisine in a lively, informal setting. The tour covers small restaurants renowned for distinctive noodle dishes, along with local beer or soybean milk, with vegetarian options available.
You’ll visit spots along Huaihai Road, Changle Road, and Xintiandi, sampling delicious dumplings, pot stickers, and more. The guide provides insights into local food culture and the city’s neighborhood life, making it a rich cultural experience as well as a culinary one. Guests mention the variety and quality of food, and how the tour helps navigate Shanghai’s complex menu language.
This tour is best suited for active foodies who want a personalized, hands-on experience. It’s a great way to explore the city’s small eateries and get a taste of everyday Shanghai life.
Bottom Line: If you’re craving local flavors and want an immersive culinary experience, this tour delivers delicious eats along with authentic neighborhood vibes.
5. Shanghai Nightlife: Bars in The Bund and Old French Concession
For travelers who want a glamorous night out, this private guided tour explores luxury bars and clubs in Shanghai’s most iconic areas. With a rating of 5/5 from 10 reviews, it includes a free drink at most venues and entry into M1NT, famous for its shark tank and luxurious decor. The tour lasts about 4 hours and is perfect for those who want a high-end experience.
Starting at The French Concession, you’ll visit Cobra Lily, The Refinery, or Devil’s Share Bar, before heading to The Bund to enjoy Vue Bar atop a skyscraper with city views. The final stop is at INS, an upscale club with extravagant design and a lively scene. Guests appreciate the personalized attention, with guides managing line privileges and VIP access.
Ideal for special occasions or luxury seekers, this tour combines drinks, views, and club access into one seamless evening. The $193.34 cost reflects its upscale nature, but the experience is memorable.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers seeking an elegant, VIP nightlife experience with exclusive access and city views.
6. Shanghai craft beer tour with local food tastings
This private 3-hour brewery tour focuses on Shanghai’s craft beer scene, with visits to three local breweries. Rated 5/5 from five reviews, it includes beer tastings alongside local snacks like dumplings, pot stickers, and won tons. It’s perfect for beer lovers wanting to explore Chinese craft beers like Pilsners, lagers, stouts, and more.
Your guide will take you through Xintiandi, Old Town, and Sinan Mansions, where you’ll sample fresh beers and delicious snacks. The tour is flexible with afternoon or late-night departures and is suited for those who want a personalized, relaxed exploration of Shanghai’s brewing culture.
Guests mention how local brews like mango spicy beer and Longjin tea flavored beer are highlights. The tour offers insight into local drink trends and urban street life.
Bottom Line: If craft beer and local snacks sound appealing, this private brewery tour offers a thoughtful, tasty dive into Shanghai’s growing beer scene.
7. Private Shanghai Foodie Adventures with Rooftop Bar Hopping
For $186.67, this private evening food tour combines local cuisine with drinks at a rooftop bar. Rated 5/5, it takes you through authentic eateries in Nanshi, Xintiandi, and the French Concession, tasting dim sum, braised pork, and regional dishes like Szechuan and Hunan cuisine.
Your personal guide customizes the experience, ensuring you enjoy enough food to replace a meal. The tour includes three drinks and ends with stunning views over Shanghai’s skyline. Guests praise the personalized service and the authentic culinary insights.
This is ideal for foodies who want to indulge in regional flavors and discover hidden eateries. The door-to-door pickup adds convenience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for gastronomic explorers seeking an intimate, customized taste of Shanghai’s diverse regional food scene.
8. Shanghai Mahjong Experience in Local Tea Bar
This 3-hour experience isn’t just about learning Mahjong, but also about culture. Held in a local tea bar in the French Concession, it’s rated 5/5 from 4 reviews. With English translation, even complete beginners can quickly pick up the game and enjoy the relaxing environment.
Your instructor will teach Mahjong rules and guide you through playing on automated tables. The experience combines games, tea, and social interaction, offering an authentic slice of local leisure culture. It’s perfect for those interested in Chinese traditions or looking for a relaxing night activity.
Guests enjoy the informal setting and the chance to learn a new game while sipping tea. It’s best for small groups or couples interested in culture and games.
Bottom Line: If you want a relaxing cultural break that includes learning Mahjong, this is a charming, social choice.
9. Shanghai Huangpu River Charter Yacht Experience with Champagne or Beer
For a luxurious night, consider this VIP yacht experience along the Huangpu River. It costs about $500 per person but offers an exclusive way to see Shanghai’s skyline. The 1.5-hour cruise includes champagne or beer and optional personal guide services.
You’ll board at the Yacht Club, with door-to-door transfers from your hotel. You’ll glide past landmarks like Pudong’s skyscrapers and the historic Bund, enjoying luxury drinks and stunning views. The private guide can provide detailed commentary, making it a tailored experience for couples or small groups.
Guests highlight the VIP atmosphere and the spectacular skyline. It’s ideal for special occasions or romantic evenings where you want to splurge.
Bottom Line: Best suited for luxury travelers seeking a VIP, scenic boat ride with drinks and privacy.
10. Private Shanghai Night Tour with Lost Heaven Dinner and Bar Hopping Option
This customizable night tour at around $145 combines dinner at Lost Heaven Silk Road with visits to Xintiandi, the French Concession, and the Bund. Rated 5/5, it’s perfect for those who want flexibility.
The evening starts with dinner featuring regional Chinese dishes, followed by a guided tour of Shanghai’s illuminated landmarks. You can choose to add bar hopping, making it a blend of cultural sightseeing and nightlife. The door-to-door service ensures a comfortable experience.
Reviews mention the personalized approach and how guides take care of all logistics, making it a hassle-free way to see the city at night.
Bottom Line: Ideal for cultural explorers who want an adaptable evening combining dining, sightseeing, and optional drinks.
11. Shanghai Night Vibes Pub and Club Crawl
With a perfect rating of 5/5 from just 1 review, this 3-4 hour tour highlights Shanghai’s underground culture. It kicks off with a rooftop bar overlooking the Bund, then visits a local live music bar with indie, rock, or fusion sounds.
The tour emphasizes dance, music, and socializing, ending at a club with a lively scene. Guides manage line skips and VIP access, making for a smooth night. It’s a good option for music lovers and those wanting to experience Shanghai’s alternative scene.
The $139 price includes access to multiple venues, drinks, and a fun, energetic atmosphere. Perfect for younger travelers or groups wanting to dance away into the early hours.
Bottom Line: Best for music fans or nightlife enthusiasts eager to explore Shanghai’s underground.
$139.00 per person
12. Zhujiajiao with Amazing Night Lights and Bar Experience
For a full-day adventure, this 8-hour tour combines a visit to ancient water town Zhujiajiao with evening light shows and a trendy rooftop bar. Rated 5/5, it’s perfect if you want a mix of historic charm and modern nightlife.
You’ll explore the water town, with a private guide showing you local markets and historic sites, then enjoy nighttime views of Shangahi’s old town and the Bund lit up at night. The evening tour includes a visit to a rooftop bar for drinks with a view, making it a well-rounded day-to-night experience.
Ideal for history lovers who also want to enjoy night views and drinks in style. The $245 price makes it a premium choice for those wanting a comprehensive day.
Bottom Line: A great option for culture and cityscape lovers who want a full experience blending history, light shows, and drinks.
$245 per person
How to Choose the Right Drinking Tour in Shanghai
When selecting your perfect night out, consider your budget, time available, and interests. If you love socializing and want a cheap, lively experience, the 4-Hour Pub Crawl offers great value. For those seeking a more relaxed, local vibe, the French Concession pub tour is ideal. If luxury and views are your priorities, the Yacht Experience provides an exclusive evening on the water.
Budget travelers will appreciate tours focused on craft beers or food adventures like the local noodle & wonton tour, while those wanting upscale nightlife should look at the bars in The Bund and French Concession. For a cultural twist, the Mahjong experience or Zhujiajiao day trip offer unique insights.
Book your preferred tour early, especially during peak seasons, to ensure availability. Consider the duration—some tours last just 3 hours, while others stretch into a full evening or day.
Final Thoughts
From energizing pub crawls to luxury yacht cruises, Shanghai’s nightlife scene has something for every taste. If you’re the type of traveler who enjoys meeting new friends and exploring eclectic venues, the 4-Hour Pub Crawl or Night Vibes Crawl will serve you well. For those looking for more refined experiences, the river cruise with dinner or private rooftop bar options provide stunning views and a touch of elegance.
Planning ahead and choosing a tour that matches your interests and budget will make your Shanghai nights truly memorable. The city’s endless energy and diverse venues are waiting to be explored—so don’t hesitate to book early and enjoy your night in the Pearl of the Orient!