Shanghai is a city of contrasts—where sleek skyscrapers stand alongside historic water towns and bustling markets. Its dynamic retail scene, from traditional bazaars to modern malls, offers something for every shopper. We especially love tours that blend authentic local culture with a touch of luxury, like the full-day Zhujiajiao tour that combines ancient water town charm with the serenity of Yu Gardens and the colonial elegance of the Bund. Whether you’re after bargain-hunting or unique souvenirs, Shanghai’s markets are a treasure trove.
If shopping is your priority, don’t miss the chance to explore the private shopping tours that give personalized access to top markets and fabric districts. For a more flexible experience, the Ultimate Flexible Shopping Tour lets you choose your favorite spots with expert guidance. For those arriving on a layover, the 4-hour layover tour maximizes time with a lightning-fast Maglev ride and quick visits to iconic sites.
1. Shanghai Day Tour to Zhujiajiao Water Town, Yu Garden, Bazaar, Bund
At number 1, this private full-day tour offers a fantastic blend of history and scenery. It takes you from the bustling city center to the tranquil canals of Zhujiajiao Water Town, built over 1,700 years ago. Your guide helps you navigate the narrow alleyways, take boat rides along the canals, and snap photos of traditional bridges and homes. Afterward, you’ll visit Yu Garden, a beautifully preserved Ming and Qing dynasty garden renowned for its intricate rockeries, lush trees, and peaceful ponds. The tour also includes browsing the Yu Bazaar for local crafts and strolling the colonial architecture of the Bund. This tour’s value lies in its comprehensive approach—entrance fees, guide, vehicle, and hotel pickup are included. Reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guide and the perfect balance of cultural highlights. Bottom line: ideal for those wanting a full immersion into Shanghai’s past and present in one day.
2. Private Shanghai Shopping Tour with Local Shopping Guru
Number 2 on our list keeps it simple and personalized. For around $95, this private 4-5 hour adventure lets you select your shopping focus, whether that’s fabric, pearls, or souvenirs. Your guide, Sunny, is known for her detailed attention and tailored recommendations, making this a favorite among travelers who want a custom experience. The tour features popular stops like the South Bund Fabric Market, where tailor-made clothes are a highlight, and the Hongqiao Pearl Market for jewelry and souvenirs. Reviewers rave about Sunny’s expertise and her ability to find high-quality items efficiently. It’s perfect if you want a quick, flexible shopping experience without feeling rushed. Bottom line: great for independent shoppers wanting expert tips and a personalized route.
3. Private Shanghai Ultimate Flexible Shopping Tour: 4 or 8-hour Options
Number 3 offers maximum flexibility. For $75 per person, you can choose between a half-day or full-day customized shopping experience, with your guide and driver handling all logistics. This tour is ideal if you have specific markets or shopping districts in mind, such as Nanjing Road or ShiLiu Pu Cloth Market. Past travelers mention how their guide helped them find tailor shops, antique stalls, or electronics, all tailored to personal tastes. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off makes it convenient. Customers say, “It saved us hours wandering aimlessly,” which is exactly what you want when shopping in a sprawling city. Bottom line: a flexible, all-in-one solution for dedicated shoppers craving a personalized itinerary.
4. Private Day Tour: Zhujiajiao Water Town with Shanghai Local Shopping Outing
Number 4 combines cultural sightseeing with shopping. Starting with a 2-hour visit to Zhujiajiao, you’ll explore ancient bridges, Qing dynasty streets, and a famous Qing Dynasty Post Office. Then, you’ll visit the Hongqiao Pearl Market to browse pearls, silk, and souvenirs, plus the bustling South Bund Market. This tour is perfect for combining a peaceful water town experience with a taste of Shanghai’s vibrant markets in one day. Reviews note the well-organized itinerary and friendly guide. The balance of scenic exploration with shopping makes it great for travelers wanting a full day of diverse experiences. Bottom line: excellent for those seeking both culture and shopping in one trip.
5. Shanghai Night River Cruise and Light Tour with Yuyuan Bazaar
Number 5 takes you into the evening with a scenic river cruise along the Huangpu River, showcasing the illuminated skyline—think the Bund’s historic buildings and Lujiazui’s skyscrapers—at their most dazzling. After the cruise, you’ll explore the bustling Yuyuan Bazaar and the French Concession, famous for its mix of Chinese and Western architecture. This 3-4 hour tour offers a romantic peek at Shanghai’s nightlife and shopping scene. Reviewers mention the stunning views and lively atmosphere, especially at night. It’s ideal for couples or anyone wanting a relaxed, scenic experience after a busy day. Bottom line: best suited for those who want a memorable evening with light shopping and impressive city views.
6. 4-Hour Private Shanghai Shopping Tour with Local Expert
Number 6 offers a short, focused shopping trip with an expert guide. For $91, you can explore your choice of markets or retail districts like Nanjing Road or fabric markets, with your guide helping you avoid aimless wandering. Past reviews praise Sunny’s patience and tailored suggestions, especially for tailoring and local crafts. This tour is perfect if your time is limited but you want an insider’s perspective on Shanghai’s shopping scene. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want to hit a few specific spots rather than a full day of shopping. Bottom line: quick, personalized, and efficient—ideal for tight schedules.
7. 4-Hr Shanghai Layover Tour: Maglev, Wet Market, Food, Landmarks
Number 7 is perfect if you’re on a layover. For $98, this 4-5 hour tour includes a ride on the Maglev train at speeds up to 300 km/h, whisking you from the airport. You’ll also visit the Huangpu River, see the famous Bund, and explore a traditional wet market, where you can see locals shopping for fresh seafood and produce. Included is a chance to sample local street food. Past travelers rave about how the Maglev ride is a highlight and how the guide makes the most of limited time. It’s best suited for cruise or airport travelers wanting a quick but memorable taste of Shanghai. Bottom line: a fast, fun introduction to the city’s highlights with a high-tech twist.
8. 3-hour Shanghai Old Town Market Private Walking Tour
Number 8 offers a compact, immersive walk through Shanghai’s Old Town. Visiting markets, the Old City Wall, Confucian Temple, and Yuyuan Garden, this tour provides a deep dive into local life in just three hours. The private guide helps you discover hidden corners and shares insights on local snacks and crafts. Reviewers appreciate the authentic feel and the opportunity to see less touristy spots. This is ideal for travelers who want a quick, intimate look at Shanghai’s history and markets. Bottom line: a short but rich experience perfect for history buffs and food lovers alike.
9. Private Tour: Yuyuan Garden, Chenghuangmiao Temple and Taobao City Market
Number 9 combines culture, shopping, and historic temples. Starting with the Yuyuan Garden, you’ll enjoy tranquil gardens and traditional architecture, followed by a visit to Chenghuangmiao Temple. The day ends with a visit to Taobao City Market, famous for bargaining for souvenirs, handicrafts, and local foods. The tour includes a Chinese lunch, making it a full culinary and cultural experience. Reviewers mention how the guide makes haggling easy and shares local tips. This tour is perfect for travelers wanting to combine garden serenity with vibrant shopping. Bottom line: a well-rounded day for culture, food, and souvenirs.
10. Shanghai: Jing’an Temple, Yu Garden, and Bazaar Private Tour
Number 10 offers a peaceful exploration of Shanghai’s spiritual sites. Visiting Jing’an Temple and Yu Garden, you’ll experience serene gardens and ancient temples, combined with a walk through the bazaar for local snacks. Perfect for those wanting to mix cultural exploration with shopping, this tour provides tranquility amidst the city’s hustle. It’s a straightforward choice for visitors interested in Shanghai’s spiritual side. Bottom line: ideal for cultural travelers seeking a calm, meaningful experience.
$16 per person
11. Private Shopping Experience with Insider
Number 11 emphasizes local shopping secrets. For $128, this full or half-day tour gives access to fabric, antique, and food markets, with your guide teaching you bargaining skills and introducing little-known spots. Reviewers mention how the guide helps them find specialty items and navigate markets confidently. It’s best suited for travelers who want deep local insight and a more hands-on shopping adventure. Bottom line: a great choice for those wanting a guided, authentic shopping experience.
12. Private Wet Market Visit with Cooking Class in Shanghai
Number 12 offers a culinary twist. For $238, you visit a local wet market, buying fresh ingredients, then learn to cook three traditional dishes in a private cooking class. This tour is perfect for foodies eager to understand Shanghai’s cuisine firsthand. Reviewers love the personalized instruction and the chance to cook with fresh ingredients. It’s best for travelers who want a hands-on culinary experience and learn more about local ingredients and flavors. Bottom line: ideal for those interested in Chinese cooking and authentic market visits.
$238.00 per person
13. From Shanghai: Hangzhou Temples, Lake Views & Night Market Fun
Number 13 is a full-day trip outside Shanghai. Visiting West Lake, Jingci Temple, and Leifeng Pagoda, it combines cultural sightseeing with a scenic boat cruise. After sunset, the Wulin Night Market offers street food and shopping. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a day trip with a mix of temples, lakes, and local flavors. Reviewers mention the beautiful scenery and lively markets. Bottom line: suitable for those wanting a scenic escape with cultural and culinary highlights.
$235 per person
14. Mystery Menus Shanghai: 3-Hour Breakfast and Market Tour
Number 14 provides a quick morning immersion. This 3-hour tour explores a lively market, tasting fresh street bites and seasonal fruits, and passing hidden temples. It’s perfect for early risers interested in local breakfast culture. Reviewers enjoy the authentic flavors and local insights. It’s best for those wanting a short, flavorful introduction to Shanghai’s morning scene. Bottom line: quick, tasty, and culturally rich.
$95 per person
15. Shanghai: Vegan and Vegetarian Cooking Class with Market
Number 15 is a unique culinary experience. For $375, you learn to make vegan soup dumplings and other Chinese vegetarian dishes. You visit a local market to pick ingredients and learn to communicate with vendors. Reviewers praise the hands-on instruction and delicious dishes, making it ideal for plant-based travelers and foodies. Bottom line: perfect for those wanting a deep dive into Chinese vegetarian cuisine.
$375 per person
How to Choose the Right Shopping & Market Tour in Shanghai
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time, and interests. For a full immersion into historic water towns and classical gardens, the Zhujiajiao Water Town tour is perfect. If you prefer a personalized, flexible shopping experience, the Ultimate Flexible Shopping Tour offers tailored options. For quick layover adventures, the 4-hour Maglev and market tour will maximize your limited time.
Think about whether you want culinary experiences like the market and cooking class or a nighttime sightseeing cruise. Budget travelers might prefer the shorter guided shopping tours, while those seeking a deeper cultural dive will enjoy the Yuyuan Garden and temple visits.
Booking early is advisable, especially for popular tours like the Zhujiajiao Water Town trip or the private culinary classes, which fill quickly during peak seasons.
Final Thoughts
Shanghai’s shopping and market scene offers a rich variety of experiences, from serene water towns to bustling bazaars. Whether you want a full-day culture, a focused shopping spree, or a culinary adventure, there’s an option on this list for you. For a comprehensive visit that combines history, scenery, and shopping, the Zhujiajiao water town tour stands out. If personalization is your priority, the Ultimate Flexible Shopping Tour is hard to beat.
No matter your interests, booking early will ensure you secure your spot in these popular experiences. Shanghai’s markets are waiting—happy shopping!