Coach Day Tour: Classic and Modern Shanghai with Lunch

Experience the Charm of Old and Modern Shanghai in a Day

If you’re looking to get a comprehensive taste of Shanghai in a single day, this Coach Day Tour: Classic and Modern Shanghai with Lunch offers an excellent balance. For around $62.34 per person, you’ll spend approximately 8 hours exploring the city’s most iconic spots by comfortable, air-conditioned coach. The tour takes you from the bustling streets of Old Street, through the tranquil beauty of Yuyuan Garden, to the colonial elegance of The Bund, and the chic lanes of Tianzifang in the French Concession.

Two things we especially like about this tour are the well-chosen highlights that showcase the city’s layered history, and the inclusion of a delicious Chinese lunch and tea at a traditional teahouse—both adding genuine local flavor. The hotel pickup and drop-off make it convenient, especially if you’re short on time or new to Shanghai.

A possible drawback is that, based on some reviews, the tour might end earlier than expected—some travelers have noted it wraps up around 4 pm instead of the promised 8 pm. So, if you’re hoping for a full day of sightseeing, it’s worth confirming the schedule with the operator.

This tour suits travelers who want a balanced, accessible introduction to Shanghai’s essentials—perfect for first-timers, those with limited time, or anyone eager to see both sides of the city without the hassle of planning multiple visits.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering old and new Shanghai highlights
• Includes lunch and tea, adding authentic local flavors
• Comfortable transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off
• Knowledgeable guides provide insightful commentary
• Shorter duration suits travelers with limited time
• Some reviews mention the tour ending earlier than scheduled

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

We found this tour to be a thoughtfully curated introduction to Shanghai, blending history, culture, shopping, and architecture. It’s especially suitable if you want to see the highlights without the stress of navigating the city on your own. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you can expect, along with some insights from fellow travelers.

Starting with Convenience and Comfort

The tour begins early morning with hotel pickup in downtown Shanghai, or you can choose to meet the coach at a central location. This saves time and avoids the hassle of figuring out transportation—something especially appreciated if you’re arriving from a cruise or arriving late the night before. The air-conditioned coach is roomy enough for a group of up to 15 travelers, ensuring a relatively intimate experience where you can easily hear your guide and ask questions.

Exploring Old Street: A Step Back in Time

Your first stop is Old Street, once considered the main commercial hub during Shanghai’s earlier days. Here, you’ll see traditional Ming and Qing dynasty buildings with their upswept eaves and black-tiled roofs. The atmosphere is lively, with small shops selling traditional handicrafts and souvenirs. As one reviewer noted, the guides — in this case, Jason and Steve — are knowledgeable and funny, adding personality to this walk through history. Expect to see some handicraft stalls and local artisans, giving you a sense of Shanghai’s bustling past.

Yuyuan Garden: Serenity and Tradition

Next, you’ll visit Yuyuan Garden, a 16th-century masterpiece of Chinese landscape design. The garden’s pavilions, ponds, and bridges are perfect for a leisurely stroll. It’s a peaceful oasis amid the busy city, and you’ll likely appreciate the chance to breathe in some tranquility. After exploring, you’ll enjoy a Chinese tea at a traditional teahouse, which adds a cultural touch. One traveler described the experience as “explained every sight we visited,” emphasizing the value of having a guide who shares stories and context.

The Elegance of The Bund

Your journey then takes you to The Bund, Shanghai’s historic waterfront along the Huangpu River. The grandiose 1920s-era buildings are a visual feast—think Art Deco facades and colonial architecture—offering a stark contrast to the modern skyline across the river. We loved the way this spot encapsulates Shanghai’s cosmopolitan past and international influence. A guided walk here helps you appreciate the architectural diversity and historical importance of this area.

Lunch and the Skyline of Lujiazui

Post the waterfront walk, a Chinese lunch at a local restaurant refreshes you for the next part of the tour. Afterwards, you’ll head into the Lujiazui district, home to towering skyscrapers and the Shanghai Tower. While you might wish to visit the Financial Center top floor — which costs about CNY180 — most travelers will find the view from the museum beneath the Oriental Pearl Tower sufficient to appreciate the city’s modern skyline.

Shanghai History Museum and Pearl Market

Traveling beneath the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower, the Shanghai History Museum offers a concise but informative overview of the city’s transformation from a fishing village to a global metropolis. It’s a worthwhile stop, especially if you’re interested in Shanghai’s urban development.

Adjacent is the Pearl City Market, famous for selling sea pearls. If you’re tempted, you can purchase pearls here, though it’s an optional expense. One reviewer mentioned, “Stock up with these marine treasures if you wish,” highlighting the market’s appeal for souvenir shopping.

Charm of Tianzifang and the French Concession

The final stop is Tianzifang, a lively art enclave in the French Concession district. Its restored alleyways are filled with boutiques, cafes, and small galleries. It’s a perfect place to stroll, window-shop, or grab a coffee. You’ll learn about how the Concession was once a European trading hub—an interesting piece of Shanghai’s colonial past—adding context to this charming neighborhood.

Ending the Day

Most tours finish back at the starting point in the early evening, wrapping up a day that combines history, modernity, shopping, and culture. One reviewer noted that the tour ended earlier than expected, around 4 pm instead of 8 pm, so it’s wise to keep that in mind when planning your evening.

The Value of This Tour

For $62.34, this experience provides a well-rounded snapshot of Shanghai. The inclusion of hotel pickup, transportation, and lunch makes it a convenient option—especially valuable if you’re new to the city or pressed for time. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, helping you understand what you’re seeing rather than just passing by.

The tour’s focused duration suits those who want a taste of Shanghai rather than a deep dive into every neighborhood. While some mention the early wrap-up, the core highlights are well covered, making it an effective overview.

Who Will This Tour Suit Best?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors eager to see Shanghai’s historic and modern landmarks without the hassle of separate tickets or navigating public transport. It’s also good for travelers who appreciate guided insights and want a taste of authentic Chinese cuisine and tea. Those with limited time will find it a cost-effective way to cover many sites in one day, especially with hotel pickup included.

If you’re looking for a full-day adventure with a balance of sightseeing and culture, this tour hits the right notes. However, if your schedule allows, you might want to supplement it with additional visits, like the Financial Center, or spend more time exploring neighborhoods like Tianzifang on your own.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in downtown Shanghai, making it very convenient, especially if you’re staying centrally.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 8:00 am and ending in the early evening. Some reviews mention it ending earlier, around 4 pm, so confirm the schedule with the provider.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers transportation by air-conditioned coach, a guided tour, Chinese lunch, and tea at a teahouse. Gratuities and additional tickets, like the Financial Center top floor, are extra.

Can I buy pearls at Pearl City Market?
Yes, the market is famous for sea pearls, and you can purchase them if you wish. The expense is on your own, and bargaining is common.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is designed to be manageable within 8 hours. Always check with your guide if you have mobility concerns.

Are tips for guides and drivers expected?
While not mandatory, tipping is generally appreciated and recommended if you enjoyed the experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour date for a full refund.

To sum it up, this classic and modern Shanghai tour offers a balanced, engaging experience for those wanting to see the city’s highlights without the fuss. The inclusion of local food, traditional tea, and insightful guides enriches the day, making it more than just sightseeing. While it may end early for some, the carefully selected stops give you a meaningful introduction to Shanghai’s past and present. Perfect for first-timers or travelers with limited time, it’s a solid way to make the most of a day in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.