Shanghai is a city made for exploration—its mix of ultra-modern skyscrapers and antique water towns offers endless options for full-day tours. Whether you’re eager to stroll along the Bund, marvel at the Shanghai Tower, or cruise through centuries-old water towns, the city’s rich tapestry of experiences makes it ideal for a carefully curated day trip. We especially like the private tours, like the Private Shanghai Full Day City Tour with Old and New Highlights, for their flexibility and personalized touch—perfect if you want to prioritize your interests or avoid the crowds. For a laugh and a lesson, the Wuzhen and Xitang Water Town Private Full Day Trip offers a relaxing escape just outside the city, combining history, scenic beauty, and delicious food.
Quick Overview
Our list covers a broad range of full-day tours in Shanghai, from private city explorations to water town adventures, including visits to Yuyuan Garden, Nanjing Road, the French Concession, and even neighboring cities like Hangzhou and Suzhou. Some tours focus on cultural heritage like the Shanghai Colonial History Tour, while others offer immersive experiences like bike rides through the French Concession or boat cruises in ancient water towns. Each experience promises a blend of landmarks, hidden corners, and local flavors, ensuring you can pick one that suits your travel style.
1. Private Shanghai Full Day City Tour with Old and New Highlights
At number 1, this fully customizable private tour lets you pick what interests you most—be it the scenic view from the Shanghai Tower or the tranquil beauty of Yu Garden. The tour includes stops at The Bund, the Yuyuan Garden, and the Jade Buddha Temple, with options to add transport by private car, metro, or rideshare. Guests consistently praise the flexibility and knowledge of the guides, with one reviewer saying, “Sammi made our day!” The tour typically lasts around 7 to 8 hours, perfect for a deep dive into both old and modern Shanghai. With prices from $108 per person, it offers great value for a private experience tailored to your pace and interests.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a flexible, personal introduction to Shanghai’s highlights, with the option to customize your day.
2. Private Full-Day Tour: Incredible Shanghai Highlights
At number 2, this 8-hour private tour covers top landmarks such as the Shanghai Tower, Oriental Pearl Tower, and Nanjing Road. It’s a great choice if you want a rundown with a focus on skyline views and iconic structures, including the world’s highest observation deck at Shanghai Tower. Guests rave about guide Peggy’s local insights and personalized approach. You can opt for public transport or upgrade to private transport, which makes it flexible for groups of four or fewer. The $109 price includes entry to major sights, making it excellent value.
Bottom Line: Perfect for first-timers seeking a well-rounded day exploring Shanghai’s skyline, history, and bustling streets.
3. Full-Day Private Guided Tour of Shanghai
Number 3 offers a customizable 8-hour experience with stops at Jade Buddha Temple, Confucius Temple, and People’s Park. The tour’s strength is its flexibility, allowing you to shape your itinerary with your guide’s help. It includes local lunch (at your expense) and options to explore the Old Town or Riverside Promenade, depending on your interests. Reviewers highlight the personalized service and the smooth logistics. For those looking to combine cultural sites with relaxed shopping and local markets, this tour hits the mark.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a tailored day blending cultural sites with some leisure time.
4. Wuzhen and Xitang Water Town Private Full Day Trip
Taking the number 4 spot, this 9 to 10-hour tour offers a full immersion into water town life, exploring Wuzhen and Xitang—two of China’s most beautiful water towns. The tour includes boat rides, strolling cobbled streets, and lunch and dinner, all with private transportation. Guests describe the experience as “a perfect mix of scenic beauty and cultural insight,” with the sunset in Xitang being a highlight. The tour is ideal for those who want to escape the city and enjoy authentic Chinese water towns at a relaxed pace.
Bottom Line: Excellent choice for travelers seeking a full day of scenery, history, and local cuisine outside Shanghai.
5. Full-Day Shanghai Classic Bike Tour
Number 5 is a 6-hour cycling adventure through the French Concession and Old Town, priced at $147. It’s perfect if you prefer an active exploration and want to see hidden alleys and local neighborhoods that big buses can’t reach. Guides like Ellen bring the city alive with stories and history, making it a fun and educational option. The small group size and the inclusion of bike rental and entrance fees make it a great value for those comfortable on two wheels.
Bottom Line: Best suited for active travelers who want an inside look at Shanghai’s quieter, charming streets.
6. Private Full Day Tour: Zhujiajiao Ancient Water Town with Best of Shanghai
Coming in at number 6, this 9-hour tour combines Zhujiajiao Water Town with highlights of Shanghai, including the Yuyuan Garden. It’s perfect for those who want a short getaway with door-to-door transfer and a balanced itinerary. The tour includes visits to Qing Dynasty architecture, local markets, and famous bridges. Reviewers note the excellent organization and the opportunity to experience both city and water town life in one day.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who want a well-rounded day combining water town charm and urban exploration.
7. Private Shanghai Full Day City Tour with Old & New Highlights
At number 7, this private tour allows you to explore the contrasts of Shanghai, including Yu Garden, Jade Buddha Temple, and city views from the Shanghai Tower. The customizable itinerary makes it suitable for all interests, from architecture to shopping. It’s a more traditional private city tour but with enough flexibility to tailor to your pace. The reviews praise the personalized guidance and good value for a full day.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want to experience Shanghai’s historic and modern sides with a flexible approach.
8. Private Full Day Tour: Shanghai Colonial History Tour
Number 8 explores Shanghai’s colonial past, visiting French Concession, Tianzifang, and Thames Town—a charming British-themed town. At $175, this tour offers a deep dive into the city’s international architecture and history, perfect for history buffs or architecture enthusiasts. Guides share stories of concessions and foreign influence, making it both educational and engaging.
Bottom Line: Best suited for history lovers wanting a focused exploration of Shanghai’s colonial era.
9. Tongli and Xitang Private Full Day Tour with Boat Ride
Number 9 offers a luxurious full-day visit to Tongli and Xitang, with private boat rides and strolling through ancient streets. The $262.60 price reflects a more exclusive experience. Reviewers mention the comfortable private transportation and friendly guides. It’s ideal for luxury travelers or those wanting a more intimate look at these historic water towns.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who prefer a private, relaxed pace with scenic boat rides and local dining.
10. Wuzhen Private Full-Day Tour from Shanghai
Claiming the number 10 spot, this 8-hour private visit to Wuzhen is a pearl for history and architecture lovers. The $200 price includes a guided tour of China’s best-preserved water town, with canal strolls and carved wooden doors. Reviewers comment on its peaceful atmosphere and friendly guide. It’s best for those wanting a less commercialized experience.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those seeking authenticity and tranquility in their water town visit.
11. Full Day Private Tour Amazing Shanghai City Highlights
Number 11 is a private 8-hour tour focusing on Shanghai’s skyline, the Jade Buddha Temple, and Nanjing Road. The $158 price makes it a competitive choice for a compact but comprehensive city experience. The guide’s local knowledge shines, making it a great option for first-timers.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for those who want a quick but enriching overview of Shanghai’s highlights.
12. Private Full Day Tour : Shanghai Old & New Highlights
Finally, at number 12, this customizable private tour offers hotel pick-up and the flexibility to choose between The Bund, Yu Garden, or Pudong skyline. The $221 price reflects its tailored approach. The reviewer highlights the personalized service and the opportunity to see Shanghai’s diverse districts.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want to focus on specific districts and personalize their itinerary.
$221.00 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Full-Day Tour in Shanghai
When selecting a tour, consider your interests—do you prefer cultural sites, water towns, or skyscraper views? For a relaxing, scenic escape, the Wuzhen or Xitang water town tours are excellent. If you want an urban adventure, private city tours like the Old & New Highlights or Incredible Shanghai are ideal. Budget-conscious travelers should note that group tours or standard private tours starting around $99** provide good value, while those wanting luxury, exclusivity, or in-depth history might lean toward more premium options.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular water towns or private guides. Consider the best time of year—spring and fall offer milder weather, making outdoor exploration more enjoyable. And don’t forget to clarify your must-see sights with your guide—most tours are flexible enough to accommodate your wishes.
Final Thoughts
From comprehensive private city explorations to serene water town visits, Shanghai offers a remarkable variety of full-day tours. If you’re after a personalized experience, the Private Shanghai Full Day City Tour with Old and New Highlights or the Incredible Shanghai Highlights are excellent choices. For those wanting a tranquil escape, the Wuzhen and Xitang Water Town tours promise a memorable, scenic day.
No matter your style or budget, these tours let you experience Shanghai’s contrasts and charm—just remember to book ahead, so you don’t miss out on your perfect day trip.