Private Night Tour-VIP River Cruise and Shanghai Tower Option

Discover the Magic of Shanghai at Night

Imagine gliding along the Huangpu River, a VIP seat in hand, as the city’s skyline lights up in a display of glittering skyscrapers and historic colonial buildings. For about 3 to 4 hours, this private tour takes you through some of Shanghai’s most iconic sights, all with the comfort of a private guide, air-conditioned vehicle, and VIP access. Starting with a pickup from your hotel, you’ll explore the Bund, cruise the river in style, and optionally ascend the Shanghai Tower for a panoramic view of the city’s skyline.

Two features really catch our eye: first, the VIP river cruise seating, which ensures you get an unobstructed view of the stunning lights reflecting off the water—something that photos simply can’t do justice. Second, the optional Shanghai Tower visit offers a jaw-dropping 360-degree view from the 118th floor, giving you a bird’s-eye perspective of a city that’s constantly evolving.

A potential consideration might be the cost, at $143 per person, but when you weigh it against the private, all-in-one experience—plus the exclusive VIP cruise and optional tower access—it’s a strong value for those craving an authentic, luxurious night out. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a blend of luxury, comfort, and insider knowledge, especially those who appreciate stunning cityscapes and cultural highlights in a relaxed, personalized setting.

Key Points

• Luxurious VIP cruise guarantees unobstructed views of Shanghai’s illuminated skyline.
• Flexible options include visiting the Shanghai Tower’s observation deck and enjoying local dinner.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with insightful commentary and local tips.
• Ideal for those seeking comfort and a personalized way to see Shanghai at night.
• Timing allows travelers to see both the city lit up from the river and skyline from above.
• Hassle-free pickup and private transport make this a seamless night outing.

A Complete Look at the Private Night Tour in Shanghai

When considering a night tour of Shanghai, this private experience stands out for its combination of comfort, exclusive views, and flexible options. It’s a carefully curated way to enjoy the city’s most photogenic moments—without the crowds or hassle of large group tours. Here, we’ll walk through what makes this tour a worthwhile choice, as well as some nuances to keep in mind.

The Starting Point: A Personalized Pickup and Introduction

The experience kicks off with a pickup at your hotel, which is particularly appealing if you’re staying in central Shanghai. The private driver, in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, whisks you away to the first stop: the Bund. This historic waterfront area is a must-see, especially at night when its colonial-era buildings are lit up against the modern skyline of Pudong.

The Bund: Shanghai’s Iconic Landmark

Your guide will lead you to the cruise terminal, where you’ll hop onto a sightseeing ship in the VIP section. This is a standout feature—VIP seating ensures your group enjoys unobstructed views, making the experience more intimate and less crowded. As the boat departs, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of the illuminated colonial architecture along the Bund and the shimmering skyscrapers of Pudong.

Many reviews highlight how stunning the river cruise is—“The river cruise is a great way to see the lights of Shanghai,” one traveler notes, emphasizing the beauty of Pudong from this vantage point. The cruise lasts about an hour, but the impact of seeing the city’s lights reflected on the water is lasting.

Optional Visit to Shanghai Tower

After the cruise, the tour continues with an optional stop at Shanghai Tower, the second tallest building in the world. The design of the tower alone is worth noting—futuristic and elegant, it symbolizes Shanghai’s rapid development. Once inside, you’ll take the super-fast lift at 55 meters per second, reaching the 118th-floor observation deck in about a minute.

Here, you’ll enjoy panoramic, 360-degree views of Shanghai lit up at night. Several reviews mention that the view from the top is “spectacular,” and that seeing the city from above really puts things into perspective. Be prepared for a bit of a crowd during peak times, but booking the tower option guarantees quick access, especially if you upgrade in summer.

Dining Options for a Local Flavour (Optional)

For those who book the “Tour with Dinner” option, a meal featuring famous Shanghainese soup dumplings and other local delicacies is included. Travelers rave about how delicious and authentic the food is, and it pairs beautifully with the evening’s views. If you don’t opt for dinner, you may want to explore nearby restaurants afterward, but the tour’s focus remains on the sights and experiences along the river and skyline.

The Experience in Motion: Why It Works

Many travelers emphasize that what we love about this tour is its personalized nature and high-quality guides. Guides like Shirley, Roy, and Cassie are praised for their knowledge, friendly attitude, and ability to tailor the experience. One reviewer notes, “Shirley takes the time to listen and shares all about her home city,” which adds an authentic touch.

The private vehicle and exclusive seating arrangements make this tour especially enjoyable—no need to fight for a good spot or handle crowds. Instead, you get to relax, soak in the sights, and ask questions freely.

Value for Money

At $143, the tour is priced on the higher side compared to group options, but the private, VIP experience, guided insights, and the option to include top-tier views and meals make it worthwhile. Reviewers consistently mention how the tour was well worth the cost, especially for those wanting a more luxurious, stress-free evening.

Considerations and Suitability

The main consideration is your budget—this is a premium experience. If you prefer a more budget-conscious approach, there are less expensive options, but they might lack the personalized touches and VIP amenities here. Plus, the tour’s timing is best during dusk and early evening hours when the lights are at their most spectacular.

This tour suits luxury travelers, first-timers eager for an overview, or those celebrating a special occasion. It’s also ideal for anyone who appreciates stunning views, authentic local cuisine, and comfortable transportation.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a luxurious, personalized look at Shanghai’s night skyline with excellent guides, this tour is perfect. It’s especially suited for travelers who value comfort, exclusivity, and authentic experiences, rather than rushing from spot to spot. Families with older children, couples celebrating, or solo travelers who want a memorable night would all benefit from this flexible, well-rounded experience.

Those interested in photography will appreciate the VIP seating and the opportunity to capture breathtaking night shots from both the river and the observation deck. And food lovers will enjoy the optional dinner, which adds a tasty local twist to the evening.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. Less than that, and you’ll be out of luck.

Is pickup available from outside central Shanghai?
Pickup is offered from your hotel in Shanghai, but outskirt areas like Pudong Airport or Disneyland are available at extra surcharge.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs approximately 3 to 4 hours, depending on optional add-ons like the Shanghai Tower or dinner.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult. The experience is relaxed and generally family-friendly.

What does the VIP cruise seating include?
VIP seating ensures unobstructed views, a more comfortable experience, and a less crowded environment on the boat.

Can I visit the Shanghai Tower without a queue?
Yes, but only if you upgrade on site during summer. Otherwise, the standard ticket includes the entrance, but line waiting might occur.

Is food included if I don’t select the dinner option?
No, food and drinks are not included unless you opt for the “Tour with Dinner” package.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably and consider layers; it can get cooler at night, especially if you ascend the tower.

Are there options for customizing the experience?
Yes, you can choose to include dinner and tower access when booking, making it a tailored evening.

How many people will be in my group?
Since this is a private tour, only your group participates, ensuring personalized service and flexibility.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This Tour?

This private night tour offers a seamless, luxurious way to see Shanghai’s vibrant skyline from both water and sky. It’s perfect for travelers seeking an authentic, comfortable, and intimate experience with knowledgeable guides. The VIP river cruise and optional Shanghai Tower visit deliver stunning views and a memorable perspective of this cosmopolitan city.

If you’re a first-time visitor, it’s an excellent way to get a broad yet personalized overview. Families, couples celebrating something special, or anyone who loves city lights and panoramic vistas will find this tour well worth the splurge.

However, if budget is a concern or you prefer a more spontaneous, self-guided experience, you might consider other options. But for those craving luxury, exclusivity, and expert local insights, this tour hits all the right notes.

In essence, this private night tour with VIP river cruise and optional Shanghai Tower visit is a superb choice for anyone wanting a relaxed, yet unforgettable, way to experience the dazzling Shanghai skyline.