Imagine stepping into a city that seamlessly blends colonial charm with modern skyscraper glamour—welcome to Shanghai’s nightlife. This private guided tour takes you through two of the city’s most iconic areas: the Old French Concession and The Bund (Waitan). For around $193 per person, you’ll spend roughly four hours exploring stylish bars, enjoying a complimentary drink at most stops, and ending your night at the renowned M1NT club with its shark tank and luxe decor. Your guide, often a local like Jim, will handle the logistics, so you can focus on soaking in the atmosphere.

Two features truly make this experience shine: the careful curation of venues, blending the trendy with the traditional, and the personalized touch that comes with a private guide. You’ll bypass lines and get insider tips, making the evening both smoother and more authentic. One thing to consider is the dress code—smart casual is recommended, so leave the flip-flops and athletic wear at home if you want to fit in. This tour suits those who want a curated, safe way to sample Shanghai’s nightlife without the hassle of planning each venue. It’s perfect for first-timers, solo travelers, or anyone wanting a local’s perspective on the city’s evening scene.

Key Points

Personalized Experience: Private guide tailors the evening to your preferences.
Top Venues: Visit stylish bars in the Old French Concession and elegant spots in The Bund.
Exclusive Access: Skip lines with the guide’s local connections at most venues.
Luxurious Finale: Conclude at M1NT with its shark tank and high-end decor.
Inclusive Elements: One free drink at each venue (except the last) and hotel pickup/drop-off.
Flexible: Operates rain or shine; alternative clubs are available if M1NT is closed.

A Closer Look at the Shanghai Nightlife Tour

This tour offers a thoughtful way to experience Shanghai’s vibrant after-hours culture. It’s an ideal choice for travelers who appreciate a mix of stylish ambiance, good drinks, and authentic local flavor—all delivered in a comfortable, guided format. We found that the tour’s blend of venues offers a good snapshot of the city’s nightlife spectrum, from trendy European-style bars to high-end clubs with eye-popping decor.

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Starting in the Old French Concession

We loved the leisurely pace and the chance to explore the leafy streets of Fuxing Park’s surroundings. Your guide will meet you at your hotel around 8 pm, then whisk you away to the French Concession area, where hipster bars, cozy cafes, and casual restaurants create a lively yet relaxed atmosphere.

The reviews highlight how much guests appreciated the guide’s knack for customizing the experience. One traveler, Michael T, mentioned how Jim “showed me some cool bars and really tailored the evening to what I wanted,” making it clear that this isn’t a cookie-cutter tour.

Popular stops like Cobra Lily, The Refinery, or Devil’s Share Bar often feature diverse drinks and a lively crowd, perfect for those wanting to soak in the local scene or enjoy a glass of wine in stylish surroundings. The atmosphere here is quite varied—some spots are more laid-back and European, while others are bustling with younger crowds doing jelly shots.

Moving to The Bund for Spectacular Views

Next, your guide takes you to Vue Bar, perched on a skyscraper at the top of the Bund’s stunning skyline. Imagine sipping premium cocktails while gazing over the illuminated Pudong skyline—that’s what makes this stop so memorable. The open-air terrace, with its daybeds and whirlpool bath, offers a luxurious setting that’s hard to beat.

Guests rave about the views and the ambiance. One review noted “the views at Vue are breathtaking,” and the setting is perfect for a romantic evening or just to feel like you’re on top of the world, even if just for a little while.

The Grand Finale at M1NT

The tour culminates at M1NT, a nightclub famous for its shark tank and luxurious decor. You’ll gain entry included and enjoy the vibrant music—ranging from commercial house and mash-up to R&B and hip hop in the lounge. It’s a big step up in energy and luxury, making it an exciting way to round off the evening.

One traveler, Kim M, appreciated how safe she felt traveling solo, especially as a woman. She mentioned how the guide Jim made the experience smooth, taking her to “high-end and local bars, trying craft beers, and enjoying lamb kebabs.”

Note: M1NT isn’t open on Sundays, Mondays, and Tuesdays, but the tour offers an alternative club to keep the night lively.

Logistics and Practicalities

Transport is arranged for the entire evening, and hotel pickup and drop-off are included, saving you the hassle of navigating Shanghai’s busy streets at night. The duration is approximately four hours, starting at 8 pm, giving ample time to enjoy each venue without feeling rushed.

The dress code is smart casual, which aligns with the upscale venues visited. This ensures you look the part and won’t be turned away at the door, especially at the more exclusive spots.

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Authentic Experiences and Value

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides for their local insights and ability to manage the flow of the evening. One review states, “the guide manages events for multiple bars/clubs,” which means you skip lines and enjoy VIP-like treatment.

The value for money is notable, considering the included drinks, VIP access, and curated experience. While the tour costs nearly $200, many mention how it’s worth it for the convenience, safety, and insider access.

What to Consider

The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately if rain is forecast. Also, M1NT’s closure on certain days means your guide will suggest alternative venues if needed, ensuring the night still hits all the right notes.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is well-suited for travelers who want a stress-free way to explore Shanghai’s nightlife with a local guide. It’s especially good for those new to the city or who prefer not to navigate language barriers or lineups alone. It’s also ideal for couples or small groups seeking a luxurious yet authentic night out in a safe, curated environment. If you love stylish bars, stunning city views, and a lively club to finish the night, this tour will meet your expectations.

The Sum Up

This private Shanghai nightlife tour offers a carefully curated blend of elegance, authenticity, and fun. It’s a solid choice for anyone wanting to explore the city’s evening scene without the hassle of planning individual venues or worrying about safety. The guide’s local knowledge and the exclusive access to top spots make it more than just a bar crawl; it’s a thoughtfully designed experience that highlights Shanghai’s vibrant, diverse nightlife.

If you’re looking to enjoy an evening of excellent drinks, stunning views, and some of the city’s best nightlife spots—all while being treated like a VIP—this tour is a smart pick. It’s especially perfect for first-time visitors, solo travelers, or couples who want to see the city’s charming and glamorous side after dark.

FAQ

How early do I need to book this tour?
Most travelers book about 10 days in advance, which ensures availability and allows your guide to tailor the experience to your preferences.

What’s included in the price?
For around $193, you get hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation throughout the evening, a local guide, and one free drink at each venue (except the final club).

Can I participate if I don’t drink alcohol?
Yes, most venues offer non-alcoholic options, and the guide can suggest suitable alternatives.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Several reviews mention solo travelers, especially women, feeling safe and well cared for during the experience.

What should I wear?
Smart casual is the recommended dress code for entry into upscale bars and clubs. Think clean, neat, and stylish—not athletic wear or flip-flops.

What if M1NT is closed on the day I book?
Your guide will take you to an alternative nightclub, ensuring the night remains lively and memorable.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately four hours, starting at 8 pm and ending around midnight.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of insider access, personalized guiding, and visits to some of Shanghai’s most iconic nightlife venues.

Is this experience worth the price?
Based on reviews, many guests find it excellent value considering the VIP treatment, curated venues, and the ease of having everything arranged for you.

This tour provides a well-rounded, enjoyable glimpse into Shanghai’s after-hours scene, with enough flexibility and local insight to make it a highlight of your trip.