Shanghai is a city that’s incredibly well-connected and bursting with options for short trips that extend beyond its skyline. Whether you’re craving a quick escape to ancient China’s wonders or want to see more of the country’s diverse landscapes, these 3-day tours make it possible. We especially like tours that combine luxury, expert guides, and authentic experiences—like the private Xi’an trip with the Terracotta Warriors or the Silk Road adventure in Dunhuang. These trips don’t just scratch the surface; they bring history and culture to life with personalized touches and local insights. If you’re eager to see China’s celebrated historical sites, these tours are a great way to do it without wasting precious vacation days.
Quick Overview
Below, you’ll find a curated list of the best 3-day tours from Shanghai, including options that go to Xi’an, Dunhuang, and even a multi-city highlight tour. Each offers something unique—whether it’s the awe of the Terracotta Warriors, the fascinating Mogao Caves, or the iconic sights of Beijing. Check out the links for more details on each experience and find the one that fits your travel style and interests.
1. Private Tour: 2-Day/3-Day Xi’an Round-Trip from Shanghai by Air
At number 1, this private Xi’an tour lets you explore one of China’s most iconic ancient cities with a tailor-made experience. The package includes flights from Shanghai, comfortable overnight accommodations, and some meals, making it ideal for travelers who value convenience and comfort. Over two days, you’ll visit the Terracotta Warriors, the UNESCO-listed underground army buried to protect China’s first emperor in the afterlife. Your private guide will also take you to the Hanyangling Tomb, a Han Dynasty burial site that offers a different perspective on imperial China.
What truly makes this tour stand out is its personalized approach. Guests often praise the knowledgeable guides (like Michael) who share detailed stories behind each site. Plus, strolling through Xi’an’s Muslim Quarter and cycling along the ancient city walls provides a lively, immersive experience. The luxurious hotel stays and direct flights mean less hassle and more time enjoying the sights. The reviews highlight how well-organized and relaxed the itinerary feels, with travelers commenting on how they weren’t rushed and saw everything they wanted.
Bottom line: If you’re after a hassle-free, private experience that combines history, comfort, and flexibility, this tour offers excellent value at $1,500 per person.
2. Private 3-Day Tour to Mogao Caves in Dunhuang from Shanghai by Air
Number 2 on our list takes you deep into the Silk Road with a 3-day Dunhuang adventure, flying from Shanghai to explore some of China’s most extraordinary ancient sites. This tour is perfect for those interested in the art and stories of the Mogao Caves, which boast colorful frescoes and paintings dating back over a thousand years. The caves are UNESCO-listed and often called the “Dunhuang Art Gallery,” offering a vivid window into early Buddhist culture.
Beyond the caves, you’ll experience the Singing Sand Dunes and Crescent Moon Spring, both iconic desert landscapes that make for stunning photos and memorable moments. The tour also visits the Yumen Pass and Han Great Wall, giving you a taste of the Silk Road’s strategic importance. The itinerary is likely to adjust based on flight times, but the highlights are specific and impressive. Guests who enjoy a mix of history and outdoor adventure find this tour highly rewarding.
While some may find the desert scenery a bit remote, the tour is well-organized, and the admission fees are included, making it straightforward to enjoy these treasures. The only review notes a single feedback with a 5-star rating, emphasizing the tour’s quality.
Bottom line: For around $1,969, you gain access to China’s desert and Silk Road relics in an expertly managed 3-day trip—ideal for history enthusiasts and adventure travelers.
$1,969.00 per person
3. 3 Day Private Highlights Tour of Beijing, Xi’an & Shanghai
Number 3 offers a whirlwind tour of three major Chinese cities—Beijing, Xi’an, and Shanghai—all in just three days. This private multi-city experience is perfect if you want to see the country’s most iconic sights without sacrificing time. The tour includes visits to Beijing’s Forbidden City and the Great Wall, as well as the Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an and highlights of Shanghai like the Yuyuan Garden and Shanghai Museum.
The logistics are streamlined with private transfers and flights connecting the cities, so you spend less time waiting and more time exploring. The guide’s local expertise helps bring each site to life, providing context that makes history more relatable. This tour is especially good for travelers eager to tick off multiple must-see destinations in a short window but who also want a personalized, flexible experience.
The main downside is the rapid pace—if you prefer relaxed sightseeing or want to linger at each site, this may feel a bit rushed. Still, many reviews praise the seamless organization and the chance to see China’s highlights in one trip.
Bottom line: For just $818, this tour offers a practical way to see China’s top cities—great for first-timers who want to fit a lot into 3 days.
$818 per person
4. 3 Days Shanghai & Suzhou Private City Tour
Our final pick combines Shanghai, Suzhou, and Tongli Water Town for a more leisurely exploration of east China’s cultural gems. For $880 per person, this private tour takes you through Shanghai’s modern skyscrapers like the Shanghai Tower, as well as the peaceful Yuyuan Garden and bustling Nanjing Road. Then, you’ll enjoy the Lingerings Garden, a UNESCO site in Suzhou, famous for its exquisite landscaping, and a scenic boat ride through Tongli’s canals.
This tour emphasizes local life and traditional gardens, making it ideal for travelers who prefer a mix of urban and rural scenery. The visit to Tongli Water Town offers a glimpse into traditional Chinese waterway living, a relaxing contrast to Shanghai’s fast pace. Guests often appreciate the personalized attention and the chance to learn about local crafts and history at the Suzhou Museum.
While some reviews are still pending, this tour’s mix of gardens, water towns, and city sights makes it a charming choice for culture lovers and those seeking a slower pace. The value lies in the combination of experiences and flexible scheduling.
Bottom line: For $880, this tour balances modern Shanghai and historic Suzhou, perfect for travelers wanting a cultural and scenic overview.
$880 per person
How to Choose
When selecting a 3-day tour from Shanghai, consider your budget, interests, and travel style. If you’re fascinated by ancient Chinese armies, the Xi’an private trip (see more here) offers an immersive experience with luxury touches. For those intrigued by Silk Road history and desert landscapes, the Dunhuang tour (more details) is perfect.
If you prefer to see multiple key cities in a short time, the multi-city Beijing, Xi’an, and Shanghai tour (link here) provides a condensed but comprehensive experience. For travelers interested in gardens and water towns, the Shanghai & Suzhou private tour (find out more) offers a mix of urban and scenic relaxation.
Think about your budget, pace preferences, and how much time you want to spend on travel versus sightseeing. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred dates and accommodations.
Final Thoughts
From the majestic Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an to the mysterious Mogao Caves in Dunhuang and the bustling streets of Beijing, these 3-day tours from Shanghai open windows to some of China’s finest sights. For multi-city explorers, the combined tours provide efficient ways to cover a lot ground. Meanwhile, dedicated cultural or historical tours offer in-depth experiences at a more relaxed pace.
For most travelers, the top recommendations include the private Xi’an trip for its balance of comfort and culture, and the Dunhuang Silk Road experience for adventure and history buffs. If your time is tight, the multi-city highlights tour is a clever way to maximize your trip. Whatever your choice, booking early ensures you get the best options and availability during busy seasons. Happy planning!