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Destination Travel Guide

Welcome to Shanghai!

Shanghai is more than just China’s bustling financial heart; it’s a vibrant tapestry of art, history, and incredible food. You can walk the iconic Bund and marvel at its colonial-era grandeur, then cross the river to the soaring heights of the Pudong district. You can wander the charming, tree-lined streets of the French Concession or explore the serene beauty of the classical Yu Garden.

But at China Explorer Tour, we believe the best travel goes beyond sightseeing. Our mission is to turn “seeing China” into “experiencing China.”

We move past the tourist checklists to unlock the authentic soul of the city. We don’t just point out the landmarks; we immerse you in the real Shanghai life that thrives just beneath the surface.

Shanghai Travel Map

Top Attractions in Shanghai: Must-Visit Sights

Shanghai, China’s dazzling “Pearl of the Orient,” is where a futuristic skyline meets a rich, layered history. This is a city of breathtaking contrasts—where neon-lit towers overlook timeless longtang (alleyway) neighborhoods, and high fashion mixes with the simple delight of street-side soup dumplings.

The Bund

Oriental Pearl Tower

Shanghai Tower

Nanjing Road

Jin Mao Tower

Shanghai World Financial Center

Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street

Yu Garden

Shanghai Museum

Former French Concession

Jade Buddha Temple

Longhua Temple

Shanghai Jewish Refugees Museum

M50 Creative Park

Tianzifang

Shanghai Disney Resort

Shanghai Ocean Aquarium

Shanghai Zoo

Shanghai Science & Technology Museum

Shanghai Natural History Museum

Huangpu River Cruise

Zhujiajiao Water Town

Shanghai Circus World

LEGOLAND Discovery Center Shanghai

Bar Rouge, Bund 18

Various rooftop bars/restaurants

Wukang Road

Shanghai Trips

City Tour-Shanghai

Shanghai, as a port city, is a famous historical and cultural city. It is also the largest economic and trade centre in China. Therefore, it attracts a lot of international friends to have a city tour in Shanghai.

Tailored China Tours for Global Travelers


Our diverse team brings rich experiences from both sides of the East/West, and they can understand precisely what international visitors want in a China tour.

Real Local Experiences in China

Our best China tours go beyond sightseeing and make you like a local to explore hidden treasures, taste authentic flavours, and participate in daily activities.

Curated Social Connections

We design various types of tours to China carefully, which are tailored to meet the diverse needs of families, couples, friends, and solo travellers.

Transparent Pricing

We promise to provide high-quality China tours plan with no hidden costs. And you'll enjoy worry-free travel with clear pricing and great value for money.

Shanghai Trip

What to Eat in Shanghai​ - Food Lover’s Guide

If you’re wondering what to eat in Shanghai, you’ve probably heard of the world-famous xiaolongbao (soup dumplings). But the city’s culinary landscape goes so much deeper. This is a paradise for foodies, where every alleyway hides a culinary secret. highly recomend de

Imagine starting your day with the crispy, juicy perfection of shengjianbao (pan-fried pork buns), followed by a comforting bowl of “scallion oil noodles” (cong you ban mian) for lunch, and finishing with a rich, melt-in-your-mouth hongshao rou (braised pork belly) that families have perfected over generations.

At China Explorer Tour, we believe food is the gateway to culture. Our curated Shanghai food tours are designed to take you beyond the tourist menus and into the authentic, hidden-gem restaurants that locals truly love.

Shanghai Trips

Where to live in Shanghai - Hotel and Area

Shanghai is a metropolis of distinct districts, each with its own unique soul. Do you dream of waking up to the iconic skyline from a luxury hotel on The Bund? Or do you see yourself “living like a local” in a leafy boutique hotel in the former French Concession, where trendy cafes and hidden designer shops line quiet, plane-tree-shaded streets? Perhaps you’re drawn to the modern energy and high-end shopping of Jing’an, or the futuristic convenience of Pudong?

Shanghai Trips

How to Get Around Shanghai: Transportation Tips

Navigating Shanghai is part of the adventure, and thankfully, getting around this vast city is surprisingly efficient. The Shanghai Metro is world-class: fast, clean, and the best way to reach both classic stops and authentic local neighborhoods. For door-to-door ease, taxis and “Didi” (ride-hailing) are plentiful and affordable. We believe seamless Shanghai transportation is key to helping you experience the city at your own pace, not just rush between sights.

Hengshan Road, Shanghai, chinatrip, Street scene with a blue Hengshan Road street sign in Chinese and English, atop a pole, above a crosswalk and parked cars.

Shanghai Airport to Shanghai City

Beijing Daxing Airport, beijing, china, chinatrip, Aerial view of a starfish-shaped orange-roofed building with five long curved arms radiating from a central hub, set among a construction site and surrounding streets.

Shanghai Pudong International Airport

Beijing Capital International Airport, beijing, chinatravel, Aerial view of a large airport terminal with an orange roof and a central spine, surrounded by circular roadways and concourses.

Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport

beijing-subway, chinatravel, Beijing subway map with color-coded lines and station names across the city map.

Shanghai Metro Guide

china fast train, chinatrip, White high-speed train on an elevated track above a city street with trees and buildings in the background.”,

Shanghai Train Station Guide

Shanghai Trip

Best things to do in Shanghai

Shanghai is a city that never stops dazzling, a thrilling blend of high-tech futures and timeless traditions. While no visit is complete without witnessing the colonial grandeur of The Bund set against the sci-fi skyline of Pudong, or getting lost in the classical beauty of Yu Garden, the real magic of Shanghai lies just beyond the postcard views.

At China Explorer Tour, we believe the best things to do in Shanghai aren’t just about what you see, but what you experience. Our philosophy is to take you beyond sightseeing. We want you to feel the city’s heartbeat. This means exploring the hidden, atmospheric longtang (alleyways) of the Former French Concession, discovering the city’s burgeoning art scene at M50, or joining a local foodie tour to taste authentic shengjianbao (pan-fried buns) far from the tourist crowds.

Shanghai Trip

What and Where to Shop in Shanghai

Shopping in Shanghai is an experience as dazzling and diverse as the city itself. It’s a captivating journey that transports you from the glittering, high-end luxury boutiques of Nanjing Road to the bustling, treasure-filled local markets hidden down historic alleyways. If you’re asking what and where to shop in Shanghai, the options are wonderfully endless. But it’s easy to get lost in the choices.

Shanghai Trip

Essential Shanghai and China Travel Tips

Here are must-know tips to make your China trip smoother

Shanghai Weather Guide

Essential Apps

Fast Train Guide

China Tax Refund Guide

VPN and eSIM

China Travel Packing List

Travel-saving Chinese

China Plug Types and Adapters

FAQ's

Find answers to your questions before joining a tour so that you can find out exactly what you want to know. If you have more question please feel free to reach us via contact form.

We have four packages covering Shanghai itineraries in 6, 8, 10 and 14 days, designed for travellers who prefer an in-depth experience. From day trips to full itineraries, each one offers an in-depth experience of Shanghai. Whether you join one of our Shanghai city tours or choose the Shanghai oneday city tour, you’ll be able to experience the bustle and history of the city to the fullest. Want to get to know the city better? Our Shanghai city tour package will take you on an unforgettable journey through Shanghai’s unique charms.

 

Shanghai is the most English-speaking city in China, and as an international city, it is common for more and more people in Shanghai to speak English. The English-speaking population in China is also gradually increasing, especially among the younger generation. So don’t worry about your Shanghai China city tours.

To make your experience smoother, we offer guides who are fluent in multiple languages to meet different needs.

  • Xiaolongbao

It is a typical culinary icon of the bustling city of Shanghai. Its main ingredients are flour and meat, and its taste is very delicious!

  • Pan-fried dumplings

There are many ways to make dumplings in China, but the most popular way to eat dumplings is pan-fried, which is famous for its crispy texture.

  • Noodles with Scallion Oil
  • Braised Pork
  • Stewed Duck with Eight Treasures

This dish is very conducive to health

  • Shao Kao Kebabs