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3 Days Shanghai Highlights Tour Water Town Visit

One of a Kind Shanghai Holiday

Looking for a unique Shanghai tour which is different from the regular itineraries? Here it is - A harmony between soft and hard landscapes results in one of a kind holiday in Shanghai.

Shanghai has not only many fancy skyscrapers, well-preserved architecture of colonial period and the most forward fashion, but also many hidden treasures including one of the most beautiful water towns in China – Zhujiajiao Water Town. With our private Shanghai tour, you will make the best of your time to sweep all the best highlights away in the urban Shanghai, including panorama of architectures in the Bund, skyscrapers view from one of the highest building in the world, classic Garden of Yuyuan, etc., then enjoy a unique half day in the beautiful water town of Zhujiajiao to experience the traditional face of Shanghai and find out what is a real water town of ancient time like. It is interesting, enjoyable and valuable.

  • Type : Private Tour
  • Tour Code : CD-SZ-03
  • Price : from $449
    1. 1. This price is for one person, based on a group of 2 adults sharing one double-bed room in a 4-star hotel and traveling in low seasons;
    2. 2. This price is subject to change according to your traveling season, group size, hotel class, change of activities and possible fluctuation of currency exchange rate.
  • Trip Length : 3D/2N
  • Theme : Culture / History

HIGHLIGHTS OF THIS TOUR

  • Take a wonderful walk along the Bund to enjoy both the modern skyline of Shanghai and old architecture masterpieces of colonial time;
  • Explore the old dwellings and bridges, intricate canals, holy temples and unique living custom in Zhujiajiao Water Town;
  • Witness some of the most precious cultural and historical relic exhibitions that can be traced to more than 3000 years ago in Shanghai Museum;
  • Find the unexpected traditions of old Shanghai which are hidden among modern skyscraper in Yu Garden and Tianzifang.
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Itinerary Day by Day (Can Be Customized)
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Day 1 Shanghai Arrival

Airport / railway station / cruise port pick up

Ni Hao! Welcome to Shanghai, the biggest metropolis in China!

Upon arrival, you will be met by a local tour guide at the arrival hall of the airport/train station/port and escorted to check in your hotel in downtown by a private comfortable vehicle. The rest of today is on your own to relax. If you want to explore nearby, feel free to get some practical suggestions from your tour guide.

Optional Activity - Attend an entertaining Acrobatic Show, including breathtaking “balls of death” acts, chair balancing, hula hoops, juggling of benches, walking in the air, and other breathtaking performances (usually performed during 19:30~21:00).

Arrival Ideas: At present, there are many international and many domestic flights to and from Shanghai. Also, you can arrive in Shanghai city by taking a high speed train from Beijing (5-6hrs), Xian (6-7hrs), Hangzhou (1hrs), Suzhou (30mins), Huangshan (4hrs), and so on.

  • Beautiful Night View of the Bund - Nguyen from Canada Our curstomer enjoyed the beautiful night view of Shanghai

Day 2 Shanghai City Highlights ( B, L )

Today's highlights: Shanghai Museum, Yu Garden, the Bund

After breakfast, you will visit Shanghai Museum, one of the Four Best Museums in China. There are over one billion cultural relics related to Chinese ancient history and art are exhibited inside, including precious bronzes, paintings, calligraphy, ceramics, jade, sculptures, traditional furniture, seals and old coins from more than 5,000 years ago to the Qing Dynasty. Da Ke Ding(bronze food vessel in over 3000 years ago), Bianzhong of Marquis Su of Jin (ancient musical instruments) are the top treasures to visit. An Audio Explanation Device will help you better learn the facts and knowledge of the exhibitions.

Next, drive to Tianzifang, a unique popular tourist enclave remolded from a traditional residential block in old town of Shanghai. Intertwined narrow alleys are filled with small creative shops selling lovely souvenirs and plenty of cafés, bars and restaurants. It’s great fun to ramble through the maze-like area to appreciate the well-preserved traditional Shanghainese Shikumen (Stone Warehouse Gate) houses, see interesting novel art and handicrafts, savor a lazy open-air coffee time and try some local street food and feel the original Shanghai life vibe.

Next, visit the Shanghai World Financial Center (SWFC), “the Eye of Shanghai”, one of the most incredible skyscrapers in Lujiazui. With a height of 492 meters (1,614 ft), the tower is the second tallest building after the nearby Shanghai Tower (632 meter/2,073 ft). Ascend up to the 474 meter-high 100th floor observation deck, try a thrilling skywalk on the transparent glass walkway and enjoy a breathtaking bird’s eye view of the entire city, including the Bund, neighboring Shanghai Tower, Jinmao Tower and many surrounding attractions. Feel Shanghai lying under your feet and blue sky hanging above your head.

Later, get to Nanjing Road, Shanghai’s earliest commercial street and one of the most popular current landmarks. Lots of big name brands, restaurants, cafés, souvenir shops and towering buildings can be seen when you stroll around this busy pedestrian mall. Continue your walk to the Bund, the No. 1 attraction in Shanghai. Stretching along the west bank of the Huangpu River, this 1.5km-long road was a simple towpath for transporting good but developed to the early “East Wall Street” in late 19th century, as a perfect blend of the East meeting the West. The Bund mainly features 52 various European-style architectures praised to the Exhibition of World’s Architecture. Make a pleasant walk to see those western classical and modern style buildings and amazing skyscrapers of Lujiazui across the river.

After the tour, drive back to your hotel. (If you want to spend free time at the Bund, Nanjing Road or somewhere else please let your tour guide know.)

  • Our guests from Singapore visited Shanghai Museum Our guests from Singapore visited Shanghai Museum in March 2019
  • Exquiste International Buildings at The Bund Exquiste International Buildings at The Bund
  • Classical Yu Garden in Shanghai The Tranquil Yu Garden with Classical Chinese Style to Relax

Day 3 Shanghai - Zhujiajiao Ancient Town - Shanghai Departure (B)

Today's highlight: Zhujiajiao Water Town

After breakfast, about 1 hour's drive will take you away from the city's hustle and bustle to visit Zhujiajiao Ancient Town which is known as the Venice of Shanghai

Zhujiajiao has a history of 1,700 years and is a well-preserved waterside ancient town. You will stroll along Hundred-year-old North Street, take some awesome pictures on the Fangsheng Bridge, have a panoramic view of Zhujiajiao by climbing up to Yuanjin Buddhist Temple, enjoy some leisure time on the traditionally decorated boat, cruise along the canals and see the old residences, shops and bridges which are filled with classic architectural style in Ming and Qing Dynasties (1368 AD - 1911 AD).

After the water town tour, your guide and driver will escort you to the airport, railway station or port to catch your flight/train/ship to your next destination or home. Tour ends.

  • Zhujiajiao Water Town - Chona from Philippines Zhujiajiao Water Town, Picture Shot by Our Guest Chona from Philippines
  • Boats in Zhujiajiao Water Town - Our Guest Gaye from Australia Boats in Zhujiajiao Water Town, Shot by Our Guest Gaye from Australia

The quotation for this trip is from $449 Per Person

1. This price is for one person, based on a group of 2 adults sharing one standard double-bed room in a 4-star hotel and traveling with our private tour in low seasons. It will drop greatly if your group has 4 or more members.
2. This price is subject to change according to your traveling season, month and date. There may be huge price increasing during public Chinese holidays, school summer vacations, tourism peak seasons or some special dates. (China Public Holiday 2024 Schedule Released)
3. Other factors that may change the final tour price include group size, hotel class, tour activities, fluctuation of currency exchange rate, etc.
4. This price is based on exchange rate USD 1=RMB 7.00. The final price will be based on the exchange rate in effect at the time of agreement with our quotation.
5. This price is only valid to March 31, 2025.
6. This price is not the final prices until the Confirmation Letter is sent.
7. The items included and excluded in this price are for reference only. The final services included, please refer to the confirmation letter sent to you by the travel consultant.

What's included?

  • Professional licensed English-speaking guide;
  • Admission tickets for all attractions listed in the itinerary;
  • Accommodation as listed in the itinerary (4-star standard);
  • Necessary vehicle transfers as listed in the itinerary;
  • Airport (and train station) pick up and drop off;
  • Luggage Transfers: between airports (railway station) and hotels;
  • All meals as listed( “B” for Chinese and Western breakfast buffet in your hotel; “L” for Chinese Lunch in local restaurant; “D” for Chinese dinner in local restaurant.);
  • Our service charge, including tour planning, handling, operational and communication charges.

What's excluded?

  • China visa;
  • Personal expenses;
  • Accommodation not listed in the itinerary;
  • Tourist sites which are not listed in the itinerary;
  • Recommended optional activities;
  • Flights or trains not listed in the itinerary;
  • Excess Baggage Charges;
  • Optional tips to guides, drivers, etc.

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Hi Wonder,

I apologize for the delayed response as I've been occupied with work.

In response to your query, here are my feedback:

1. Is your travel consultant of our company fast enough to answer your E-mail and patient enough to answer your questions?
Absolutely, you were incredibly prompt in responding to my numerous queries and helped ensure a smooth trip planning process.

2. How is tour arrangement, including the drivers,tour guides,hotels,etc?
The trip was fantastic. Our guide, Jerry, was exceptional and extremely knowledgeable, making our visit to Huangshan truly memorable.

3. Would you like to recommend our company?
Certainly. I will wholeheartedly recommend China Discovery to friends and family planning future trips to China

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Alvin‚ Singapore, April 15, 2024

Hi Samantha,

yes we had a good time at the panda volunteer program. Thanks for helping us to arrange it.

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Isaac ‚ Singapore, April 14, 2024

Hi Rita,

Thank you very much for organizing the tour. We enjoyed it a lot. We also had been quite lucky with the weather in Jiuzhaiguo. Colors of the lakes has been fantastic. I still owe you the feedback - it will take some time as I’m quite busy now. But we already filled the feedback forms with the guides. Thanks to Jason and Michael nd they has asking me about my tour. I hv recommend them to contact you.

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Uwe‚ Germany, April 13, 2024

Hi Samantha,

we had such a great time in Guilin and had a great experience with our tour guide Lynn! Thank you. It has been wonderful so far! We are very pleased with the tour.

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Qiuqiu‚ USA, April 13, 2024

Hi Wonder,

Feedback as follows:

1. Yes, the travel consultant is very prompt in responding to queries etc

2. All the arrangements are excellent, no complaints at all, the tour guides are very knowledgeable and helpful and courteous.

3. Definitely, already recommended to some of my friends who are planning to go to China this year.

Winnie

Winnie‚ Malaysia, April 12, 2024
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How Our Teams Serve you at China Discovery

"Highest Standards of Quality and Honesty" is the core value of each specialized team at China Discovery.

Eveyone in our company is working hard for only one goal, which is to ensure the highest level of service, luxury, and attention to detail from the minute you begin planning your trip, to the day you return home.

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Our travel consultants are professional, experienced and responsible, helping you from the very beginning to the end of your China trip!

After sending us an inquiry, one of our travel consultants will get back to you within 0.5~23.5 hrs. In the next few days, he/she will be working closely with you to formulate a customized tour plan, as well as providing professional suggestions based on your travel interests, time, and budget.

Beside, he/she will keep in contact with you during your entire tour in China, continually checking if everything is going well as planned.

We're working at Chengdu Bamboo International Tours, local based in Chengdu.

Local Tour Guides

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Our local guide in every destination is not only very friendly, enthusiastic but also very informative and knowledgeable.

Once you arrive in the destination, the patient and punctual guides will pick you up and take you to get under skin of the city at your own pace. By in-depth discovery and explanation, they’ll show you more about the history, culture, customs and authentic local life. Throughout the journey, they're not only expert guides who take care of all the details but also fellow travelers who are dedicated to help you explore in comfort and style.

Our guides are passionate about what they do, and it shows all the way!

Local Drivers & Vehicle

Using our private transfer service makes you comfortable, relaxed and worry free all the way!

Our private service includes licensed drivers with many years’ driving experience and air-conditioned, non-smoking, clean and well-maintained cars/vans. Drivers are local, polite, friendly and helpful, taking you to your tourist sites, hotels, airport/train stations in safety. All kinds of vehicle are offered, and yours depends on the size of your group. Usually, we offer sedan cars, SUVs, business vans (MPV) and different types of buses, all with extra space for your luggage.

Our private transfer service guarantees you the highest comfort!

Comfortable & Homelike Hotels

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In each destination, you’ll enjoy a comfortable stay in a great location!

The hotels we choose are based on star rating, great locations, well-equipped facilities, cozy bed, high quality service and guests’ feedbacks. Choices are a lot ranging from luxury 5 star, comfortable 4 star to budget 3 star. You could decide where to stay to best suit for your budget and likes. Generally, the hotels have both Western and Chinese breakfast with a wide choices.

If you have already got an ideal hotel, please feel free to tell our travel consultants and they'll book the hotel for you.

Have good sleep in our well-selected hotels in all the destinations of China.

Meals & Dining

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We can satisfy all the dietary requirements no matter you want Chinese local food, western food, vegetarian food or muslin food.

The restaurants we will take you for lunch or dinner are all designated tourist restaurants approved by local tourist administration bureau. They have very good sanitary conditions and the food is prepared fresh and clean.

There will be some meals excluded in your itinerary as you like, and your private guide will be delighted to give you some suggestions and take you to the local restaurants to taste like Beijing Roast Duck, Xian Dumpling Dinner, Sichuan Hotpot, etc., if you are interested in local food tasting.

All the dining options will satisfy your stomach!

Photo gallery of this trip

  • Beautiful Night View of the Bund - Nguyen from Canada Beautiful Night View of the Bund - Nguyen from Canada
  • Our guests from Singapore visited Shanghai Museum Our guests from Singapore visited Shanghai Museum
  • Exquiste International Buildings at The Bund Exquiste International Buildings at The Bund
  • Classical Yu Garden in Shanghai Classical Yu Garden in Shanghai
  • Zhujiajiao Water Town - Chona from Philippines Zhujiajiao Water Town - Chona from Philippines
  • Boats in Zhujiajiao Water Town - Our Guest Gaye from Australia Boats in Zhujiajiao Water Town - Our Guest Gaye from Australia

Most Important Shanghai Travel Notes

1. Make most use of China’s Visa Free Policy to visit Shanghai.

Normally, you need to get a Chinese Tourist Visa (L Visa) for a Shanghai tour. However, at present, Shanghai offers different visa exemptions applying to different visitors. Knowing them helps you save lots of time, energy and money on applying for a Chinese Visa, and enjoy great convenience to have a visa-free layover tour in Shanghai. The 144-Hour Visa Free Transit and 15-Day Visa Free for Cruise Travelers are the two main visa free accesses used by international travelers.

Shanghai 144-Hour Visa Free: If you hold valid ordinary passport of one of the appointed 53 countries (including US, UK, Canada, Australia, Singapore...) and connecting ticket to a third country (region) with confirmed date and seat, you can get into Shanghai from Shanghai Hongqiao & Pudong International Airport (SHA & PVG), Shanghai Port International Cruise Terminal, Shanghai Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal and Shanghai Railway Station, and visit Shanghai, Hangzhou, Suzhou, Nanjing, etc. (Shanghai, Jiangzu and Zhejiang) no exceeding 144 hours (6 days).

Shanghai 15-Day Visa Free for Cruise Entry: Foreign cruise group tourists can make visa-exempted shore excursion in Shanghai, Beijing and other coastal cities for up to 15 days if received by licensed Chinese travel agents.

2. What are the advantages of China Discovery’s private Shanghai tour packages?

Our private Shanghai tour packages provide you wonderful travel experiences of high quality and best value. Travel with us, you can enjoy the best sightseeing highlights, featured local activities and local experienced and knowledgeable tour guide, efficient private transfer, excellent dining and accommodation and many considerate tour services. One-to-one trip planning is offered during your whole tour. Except our popular itinerary, you can let us design a special travel itinerary in Shanghai based on your own schedule and interests. Also, you have great flexibility of choosing hotel and restaurant. Thousands of customers have realized their Shanghai tour with our help and spoke highly of our arrangement and service that you can get inspired from.

3. How to Get to Shanghai?

There are three ways to reach Shanghai: by air, by train and by cruise. Shanghai as two airports, Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA) and Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG), both are international airports flying lots of international and domestic lines. You should know that Pudong Airport operates more international flights to/off Shanghai, but is located farther from downtown than Hongqiao Airport. If you want to take a train travel to Shanghai, you can depart from Beijing, Xian, Hong Kong, Guangzhou..., nearly all major cities in China. Besides, you can take an international cruise voyage or a Yangtze River cruise to get to Shanghai.

4. Shanghai Weather & Climate, Best Time to Visit Shanghai

Located in China’s east coast, Shanghai experiences a humid subtropical monsoon climate, which features four distinct seasons, abundant sunshine and rainfall. The annual average temperature of Shanghai is about 17.6℃ and yearly sunshine hours is around 85.9 hours and mean annual precipitation reaches up to 1,173.4 mm, which mostly occurs between May and September. Shanghai is quite hot and moist during summer (June ~ August) and clammy and cold in winter (December ~ February). As an metropolis highlighting in cultural & historical sites and modern skyscrapers, Shanghai can be visited all year round. If you think of temperature comfort, travel convenience and seasonal features, Spring (March ~ May) and Autumn (September ~ November) are the best times to visit Shanghai, for the weather is quite pleasant, nature scenery is beautiful and a good time to taste crabs.

5. Extend your Shanghai tour to Suzhou, Hangzhou and other destinations is strongly suggested.

Normally, top Shanghai city highlights can be covered within a 2 to 3 days’ itinerary. Nearby area, such as Suzhou, a poetic city of classical gardens and Hangzhou, a paradise city with West Lake, both with UNESCO World Heritages are worth for a Jiangnan style natural and cultural exploration. It’s very popular to take day trips or spend 2 days in each city. If you have 2 days and more, you can also make a marvellous hiking in Huangshan Mountain, travel to Beijing realizing your Great Wall tour, visit Xian to see the miraculous Terracotta Army, to Guilin for a picturesque Li River Cruise and idyllic countryside experience, etc. Just contact us, tell your schedule and preference, we can tailor-make a unique China tour of different destination, theme and length for you.

6. How to Start Your China Tour from Shanghai?

If you choose Shanghai as the gateway city for a China discovery, it’s very convenient to travel from Shanghai to other parts of China, based on the city’s excellent transportation network. Depending on your time and personal interests, you can easily enjoy a China trip of different destination, theme and length. The “”Golden Triangle Cities” - Beijing, Xian and Shanghai are the top three must-visit destinations with the most famous iconic attractions of China, which can be covered in 7 to 8 days’ itinerary. If you only want to explore diverse charm in neighboring area of Shanghai, 5 days is enough to visit Suzhou and Hangzhou with Shanghai, and 9 days is fine to add the Huangshan Mountain in. With over 10 days, you can more stunning experiences, such as a relaxing Yangtze River Cruise tour, a pastoral Guilin countryside life immersion, a super cool real “Avatar World” expedition in Zhangjiajie, a colorful ethnic culture in Yunnan, and sacred spiritual trip to Tibet and so on. Just contact us, tell your schedule and preference, we can tailor-make a unique China tour for you.

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