Journey at a glance
- Day 1 Arrive in Shanghai
- Day 2 Local Life, Neighborhoods & Evening Immersion
- Day 3 Classical Shanghai & Night Bazaar
- Day 4 Contemporary Shanghai
About this Journey
Shanghai is often China’s first introduction to visitors, and few cities reveal so many sides of the country at once. Colonial-era architecture faces a futuristic skyline along the Huangpu River. Classical gardens and centuries-old temples sit within one of the world’s most dynamic urban centers. Neighborhood parks remain gathering places for retirees practicing tai chi, while contemporary galleries, design studios, and revitalized waterfront districts reflect the city’s ongoing reinvention. This journey is designed for first-time visitors, offering a balance of walking, hands-on experiences, and cultural immersion. From the leafy lanes of the Former French Concession to classical gardens, lively bazaars, contemporary art spaces, and the city’s revitalized waterfront, discover a city where past and present coexist at every turn.Tour Highlights
- Exploring Yuyuan Garden with a horticultural specialist, uncovering the symbolism and artistry behind one of China's most celebrated classical gardens
- Dressing in traditional attire for an immersive banquet evening inspired by China's dynastic past
- Learning the art of xiaolongbao making and enjoying a taste of Shanghai's culinary heritage
YOUR JOURNEY
Route Map
Select a route section to explore the map. Tap a stop for its location or use the directions link for the next leg. Flights, trains, cruises and hiking arrangements follow your itinerary.
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive in Shanghai
• Upon arrival in Shanghai, you will be met at the airport and taken to your hotel
• Enjoy the evening at leisure, we recommend taking a stroll along the iconic Bund at dark, where historic banks and trading houses meet the illuminated towers of Pudong’s skyline.
Day 2 Local Life, Neighborhoods & Evening Immersion
• Start the morning in Fuxing Park, watching locals practice tai chi, dance, sing, and socialize.
• Hop onto an e-bike and zip along the Huangpu Riverside, passing Shanghai’s iconic skyline, modern art museums, and revitalized waterfront districts.
• Learn to make Shanghai’s signature xiaolongbao with a local expert before tasting your creations.
• Dress in traditional attire and enjoy an immersive ancient-style banquet with music, dance, and theatrical performances.
Day 3 Classical Shanghai & Night Bazaar
• Discover ancient bronzes, jade, ceramics, painting, calligraphy, and other treasures at Shanghai Museum East.
• Explore Yuyuan Garden with a horticultural specialist, uncovering the symbolism and design principles behind its rockeries, pavilions, ponds, and pathways.
• Pause within Yuyuan Garden for a traditional Chinese tea tasting and introduction to local tea culture.
• Stroll through Yuyuan Bazaar after dark, when lanterns illuminate its traditional architecture, shops, and local snack stalls.
Day 4 Contemporary Shanghai
• Explore Shanghai’s contemporary art scene at M50 Creative Park, visiting galleries and artist studios before a hands-on Chinese tea culture experience.
• Visit the historic Jade Buddha Temple, home to two precious jade Buddha statues and an active center of Buddhist worship.
• Transfer to the airport with your local guide for your onward journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which destinations are part of Shanghai First Impressions?
The suggested route includes Shanghai, Classical Shanghai, Night Bazaar and Contemporary Shanghai. The order, available stops and travel connections are confirmed for your dates and can change with opening hours, local conditions and the arrangements in your proposal.
How is the visit to Classical Shanghai incorporated into this trip?
Classical Shanghai is listed in the suggested itinerary. Its timing, the amount of time available and the way you reach it will be included in your final proposal, taking into account the rest of your route and any local access restrictions.
Can Shanghai First Impressions be adjusted to our dates and interests?
Yes. Tell us where you plan to arrive and depart, how many people are traveling, and the places or experiences you value most. We can discuss a tailored route, subject to available services, access and the time needed between stops.
What is included in the price of Shanghai First Impressions?
Your written proposal will identify the agreed transport, guide services, hotels or cruise accommodation, admission fees and meals. International flights, optional activities and other items vary by program, so ask us to confirm them before booking.
Hotels
Photos
The Peninsula Shanghai 5 star The Peninsula has a strong art deco influence reminiscent of 1930s Shanghai with luxurious rooms, restaurants and a rooftop bar overlooking the Bund.
Photos
Photos Yuyuan Garden Yuyuan Bazaar Former French Concession Jade Buddha Temple Chinese Immersive Banquet steamed xiaolongbao (soup dumplings)
Details
What’s Included
- Services of an English-speaking local guide
- Accommodation based on double occupancy with breakfasts included
- All overland transfers with private chauffeur and in-transport refreshments
- Private chauffeur service to and from airport at start and end of your trip
- All admission fees and activity expenses, as noted in the itinerary
- Meals as noted in the itinerary with complimentary drinking water
What’s Excluded
- International and domestic flights, domestic trains, plus relevant taxes
- Chinese tourist visa, which is required for most foreign passport holders
- Travel and medical insurance
- Meals, apart from those included in the itinerary, and alcohol
- Expenses of a personal nature
- Excursions and activities not included in the itinerary
- Discretionary gratuities for guides and drivers
TAILOR-MADE TRAVEL
Request This Tour
Tell us your preferred dates, group size, and interests. We will prepare a personal proposal for your China journey.
Request the Tour