Careful weekend planning can be both exhilarating and stressful, especially in a magnificent city like Shanghai. Situated at the center of China’s modern and historical architecture, Shanghai is absolutely one of a kind. It is a city that can be explored and relaxed in at the same time. If you’re searching for mind-captivating landscapes to cherish, uncovering unique treasures just a drive away, and indulging in cultural heritage, this is the place for you. No matter your interests, this guide will provide everything you need to satisfy your needs and wants. To best meet your needs, we’ve put together a list of the best Shanghai tours, excursions, and day trips for 2025. Ranging from restful countryside escapes to city exploration, this post aims to maximize your precious weekend time. So, prepare yourself for captivating experiences waiting just around the corner!
What Are the Top Day Trips From Shanghai in 2025?
Private Day Tour to Zhujiajiao Water Town
Zhujiajiao is the Venue of Shanghai water town. It’s located an hour away from Shanghai nd showcases numerous ancient structures. During Private Tours, you have access to your guides, which means maximum comfort. Personalized guides ease the tourist ache.
Some key features of Zhujiajiao include unique scenic streets, historical locations such as Kezhi Garden, and famous boat rides. There are local delicacies such as sticky rice and embroidered sugar sweets. Every other spot has ample opportunities for captures; therefore, this trip is tailored for people who want to enjoy themselves without any schedule constraints. Explore for yourself!
Suzhou and Its Notable Garden of the Humble Administrator
“Venice of the East” is a name given to Suzhou for a reason: it’s a paradise of classical Chinese gardens, with the most iconic one being the Humble Administrator’s Garden. The garden was built in the early 16th century, spans a breathtaking 52,000 square meters, and is the largest garden in Suzhou. The crown jewel of China’s classical gardens, it has also made it to the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites. It serves as a great example of classical Chinese gardens where natural elements like water, rocks, and plants are beautifully blended with constructed towers and bridges.
The zone can be divided into East, Central, and West, with Central being the most elaborate of the three. This area features meticulously sculpted Listening to the Sound of Rain Pavilion alongside tranquil ponds filled to the brim with greenery. Like most magical places, this garden changes its landscape throughout the year. With each new season, it attracts more people from other countries, as well as locals. A stroll through the park serves as a gateway to China’s rich cultural and historical past, making it more than just a peaceful getaway.
Hangzhou and West Lake: A Day Trip by Train
You can reach Hangzhou, famous for its cultural touches and stunning scenery, from Shanghai by train. The high-speed bullet train is one of the most convenient and enriching options for trips to attend business meetings or leisure activities. This is because the train travels at speeds of up to 350 km/h, making the entire trip around an hour. Hangzhou boosts calmness and peace.
As a blend of serene landscapes and notable landmarks, West Lake is bound to amaze tourists visiting China. The highlights include the breathtaking Broken Bridge, the incredible Su Causeway, masterfully calm sprawls of water, the quiet Leifeng Pagoda, and the dynamic bustle of the city, which never rests. The unique attribute of this lake is its theme for four different seasons, which gives its beholder varied experiences, like vibrant red maple leaves in the autumn and pink cherry blossoms in the spring.
The tea culture of Hangzhou, as well as its lake, are world-renowned; hence, it is well known for both tourism and its rich heritage. Meijiawu Tea Village is just a short drive away, and there visitors can experience the local feasts of Dragon Well (Longjing) tea, which is grown in the area and is popular for its amazing scent. Suppose one goes to Hangzhou for a vacation. In that case, the area has a lot to offer, like tantalizing dishes such as Dongpo Pork and Beggar’s Chicken, which are integral facets of the otherwise culturally rich region.
Spend a day in Xihu and enjoy the natural beauty that accompanies you, in addition to the historical sites, while taking in the harmonious blend of old and new – a feature made possible by China’s development of railway transport.
Which Shanghai Weekend Tours Offer the Best China Travel Experience?
Private Shanghai Tours with Expert Tour Guides
Private Shanghai Tours are designed to immerse visitors in the city’s history and marvels, allowing them to explore at their own pace. With the help of expert guides, travelers can meaningfully appreciate attractions such as the Bund, Yu Garden, and the French Concession. These guides have deep knowledge about Shanghai and its history and culture, as well as valuable information about local restaurants, shopping centers, and places of cultural significance.
Many tours have flexible itineraries, capturing the interests of every visitor, whether it’s exploring the futuristic Lujiazui skyscrapers or the art-filled district of Tianzifang. Furthermore, private tours often come with easy-to-understand pickup and drop-off arrangements and transportation. This guarantee is designed for travelers who want to make the most of their time. This approach caters to solo adventurers, families, and couples, ensuring a visit that is both memorable and enriching.
High Speed Train Weekend Trips From Shanghai To Beijing
Due to the advanced rail network, traveling from Shanghai to Beijing to visit on the weekend has been made quite simple. The high-speed train, currently the fastest in the world, reaches speeds of 350 kilometers per hour (217 miles per hour), reducing travel time to roughly 4.5 hours. This is very useful for people looking for short weekend trips. With multiple departures across the day, passengers can have their trips as they want.
Once travelers reach Beijing, they can enjoy a plethora of places which include the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and for those who want the more historical, the Great Wall. These places can easily be covered over the weekend. For those who prefer modern art, the 798 Art Zone is a fun place with multiple exhibitions and cafes. City-to-city high-speed trains come equipped with comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, and food services, which makes the journey much more enjoyable.
It’s wise to book tickets in advance, especially on weekends and holidays when demand is higher. Regardless if this trip is for leisure or cultural purposes, the high-speed train is a comfortable and efficient way to travel between two of China’s most historically and culturally vibrant cities.
Itinerary for the Eastern China Highlights: Shanghai, Suzhou, and Hangzhou
Day 1: Shanghai – The Ultra Modern City
Your adventure begins in Shanghai, a city where history meets high-tech modern life. Start your day by taking a tour of the Bund. The waterfront promenade is a stunning example of classical Chinese gardens, just like Yu Garden. Visit the Shanghai Museum, one of the city’s most popular attractions, for its collection of bronze, porcelain, and calligraphy art. On Nanjing Road, you can spend your evening indulging in the world’s best luxury shopping.
Day 2: Suzhou – The City of Gardens
For your second day, continue to Suzhou, often called the “Venice of the East.” Suzhou is famous for its classical gardens, which feature intricate designs, and is so renowned that it has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it a vital addition to this itinerary. Start with the Humble Administrator’s garden, which is a splendor of plasterwork and rock work from the Ming dynasty, thanks to its finest landscaping. It features large-scale pavilions, exquisite, shining ponds, and calm waters, alongside beautiful rock formations. Enjoy stunning views and get a sense of the city’s rich history while riding along the Grand Canal, the world’s oldest and longest canal. Don’t forget to check out Pingjian Road, a charming street with numerous traditional houses, beautiful canals, and where you can try some local delicacies, like sweet soup dumplings.
Day 3: Hangzhou – The City of Heaven
As the last stop, Hangzhou is famous for its picturesque sites and historical places. Enjoy the sights of West Lake, a symbol of the city’s pride. You can have a serene boat ride and relax in the calm waters. Poets and artists of China found inspiration in the calm the lake offers. Visit also the Lingyin Temple, one of the oldest Buddhist temples located within ancient hills. The site is well-known for its impressive constructions and the enchanting vibe surrounding it. The consumption of China’s famous Longjing dragon well tea is cultivated and serves up its refreshing, gentle taste. Spend the last minutes of your visit at Qinghefang Ancient Street, where you can buy traditional arts and crafts as souvenirs.
This three-day itinerary captures the rich experience of scenic locations, cultural experiences, and the modern urban lifestyle Eastern China has to offer.
What Activities Can You Include in a 2-Day Shanghai Tour Package?
The Bund and Shanghai Skyline: Must-See Attractions In Shanghai
Normally referred to as Shanghai’s pulse, The Bund is an exquisite amalgam of the past and the present. The western bank of the Huangpu River houses this famous waterfront, which features a collection of colonial buildings of great architectural value. Examples include the Customs House with its clock tower and the Art Deco hotel Peace. These landmarks highlight Shanghai’s importance in trade during the early 1900s.
The skyline of Pudong is in direct contrast to The Bund. This area features the modern Pearl Tower, the Shanghai Tower, the tallest skyscraper in China, and the Jin Mao Tower. All these serve as a testament to China’s economic growth and increasing prominence in recent years. Whether you take a walk in the evening while enjoying the reflection of neon lights or visit during the day to see the commotion at the waterfront, the stunning view of both day and night is eye-catching.
Moreover, tourists can admire the Bund’s skyline, along with the modern skyscrapers of Pudong, through a scenic cruise on the Huangpu River. In conjunction with its stunning views, the bustling promenades and smaller cafes located at the Bund add to the charm of experiencing Shanghai.
Yu Garden and Old Shanghai Experience
In the very center of Shanghai lies Yu Garden (Yuyuan Garden), which is an astonishing representation of classical Chinese gardens and architectural design. It offers visitors a getaway filled with calming ponds, intricate rockeries, and pavilions. The garden is surrounded by an area called Old Shanghai, which features stunning ancient architecture. Old Shanghai features many narrow streets packed with vibrant markets. Alongside the garden, you can find many handcrafted souvenirs and famous local delicacies, which showcase the rich and diverse culture of Shanghai.
Besides the historical charm, the streets of Yu Garden are bustling with activity. Scallion pancakes, xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), and sesame pastries are served at renowned establishments and street vendors, offering a plentiful choice and variety. The area blends ancient sophistication, local life, and modernity, making it an ideal spot to explore the city, which is captivating to all tourists.
Huangpu River Cruise and Shanghai Tower Visit
It is impossible to fathom a trip to Shanghai without experiencing the exquisite contrasts brought to life by the Huangpu River Cruise and Shanghai Tower. The Huangpu River flows through the heart of the city, dividing the Bund, a colonial relics zone, and the modern skyline of Pudong. An evening cruise sails alongside stunning views of Shanghai’s architecture, experiencing the best of both worlds from the Shimenzhong Bridge’s colonial-era edifices to the contemporary wonders of the “Pudong” skyscrapers’ side. Huangpu cruises happen at night because that is when the city shines like a diamond.
Dazzling views of Shanghai Tower—the world’s second-tallest building at 632 meters tall—boast the skyline, and are the ideal place to visit after enjoying the views of the river. Huangpu cruises happen separately from evening Shanghai Tower visits, as they serve the city’s architectural considerations. The view from the 118th floor observation deck places visitors within a sprawling urban landscape which the city becomes—sustaining memories with striking tech feats enabled by high-speed elevators set within this invigorating elevated city. The Huangpu cruise, together with the Shanghai Tower, neatly depicts what you would be looking for in Shanghai, which is a good mix of history and technology.
How to Plan the Perfect Shanghai Tour Itinerary for a Weekend?
Half-Day Tours vs Full-Day Excursions from Shanghai
Choosing between half-day tours and full-day excursions from Shanghai often comes down to the traveler’s interests, time, and energy. Tours that last half a day tend to suit people with time constraints or a more specific focus in mind. Popular options for half a day include a stroll in the classical Yuyuan Garden and the ever-busy bazaars of the Old Town, or a Bund walk in the morning to view the city’s skyline. All these activities give visitors a glimpse of Shanghai’s spirit without overdoing it on their first visit.
Further covering distances or getting a broader feel of the region requires full-day excursions. Suzhou, also known as the “Venice of the East” for its canals and beautiful gardens, or Zhujiajiao, a water town, is a true gem for those looking to escape the city’s hustle and bustle. The region’s rich culture and landscape can be enjoyed in full-day guided tours that include transport, meals, and entrance tickets.
Overall, both options have their pros and cons in terms of meeting travel needs. Half-day tours are efficient and flexible, while full-day excursions provide an opportunity for extended adventure and deeper immersion.
Landmarks of Shanghai and Ancient Towns
For those looking to savor as much as possible, combining the city’s landmarks with ancient towns makes for a great experience, as it blends modern, pulsating life with historical charm. Start the day at Lujiazui for its futuristic skyline, where the spectacular Oriental Pearl Tower, as well as the Shanghai Tower, provide unparalleled views of the city.
Later, venture to the nearby ancient town of Zhujiajiao, often referred to as the “Venice of Shanghai.” Picturesque stone bridges, tranquil canals, and traditional Chinese homes make this town a mesmerizing sight. Alternatively, Xitang offers stunning cobbled streets and provides a stronger connection to history along with covered corridors. All of these towns often have significant marketplaces where tourists can enjoy local dishes and buy specially crafted goods, which add to the culture.
To experience Shanghai in all its wonders, which combines ancient landmarks with new ones, effective strategies require meticulous planning. This allows for an excursion that spans the high-energy metropolis and serene, historical tourist spots located close to each other to be appreciated synergistically.
Most Suitable Tour Packages in Shanghai, China
1. Cultural Heritage Tour: Delve deep into the central Belt of Shanghai’s history by visiting the oldest part, the Bund, and the Yu Garden, where a classical Chinese garden soothes the turmoil created by the city’s hustle. To enhance your knowledge of ancient Chinese arts and history, consider visiting the Shanghai Museum. This tour is crafted specifically for passionate cultural archeology enthusiasts willing to dive into Shanghai’s contemporary and traditional undertones.
2. Modern Skyline Tour: This offer is for people who enjoy exploring modern civilization, as it features stunning urban Tianjin skyscrapers and superior architecture. Other highlights include the Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai Tower, along with a walk on Lujiazui, where you can observe the much more advanced Tianjin skyline. In the evening, relax on a cruise boat on the Huangpu River and watch through the windows as the city radiates beauty in the dark.
3. Foodie Celebration Tour: Sample Shanghai’s legendary culinary delights on a food tour. Start with the local roads and markets, where you can find classic xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) and their savory cousins, scallion pancakes. Visit modern fine dining establishments to explore contemporary takes on classic. For those willing to spend a bit more time, local culinary experts offer cooking classes.
4. Nature and Tranquility Excursion: Just a day out of the vibrant city, to somewhere more tranquil, like Zhujiajiao or Tongli water towns, where ancient canals and stone bridges tell the story of China’s engineered beauty. Alternatively, roam serene landscapes with manicured flora, such as Century Park or Chenshan Botanical Garden, where tranquility meets nature.
5. Family-Friendly Tour: Customized for families with young children who need more fun and education, this package begins at Shanghai Disneyland, the ultimate destination for young children. Continue the tour at the Shanghai Natural History Museum to let kids learn about anything and everything in an interactive way. Don’t forget to add a visit to the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium for an engaging experience with the wonders of the underwater realm.
6. Shopping and Fashion Tour: The blend of China’s history and fast-paced modern development makes Shanghai an exceptional location for both local and foreign tourists. Have a peek at shopping places like Nanjing Road or Yiwu, where you can find international brands, or get local souvenirs to your heart’s content. Don’t leave out Taikoo Li, the Antique Market, and Tianzi Fang for more local goods.
With these guides, every traveler can experience Shanghai to the fullest. Whether you’re looking to satisfy your food cravings or just unwind in this colorful city, it’s guaranteed to capture your attention.
What Are the Best Private Tours in Shanghai for Families and Groups?
Family-Friendly Outings From Shanghai
Shanghai is situated near a plethora of places that are both enjoyable and educational. My first recommendation is always Suzhou, which is the “Venice of the East.” The picturesque classical gardens, peaceful canals, and rich history make Suzhou a joy. For families, the garden of the humble administrator offers simply breathtaking views that drowsing mothers and fathers will love, while kids explore. Boasting pavilions and bridges, the garden makes for great kid-friendly exploration and adult photography. In addition, a tranquil and stunning boat ride along the historical canals is an experience that all will appreciate.
A personal recommendation is Zhujiajiao, a water town located just an hour outside of Shanghai. With its ancient architecture, stone bridges, and small shops, Zhujiajiao offers a charming glimpse into China’s past. Local street markets, where children love to watch the fish swimming in the canals, serve as entertainment. Moreover, the relaxed pace of life in the city makes it enjoyable and stress-free for the entire family.
I suggest spending the day at Shanghai Disney Resort for a mix of education and adventure. It’s perfect for families with young kids. Disney has a wide selection of attractions, rides, and shows that kids and adults will cherish for years to come. Parents love the balance between cultural excursions and entertaining activities. This way, everyone in the family stays engaged and delighted.
Customizable Private Shanghai Tours
There’s no better way to explore Shanghai than with private tours that come with ready-to-customize itineraries. These tours guarantee that you won’t miss out on your preferred destinations, and that’s why they’re my personal favorites! History fans who wish to explore the secrets of the Bund, food enthusiasts seeking undiscovered local xiaolongbao, or shoppers searching for unique treasures in Tianzifang can enjoy fully flexible, tailor-made single- or multi-day tour packages.
The experienced local guides who know Shanghai’s culture, history, and culture will be at your disposal during a private tour and they are among the best in the business. In addition to helping you with your stories, they ensure there is no crowding while also streamlining transport options, which provide insight rich in history. To further enrich your experience, many private tours include pickup and dropoff from your accommodation, which gives you a worry-free experience right from the start.
Striking a balance between modern lajizai and Yu Garden alongside the Jade Buddha Temple becomes achievable with personalized itineraries. If you are part of a family, you can opt for kid-specific activities, while solo travelers and couples may enjoy more standalone experiences. With every moment of your trip planned with private Shanghai tours, the city becomes highly adaptable, enabling an ever-changing and accelerated exploration of its vibrant lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What are the top 10 weekend tours from Shanghai?
A: The 10 best weekend tours from Shanghai are Hangzhou West Lake trip (2 days), Suzhou Gardens tour (1-2 days), Yellow Mountain (Huangshan) adventure (2-3 days), water towns like Zhujiajiao or Wuzhen (1 day), Nanjing historical tour (2 days), Moganshan retreat (2 days), Shanghai and Beijing express (3 days), Xian Terracotta Warriors express trip (2-3 days), Putuoshan Island escape (2 days), and short Yangtze River cruise experiences (3 days). These tours are ideal for getting away from Shanghai to explore China’s scenic wonders with minimal travel time.
Q: What are the best tour packages for China that have Shanghai in the itinerary?
A: The best tour packages for China that include Shanghai are the “Classic China” tour (Beijing-Xian-Shanghai, 8-10 days), “Shanghai and Beijing Highlights” (5-7 days), “Yangtze River Cruise with Shanghai” (8-12 days), “Shanghai, Suzhou and Hangzhou Triangle” (6 days), and “Shanghai to Chengdu Panda Experience” (7 days). These tours cover a diverse mix of modern city landscapes, rich culture, and natural beauty. Most of these packages also include the famous Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai Museum, Yu Garden, Nanjing Road, and many more.
Q: Do you have suggestions for a China tour that includes the Great Wall and starts from Shanghai?
A: Certainly, many excellent tours from Shanghai incorporate the Great Wall. One of the most popular is the “Shanghai and Beijing Highlights” tour, which lasts 5-7 days and includes a full-day trip to the Mutianyu Great Wall section. This section is famous for its stunning views and is less busy than the more popular tourist areas. Another suggestive option is the “East and West China Discovery” tour (10-14 days), which starts in Shanghai and includes Beijing, the Great Wall, Xi’an, and other destinations. Generally, these tours offer the option of traveling round-trip from Shanghai to Beijing using a high-speed train or flight.
Q: What are the most popular activities in Shanghai to include in a weekend tour?
A: The ideal activity to reconnoiter the magnificent views of Shanghai is to visit the world-famous Oriental Pearl Tower and the Shanghai Tower. That is usually coupled with the Bund waterfront promenade, Nanjing Road shopping area, Yuyuan Garden’s serenity, and the historic Old Street. The Shanghai Museum and the Water Towns are also used in most Getaway tours. The Jade Buddha Temple, a Huangpu River cruise, and pulsating Xintiandi nightlife mark the culmination of these, which are included in most weekend tours. Most tours include several other fundamental experiences in Shanghai.
Q: How can I plan a trip to China that includes both Shanghai and Xi’an?
A: For a trip to China that includes Shanghai and Xian, you have a few choices. Look for a 5-7 day tour package that includes 2-3 days in each city connected by overnight train or a 2-hour flight. In Shanghai, visit the Bund, Yuyuan Garden, and the Shanghai Museum. Xian is home to the Terracotta Warriors, the Ancient City Wall, and the Muslim Quarter. Many top China tours offer this Shanghai-Xian combination, often with optional extensions to Beijing or a Yangtze cruise. The spring months (April and May) and autumn months (September and October) are best for visiting, as they offer good weather in both cities.
Q: Which weekend tours incorporating experiences on the Yangtze River are best from Shanghai?
A: If you are looking for weekend getaways from Shanghai that include experiences with the Yangtze River, consider the following: “Shanghai to Yichang Express” (3 days) which consists of a short cruise through the gorges; “Shanghai and Chongqing Weekend” (3-4 days) which features a downstream mini-cruise on the Yangtze; “Yangtze Highlights from Shanghai” (4 days), which offers passage through the scenic spots along the river without a full cruise. If you have slightly more time, the 5-day “Plus Shanghai Essence of Yangtze” tour offers a more comprehensive selection of Yangtze cruise sights while still manageable for an extended weekend getaway.
Q: Are there tours from Shanghai to Southern China that are worth visiting?
A: Absolutely, some amazing weekend tours from Shanghai offer sightseeing in Southern China. The “Guilin/Yangshuo from Shanghai” tour (3 days) captures the amazing karst topography and the Li River. “Shanghai and Huangshan” (2-3 days) scenic yellow mountains are also included in the tour. For cultural experiences, the unique Hakka architecture is covered in the “Shanghai to Xiamen” trip (2-3 days). For beach enthusiasts, the “Shanghai to Sanya” tour (3 days) in Hainan Island is also enticing. These southern tours are a pleasant change from Shanghai’s urban buzz, offering splendid natural views, different foods, and unique cultures.
Q: What is the best 10-day itinerary for China, starting in Shanghai?
A: If you start in Shanghai, we suggest spending the first three days there, visiting the Bund, Yuyuan Garden, the Shanghai Museum, and the Jade Buddha Temple. Afterward, spend three days in Beijing visiting the Mutianyu Great Wall, the Forbidden City, and the Temple of Heaven. Spend the next two days in Xian visiting the Terracotta Warriors and the Ancient City Wall. Lastly, complete the trip with two days in Guilin or Yangshuo, where you can cruise the Li River and explore rural villages. With this itinerary plan, you can enjoy the beauty of China without the stress of excessive travel. This is one of the top China tour packages for those who want to make the best out of their first visit to China.
Q: What are the lesser-known weekend tours that can be taken outside Shanghai’s metropolitan area?
A: For quiet weekends away from Shanghai’s metropolitan area, try the: bamboo forests and hiking trails in Moganshan (2 days); Buddhist temples and beaches of Putuoshan Island (2-3 days); scenic boat trips at Thousand Island Lake (2 days); fishing villages and seafood in Zhoushan Archipelago (2-3 days); Anji’s bamboo wonderland and white tea plantations (2 days); Huangshan Express tour to Yellow Mountain’s misty peaks (2-3 days); or the rural ancient village Wuyuan with its rapeseed flowers (2-3 days). These places are ideal for a breather away from hectic cities, offering unique fresh air and cultural experiences unlike those found in Shanghai.