2 Days Shanghai Highlights Tour with the Bund, Skylines & City Walk Experience

Today, discover the perfect contrast of Shanghai—from ancient Chinese gardens and historic streets to futuristic skyscrapers and the iconic Huangpu River skyline.

Explore Old Shanghai at Yu Garden

Start your day in Shanghai's Old Town with a visit to Yu Garden, a masterpiece of classical Chinese garden design dating back over 460 years to the Ming Dynasty. Stroll through its peaceful pavilions, rockeries, ponds, and winding paths while discovering traditional Jiangnan garden artistry.

Along the way, pass the famous Nine-Bend Bridge and Huxinting Tea House, where you can enjoy a beautiful view of the modern Lujiazui skyline rising behind the historic neighborhood. Your guide will share fascinating stories about the garden's architecture, hidden dragon decorations, and its connection to traditional Chinese culture.

Cross the Huangpu River & Experience Modern Shanghai

Take a local public ferry across the Huangpu River, traveling from historic Puxi to the futuristic Pudong financial district. This short river journey offers a unique perspective of Shanghai's transformation from an old trading port into a global metropolis.

Continue to Shanghai Tower, China's tallest building and one of the world's highest observation decks. Take the world's fastest elevators to the 118th-floor Top of Shanghai Observatory (546 meters) and enjoy breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of the city, including the Bund, Huangpu River, and Lujiazui's iconic skyscrapers.

Walk from Nanjing Road to The Bund

End the day with a scenic city walk along Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street to The Bund, Shanghai's most iconic waterfront.

Experience the energy of China's most famous shopping street before stepping into the architectural world of 1930s Shanghai. Along the Bund, admire the impressive collection of historic buildings known as the "Museum of International Architecture", featuring styles from Gothic and Baroque to Art Deco.

Walk along the Huangpu River promenade and enjoy classic views of:

• Shanghai Customs House Clock Tower
• Peace Hotel
• HSBC Building
• Lujiazui skyscrapers across the river

Capture the unforgettable image of old and new Shanghai standing together—the perfect ending to your Shanghai exploration.

After the tour, return to your hotel.

After breakfast, continue your Shanghai exploration with a fascinating city walk through the city's elegant residential neighborhoods. Discover a different side of Shanghai beyond the skyscrapers—tree-lined streets, historic villas, traditional Longtang (lane houses), and unique Shikumen architecture that blends Chinese and Western influences. Choose one of the following walking routes based on your interests:

Option A: French Concession Walking Tour (Approx. 3 Hours)

Theme: Shanghai's Elegant European-Style Mansions & Historic Residences

Walk through the charming streets of the former French Concession, often known as the "Paris of the Orient", where old trees shade beautifully preserved villas and historic buildings from the early 20th century.

Walking Route: Wukang Road → Xuhui Old House Art Center → Wukang Mansion → Madam Song's Former Residence → Little White House

Highlights include:

• Wukang Road: One of Shanghai's most beautiful historic streets, lined with more than a dozen protected heritage buildings.
• Wukang Mansion: A landmark 1924 building designed by famous architect László Hudec, showcasing Shanghai's early modern architectural style.
• Madam Song's Former Residence: Visit the elegant villa once home to one of China's most influential historical figures.
• Little White House: Explore this charming Baroque-style building, now home to the Shanghai Arts and Crafts Museum, featuring traditional crafts and artworks.

Enjoy a relaxed walk through Shanghai's most elegant neighborhood while discovering the stories behind its architecture and former residents.

Option B: Shanghai Longtang & Shikumen Walking Tour (Approx. 4 Hours)

Theme: Discover Authentic Old Shanghai Neighborhood Life

Explore the traditional residential areas that reveal the everyday life of old Shanghai. Walk through Longtang (lane neighborhoods) and Shikumen houses, a unique architectural style combining Chinese courtyard living with Western influences.

Walking Route: Zhang Yuan Shikumen Complex → Jing'an Villa → Xintiandi Shikumen Area → Tianzifang

Highlights include:

• Zhang Yuan Shikumen Complex: Shanghai's largest and most complete preserved Shikumen neighborhood, offering a glimpse into the city's residential history.
• Jing'an Villa: A classic lane housing community representing Shanghai's unique urban lifestyle.
• Xintiandi Shikumen Area: Explore beautifully restored Shikumen buildings and learn about Shanghai life in the 1920s and 1930s.
• Tianzifang: Wander through narrow lanes filled with cafés, art studios, boutiques, and traditional shops, where old Shanghai meets modern creativity.

Experience the charm of Shanghai's hidden alleyways and see how generations of locals lived in these unique neighborhoods.

After the city walk, your 2-day Shanghai tour comes to an end. Your guide will assist with your transfer to the airport or train station for your next destination.

Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel. We look forward to welcoming you again for future adventures in China and Asia.