3 Days Classic Shanghai Tour (at Leisure Pace))

Name: 3 Days Shanghai Tour at the Best Price
Brand: China Discovery
SKU: CD-ST-03
Price: 346 USD
Availability: PreOrder
Rating: 5 (8160 reviews)

Uncover the Old and New Shanghai with Best Guided Trip Experience

Discover Modern Glamour and Timeless Charm – at a Leisure Pace

The dazzling modernity of Shanghai is undoubtedly its biggest highlight. From the world-famous skyline of Lujiazui to the cutting-edge architecture and fast-paced urban lifestyle, the city showcases China’s dynamic rise on the global stage.

But Shanghai is more than just skyscrapers and speed. Beneath the glass and steel lies a rich blend of East and West, past and present. This 3-day classic tour at a relaxed pace takes you beyond the surface - inviting you to stroll the Bund, wander through classical gardens, explore historical lanes, and experience the preserved elegance of old Shanghai.

Perfect for first-time visitors and those who wish to travel without rush, this journey offers a balanced view of Shanghai's futuristic brilliance and enduring cultural soul - making your trip both inspiring and refreshing.

 Type : Private Tour
 Tour Code : CD-ST-03
 Price : from $346
1. 1. This price is quoted ‌in US dollars‌;
2. 2. 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;
3. 3. 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.
 Theme : History / Culture
Physical Demands :

HIGHLIGHTS OF THIS TOUR

Capture breathtaking skyline towering into the clouds , challenge yourself with a once-in-a-lifetime skywalk, catch a panoramic view of Shanghai city;
Admire Chinese traditional architectural art in Yu Garden, and admire remarkable ancient relics in Shanghai Museum;
Have a chance to take the Shanghai Maglev Train, experience the real flying speed and try ultramodern scientific and technological advances;
Stroll leisurely along the Bund, view western style historical buildings and discover the best epitome of the history of Shanghai;
Closely feel urban hustle and bustle in Nanjing Road of downtown Shanghai to touch the vitality and heartbeat of Shanghai;
Enjoy high-quality tour package covering knowledgeable tour guide, experienced driver & private transfer and other arrangements.

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Itinerary Day by Day (Can Be Customized)

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Day 1 Shanghai Arrival
Airport/train station/port pick up

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

Upon arrival, meet your tour guide in the airport Arrival Hall holding placard with your name. Before being transferred to your hotel, firstly experience the Shanghai Maglev Train (optional) - the first operational high-speed maglev train in the world, whose speed is 300km/h.

Though capable of reaching 430 km/h, the Maglev now operates at a regular speed of around 300 km/h. It covers the 30-kilometer distance from Pudong Airport to Longyang Road Station in just about 8 minutes, offering a fast and smooth ride without the noise or vibration of conventional rail. The onboard facilities are clean, modern, and comfortable. (Note: The Maglev Train runs between 06:45 AM and 21:42 PM, only between Pudong Airport and Longyang Road Station.)

Recommended Night Activity (optional): Watch 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.

Feel the Highest Speed of 431 km/h of Shanghai Maglev Train
Acrobatic Show Performed in Shanghai Circus World

Day 2 Shanghai City Highlights Tour (B, L)
Today's Highlights: Shanghai Tower, Shanghai Museum, Yu Garden,Nanjing Road, The Bund

After breakfast, your guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel to start your Shanghai exploration. Your will firstly visit Lujiazui and ride one of the world's fastest elevators to the 118th-floor observation deck (at 546 meters / 1,791 feet) of the Shanghai Tower - the tallest building in China and the third tallest in the world, standing at 632 meters (2,073 feet). From this incredible height, you'll enjoy a jaw-dropping 360° panoramic view of Shanghai's dynamic skyline, including the modern Pudong area, the historic Bund, and the winding Huangpu River. Then, drive to the Shanghai Museum East, which collected many international-standard exhibits of bronzes, paintings, calligraphy, sculpture, ceramics, jade from more than 5,000 years ago to the Qing dynasty. An Audio Explanation Device will be prepared for you to help you learn about the history and facts about the relics in the museum easily.

Then, transfer to Shanghai old town to visit Yu Garden (Yuyuan), a famous Southern China classical garden which was originally built about 450 years ago. Walk around to view the ancient pavilions, halls, towers with jagged carved cornices and decorations, grotesque rockeries, glittering ponds filled with swimming kois and many old plants. These buildings, laid out in an asymmetry, fully embody impressive Chinese architectural style, art and skills, from which you can imagine an ancient living scene and find a magic harmony between human and nature. Yuyuan Bazaar outside the garden is an interesting place for shopping traditional Chinese handicrafts and artworks and tasting a variety of local snacks.

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 and the best viewing deck for the skyline of Lujiazui across the Huangpu River, a cluster of futuristic skyscrapers including Shanghai Tower, Jinmao Tower, Shanghai World Financial Center, and Oriental Pearl Tower rising from what was once a fishing village. The view captures Shanghai's extraordinary transformation from a treaty port to a global financial hub and innovation powerhouse. Lined with 52 historic European-style buildings, the Bund is also often hailed as an open-air museum of world architecture. Take a pleasant stroll along the promenade, enjoying both the grandeur of the past and the futuristic skyline.

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.)

Optional Activity - Take a relaxing Huangpu River night cruise to see the city’s most significant edifices and streets sparkling under the atmospheric cover of darkness (about 50 minutes).

The View of Lujiazui from the Bund
A Jaw-dropping Panorama of Shanghai from Shanghai Tower
Yuyuan Bazaar Shot by Our Customer Paul
Sanchez's Family from Mexico took a Huangpu River Cruise in 2019
Dakeding (1046 BC-711 BC) - The Most Precious Treasure of Shanghai Museum
The Bund: Famous "Exhibition of the World's Architecture"

Day 3 Shanghai Tour & Shanghai Departure (B)
Today's Highlights: Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center, Tianzifang

Have you wondered why Shanghai developed into a modern, vibrant and cosmopolitan city from what was originally a shabby fishing village? This morning’s tour to Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center will answer that question fully while also giving you an overview of the City’s ambitious plans for future. The Center is a fashionably designed modern museum, themed with "City, Citizens, Environment and Development". Different usages of photography, models and interactive multimedia displays make your visit enjoyable and entertaining. The best features are the old rare photos of landmarks, such as the Bund, Nanjing Road, Yu Garden, during the international settlement, and the large scale model showing the detailed layout of Shanghai.

Next, you will be transferred to Tianzifang which is touristic arts and crafts enclave that has developed from a renovated traditional residential area. It is the typical tourist attraction to appreciate the preservation of local Shikumen architecture. In this place full of rich flavor of life, you can leisurely stroll along the clean old alleys to watch the daily life of local Shanghai people, savor a cup of drink at the open-air café, and find some interesting things in the novel shops to feel the international feature mixed with real Shanghai culture.

In the afternoon, your guide will escort you to the airport for your flight to next destination or home.

Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center with Visitors
Spend Leisure Time at the Mazy Lanes of Tianzifang

Recommended Add-on Options

+ 1 day more to visit one of the charming water towns

Just a short trip from Shanghai, there is a collection of enchanting water towns, including Zhujiajiao, Zhouzhuang, Tongli, and more. Spend a day wandering through one of these peaceful towns.

Adorned with serene canals, ancient stone bridges, and traditional boats, these water towns offer picturesque views and an authentic old-town vibe. As you wander through maze-like alleyways, cross arched bridges, and experience the warmth of lively local communities, you'll find the perfect escape to slow down and savor the beauty of traditional Chinese life.

Zhouzhuang Water Town - A Place with Elegant Ambience

+2 more days to visit the city of Gardens and Water Towns - Suzhou

Suzhou, with over 2,500 years of history, is renowned for its exquisite classical gardens, peaceful canals, ancient bridges, and rich silk heritage.

Compact and charming, Suzhou's historic old town gathers many of its top attractions within easy reach—making it an ideal destination for a well-paced day trip. This tour brings you the essence of Suzhou in one enriching day: admire the refined beauty of the Lingering Garden, one of China's four great classical gardens; wander along the centuries-old Shantang Street to experience local life and heritage; explore Tiger Hill, the city's most iconic and storied site; and visit the Silk Museum to witness the intricate process behind Suzhou's world-famous silk production.

Lingering Garden, Shared by Our Guest from Australia

+2~3 more days to visit the most beautiful mountain and villages in China - Yellow Mountain and Hongcun: Marvel at Yellow Mountain's granite peaks rising from sea of clouds, hike the pine-lined trails of Bright Summit Peak, and experience the thrilling West Sea Grand Canyon with its dramatic cliffs and winding paths. For the iconic sunrise, head to Lion Peak, where golden light illuminates the peaks as if painting the sky. Then wander through Hongcun's UNESCO-listed alleys, where horse-head walls and moon-shaped ponds reflect centuries of Huizhou architecture. This journey blends natural grandeur with cultural heritage for an unforgettable experience.

+2 more days to explore the heavenly city - Hangzhou

"Hangzhou is paradise on earth" – Marco Polo's words still ring true today.

Glide across West Lake's UNESCO-listed waters, framed by willow-draped banks, misty hills, and historic landmarks like Su Causeway in Spring Dawn and Broken Bridge. Breathe in Zen serenity at Lingyin Temple, a 1,700-year-old Buddhist sanctuary, where ancient rock carvings whisper tales from the Five Dynasties. Participate in a traditional tea ceremony and savor the world-renowned Dragon Well tea at its origin. Venture to iconic canal town (1hr drive) Wuzhen to witness Ming-era wooden houses and gondola-filled waterways.

Cruise on the West Lake leisurely in Autumn

The quotation for this trip is from $346 Per Person

1. This price is quoted in US dollar. It 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 2026 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 6.8. 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, 2027.
6. This price is not the final price 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;
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.

Check What our delighted customers are saying about our services

Hi Rita

We are back to Beijing. I only wanted to thank you for the trip - it has been really good, well organized and we have enjoyed it very much. Thanks again and I hope we can travel again with you and your Company in the future.

All the Best!!

Francisco

Francisco‚ Spain, July 30, 2026

你好，

Hi Leo,

我们非常开心地度过了一周的梦幻之旅。出发前，提心吊胆了很久。没想到这艘游船没有受到洪水和台风的影响，能按既定行程走完，觉得非常幸运。整个行程的天气有晴有雨有雾，我们看到了三峡最美的一面。“晴三峡，雨三峡，不如雾三峡“。一路看到了很多美景，船上品尝了各地美食，涨了很多知识。导游讲解生动，船上美食可口。我们订的是标准间。总的来讲，睡得还是不错的。能近距离看到长江水波听到水声，是件浪漫的事。说实在的，第一眼看到浴室的墙面，有点心理发毛。但是用起淋浴，水够大，够暖，还是舒服的。也许他们可以把淋浴头扶手周围的水垢处理下，就完美啦。我们在假期都不习惯早起。有几天都得早起去景点，有些不适应。不过这是趟让人回味无穷的旅行，有机会我们会推荐给老外们。

We had an amazing week on this dream trip. Before we set off, we had been quite worried for a long time because of the weather conditions. To our surprise, the cruise was not affected by the flooding or the typhoon, and we were able to complete the whole itinerary as planned. We feel incredibly lucky. During the journey, we experienced all kinds of weather, sunny skies, rain, and fog, and each one showed us a different side of the Three Gorges. As people say, “The Three Gorges are beautiful in the sunshine, beautiful in the rain, but even more magical in the fog.” The scenery along the way was absolutely breathtaking. We enjoyed delicious local food from different regions on board and learned a lot about the history, culture, and landscapes of the area. The tour guides were knowledgeable and gave very engaging explanations, and the food on the ship was tasty. We booked a standard room, and overall we slept quite well. Being able to get so close to the Yangtze River, watching the waves and listening to the sound of the water at night, was such a romantic experience. To be honest, when we first saw the bathroom walls, we felt a little uncomfortable because of the appearance. But once we used the shower, we found that the water pressure was strong and the water was warm, so it was actually quite comfortable. Perhaps the cruise company could do a little more cleaning around the shower head and the handrail to remove some water stains, and then it would be nearly perfect. Since we are not used to getting up early during holidays, the early morning schedules for some of the sightseeing stops were a little challenging for us. But this was truly a memorable journey that we will treasure for a long time. We would definitely recommend this cruise to our foreign friends. It was a wonderful way to experience the beauty of the Yangtze River and the Three Gorges.

Jia

Jia‚ China, July 30, 2026

Hi Leo

The trip was really good.

All the tour guides and drivers were excellent. Very good English, always helpful and always on time.

Especially Eva(Beijing) and Kaia(Zhangjiajie) will go above and beyond being so helpful and willing to stay later so we can get the most of the tour experience.

The hotel and the food were very good. So many choice to choose from.

And our course, you have also been so patience and very helpful recommending ideas for our trip.

We all had a loverly time and I would definitely book your company again for our future trip to other parts of China, and will certainly recommend your company to our friends.

Thank you, the tour guides and drivers.

Best regards

Kenny

Kenny‚ Hungary, July 29, 2026

Hello Leo,

We liked the cruise very much. The ship was great and the cabin (we upgraded to celestial), food, excursions and especially the crew were all good.

We liked the itinerary and we had a super time.

(Although when we arrived in Yichang all the trains to Chongqing were cancelled so we arranged a Didi driver to take us there (it took 11 hours!) the driver did a very good job and was rewarded accordingly.

Best

Marcus

Marcus‚ Netherlands, July 28, 2026

Dear Rita,

Many thanks for this mail. We have enjoyed our trip and would like to thank you, Tina and the driver for making this outing a memorable one. We hope we will be able to come again soon (probably, to other parts of China).

Regards,

Yue

Yue‚ Singapore, July 27, 2026

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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.

1-on-1 Travel Consultant

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

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

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

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

Feel the Highest Speed of 431 km/h of Shanghai Maglev Train
Acrobatic Show Performed in Shanghai Circus World
The View of Lujiazui from the Bund
Shanghai Tower
Yuyuan Bazaar Shot by Our Customer Paul
Huangpu River Cruise - Sanchez's Family from Mexico
Dakeding (1046 BC-711 BC) - The Most Precious Treasure of Shanghai Museum
The Bund: Famous "Exhibition of the World's Architecture"
Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center with Visitors
Spend Leisure Time at the Mazy Lanes of Tianzifang

See How We Create Memorable Journeys for Our Guests on Similar Routes

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Most Important Shanghai Travel Notes

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

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

3. How to Get to Shanghai?

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

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

6. How to Start Your China Tour from Shanghai?

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3 Days Classic Shanghai Tour (at Leisure Pace))

HIGHLIGHTS OF THIS TOUR

Day 1 Shanghai Arrival

Day 2 Shanghai City Highlights Tour (B, L)

Day 3 Shanghai Tour & Shanghai Departure (B)

Recommended Add-on Options