Shanghai’s private tours cut through the tourist noise and deliver authentic experiences worth your time and money. The standout options include fascinating gangster tours that explore the gritty 1920s underworld, and food tours that get you eating like a local at family-run spots you’d never find alone. For those short on time, smart layover tours hit the essential sights efficiently.
I especially love the water town day trips – these peaceful canal villages offer a perfect escape from Shanghai’s urban intensity. The shopping tours are surprisingly useful too, connecting you with reliable tailors and craftspeople while avoiding tourist traps.
Nearly all tours offer free cancellation and can accommodate dietary needs. English-speaking guides are consistently excellent, and prices remain reasonable for private experiences.
Let’s look at our favorite Shanghai tours that deliver the best bang for your buck.
Key Points
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Private Gangster Tours offer unique insights into Shanghai’s colonial-era underworld with experienced guides, high recommendation rates, and moderate fitness requirements.
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Shanghai’s Jewish Ghetto and Bund Private Tour provides an immersive cultural experience, focusing on Jewish history and significant historical locations, though customer feedback suggests room for improvement in organization and value.
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Full-Day Private Guided Tours cover key attractions like the Jade Buddha Temple with competitive pricing and a traditional dumpling lunch.
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Private Shanghai Evening Street Food Walking and Cruise Tours showcase local delicacies, a scenic Huangpu River cruise, and high traveler recommendation rates, despite high pricing.
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Flexible Private Shanghai Layover Tours allow tailored itineraries for iconic sights, with wheelchair and stroller accessibility, vegetarian options, and exceptional guide experiences.
Private Shanghai Gangster Tour
For a unique glimpse into Shanghai’s criminal past, the Private Shanghai Gangster Tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through the city’s colonial-era underworld.
Led by a native English-speaking guide, the private walking tour offers an in-depth look at Shanghai’s notorious gangster history.
Highlights include a lesson in cheating at classic casino games like Blackjack and Craps, as well as a complimentary drink at a historic property.
With over 272 positive reviews and a 99% recommendation rate, this tour provides a one-of-a-kind opportunity to explore Shanghai’s dark underbelly.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but is stroller friendly and suitable for moderate fitness levels.
Read our full review: Private Shanghai Gangster Tour Review
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Wuzhen Private Full-Day Tour From Shanghai
Though located just 100 kilometers from the bustling city of Shanghai, the historic water town of Wuzhen offers visitors a tranquil escape into China’s ancient past.
This private full-day tour from Shanghai provides an in-depth exploration of the town’s well-preserved canals, traditional workshops, and vibrant local culture.
Highlights include a visit to an indigo fabric workshop, a stroll through the lively water market, and a chance to sample authentic regional cuisine.
With transportation, an English-speaking guide, and all entrance fees covered, this tour is an excellent value at just $199.04 per person.
Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guide and the less commercialized atmosphere compared to other water towns near Shanghai.
Read our full review: Wuzhen Private Full-Day Tour From Shanghai Review
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Flexible Private Shanghai Layover Tour
Travelers with limited time in Shanghai can make the most of their layover with a customized private tour. Highly recommended by 99% of travelers, the Flexible Private Shanghai Layover Tour offers a tailored itinerary to hit the city’s iconic sights, including The Bund, French Concession, and Yuyuan Garden.
With a 5.0 overall rating from 96 reviews, the tour provides personalized attention from a professional guide and includes airport/hotel pickup and drop-off.
Wheelchair and stroller accessible, the experience also offers vegetarian options and infant seats. Priced from $152 per person, the tour requires at least 8-10 hours between connecting flights and receives praise for its clarity, responsiveness, and unique cultural insights.
Read our full review: Flexible Private Shanghai Layover Tour Review
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Shanghai: Jewish Ghetto and Shanghai Bund Private Tour
Offering a fascinating glimpse into Shanghai’s Jewish history, the Shanghai: Jewish Ghetto and Shanghai Bund Private Tour takes visitors on a 3-hour journey through the city’s lesser-known Jewish district and the iconic Bund area.
Priced from $90 per person, this private tour includes pickup from downtown Shanghai hotels and visits to the Jewish Refugees Museum, historic alley streets, and the Bund, providing an exclusive experience led by knowledgeable local guides.
With a focus on lesser-known Jewish history in China, the tour caters to those seeking an immersive cultural experience, boasting a 5/5 rating based on positive reviews highlighting the guides’ expertise and the tour’s flexibility.
Read our full review: Shanghai: Jewish Ghetto and Shanghai Bund Private Tour Review
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Private Shanghai Evening Street Food Walking and Cruise Tour
For those seeking a more immersive culinary experience in Shanghai, the Private Shanghai Evening Street Food Walking and Cruise Tour provides a well-rounded exploration of the city’s vibrant food culture.
With a 99% traveler recommendation rate, this private tour offers an opportunity to sample local delicacies, from soup dumplings to lamb skewers, while learning about Shanghai’s history and heritage.
The tour culminates in a scenic Huangpu River cruise showcasing the city’s iconic skyline. Praised for their knowledge and friendliness, the professional English-speaking guides ensure a personalized and insightful experience.
While some travelers note the high pricing, the tour’s inclusions, such as gratuities and a full meal, make it a worthwhile investment for those keen to explore Shanghai’s gastronomic landscape.
Read our full review: Private Shanghai Evening Street Food Walking and Cruise Tour Review
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Shanghai: 8-Hr Private Guided Tour Incl Homemade/Local Lunch
This 8-hour private guided tour of Shanghai provides an immersive cultural and culinary experience that showcases the city’s iconic landmarks, vibrant markets, and authentic local flavors.
With prices starting from Kč 3,179 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive itinerary that includes visits to The Bund, Shanghai Tower, Yu Garden, and Moganshan Road.
Guests will enjoy a homemade or local lunch, as well as opportunities to participate in cultural activities like tai chi and dance.
Transportation is provided, and the tour is accessible for wheelchair users.
Cancellations can be made up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making this an attractive option for exploring Shanghai.
Read our full review: Shanghai: 8-Hr Private Guided Tour Incl Homemade/Local Lunch Review
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Full-Day Private Guided Tour of Shanghai
Travelers seeking an immersive exploration of Shanghai’s iconic landmarks and vibrant culture can embark on a full-day private guided tour.
This highly-rated, 100% recommended experience offers a flexible itinerary and group sizes from 1 to 10+ people. The tour covers key attractions like the Jade Buddha Temple, Confucius Temple, and the bustling Flower and Bird Market.
Guests can also stroll along the famous Nanjing Road and the Bund’s riverside promenade. With hotel pickup and drop-off included, travelers can enjoy a seamless experience.
The tour is competitively priced starting at $99 per person and offers the option for a traditional dumpling lunch. Positive reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and personalized service.
Read our full review: Full-Day Private Guided Tour of Shanghai Review
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Zhujiajiao Water Town Private Tour With Night River Cruise
A Zhujiajiao Water Town private tour with a night river cruise provides travelers a captivating opportunity to explore Shanghai’s oldest water town and admire the city’s glittering skyline.
Priced at $183.50 per person, the 7-hour tour includes private transportation, a guided exploration of the ancient water town, and a VIP night river cruise along the Huangpu River.
Guests can wander Zhujiajiao’s stone-paved alleyways, see the historic “Fang Sheng Bridge,” and enjoy local cuisine.
The tour also includes a return to Shanghai for the scenic river cruise, which offers stunning views of the city’s iconic landmarks like the Shanghai Tower and Oriental Pearl TV Tower.
With free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later option, this tour is a convenient way to experience the best of Shanghai’s water town and cityscape.
Read our full review: Zhujiajiao Water Town Private Tour With Night River Cruise Review
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4-Hour Flexible Private Shanghai City Tour
Customizing a private city tour in Shanghai allows visitors to maximize their sightseeing experience and explore the city’s top attractions based on their personal interests.
The 4-Hour Flexible Private Shanghai City Tour offers just that, with the ability to select 2-3 attractions from a list that includes Yuyuan Garden, the Bund, Riverside Promenade, and the French Quarter.
Travelers can choose their preferred departure time and enjoy private transportation with a knowledgeable guide. The tour includes all entrance fees and hotel pickup/drop-off, making it a seamless and efficient way to see the city’s highlights.
With consistently high reviews and recognition for exceptional guides, this private tour is an excellent choice for first-time visitors to Shanghai.
Read our full review: 4-Hour Flexible Private Shanghai City Tour Review
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Private Gangster Tour: 2-Hour Shanghai Walking Tour
One of the more unique offerings among Shanghai’s private tour options, the Private Gangster Tour takes visitors on a 2-hour walking exploration of the city’s colonial underworld.
Priced at Kč 1,522 per person, the tour promises to reveal the history and haunts of notorious crime lords like “Big Eared” Du and “Pockmarked” Huang.
Along the way, participants can visit significant locations, including mansions of opium dealers and banking families, as well as the former home of Chiang Kai Shek.
While the tour is wheelchair accessible, it’s not recommended for unaccompanied minors or intoxicated individuals.
Customer reviews suggest room for improvement in terms of organization and value for money.
Read our full review: Private Gangster Tour: 2-Hour Shanghai Walking Tour Review
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3-Hour Private Tour to Jewish Ghetto and Shanghai Bund
For travelers seeking a deeper exploration of Shanghai’s rich history and cultural diversity, the 3-Hour Private Tour to Jewish Ghetto and Shanghai Bund offers an engaging and informative experience.
Rated 5.0 out of 47 reviews, the tour takes visitors through the city’s historic Jewish districts, known as “Little Vienna,” and along the iconic Bund waterfront.
Highlights include the Jewish Refugees Museum, old stone houses, and British-Jewish art-deco architecture.
With an expert English-speaking guide, transportation, and all entrance fees included, this private tour provides unique insights into the intersection of Jewish and Shanghai histories.
Flexible scheduling and wheelchair accessibility make this tour an excellent choice for history enthusiasts.
Read our full review: 3-Hour Private Tour to Jewish Ghetto and Shanghai Bund Review
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Shanghai: Zhujiajiao Private Tour W/ Boat Ride & Garden
Whisked away from the bustling streets of Shanghai, visitors embark on a private tour to the picturesque water town of Zhujiajiao. For $139 per person, they’ll explore this “Oriental Venice” for 5 hours, accompanied by English or German-speaking guides.
The tour includes a gondola ride along scenic canals, a stroll through the tranquil Kezhi Garden, and visits to local markets brimming with arts, crafts, and authentic cuisine. Guests can also browse Ming and Qing dynasty architecture and learn about the town’s rich history.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, this private tour offers a flexible and immersive experience in one of Shanghai’s most charming destinations.
Read our full review: Shanghai: Zhujiajiao Private Tour W/ Boat Ride & Garden Review
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Private Shanghai Airport Layover Tour With Flexible Highlights
Setting out on a private Shanghai layover tour, travelers can maximize their time in the city with a customizable 8-hour experience.
This tour offers round-trip transportation from the airport, allowing visitors to explore attractions like Yu Garden and Nanjing Road with a knowledgeable guide.
The itinerary can be tailored to personal interests, and the tour includes options for one-way or two-way airport pickup/drop-off.
Though entrance fees and gratuities aren’t included, the tour provides a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle and Maglev train ticket if applicable.
With a 5-star rating and 100% recommendation, this flexible layover tour offers an efficient and personalized way to discover Shanghai’s highlights during a limited time frame.
Read our full review: Private Shanghai Airport Layover Tour With Flexible Highlights Review
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4-Hour Private Shanghai Shopping Tour With Local Expert
A 4-hour private Shanghai shopping tour offers travelers an exclusive guided experience with a local expert.
Priced at $91 per person, the tour allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and reserve now, pay later booking.
Highlights include visits to the Shanghai South Bund Fabric Market and Old Town Bazaar, with the opportunity to customize garments and shop for souvenirs, pearls, and handicrafts.
Pickup and drop-off in downtown Shanghai are included, along with a private driver or local Uber/metro option.
Based on 5-star reviews, the tour provides excellent guidance and a successful shopping experience with the guide, Sunny.
Read our full review: 4-Hour Private Shanghai Shopping Tour With Local Expert Review
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Private Suzhou and Zhouzhuang or Tongli Tour From Shanghai
Travelers can enjoy a private excursion from Shanghai to the historic cities of Suzhou and either Zhouzhuang or Tongli.
The tour includes exploring Suzhou’s picturesque canals, bridges, Humble Administrator’s Garden, and a silk factory. Visitors can then enjoy the ancient water towns, admiring their stone bridges and Ming- and Qing-era houses.
The flexible itinerary includes private transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and central hotel pickup and drop-off.
With a 4.9 out of 5 rating and 98% traveler recommendation, this tour offers a comfortable and personalized experience away from the city’s hustle, suitable for first-time visitors.
Optional activities like a canal boat ride are available for an additional fee.
Read our full review: Private Suzhou and Zhouzhuang or Tongli Tour From Shanghai Review
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Shanghai : Old Town Private Walking Tour
On Lishui Road, this private walking tour of Shanghai’s Old Town offers an immersive exploration of the city’s historic heart.
Over 3 hours, knowledgeable local guides lead visitors through Yuyuan Garden, Yuyuan Old Street, the Antiques Market, and the scenic Huangpu River, showcasing the blend of old and new.
Priced from $62.35 per person, the tour is fully customizable and wheelchair accessible.
Travelers can expect engaging commentary, recommendations for other attractions, and the flexibility to tailor the experience to their interests.
With a 4.7/5 rating from 3 reviews, this private tour provides an authentic glimpse into Shanghai’s vibrant local life.
Read our full review: Shanghai : Old Town Private Walking Tour Review
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4-Hour Shanghai City Private Flexible Tour in Your Way
This 4-Hour Shanghai City Private Flexible Tour provides an unmatched opportunity to explore China’s financial capital at your own pace.
With a private guide and driver, you’ll enjoy a customized experience tailored to your unique interests, whether that’s visiting the iconic Jade Buddha Temple or discovering lesser-known gems like the Shanghai Propaganda Art Poster Center.
The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, as well as entrance fees and gratuities.
Flexible transportation options, from air-conditioned vehicles to public transit, ensure a comfortable journey.
With a 99% recommendation rate and rave reviews for knowledgeable guides, this tour delivers an engaging and personalized exploration of Shanghai’s rich history and culture.
Read our full review: 4-Hour Shanghai City Private Flexible Tour in Your Way Review
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6 Hour Private Tour in Disneyland
Although Disneyland is a magical destination for visitors of all ages, a 6-Hour Private Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to maximize your experience.
Priced from $143.61 per person, this tour allows you to explore the park’s key attractions, including Mickey’s Storybook Adventure and Buzz Lightyear Planet Rescue, while enjoying interactive games and character encounters.
With a small group size, live tour guide, and translation services in multiple languages, you’ll have the flexibility to create your dream Disney adventure.
The tour includes park entry, while meals and extra activities are at an additional cost.
Restrictions apply, so be sure to review the important information before booking.
Read our full review: 6 Hour Private Tour in Disneyland Review
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Zhujiajiao Water Town and Shanghai City Flexible Private Tour
Explore the enchanting Zhujiajiao Water Town and the bustling highlights of Shanghai on this flexible private tour.
Customizable based on your interests, the tour includes a gondola ride in Zhujiajiao and the option to visit landmarks like the Bund, Yu Garden, or Jade Buddha Temple.
With a local guide and private driver, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience throughout the day.
The tour is highly recommended by travelers, with 100% positive reviews and a Badge of Excellence.
Priced from $170 per person, the tour offers hotel pickup/drop-off, and the flexibility to add lunch, dinner, or tickets to the Shanghai Tower.
Read our full review: Zhujiajiao Water Town and Shanghai City Flexible Private Tour Review
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Zhujiajiao Water Village: Private Shanghai Layover Tour
Looking to make the most of your Shanghai layover? Consider the Zhujiajiao Water Village: Private Shanghai Layover Tour.
This 6-hour tour provides a chance to explore the historic water town of Zhujiajiao, known as the “Venice of the East.” You’ll enjoy a private boat ride along the tranquil canals, take in the picturesque bridges and streets, and savor a local lunch.
The tour includes round-trip airport transfers, a professional English-speaking guide, and all entrance fees.
With a minimum layover time of 10 hours and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers a convenient and seamless way to experience Shanghai’s cultural highlights during your layover.
Read our full review: Zhujiajiao Water Village: Private Shanghai Layover Tour Review
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The Sum Up
Private tours in Shanghai provide a personalized and flexible way to explore the city’s top sights and hidden gems. From gangster tours to culinary experiences and visits to Disneyland, there’s a wide range of options to suit different interests and budgets. These tours offer the convenience of a customized itinerary and the expertise of local guides, making them an attractive choice for travelers seeking an authentic and hassle-free Shanghai experience.