Explore Shanghai’s Old Town & Suzhou River by Bike

If you’re planning a visit to Shanghai and want to see the city from a local’s perspective, the “Explore Shanghai’s Old Town & Suzhou River by Bike” tour offers a compelling way to do so. This 3.5-hour guided experience combines cultural sights, scenic waterways, and a bit of European flair—all on two wheels. While it’s not a full-blown deep dive into every corner of Shanghai, it hits many of the highlights and gives you a genuine taste of the city’s layered character.

What we really love about this tour is how it balances history and modernity—you’ll cycle through traditional lanes, admire Art Deco architecture, and end at the iconic Bund with skyline views that are truly unforgettable. Plus, the small group size means you get a more personal experience, and the guide’s local knowledge adds richness to the stories behind each spot.

On the downside, you should be comfortable cycling for about three and a half hours and prepared for the weather, as the tour runs rain or shine. Helmets aren’t included, so you might want to bring your own if safety is a concern. This tour is perfect for travelers who want an active, authentic experience and don’t mind spending some time outdoors exploring on a bike.

If you’re someone who appreciates history, architecture, and scenic views, this tour will suit you well. It’s especially ideal if you’re eager to see a different side of Shanghai that many visitors miss from the bus or foot tours.

Key Points

• Cultural diversity: Experience the blend of Chinese tradition and European influence in Shanghai’s Old Town and Former French Concession.
• Architectural sights: Marvel at Art Deco buildings and historic villas, each telling a story of Shanghai’s cosmopolitan past.
• Scenic waterways: Ride along the Suzhou River, offering peaceful views and a break from the urban rush.
• Iconic finale: End at The Bund with panoramic views of Shanghai’s skyline, where old-world charm meets skyscraper spectacle.
• Small groups: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring a personalized, engaging experience.
• Value for money: At $49 per person, it offers a memorable, guided introduction to some of the city’s most photogenic and culturally rich areas.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point: Xiangyang Park

The tour kicks off at Xiangyang Park, a convenient location near Huaihai Road and the IAPM mall, just opposite Shanxi South Station on line 1. Here, you’ll meet your guide and get fitted for a bike. The setting is lively but relaxed, giving you a glimpse of everyday Shanghai life before you set off cycling.

Exploring Old Town

Your first destination is Shanghai’s Old Town. We loved the way the narrow lanes and traditional architecture immediately transported us to another era. It’s a bustling area, filled with markets, shops, and the aroma of local street food. You can expect lively scenes and plenty of opportunities to snap photos of vintage buildings and colorful storefronts. This is where you’ll see the city’s roots and gain a tangible sense of local life.

Riding Through the Former French Concession

Next, you’ll pedal into the Former French Concession, an area that exudes a European vibe. The tree-lined streets, elegant villas, and shaded boulevards make it a delightful contrast to the urban core. We enjoyed the chance to glide past chic boutiques, cozy cafes, and historic mansions—each with their own story. One reviewer, Julie, notes the guide’s “good local knowledge and friendliness,” which enhances the experience, making it feel more like a bike ride with friends than a tour.

More Great Tours Nearby

Art Deco Architecture

Following that, it’s time to admire Shanghai’s Art Deco district. The buildings here—constructed mainly in the 1920s and 1930s—are a fascinating mix of Chinese and Western styles. We loved the way these structures reflect a time when Shanghai was a melting pot of ideas and influences. Your guide will share stories behind the architecture, making each building come alive. It’s an excellent opportunity to appreciate the city’s architectural diversity and its transformation over the decades.

Scenic Ride Along the Suzhou River

As you approach the Suzhou River, the scenery shifts to something more tranquil. The bike path along the water offers beautiful views of historic bridges, old warehouses, and modest museums. This section provides a welcome breather from the city’s hustle. We heard from a fellow rider, George, that the “tips from the guide were excellent” and that it was a “perfect way to get a feel for the city.” The peaceful riverside setting offers a different perspective on Shanghai’s development, blending natural beauty with industrial history.

Ending at The Bund

The tour concludes at The Bund, perhaps Shanghai’s most recognizable landmark. Standing here, you’ll see colonial-era buildings on one side and the ultramodern skyscrapers of Lujiazui across the river—what a contrast! The views are stunning, especially as the sun starts to set or the city lights come on. It’s a perfect spot for photos and reflection on the day’s journey.

Practical Details and Value

This tour costs $49 per person, which includes a bike and a guide but not helmets or safety gear. Considering the number of sights, the personalized experience, and the local insights shared, it’s a good value. It’s designed for most riders with basic cycling skills, and the moderate pace makes it accessible even for those who aren’t expert cyclists.

It lasts about 3.5 hours, making it manageable even if you have a busy schedule. The small group size—limited to 10—means you get plenty of attention from your guide, making it more engaging and flexible than larger tours. The tour runs rain or shine, so be prepared with weather-appropriate clothing and sunscreen.

Booking is flexible, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance. You can reserve now and pay later, which adds convenience if your plans are still uncertain.

What Travelers Say

Reviews echo the positive impression. Julie appreciated the “small group size” and “local knowledge,” while George found the guide “got a lot of tips” and called it the “perfect way to get a feel for the city.” Both reviews highlight the value of the guide’s friendly, informative approach, which enhances the overall experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This bike tour is ideal for travelers who want an active way to explore Shanghai’s diverse neighborhoods. It’s suitable for ages 12 and above, making it a good option for families with older kids. If you’re comfortable cycling for a few hours and enjoy learning about local culture through architecture, food, and scenery, you’ll find this tour rewarding.

It’s best for those who appreciate authentic atmospheres, scenic waterways, and historic districts. If you’re short on time but want a well-rounded taste of Shanghai’s old neighborhoods and river views, this tour offers excellent value. However, if you’re seeking a deep dive into Shanghai’s history or want to explore beyond these areas, you might want to combine this with other activities.

The Sum Up

This bike tour through Shanghai offers a balanced mix of cultural sites, scenic riverside views, and architectural marvels, all tailored to small groups for a more personal experience. It captures the city’s contrasting layers—ancient lanes, European-style villas, Art Deco buildings, and towering skyscrapers—making it an engaging way for travelers to feel connected to Shanghai’s unique character.

At just $49, the tour delivers a lot of value for those wanting an active, authentic, and visually stunning glimpse into one of China’s most vibrant cities. It’s especially well-suited for curious travelers who enjoy exploring on two wheels, soaking in lively streets, and ending with spectacular skyline views.

For anyone interested in a practical, approachable, and memorable introduction to Shanghai’s diverse neighborhoods, this bike tour is a smart choice. It combines education, scenery, and exercise—what more could you ask for?

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is recommended for ages 12 and above. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult, and it’s not suitable for children under 10 or babies under 1 year old.

Do I need to bring my own helmet?
Helmets are not included, so bringing your own safety gear is advised if you’re concerned about safety.

How physically demanding is the tour?
The tour is of moderate intensity, suitable for most riders with basic cycling skills. Expect to cycle for about 3.5 hours with some breaks.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothing suitable for cycling and weather conditions. Don’t forget sunscreen, water, and a camera for capturing the views.

What happens if it rains?
The tour runs rain or shine, but in extreme weather, it may be rescheduled for safety reasons.

Where do we meet and end the tour?
The meeting point is Xiangyang Park at the corner of Huaihai Road and Xiangyang North Road, near Shanxi South Station and opposite IAPM. The tour ends back at the same location.

This detailed, honest review aims to help you decide if this scenic, culturally rich bike tour fits your travel style. Whether you’re a history buff, architecture lover, or just eager to see Shanghai from a different perspective, it’s an experience worth considering—just pedal carefully!

You can check availability for your dates here: