Shanghai Old City (Nanshi) Tours and Tickets

Q: How much does it cost to visit Shanghai Old City in 2026?

Shanghai Old City is free to visit, but there are admission charges for some attractions, notably Yu Garden (Yuyuan), where tickets cost ¥30–40 for standard admission, depending on the time of year, and the City God Temple. Shanghai Old City half-day walking tours start at about US$65.

Q: Do I need to reserve tickets in advance for Shanghai Old City attractions?

It depends. It’s usually a good idea to reserve tickets for the most popular Shanghai Old City attraction, Yu Garden, if you’re visiting on a weekend—and you should reserve tickets for all attractions if you’re visiting during a major Chinese holiday. But midweek, at quieter times of year, you can usually just line up.

Q: When is the best time of day to visit Shanghai Old City to avoid the crowds?

Yuyuan Old Street is a popular destination after dark, so to avoid the worst of the crowds, plan to visit Shanghai Old City in the morning during the work week, outside of major Chinese holidays like Golden Week and the Lunar New Year period. Yu Garden is normally open Tuesday to Sunday, 9am–4:30pm

Q: What is the best month to visit Shanghai Old City?

Spring can be a lovely season to visit both Shanghai Old City and Yu Garden, the heritage attraction that lies at its heart. March is cool, but free of crowds; April is warmer but busier. Avoid visiting during the Golden Week at the start of October, or over the weeks of the Lunar New Year.

Q: Is visiting Shanghai Old City worth it?

Yes, visiting Shanghai Old City is worth it. While most travelers to Shanghai are drawn by its glitzy 21st-century skyline, a walk around this unique area is a great way to discover the city’s heritage. Sixteenth-century Yu Garden is a fine example of classical Chinese garden design.

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4-Hour Private Shanghai City Tour with Old and New Highlights

During this fully customizable, private Shanghai tour, you get to call the shots. Enjoy a tailor-made itinerary—designed with your unique interests in mind—and choose between lunch and dinner options. Return travelers who have already ticked off the main sights can opt for lesser-known locations, like Jade Buddha Temple, Tianzifang Creative Park, or the Shanghai Propaganda Art Poster Center.

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4-Hour Private Shanghai City Tour with Old and New Highlights

4 to 5 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

(290)

from $93

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Private Evening Tour: VIP Huangpu River Cruise and Shanghai Lights

See the city of Shanghai light up at night, without worrying about language barriers or navigating, on this private evening tour, which takes you to top attractions such as Yuyuan Old Street, Xin Tian Di, and the skyscrapers of Lujiazui. Take in panoramic views of the city from the VIP deck of a cruise along the Huangpu River, and then choose to be dropped off back at your hotel or to continue your evening out on the town.

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Private Evening Tour: VIP Huangpu River Cruise and Shanghai Lights

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Old Shanghai City Walking Tour

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from $65

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Best of Shanghai Day Tour, including Jade Buddha Temple & Bund & Yuyuan Garden

Enhance your sightseeing experience of Shanghai on an enriching full-day excursion around the city. See some of the city’s top sights with a local English speaking guide to provide context and commentary. Highlights include the Shanghai Museum, People's Square, Jade Buddha Temple, the Bund, Yuyuan Garden, and Xintiandi. Includes entrance fees, lunch, and central Shanghai hotel pickup and drop-off.

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Best of Shanghai Day Tour, including Jade Buddha Temple & Bund & Yuyuan Garden

8 hoursFree Cancellation

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Shanghai Half Day Morning or Afternoon Sightseeing Tour

Enhance your experience of Shanghai regardless of time constrains on a morning or afternoon half-day sightseeing tour. See the best of Shanghai with a knowledgeable guide as you discover historical highlights like The Bund and the Jade Buddha Temple. Learn the complex process of pearl cultivation at the Fresh Water Pearl Gallery; absorb the antique charm of Shanghai Old Street; and delve into the city’s rich historical heritage at Shanghai Museum. Convenient round-trip transportation from your Shanghai hotel is included on this tour.

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Shanghai Half Day Morning or Afternoon Sightseeing Tour

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Shanghai Highlights Walking Tour-Tip Based

This tour is TIP-BASED,the amount you paid at booking is only to reserve the spots, each person gives the guide at the end of the tour the amount that he or she considers appropriate, the RECOMMENDED TIPS:150-300yuan(20-40usd/Euro) per person,depending on satisfaction with the tour. What better way to explore this great city than by having an indigenous inhabitant tell you stories about the history and evolution of this great city!Born and lived all my life in Shanghai, went through the bad times and good times of China's commercial hub,I am still finding new inspirations. Traveled to multiple countries,I am always looking to meet new friends from all corners of the world. Wish to share my native city and help people discover the best-kept secrets that have made me love this city myself! We will be exploring both the fancy and "down to earth" sides of this metropolis, with visits not only to some major sites, but also to a local food street and even a "Marriage Market"

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Shanghai Highlights Walking Tour-Tip Based

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4-Hr Shanghai Layover Tour: Maglev, Wet Market, Food, Landmarks

This 4-hour Shanghai layover tour maximizes your layover into an adventure. A round-trip ride on the Maglev train, whisking you to iconic attractions like the Bund and Yuyuan Old City. Colorful sights and sounds along aisles of the wet market amaze you at an authentic immersion of another side of true Shanghai. Nearby food stalls or eateries, allow you to Bites & Sips real Shanghai. Your guide will pick you up from the airport and accompany you on the Maglev train to downtown. Travel at speeds up to 300 km/h, reaching downtown in just 8 minutes. After your tour, your guide will ensure a seamless return to the Maglev station for your flight back. During your tour, you can opt for public transportation options, including taxis, the metro, or city bikes, based on traffic conditions. Or, an upgraded option for a Buick 7-seater or a 5-seater SUV with a dedicated driver, providing enhanced comfort and convenience after your long flight.

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4-Hr Shanghai Layover Tour: Maglev, Wet Market, Food, Landmarks

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Shanghai Night River Cruise and Light Tour with Yuyuan Bazaar

The Huangpu River looks at its best by night when lights gleam from the city’s iconic skyline. Skip the hassle of sifting through river cruises and arranging transportation and enjoy the insights of a private guide on this personal evening tour. After you’ve sailed the river, discover the bustling Yuyuan Bazaar. Your guide explains the foods on offer and recommends dishes for you to try (at your own expense).

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Shanghai Night River Cruise and Light Tour with Yuyuan Bazaar

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Private Full-Day Tour: Incredible Shanghai Highlights

Get to know Shanghai with your own guide on this full-day private tour. Admire bird’s-eye views from a Shanghai Tower, stroll along the Bund, and visit the Yuyuan Garden and bazaar. Plus, explore the Confucius Temple and Former French Concession area, and enjoy a traditional tea ceremony. Choose to travel by public transport (own expense) if you're in a group of four or fewer, or upgrade to get around by private vehicle.

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Private Full-Day Tour: Incredible Shanghai Highlights

8 hoursFree Cancellation

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(380)

from $109

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Few cities in the world evoke so much history, excess, glamour, mystique and exotic promise in name alone. This tour is well organized to take you visit from the architectural landmarks lining the Bund and the rickety charm of the Old Town to the leafy backstreets of the former French Concession, as Shanghai is just a city that begs for wandering. You may love that can slurp a bowl of hang-pulled noodles or bite into soupy steamed bun for next to nothing.

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Shanghai Authentic Walking Tour

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Private Half-Day Tour: Amazing Highlights of Old Shanghai

Burst through the language barrier and discover historic Shanghai on a private half-day door-to-door tour that adapts to suit your schedule. If you start your tour before 2pm, experience the classical Yuyuan Garden, Old Shanghai, and the Confucius Temple; if you start later, enjoy the Bund followed by a Huangpu River cruise. Whichever option works for you, savor a tea ceremony and soup dumplings along the way.

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Private Half-Day Tour: Amazing Highlights of Old Shanghai

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3-Hour Shanghai Yu Garden &Old Town Private Tour with Tea Tasting

Explore one of Shanghai’s most evocative neighborhoods when you book a private walking tour of the Old City. Pick between morning and afternoon tour times, and meet your guide directly at your centrally located hotel. Once in the Old City, visit the classical Yuyuan Garden, admire the area’s Qing Dynasty–era architecture, stroll through a bustling bazaar, and otherwise follow in locals’ footsteps as you discover the historical area’s highlights.

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3-Hour Shanghai Yu Garden &Old Town Private Tour with Tea Tasting

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Shanghai Night River Cruise Tour with Jin Mao Tower

See the city of Shanghai light up at night on this private evening tour, which takes you to top attractions such as Jin Mao Tower, Huangpu River, Shanghai Old City and Xintiandi. Take in panoramic views of Shanghai from Jin Mao Tower; See multiple famous Shanghai landmarks from Huangpu River cruise; Walk through Yuyuan Old Street and Xintiandi to enjoy the Awesome Night View of Shanghai. Then choose to be dropped off back at your hotel or to continue your evening out on the town. 1. Safely explore Shanghai's nightlife and top evening attractions 2. Take a cruise to enjoy night scenery and modern skyscrapers along the Huangpu River 3. Private tour ensures a memorable experience for just your party 4. Experience Shanghai like a local by public transportation

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Shanghai Night River Cruise Tour with Jin Mao Tower

4 to 5 hoursFree Cancellation

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Discover the vibrant culinary scene of Shanghai on this 2-hour and 20-minute Street Food Walk around Yuyuan Old Street. Dive into the city’s rich food heritage with a variety of authentic local delicacies, from freshly made Xiaolongbao to crispy scallion pancakes. Guided by passionate local foodies, this tour offers an immersive experience of traditional recipes and vibrant street culture, perfect for food enthusiasts and explorers alike. Conclude your journey with a tranquil moment enjoying traditional Chinese tea amidst the bustling atmosphere. - Explore iconic food spots and hidden corners of Yuyuan Old Street - Savor a diverse range of street foods including dumplings and pastries - Learn about Shanghai's culinary history from knowledgeable guides - Enjoy a moment of calm with traditional Chinese tea at the end of the tour with a local farmer

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Shanghai Street Food Walk Taste Dumplings Tea More

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3-hour Shanghai Old Town Market Private Walking Tour

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Small-Group Shanghai's Old City Walking Exploration

Redevelopment and demolition of historic parts of Old Shanghai (Nanshi mean that there's limited time to explore the area in its current state. This small-group walking tour takes you into the heart of the area to gain an insiders perspective of local life and culture. Visit hidden alleyways, old villas, traditional Shanghainese houses, and more, while learning architecture, history, beliefs, religion, and urbanization.

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Private Shanghai Foodie Adventures with Rooftop Bar Hopping

Shanghai visitors that want to experience the local cuisine face a challenge—with such a big city, it's tough to know where to go, and what to taste. Let your personal guide show you to some of the best food in Shanghai on this private evening foodie tour. Discover off the beaten path eateries, taste everything from dumplings to braised pork, and enjoy regional cuisine like Szechuan and Hunan dishes. End your excursion with drinks at a rooftop bar, included in the price.

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Private Shanghai Foodie Adventures with Rooftop Bar Hopping

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3-Hour Flexible Private Shanghai Night Tour with Local Dinner Option

Combine the freedom of independent travel with the expertise of a private guide and the ease of a personal chauffeur on this exclusive Shanghai night tour. Pick the side of Shanghai you’d like to see, be that skyscraper views on the Bund or high-fashion venues in the Former French Concession, then let your private guide escort you there. Tour excludes any entrance fees: a local dinner is available as an upgrade.

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3-Hour Flexible Private Shanghai Night Tour with Local Dinner Option

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Private Half Day Shanghai City Customized Tour with Lost Heaven Dining

Enjoy a fully customized way of exploring Shanghai—and pair your bespoke sightseeing with a meal at one of the city’s top restaurants—on this luxurious private tour. Pick between morning or afternoon tour times, and meet your driver and private guide directly at your hotel. Plan an itinerary according to your wishes: visit the Yuyuan Garden and the Old City, tour the bustling Bund, explore the leafy French Concession, or even go on a river cruise. Finish with an elegant Yunnanese meal at Lost Heaven.

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Private Half Day Shanghai City Customized Tour with Lost Heaven Dining

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Private Tour of Shanghai Ocean Aquarium Yu Garden and Oriental Pearl Tower

Get to know Shanghai with your own guide on this private day tour. With an expert guide, stroll around Shanghai Old City and visit the Shanghai's largest ancient garden - Yu Garden; learn about the 700-year history of the city at Shanghai Development Exhibition Hall; closely watch various water creatures at Shanghai Ocean Aquarium and admire the 26 various buildings of different architectural styles along the Bund. According to your preference, your guide will recommend some delicious local foods to eat. 1. Admire classical Chinese architecture, exquisite sculptures and carvings at Yu Garden 2. Get in touch with the everyday people and experience local lifestyle at Shanghai Old City 3. Enjoy panoramic views of Shanghai on the sightseeing floor of Oriental Pearl Tower 4. Flexible itinerary with personalized attention from a private guide 5. Experience Shanghai like a local by public transportation(Bus/Metro/Taxi)

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Private Tour of Shanghai Ocean Aquarium Yu Garden and Oriental Pearl Tower

7 to 8 hoursFree Cancellation

4.0

from $170

Price varies by group size

1-Day Private Shanghai City Tour to See Its Past, Present and Future

Shanghai is a huge international metropolis with a long history. This private full-day city tour is designed for people who are interested in Shanghai’s past, present and future. It starts with a visit to the galleries in the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall. Stroll through the lovely Yu Gardens and purchase lunch in the nearby Yu Bazaar, then take a walk along the Bund. Head to the Shanghai World Financial Center for an aerial perspective on the city, then see shops and Shikumen-style architecture along the atmospheric alleyways of Tianzifang, located in the old French Concession. Your tour includes entrance fees, and hotel pickup and drop-off. No shopping detours, factory stores, tea ceremony or shopping site restaurant to take up your valuable time at attraction sites, so you will have a pure sightseeing experience.

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1-Day Private Shanghai City Tour to See Its Past, Present and Future

9 hoursFree Cancellation

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from $229

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Shanghai Zhujiajiao water town,Yugarden&Bund one day tour

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Shanghai City Highlights& Zhujiajiao Watertown

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What are people saying about Shanghai Old City (Nanshi)

3-Hour Shanghai Yu Garden &Old Town Private Tour with Tea Tasting

YasminSaleena_B, Jun 2026

Fei Fei was amazing

Fei Fei went out of her way to tailor the tour to our needs she even helped us after the tour to get around highly recommended for a first time visit

3-Hour Shanghai Yu Garden &Old Town Private Tour with Tea Tasting

Irfan_S, May 2026

Superb guide

Simply a superb experience. Our tour guide, Wing, had excellent command of English language. From start to finish, she was easy to understand and looked after us. She made the tour interesting by explaining the history of Shanghai city and the homeowner of the gardens. Tea tasting activity was fun for the whole family including our 11 year old son.

Private Half-Day Tour: Amazing Highlights of Old Shanghai

Jessica_C, Dec 2025

We toured Yu garden and...

We toured Yu garden and the old city market, walking along the bund to arrive. Peggy is super knowledgeable and extremely personable. She fielded a great range of questions we asked. Highly recommend to everyone!

Private Half-Day Tour: Amazing Highlights of Old Shanghai

Richard_B, Aug 2025

Fantastic tour with Troy!...

Fantastic tour with Troy! Very knowledgeable and made the tour amazing. A great way to see parts of the city and learn a lot along the way!

3-Hour Shanghai Yu Garden &Old Town Private Tour with Tea Tasting

Mark_W, Nov 2025

Yu Garden and Tea

My guide Sunni met me at the hotel and we headed off to Old Town to see the shops and visit Yu Garden. The Qing dynasty garden is an amazing collection of pond, pavilions and bonsai, I spent a short time there but you easily spend hours, it does get crowded. We went and had a tea tasting in old town, Sunni’s family has a tea plantation and she was in the know on types and preparation. Highly recommend this tour.

3-Hour Shanghai Yu Garden &Old Town Private Tour with Tea Tasting

Daniel_F, Jun 2025

This 3-hour tour was the...

This 3-hour tour was the perfect way to explore Shanghai’s rich history. Yu Garden was beautiful and peaceful, and our guide shared great insights about its architecture and cultural significance. The tea tasting was a real highlight – we sampled several traditional Chinese teas and learned about their origins and health benefits. The tea host was friendly and made the experience feel authentic. Highly recommended if you want a short but meaningful cultural experience in Shanghai

Private Half-Day Tour: Amazing Highlights of Old Shanghai

Rebecca_R, Jan 2026

Great, informative tour!

I was picked up at my hotel by my guide, Peggy, who is very friendly and extremely helpful. We toured the Yu Gardens, Old Shanghai where I did some shopping, and she gave me an architectural tour of the Bund. She grew up in Shanghai and knew so many great details about everything we toured. She also also went the extra mile and helped me get a power adapter for my US laptop. She ordered it and had it delivered to a hotel where we picked it up - an absolute lifesaver. It was a very informative tour and I highly recommend Peggy as a guide..