Shanghai: Suzhou Must-See Sites Day Trip-Private Tour&All Tickets
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8h - 9h
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About this experience
Escape Shanghai’s hustle for a seamless private day trip to Suzhou, designed to showcase both its ancient charm and modern vitality—combining old-world elegance with new-city glamour. Visit Lingering Garden (a UNESCO-listed classical garden, embodying traditional Chinese garden art), take a canal cruise (experiencing Suzhou’s “Venice of the East” heritage), wander Pingjiang Road (a well-preserved ancient block with 2,500-year-old stories), and admire Oriental Gate (a modern landmark blending traditional “moon gate” design with contemporary architecture) and Jinji Lake (a scenic 5A lake with stunning skyline views). This route is crafted to let you experience Suzhou’s “double-sided embroidery” charm—from its historic roots to modern prosperity. Enjoy a professional English guide, private car, and all entrance tickets included; your guide will recommend local cuisine for lunch (self-paid) for an authentic touch.
Available options
Private Tour
Pickup included
What's included
English speaking guide
Boat Ride
Hotel pickup and drop-off + Transport by private vehicle
Entrance fee
Detailed itinerary
1
This 8-hour private day tour from Shanghai takes you to explore Suzhou’s must-see attractions, offering a seamless and in-depth experience of the “Venice of the East.” Enjoy the convenience of a professional English-speaking guide, private air-conditioned vehicle (with Shanghai hotel pickup and drop-off), and all basic entrance tickets included. Lunch is not included, but your guide will recommend authentic local Suzhou cuisine, and you only need to pay for your meal yourself.
Start your journey comfortably: your professional English-speaking guide and experienced driver will meet you punctually at your Shanghai hotel lobby, ensuring a stress-free start with no waiting for other travelers.
Board our private vehicle for a 1.5-hour scenic drive to Suzhou. Along the way, your guide will briefly introduce Suzhou’s 2,500-year history and the highlights of the day’s must-see attractions, and you’re welcome to ask questions anytime.
2
Stop 2
Upon arrival, spend 1 hour at Lingering Garden—a must-visit for understanding Suzhou’s classical garden culture. As one of China’s Four Great Classical Gardens and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it perfectly embodies the Chinese philosophy of “harmony between man and nature,” with diverse scenic sections, ancient stone carvings, and the iconic lucky “Nine-Lion Stone” that showcases ancient Chinese craftsmanship.
3
Stop 3
Next, enjoy a 30-minute ancient canal boat ride—the best way to experience Suzhou’s reputation as the “Venice of the East.” Drift along the tranquil canals, pass by traditional houses and ancient stone bridges, and feel the slow rhythm of Suzhou’s water town life, which has been preserved for centuries.
Then, explore Pingjiang Road for 1.5 hours—Suzhou’s best-preserved historical and cultural block, known as “half of Suzhou’s history in one road”. Wander along the cobblestone streets lined with traditional wooden houses, admire the “water and road side by side” style, and discover hidden cultural gems, as your guide shares stories of its 2,500-year history and local customs.
4
After that, spend about 30 minutes taking photos of Oriental Gate (external view) and Jinji Lake (external view)—the modern symbols of Suzhou. Oriental Gate is known as “the Gate of the Orient” and one of Suzhou’s landmark buildings, while Jinji Lake offers beautiful waterfront views, creating a perfect contrast between Suzhou’s ancient charm and modern vitality.
During the tour, lunch is not included. Your guide will recommend authentic local restaurants (serving classic dishes like Sweet and Sour Mandarin Fish) that suit your taste and budget, and you can pay directly for your meal.
At the end of the tour, your guide and driver will safely escort you back to your Shanghai hotel, bringing you a day of unforgettable memories of Suzhou’s ancient culture and modern style.
What's not included
Gratuities
Accommodation
Meals
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Shanghai
Shanghai is a global financial hub and a city of stunning contrasts, where futuristic skyscrapers stand alongside traditional shikumen houses. It's known for its vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and historic landmarks, making it a must-visit destination in China.
Top Attractions
The Bund
The Bund is a famous waterfront area with a stunning skyline of colonial-era buildings and modern skyscrapers. It's a must-visit for its historic significance and breathtaking views.
Historical/Architecture
1-2 hours
Free
Oriental Pearl Tower
This iconic tower is a symbol of modern Shanghai, offering panoramic views of the city from its observation decks.
Architecture
2-3 hours
¥150-200
Yu Garden
Yu Garden is a classical Chinese garden with beautiful landscapes, pavilions, and historical buildings. It's a peaceful oasis in the bustling city.
Historical/Garden
2-3 hours
¥30
Shanghai Museum
The Shanghai Museum houses an extensive collection of ancient Chinese art and artifacts, providing a deep dive into China's rich history and culture.
Museum
2-3 hours
Free
Nanjing Road
Nanjing Road is one of the world's busiest shopping streets, offering a mix of international brands, local shops, and vibrant street life.
Shopping
2-3 hours
Varies by shop
Must-Try Local Dishes
Xiaolongbao
Small soup dumplings filled with meat and hot broth, typically pork. They are a staple of Shanghai cuisine and are often served with soy sauce and ginger.
Dumplings
Contains meat, gluten, and soy.
Braised Pork Belly (Hong Shao Rou)
A slow-cooked dish of pork belly braised in soy sauce, sugar, and other seasonings. It's tender, flavorful, and often served with steamed buns or rice.
Main dish
Contains pork and soy.
Shanghai Soup Dumplings (Shao Mai)
Open-topped dumplings filled with minced pork and shrimp, often served with a dipping sauce made of soy sauce, vinegar, and ginger.
Dumplings
Contains pork, shrimp, and soy.
Stinky Tofu (Chou Doufu)
Fermented tofu with a strong odor, often deep-fried and served with pickled cabbage. It's an acquired taste but a popular street food.
Snack
Vegetarian, contains soy.
Popular Activities
Hiking in nearby nature reserves
Biking along the Huangpu River
Tea house visits
Spa treatments
Visiting museums and historic sites
Attending traditional performances
Boat rides on the Huangpu River
Swimming at nearby beaches
Best Time to Visit
April to October
This period offers pleasant weather, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is lively with numerous festivals and events.
15°C to 35°C
59°F to 95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Chinese (Mandarin)
- Widely spoken: Shanghainese, English (in tourist areas)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Chinese Yuan Renminbi (CNY)
Time Zone
GMT+8
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Shanghai is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps like Didi.
- • Be wary of strangers offering unsolicited help or services.
Getting there
By air
- Shanghai Pudong International Airport • 30 km from city center
- Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport • 13 km from city center
By train
Shanghai Railway Station, Shanghai South Railway Station
By bus
Shanghai Long-Distance Bus Station, Shanghai South Long-Distance Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The Shanghai Metro is efficient, clean, and covers most of the city. It's the fastest and most convenient way to get around.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Didi, Meituan
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
The Bund
Pudong
French Concession
Xintiandi
Tianzifang
Day trips
Hangzhou
180 km from Shanghai • Full day
Hangzhou is a beautiful city known for its natural beauty, historic sites, and the famous West Lake. It's a great day trip from Shanghai for those looking to escape the city and enjoy some nature.
Suzhou
100 km from Shanghai • Full day
Suzhou is a historic city known for its classical gardens, silk production, and canals. It's a great day trip for those interested in history, culture, and architecture.
Zhujiajiao
50 km from Shanghai • Half day
Zhujiajiao is an ancient water town known for its well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture, canals, and bridges. It's a great day trip for those looking to experience traditional Chinese water town life.
Festivals
Shanghai Tourism Festival • September
Shanghai International Film Festival • June
Chinese New Year • January/February (varies)
Pro tips
- Use the Shanghai Public Transportation Card for convenient and discounted travel on metro, buses, and ferries.
- Download a translation app or carry a phrasebook to help with language barriers.
- Try local street food, but be cautious of food safety and choose busy stalls with high turnover.
- Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
- Consider hiring a local guide or joining a tour to gain insights into Shanghai's history and culture.
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