Shanghai Private Custom Day Tour: Suzhou & Zhouzhuang Water Town
Active
7h - 8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This exclusive private day tour from Shanghai takes you to two iconic destinations—Suzhou, the “Venice of the East” with UNESCO-listed classical gardens and Tiger Hill, and Zhouzhuang, China’s best-preserved “No.1 Water Town”; your professional English-speaking guide will help you uncover their hidden stories efficiently, and you can customize your experience by choosing 1 or 2 spots from four famous Suzhou attractions (Master of the Nets Garden, Lingering Garden, Lion Grove Garden and Tiger Hill). Enjoy hassle-free travel with a private air-conditioned vehicle (Shanghai hotel pickup/drop-off) and all entrance tickets included, no hidden fees.
Available options
Private Tour
Pickup included
What's included
Bottled water
Professional guide
Hotel pickup and drop off
Entrance fee
Detailed itinerary
1
Kick off your exclusive private adventure in true comfort: your professional English-speaking guide and experienced driver will meet you right at the lobby of your Shanghai hotel, punctual and ready to make your day seamless. No rushing, no waiting for other travelers—this journey is tailored entirely to you, starting with a stress-free pickup that lets you relax from the very first moment.
Board our spacious, air-conditioned private vehicle and settle in for a scenic 1.5-hour drive to Suzhou, famously hailed as China’s “Venice of the East.” Along the way, your knowledgeable guide will share the city’s rich history, and you’re welcome to ask any questions anytime.
2
Upon arriving in Suzhou, you’ll have the flexibility to choose 1 or 2 legendary classical gardens to explore (our guide will help you decide based on your interests!), each a masterpiece of Chinese landscape design with unique charm and history. Below are the highlights of each garden to help you choose:
3
- Master of the Nets Garden (Our Top Recommendation!): A small but exquisite garden famous for its clever layout and iconic “Moon Gate,” reflecting the philosophy of harmony between man and nature.
- Lingering Garden: One of China’s Four Great Classical Gardens, featuring diverse sections, ancient stone carvings, and the lucky “Nine-Lion Stone.”
- Lion Grove Garden: A playful garden known for its 600-year-old lion-shaped limestone rock formations and fun rock maze.
- Tiger Hill—known as “Suzhou’s No.1 Scenic Spot,” it boasts a 2500-year history, an ancient leaning pagoda (called the “Eastern Leaning Tower of Pisa”), delicate bonsai, and fascinating legends about King Helü of Wu, all shared by your guide.
Lunch is not included in this tour, but your guide is happy to recommend authentic local Suzhou restaurants that suit your taste and budget.
4
After lunch, take a 1-hour private drive to Zhouzhuang, China’s best-preserved ancient water town known as the “No.1 Water Town in China.”
Your tour includes Zhouzhuang admission: with your guide, you’ll visit iconic Double Bridge (the town’s symbol), ancient merchant residences with well-preserved Ming-Qing furniture and architecture, cobblestone lanes lined with traditional wooden houses, and canal banks—learning about the town’s 900-year history, local customs, and the daily life of residents who have lived by the canals for generations.
Optional (at your own expense): A traditional wooden canal boat ride can be arranged by your guide on the spot.
As the day draws to a close, your guide and driver will escort you back to your Shanghai hotel, ensuring you travel in comfort and safety. You’ll return with a heart full of wonderful memories and a deeper understanding of Suzhou’s classical beauty and Zhouzhuang’s ancient charm—all from a private, personalized tour designed just for you
What's not included
Accommodation
Gratuities
Meals
Boat ride in Zhouzhuang
Available languages
Guide guide
ZH-TW
CMN
EN
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
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.
$248
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
