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Your Location: Home > Best Shanghai Tours & Packages > Shanghai Tours For First Time Travelers > Local's Shanghai Sightseeing Tour: Markets, Food, and Old Streets

Local's Shanghai Sightseeing Tour: Markets, Food, and Old Streets

From $60 per person
Local's Shanghai Sightseeing Tour: Markets, Food, and Old Streets
  • Local's Shanghai Sightseeing Tour: Markets, Food, and Old Streets
  • Local's Shanghai Sightseeing Tour: Markets, Food, and Old Streets
  • Local's Shanghai Sightseeing Tour: Markets, Food, and Old Streets
  • Local's Shanghai Sightseeing Tour: Markets, Food, and Old Streets
  • Local's Shanghai Sightseeing Tour: Markets, Food, and Old Streets

Tour Style:
See Shanghai the way a resident knows it on this one-day Shanghai sightseeing tour. Your English-speaking local guide starts the day at your hotel in Shanghai or the Shanghai train station, then takes you off the usual tourist route: a traditional breakfast of jianbing and xiaolongbao, the morning scene at People's Park and its Marriage Market, a neighborhood wet market, and the bird and insect market. You break for a Shanghai lunch of soup dumplings and pan-fried buns, then walk Xintiandi, the Former French Concession, and Tianzifang. The pace is flexible, and your guide adjusts each stop to what you want to see. This Shanghai land tour is built around real daily life rather than a fixed checklist, so you finish the day with a fuller picture of how the city eats, shops, and spends its mornings.

Duration: 6-8 hours

Attractions(Cities):
Breakfast Spot, People’s Park, Wet & Food Market, Shanghai Bird and Insect Market, Xintiandi, Old French Concession, Tianzifang Area

Pick-up point:
Your hotel in Shanghai or Shanghai train station (based on your requirement)

Finishing point:
Your hotel in Shanghai or Shanghai train station (based on your requirement)

Tour Customizable:
Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry)

Payment Types:
Cash, Wire, Paypal, WesternUnion, Wechat, Alipay

Available: Daily

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Tour Itinerary
Optional Activities
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Tour Itinerary

  • Place&Transport: Shanghai
  • Today's Activities: Breakfast Spot, People’s Park, Wet & Food Market, Shanghai Bird and Insect Market, Xintiandi, Old French Concession, Tianzifang Area
  • Accommodation: N/A
  • Meal: To avoid touristy pre-made meals, our guides will recommend top local restaurants, help you choose dishes, and explain their cultural significance for an authentic taste of local cuisine.

Your guide meets you at your hotel in Shanghai or at the Shanghai train station, holding a "Your Way Holiday" sign. The day runs mainly on foot through the old neighborhoods, and your guide plans the route between stops and handles the tickets, so you can slow down, look around, and ask questions as you go.

Your Way Holiday In Shanghai

A Shanghai Breakfast with the Locals

Your guide starts at a breakfast counter that locals actually use, not a hotel buffet. You try jianbing, a savory crepe folded to order, with youtiao (fried dough sticks) and fresh soy milk, and xiaolongbao, the steamed soup dumplings Shanghai is known for. Whether the food comes from a street stall or a small family-run shop, your guide explains what makes each dish a morning staple, so the breakfast also shows you how a Shanghai day begins.

breakfast-in-shanghaibreakfast-shanghai

People's Park and the Marriage Market

People's Park sits in the city center on the site of a former horse-racing track, and in the morning it fills with residents practicing tai chi, dancing, and playing Chinese chess. Its best-known corner is the Marriage Market, where parents post handwritten profiles of their children on rows of umbrellas. Your guide walks you through this open-air scene and explains the family values behind it, one of the most candid sights on any Shanghai sightseeing tour.

people's-parlpeople's-park-shanghai

A Neighborhood Wet Market

You move into a working wet market, laid out the way local shoppers want it: live seafood, seasonal vegetables, pickles, and prepared snacks. Vendors fillet fish and bundle greens while regulars compare prices in Shanghainese. Your guide helps you read the produce, points out what families cook at home, and can arrange a taste of a seasonal fruit or a small snack, so the market becomes a short lesson in everyday Shanghai food instead of a quick walk-through.

wet-market-shwet-market-shanghai

The Bird and Insect Market

At the bird and insect market, caged songbirds, crickets, and small pets line the narrow rows, a hobby that has been part of Shanghai neighborhood life for generations. Your guide explains why keeping songbirds and raising crickets became a pastime here, then lets you take your time to look, ask, and watch the regulars compare birds before you head to lunch.

Bird-and-Insect-MarketBird-and-Insect-Market-shanghai

Lunch over Xiaolongbao and Shengjianbao

For lunch your guide brings you to a local restaurant for two Shanghai classics: xiaolongbao, the soup dumplings, and shengjianbao, pan-fried buns with a crisp base. Your guide helps you order a balanced set and explains each dish, and you pay for what you eat. Vegetarian or lighter options are easy to arrange in advance, and the break gives you time to relax before the afternoon walk.

food-in-shanghaishanghai-food

Xintiandi and the Former French Concession

The afternoon shifts to Xintiandi, where traditional shikumen stone-gate houses have been turned into boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. Your guide explains how these lanes were built and preserved, then walks you into the nearby Former French Concession, with its plane-tree avenues and colonial-era villas, and recounts the years when this area was part of Shanghai's foreign settlements.

shikumen-shanghaiold-street-shanghai

Tianzifang's Shikumen Lanes

Tianzifang is a maze of narrow shikumen lanes filled with craft studios, small galleries, cafes, and local eateries, set in the same French Concession district. Your guide shows how an old workshop neighborhood became a design and shopping hub, then leaves you free time to wander the lanes, browse the shops, and take photos at your own pace.

tianzifang_2.jpgTianzifang_5.png

Your guide sees you back to your hotel or the Shanghai train station, and the day closes with a fuller sense of how Shanghai eats, shops, and spends its mornings, beyond the usual postcard views.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this Shanghai sightseeing tour cover?

It is a one-day local Shanghai tour built around everyday life: a traditional breakfast, People's Park and its Marriage Market, a wet market, the bird and insect market, a Shanghai lunch, then Xintiandi, the Former French Concession, and Tianzifang.

Where does the tour start and end?

Your guide meets you at your hotel in Shanghai or at the Shanghai train station and sees you back to the same point at the end of the day; airport pickup is not part of this tour.

Is this a private Shanghai land tour?

Yes. This Shanghai land tour is private, so the order of stops and the pace follow you and your guide rather than a fixed group timetable.

Can the food stops suit my diet?

Tell us before the day and your guide will choose a restaurant that fits vegetarian, halal, or lighter needs and helps you order, so breakfast and lunch still taste local.

How much walking is involved, and can we stop along the way?

The day centers on walking through markets and old lanes with breaks for food, so wear comfortable shoes. Your guide can slow the pace or pause at a cafe whenever you want and help you take photos along the way.

Optional Activities

At Your Way Holiday, we strive to enhance the depth and flexibility of your travel experience by offering a range of optional additions to our core tour itineraries. Our itineraries are designed to provide exceptional flexibility, allowing you to tailor your journey according to your preferences. Select from a variety of activities and experiences to enrich your itinerary, ensuring a personalized adventure that perfectly aligns with your interests. With Your Way Holiday, you have the freedom to create a memorable travel experience that is uniquely yours.

Tai Chi Morning Practice in Shanghai
Start your day with a unique cultural experience by practicing Tai Chi in one of Shanghai's serene parks, such as People's Park or Century Park. Join the local residents in their morning routine and embrace Shanghai’s healthy lifestyle. Under the guidance of a professional instructor, you’ll learn the basic movements of Tai Chi, a traditional Chinese martial art known for its slow, flowing motions that promote relaxation and balance. This activity offers a peaceful way to start your day while immersing yourself in local traditions, and it’s a perfect opportunity to connect with the local community and experience the harmony between mind and body.

Tai-Chi-Morning-Practice-in-ShanghaiTai-Chi-Morning-Practice-Shanghai

Shanghai Handicraft Experience
Immerse yourself in the rich traditions of Shanghai by visiting local workshops or cultural districts, such as Tianzifang or M50 Creative Park. Here, you will have the opportunity to learn and practice traditional Chinese handicrafts, including paper cutting, clay sculpture, and embroidery. Under the guidance of skilled artisans, you will create your own masterpiece and take home a unique souvenir, offering a tangible connection to Shanghai’s intangible cultural heritage. This experience provides insight into the city’s craftsmanship and preserves the artistry that has been passed down through generations.

Shanghai-Handicraft-ExperienceHandicraft-Experience

Shanghai Night Market BBQ Experience
Embark on a memorable night tour to Shanghai’s bustling night markets, such as Changli Road Night Market or Shouning Road Night Market, to indulge in a variety of delicious BBQ street foods. From skewers of grilled meats to marinated vegetables, these night markets are a feast for your senses. The lively atmosphere and smoky aroma of the BBQ stalls will introduce you to the vibrant culture of Shanghai’s street food scene. Immerse yourself in this authentic experience and enjoy some of the best local BBQ flavors Shanghai has to offer.

Shanghai-Night-Market-BBQ-ExperienceNight-Market-BBQ-Experience

Shanghai Tea Culture Experience
Immerse yourself in the rich tea culture of Shanghai by visiting traditional teahouses such as Huxin Pavilion Tea House or Old Shanghai Tea House. Learn the art of Gaiwan tea brewing and explore the customs and etiquette surrounding tea ceremonies. During this experience, you will not only enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of these classic tea houses, but also taste signature teas like Jasmine tea and Longjing (Dragon Well). Gain insight into Shanghai’s leisurely lifestyle and its centuries-old tea traditions, creating a deeper appreciation for this integral part of Chinese culture.

tea-culture-shanghaitea-house-sh

Shanghai Dialect Class
Join a fun and educational session to learn the basics of the Shanghai dialect, guided by a professional instructor. In this class, you'll cover essential pronunciation, commonly used vocabulary, and simple phrases to help you communicate like a local. Along with language learning, you'll also explore the rich history and cultural background of the Shanghai dialect, gaining deeper insight into how it has evolved over time. Experience the charm of this unique local language and immerse yourself in the authentic cultural atmosphere of Shanghai.

Dialect-ClassShanghai-Dialect-Class

From $60 per person
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Price Per Person in US Dollars

Price Includes

1. Cozy Ride: Enjoy the comfort and spaciousness of our air-conditioned car, offering scenic views.
2. Bilingual Expert Guide: Benefit from a personalized experience with a guide fluent in your language, catering to your needs.
3. Entrance Fees: Access all attractions and activities mentioned in the itinerary without worrying about additional entrance fees.
4. Seamless Transfer: Enhance your experience with convenient hotel or train station pickup and drop-off service.
5. Connect Seamlessly: Stay connected with complimentary onboard WiFi, allowing you to share your experiences in real-time.
6. Complimentary Water: Receive a complimentary bottle of water for each person, keeping you refreshed throughout your journey.
7. Travel Agency Liability Insurance: Benefit from coverage under our travel agency liability insurance, providing added protection and peace of mind during your trip.


Price Excludes

1. Personal Expenses: This includes phone bills, laundry, additional tours, postage, and any entertainment fees not covered in the itinerary.
2. Meals: While meals are not included, our guide will recommend the best local food spots, giving you the chance to explore and choose based on your preferences. (Average cost per person for a regular meal at local eateries: 40RMB/6USD-80RMB/12USD)
3. Tips: Tips are not mandatory but are recommended for excellent service. If you feel satisfied with the service, you may consider leaving a tip. The tipping standards are as follows: Driver: 50-100 RMB per day/group; Guide: 100-200 RMB per day/group.
4. Insurance: Insurance coverage for personal loss, illness, or damages incurred during your trip is not included.
5. Optional Activities: Any optional activities listed in the itinerary are not included in the tour fees, allowing you to choose and participate based on your preferences.

How Our Teams Serve you at Your Way Holiday

Personalized Travel Consultant
Experience the best of China with our expert travel consultants by your side. With years of local tourism experience, they are not only professional and knowledgeable but also deeply committed to making your trip unforgettable. Your dedicated consultant will craft a bespoke tour plan tailored to your unique interests, schedule, and budget, offering you the utmost flexibility. From the moment you start planning until the end of your journey, they will be in touch, ensuring every detail is perfect and that your trip runs smoothly.

China-tour-Personalized-Travel-Consultant-Your-Way-holidayTour-Personalized-Travel-Consultant

Exceptional Local Guides
Discover it through the eyes of our exceptional local guides. All certified and experienced, they are passionate about sharing their deep knowledge of attractions, history, and culture. Whether you're interested in hidden gems or popular sites, they know the best places to visit. They can recommend top local restaurants, unique shopping spots, and must-see shows. Beyond just guiding, they provide enriching insights into the history, customs, and authentic daily life, making your experience truly immersive.

Exceptional-Local-Guides-China-tourExceptional-Local-Guides-china-tour-Your-way-holiday

Premium Private Transportation
Travel in comfort and style with our premium private transportation. We offer a fleet of air-conditioned, non-smoking, clean, and meticulously maintained vehicles, all less than four years old. Our professional drivers, all locals with over a decade of driving experience, are friendly, courteous, and dedicated to your safety and comfort. Depending on your group's size, we provide a range of vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, business vans (MPVs), and spacious buses, all with ample luggage space.

Premium-Private-Transportation-China-tourYour-Way-holiday-Premium-Private-Transportation

Authentic Dining Experiences
We prioritize genuine local culinary experiences over pre-arranged tourist restaurants. Our local guides will recommend the best local restaurants where you can savor authentic flavors. This approach ensures you enjoy the freshest, most authentic meals, tailored to your preferences, and experience the true essence of the local cuisine. Whether your dietary needs are vegetarian, Muslim, Chinese, Western, Jewish, or Indian, we have excellent options to make every meal a delightful part of your journey.

Authentic-Dining-Experiences-china-tourChina-Tour-Authentic-Dining-Experiences

Questions & Answers or Review
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D
Drina Jones
Reviewed on 16 December 2019

My husband and I were in Shanghai in last week. We booked the trip with Shanghai Private Tour to get an overview of the city and thoroughly enjoyed our day with our guide Alex. He was outstanding as a tour guide with just the right amount of fun and knowledge to make the day fly by. We were intrigued with the marriage proposal area and loved watching many citizens dancing in the park. The views of the Bund were stunning and gave us a plan for the rest of the week. Alex speaks excellent English and found no question insignificant to answer whether about Shanghai's past or present.

Replied:28 October 2026

Drina, Alex is the go-to for a solid Shanghai overview. Glad you and your husband enjoyed the day!

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