The 1 Best Pub Tours in Shanghai

Shanghai has a bustling bar scene that spans across rooftops, basements, and every floor in between. With so many options, it’s hard to know where to start. That’s where pub crawls come in. Going on a pub crawl is a great way to explore the city’s nightlife and meet new people. Whether you’re looking for local craft beers or fancy cocktails, Shanghai has it all. In this post, we’ll take a look at some of the best pub crawls in Shanghai, so grab a friend or two and let’s get started!

The 1 Best Pub Tours in Shanghai

  1. Shanghai Local Food and Beer Tour

The 1 Best Pub Tours in Shanghai

1. Shanghai Local Food and Beer Tour

The Shanghai Local Food and Beer Tour is an insider’s culinary journey through the city. Led by a local English-speaking guide, you’ll visit four family-run eateries where you’ll feast on 12 regional dishes, from made-to-order dumplings to traditional seafood recipes, all made from recipes passed down over generations. This small-group food crawl will take you far off the tourist track and let you dine shoulder-to-shoulder with Shanghai locals. The tour will end with a pint of craft beer at a local pub, giving you a chance to relax and reflect on the vibrant food scene you’ve just explored. Gratuities are included and unlimited food, beer, and drinks will be available at 4-5 stops. The meeting point is Jing’an Temple Subway Station, where your cultural and culinary adventure will begin.

Frequently Asked Questions by Tourists About Shanghai

As one of China’s most popular tourist destinations, Shanghai is a fascinating and vibrant city that attracts millions of visitors every year. Whether you’re planning your first trip to this metropolis or you’re a seasoned traveler returning for more, you likely have a few questions about Shanghai. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions by tourists about the city:

1. What is the best time to visit Shanghai?

The best time to visit Shanghai is in the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and comfortable. Summers can be hot and humid, and winters are chilly and windy, but still manageable. Consider avoiding Chinese holidays, such as the National Day (October 1-7), as the city can be very crowded during these times.

2. How should I dress when visiting Shanghai?

The dress code in Shanghai is generally casual, but depending on where you are going, you may want to dress up a bit. If you plan on visiting religious sites or attending business meetings, you should dress more conservatively. In general, it’s better to dress in layers as the temperature can fluctuate throughout the day, and comfortable walking shoes are a must.

3. What are some must-visit attractions in Shanghai?

Shanghai has many incredible attractions, but some of the most popular include:

  • The Bund: A famous waterfront promenade along the Huangpu River
  • Yu Garden: A classical Chinese garden in the heart of Shanghai
  • Shanghai Tower: The tallest building in China, boasting incredible views of the city
  • Shanghai Museum: A world-renowned museum featuring Chinese art and history exhibits
  • Disneyland Shanghai: A fun-filled theme park for the whole family

4. Where is the best place to stay in Shanghai?

There are many great areas to stay in Shanghai depending on your preferences, but some of the most popular include:

  • The Bund: If you want easy access to Shanghai’s waterfront attractions and nightlife
  • Pudong: If you want to be close to the financial district and modern skyscrapers
  • Jing’an: If you want to experience Shanghai’s local culture and nightlife
  • Huangpu: If you want a central location with easy access to attractions and transportation

5. Is it easy to get around Shanghai?

Yes, it’s relatively easy to get around Shanghai. The city has an extensive public transportation system that includes a subway, buses, and taxis. The subway system is extensive and easy to use, with signs and announcements in English. Taxis are also widely available and relatively affordable, but make sure the driver uses the meter.

6. What are some local dishes I should try in Shanghai?

Shanghai is known for its delicious cuisine, and some local dishes you shouldn’t miss include:

  • Xiaolongbao: Steamed dumplings filled with meat and soup
  • Crispy duck: A savory dish featuring tender and crispy duck meat
  • Stir-fried rice cakes: A popular street food made of rice cakes, vegetables, and meat
  • Braised pork: Slow-cooked pork belly in sweet soy sauce
  • Scallion pancakes: Crispy, savory pancakes with scallions

7. What is the currency used in Shanghai?

The currency used in Shanghai is the Chinese yuan (CNY). You can exchange foreign currency at the airport, banks, and exchange counters located throughout the city. International credit cards are widely accepted in most places, but it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases.

8. What are some common scams I should watch out for in Shanghai?

Like any big city, Shanghai has its fair share of scams. Some common ones include:

  • The tea ceremony scam: Someone will invite you to a tea ceremony, then demand an exorbitant amount of money afterwards
  • The fake ticket scam: Someone may try to sell you fake tickets to popular attractions
  • The pickpocket scam: Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas, as pickpocketing can be an issue

9. What is the tipping culture in Shanghai?

Tipping is not a common practice in China, and it’s not expected in most places in Shanghai either. In high-end restaurants and hotels, a service charge may be included in the bill, but otherwise, you don’t need to tip. If you receive exceptional service, thanking the staff or leaving a small gift is appreciated.

10. What are some important phrases to know in Mandarin when visiting Shanghai?

Learning a few key phrases in Mandarin can go a long way when visiting Shanghai. Some important phrases to know include:

  • Nǐ hǎo (Hello)
  • Xièxiè (Thank you)
  • Zài jiàn (Goodbye)
  • Tīng bù dǒng (I don’t understand)
  • Wǒ yào yīgè (I would like one)

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Shanghai: A Complete Guide

Shanghai, a bustling city in China, attracts millions of tourists from all over the world each year. The city is known for its skyscrapers, historical landmarks, parks, museums, tasty street food, and bustling nightlife. Whether you’re in Shanghai for just a few days or a whole week, there are plenty of things to do and see in this amazing city. In this guide, we’ll take you through some of the city’s top tourist attractions, and provide you with some tips on how to make the most of your time here.

1. Visit The Bund

A visit to Shanghai won’t be complete without experiencing The Bund, which is one of the city’s most popular waterfront destinations. It’s a 1.5-kilometer-long promenade that runs along the west bank of the Huangpu River. The Bund is lined with dozens of historical buildings, some of which were built by the British and Japanese during the colonial era. You’ll get an unparalleled view of the city from the promenade, and there are plenty of photo-taking opportunities.

2. Wander Around Yuyuan Garden

After visiting The Bund, head over to Yuyuan Garden, which is considered one of Shanghai’s must-visit tourist attractions. The garden is one hectare in size and has been around for over four centuries. It’s a classical Chinese-style design that features plenty of rockwork, pavilions, ponds, and plants. The garden has several sections, each with its unique features, including the Jade Rock, Sansui Hall, and the Wanhua Chamber. It’s an excellent spot to relax and escape from the hustle and bustle of Shanghai.

3. Experience Shanghai’s Food Scene

One of the most notable things about Shanghai is its fantastic street food, which comprises a mix of regional cuisines. Some popular dishes include xiaolongbao (steamed soup dumplings), fried noodles, roast meat skewers, fried rice cakes, and much more. To get the best experience, it’s always best to go on a food tour that will take you to some of the city’s top foodie destinations.

4. Explore Tianzifang

If you’re into arts and crafts or just looking to do some shopping while in Shanghai, Tianzifang is the place to go. It’s a labyrinth of narrow alleys packed with shops, cafes, bars, and art galleries. The shops here sell everything from traditional Chinese crafts to modern fashion apparel. It’s a great place to explore and to find souvenirs to take back home.

5. Climb Up the Shanghai Tower

Shanghai Tower is one of the city’s newest and most iconic skyscrapers. It’s the tallest building in China and the second tallest in the world, standing at 632 meters high. The tower comprises several observation decks that offer breathtaking views of the city. It’s worth mentioning that the Shanghai Tower has one of the fastest elevators in the world, which takes you up to the top floors in under a minute.

6. Watch a Chinese Acrobatic Show

If you’re looking for some evening entertainment, then catching a Chinese acrobatic show is a must-do. The shows feature a combination of stunts, dance, gymnastics, and contortion. The performers are incredibly skilled and will keep you entertained throughout the show. The most popular place to catch the show is the Shanghai Centre Theatre.

7. Visit the Shanghai Museum

Located in the heart of Shanghai, the Shanghai Museum is one of China’s most important museums. The museum has a vast collection of over 120,000 objects that span 5,000 years of Chinese art and history. The exhibits include pottery, jade, bronze, calligraphy, and much more. Visiting the museum is a great way to learn more about Chinese culture and history.

8. Take a Stroll Along the French Concession

The French Concession is another popular destination in Shanghai, particularly for those who love architecture. The area is a contrast to the modern side of the city, with tree-lined streets, colonial-era buildings, sidewalk cafes, and boutique shops. If you’re into photography, the French Concession is an excellent spot to capture some great shots.

Book Your Tour Now

Shanghai is an incredible city with plenty to offer tourists. From historical landmarks to skyscrapers, to fantastic food and bustling nightlife, there’s always something to do and see here. By following this guide, you’ll be able to make the most of your time in Shanghai and experience the best that the city has to offer. Don’t forget to take plenty of photos and immerse yourself in the local culture.

The 1 Best Pub Tours in Shanghai