5-Day Shanghai & Suzhou Classic Private Tour
5 Days
ABOUT THE TOUR
Experience the perfect fusion of history and modernity on this 5-day journey through Shanghai and Suzhou, where ancient traditions meet vibrant cityscapes. Explore Shanghai’s iconic landmarks, from the dazzling skyline of The Bund to the classical elegance of Yuyuan Garden, while strolling through the stylish Former French Concession and bustling Nanjing Road.
In Suzhou, step into a world of tranquility as you wander through Master of the Nets Garden, glide along the historic canals of Pingjiang Road, and uncover the secrets of Suzhou’s legendary silk industry. A visit to the picturesque Zhujiajiao Water Town adds a touch of old-world charm with its stone bridges and peaceful waterways. Blending cultural heritage, scenic beauty, and urban excitement, this trip promises an unforgettable adventure through two of China’s most captivating cities.
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Itinerary
Arrive in Shanghai, where your guide will greet you at the airport or train station and escort you to your hotel. Take the evening to explore at your own pace—perhaps a leisurely stroll along Nanjing Road’s dazzling shopping district or a scenic walk along The Bund to soak in the city’s stunning skyline.
Included Meals: No meals
Accommodation: Holiday Inn Express Shanghai Changfeng Park or similar
Start your day with a visit to Chenghuangmiao (City God Temple) & Yuyuan Garden, a vibrant marketplace filled with traditional architecture and delicious local snacks. Then, walk along The Bund, where old-world charm meets Shanghai’s towering modern skyline. Continue to Nanjing Road, the city's premier shopping street, before delving into the treasures of the Shanghai Museum, home to an impressive collection of ancient Chinese art. In the evening, head to Suzhou, the "Venice of the East," where you’ll settle in for the night.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Holiday Inn Express Shanghai Changfeng Park or similar
Today is all about discovering Suzhou’s poetic charm. Begin at the Master of the Nets Garden, a mesmerizing example of classical Chinese landscape design, where every rock, pond, and pavilion is carefully placed to create perfect harmony. Then, lose yourself in the cobbled alleys of Pingjiang Road, a dreamy riverside street lined with traditional tea houses, bookshops, and hidden courtyards that transport you back in time.
Midday, unlock the secrets of Suzhou’s silk-making heritage at a Silk Factory, where delicate silkworms spin their magic into the luxurious fabric that has enchanted emperors for centuries. As the day winds down, you’re free to explore more—perhaps a peaceful boat ride along the canals, or a dinner of Suzhou’s signature dish, sweet and sour Mandarin fish.
Included Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation: Holiday Inn Express Suzhou Taihu Lake or similar
Say farewell to Suzhou and journey back to Shanghai, stopping first at Zhujiajiao Water Town, an ancient riverside village where arched stone bridges, winding alleyways, and wooden boats transport you to another time. Wander through the town, browse local handicrafts, and enjoy a traditional boat ride along the canals. Returning to Shanghai in the afternoon, you’ll explore the Former French Concession, a beautiful district with tree-lined streets, Art Deco buildings, and trendy cafés. Conclude the day in Xintiandi, a lively entertainment hub where historic Shikumen-style buildings now house chic boutiques, bars, and restaurants. If you're up for more adventure, consider an evening cruise on the Huangpu River for a dazzling view of the city's skyline.
Included Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation: Holiday Inn Express Suzhou Taihu Lake or similar
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before your transfer to the airport or train station. Take in the last moments of your journey, reflecting on the unforgettable experiences, from ancient gardens to modern cityscapes. Safe travels, and see you again!
Included Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: N/A
Important Notes
- Minimum: 2 individuals
- Maximum: 16 individuals
To secure your booking, full payment is required at the time of reservation. After creating your booking, you will be directed to your invoice, where you can select your preferred payment method.
Voluntary Changes:
Please note that any changes or upgrades requested after the booking is confirmed will be subject to a fee of AUD220 per person per change, in addition to any applicable supplier costs. This fee covers modifications to flights, hotels, tour dates, or any other services included in your package. To ensure smooth processing, we kindly request that you provide us with a minimum of 72 hours notice for all voluntary changes.
Cancellations & Refunds:
Please note that in the event of tour cancellation, a cancellation fee of AUD550 per person will be charged, in addition to any relevant supplier costs. Refund requests must be submitted in writing and will take up to 6 weeks to process. It is important to note that no refunds can be issued once the tour has commenced (for the flight-inclusive package, no refunds can be issued once the flights have been ticketed).
Name Correction Fees:
A fee of AUD220 per person applies to name corrections on documents, along with any supplier costs. Kindly note that name corrections must be requested at least 72 hours prior to departure and are subject to approval from the supplier.
Document Change Fees:
A fee of AUD220 per person will be charged for any passport changes, in addition to any applicable supplier costs. Please note that train tickets and admission access must be linked to your travel passport details. Any changes to passport information must be requested at least 14 days before departure and are subject to approval from the supplier.
Supplier Fees:
In the event that the tour you have purchased is unable to proceed or a travel supplier is unable to fulfil the tour due to external circumstances (such as a Force Majeure event), there may be a fee or amount of money that is withheld by our suppliers and is unrecoverable. This could be due to non-refundable airline tickets, cancellation penalties with cruise cabins, or unrecoverable payments with our land/accommodation partners. As your agent, Better Trip is committed to covering these costs and will make every effort to recover all funds committed and/or paid for your tour. However, please note that this may not be possible in every circumstance. If refunds are unavailable from our suppliers, we will strive to obtain a travel credit with the best possible terms and communicate these options to you. If Better Trip cannot obtain a refund, travel service credit, or only a partial refund, this cost will be passed on to the customer as a supplier fee. It is important to note that this fee is not intended to generate revenue but to cover the payments our suppliers withhold during the recovery process.
To ensure a smooth journey, it is imperative that you possess a valid passport and have obtained all necessary visas, permits, and certificates for the countries you plan to visit. Please note that passports are mandatory for all travellers when departing from Australia. For a permanent resident to travel on a foreign passport, you must also hold an Australian Re-entry Visa. Additionally, many countries require foreign nationals entering their borders to possess a passport with a minimum of six months validity. Remember, the ultimate responsibility for ensuring the accuracy of your documentation lies with you as the individual traveller. Any fines, penalties, or expenses incurred due to incorrect documentation will be solely your responsibility.
Travel insurance is a requirement for all our travellers and should be obtained at the time of booking. Your travel insurance should cover personal accidents, death, medical expenses, and emergency repatriation, with a recommended minimum coverage of US$200,000 for each category. We also strongly recommend coverage for cancellation, curtailment, personal liability, luggage loss, and personal effects. On the first day of your trip, you must provide proof of your travel insurance. Please note that joining the trip will not be possible without it. If you would like our assistance obtaining travel insurance, please contact us via email at bookings@bettertrip.com.au.
Fitness Requirements
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, participants in our tours should have a moderate level of fitness, including the ability to walk for extended periods and navigate varying terrains. The tour may involve physical activities such as hiking and walking tours, so we recommend being comfortable with exertion for several hours. If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, please consult a healthcare professional before booking. Regular physical activity leading up to the tour is encouraged to enhance your experience. Your safety is our top priority, so if you feel unwell during the tour, please inform your local guide.
Accommodation
Accommodations included in your tour package will be specified in your itinerary. While we strive to provide the listed accommodations, substitutions may be necessary due to availability. For bedding configurations, we offer double or twin options for travellers sharing a room, based on availability. Solo travellers who have purchased the single supplement will have the option of a single bed. Check-in is typically between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM, and check-out usually occurs between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM; early or late check-in/out may be available upon request, but is not guaranteed. Standard amenities will be provided, although additional services may incur extra charges. We are not liable for any loss or damage to personal property during your stay, so we recommend securing travel insurance for unforeseen events. Lastly, guests are responsible for adhering to any health and safety guidelines set by the accommodation providers.
Underage Travellers
All travellers under the age of 18 must have written consent from a parent or legal guardian to participate in the tour and must be accompanied by a responsible adult who will ensure their safety and well-being. Accommodation arrangements must comply with the policies of the accommodation provider, which may have age restrictions regarding room occupancy. Parents or guardians are responsible for informing us of any medical conditions or special requirements for the minor, and we recommend that all minors have appropriate travel insurance. Some of our packages are exclusively available for adult travellers aged 18 and over. All travellers are expected to adhere to our code of conduct; inappropriate behaviour may result in removal from the tour without a refund. Additionally, some activities may have age restrictions, and it is the responsibility of the accompanying adult to ensure all activities are suitable for the minor.
Tipping
Tipping is not included in your tour package and is expected to be paid during the tour. We recommend a gratuity of AUD 20 per day, per person for tour guides, drivers, and other service personnel to reflect the level of service provided. Tipping can be made in cash and given directly to the service personnel at your discretion. Please note that tipping customs may vary by country, so we encourage you to familiarize yourself with local practices. By participating in our tours, you acknowledge and accept this tipping policy.
Itinerary Modification
The itinerary presented in your tour package is subject to modification due to unforeseen circumstances beyond the control of Better Trip, such as weather conditions and operational requirements. In the event of any changes, we will notify you via email with relevant advice or instructions as soon as possible. While we will strive to provide suitable alternative arrangements, we cannot guarantee that all aspects of the original itinerary will remain unchanged. It is the traveller’s responsibility to stay informed of updates prior to departure, and by booking with us, you acknowledge and accept that itinerary modifications may occur.
Typically
$1500.00