Top 5 Best Free Tours in Shanghai

🥇 Top 5 Best Free Tours in Shanghai, China – Discover the City Like a Local

If you’re visiting China’s most exciting metropolis and searching for the best free tour in Shanghai, you’re in the right place. Shanghai is a city full of contrasts—historic streets meet futuristic skylines, traditional street food sits next to Michelin stars. The best way to explore it all? Join a tip-based free walking tour led by passionate local guides.

At FreeToursShanghai.com, we offer carefully curated experiences that bring Shanghai’s rich stories, flavors, and people to life — for free (just tip your guide). Here are the top 5 best free tours in Shanghai that you absolutely shouldn’t miss:

1. 🏙️ Shanghai City Highlights Free Walking Tour

Best for First-Time Visitors

This all-in-one city introduction takes you through central Shanghai’s most iconic landmarks and local secrets. From the buzz of People’s Square to peaceful alleyways and the Bund skyline, you’ll get a feel for both old and new Shanghai.

Tour highlights:

• People’s Square & People’s Park

• Local wet markets and alley life

• Historical buildings and the Bund

• Insider tips from a local guide

Duration: ~4 hours
Cost: Tip-based

2. 🌿 French Concession Free Walking Tour

Best for History & Architecture Fans

Wander through tree-lined avenues, Art Deco buildings, and hidden courtyards in the former French Concession. Learn how this colonial neighborhood became one of Shanghai’s most beloved districts.

Tour highlights:

• Middle Huaihai Road & Sinan Mansions

• Former French Courthouse & Club

• Tian Zi Fang art market

• Hidden lanes & cultural gems

Duration: ~3 hours
Cost: Tip-based

3. 🍜 Shanghai Local Food Free Walking Tour

Best for Foodies

Skip the tourist traps and eat where locals do! This walking tour combines sightseeing with street eats, giving you a taste of over a dozen traditional dishes.

Tastes may include:

• Soup dumplings (Xiaolongbao)

• Roasted duck, spring rolls, local noodles

• Lotus sticky rice, sweet tofu

• Green and black tea tastings

Duration: ~2.5–3 hours
Cost: Tip-based (you pay for what you eat)

4. 🚴 Half-Day Free Bike Tour of Old Shanghai (with Food Tasting)

Best for Active Explorers

Cycle through Shanghai’s old town, visit hidden temples, markets, and enjoy authentic snacks along the way. See more of the city while getting some light exercise.

Tour highlights:

• Old town alleys & local life

• Confucian Temple & wet markets

• Noodle shops & duck stalls

• Guided local insights along the ride

Duration: ~3.5 hours
Cost: Tip-based (bike rental not included)

5. 🕍 Hidden Temples & Local Life Free Walking Tour

Best for Culture Seekers

Explore lesser-known parts of Shanghai that tourists rarely see. This route dives deep into spiritual life, community culture, and peaceful temple architecture.

Tour highlights:

• Shanghai Confucian Temple

• Local community centers

• Historical backstreets

• Small local bites along the way

Duration: ~3 hours
Cost: Tip-based

✅ Why These Are the Best Free Tours in Shanghai

• All tours are tip-based, meaning you only pay what you think it’s worth

• Real local guides who love sharing their city

• Small groups, no commercial tourist traps

• Perfect for solo travelers, couples, and curious families

• Easy online booking with instant confirmation

📅 How to Join

Booking is quick and easy at FreeToursShanghai.com. Just pick your preferred tour, choose the date and time, and get your confirmation instantly. No payment required upfront—just show up and enjoy!

Final Tip: Try More Than One Tour!

Each of these top free tours in Shanghai shows a different side of the city. Do more than one to get a full picture of Shanghai—from its colonial past and foodie present to its local heartbeat.