Shanghai Former French Concession Guided Walking Tour
Overview
Available languages
3 hours
Mobile ticket
Step into the heart of Shanghai's former French Concession, where every tree-lined avenue tells a story! This French Concession Free Walking Tour invites you to explore a captivating blend of European elegance and Shanghai charm, all while being kind to your wallet.
Wander through tranquil gardens and past historic villas, where the whisper of 1930's glamour meets modern creative energy. Our passionate guides will take you back in time with incredible stories of writers, revolutionaries and residents who shaped this iconic neighborhood, transforming it into one of Shanghai's most beloved districts.
Highlights include a visit to the serene Fuxing Park, a stroll through the stylish Xintiandi, and insights into the architectural gems along Sinan Road. Join us for an engaging adventure that captures the spirit of old Shanghai and celebrates its remarkable legacy!
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Great World (Da Shi Jie)
The Great World (大世界)，opened in 1917, this wasn't just an amusement park; it was the absolute heart of Shanghai's entertainment universe for decades. Now, it's more of a curated museum of fun, but its spirit is absolutely timeless.
Shanghai Concert Hall
Shanghai Concert Hall, one of the city's most treasured landmarks，first opened it's doors in 1930, but back then, it wasn't for classical music—it was a glamorous movie theater called the Nanjing Theater, showing the latest Hollywood films and later transformed into a dedicated concert hall, becoming the home of classical music in Shanghai.
What‘s Included
English-speaking Tour Guide
Guided Shanghai City Tour
Personal expenses
Guide tips and gratuities
Options
Shanghai Former French Concession Guided Walking Tour
Reviews
13 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
5 star highlight of my solo trip to Shanghai
faparipis,Feb 24, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Honestly, one of the best things I did while exploring Shanghai solo. I’ve always wanted to see Shanghai vibe and this tour nailed it. Walking through those quiet, leafy streets and seeing the old villas was such a cool break from the crazy skyscraper side of the city. Huge thanks to Jane, our guide! She was so fun and actually made the history interesting, lots of cool stories about the writers and revolutionaries who used to hang out there. We hit Fuxing Park and Sinan Road, and the whole pace felt really chill. Even though I was on my own, it didn't feel awkward at all. Definitely worth joining if you’re in town. Thanks again, Jane!
Well Curated Tour led by Top Quality Guide!
hntmtravels,Feb 23, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Jane doesn't just 'do' a tour; she was really great at weaving her own stories, experiences and knowledge into her commentary, like how she spoke about the tension at Zhou En Lai's office. Would recommend joining this tour if you're visiting anytime soon and want to learn more about Shanghai on a deeper level. It is well curated and led by a really passionate guide.
Excellent Tour!
Tourist17432648865,Feb 22, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Alice was an excellent guide. Her knowledge and storytelling made the tour both educational and engaging. Highly recommended for a memorable experience!
Jane’s Shanghai French Concession tour is intimate, insightful, and full of local hidden gems. Highly recommended.
584zhangt,Feb 22, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Jane's MDT Shanghai French Concession tour was like a friendly stroll with someone who truly knows the neighborhood. She pointed out what guidebooks miss—the festive warmth of Fuxing Park during holiday fairs, the twinkling Huaihai Road views, and the creative life tucked inside Tianzifang's shikumen. Her personal touch, like explaining why locals knit sweaters for trees, made the area feel like home. I'll recommend this tour to everyone and will surely rebook when I'm back in Shanghai.
A poetic walk through time with Alice
Venture12135402852,Feb 21, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Alice's tour felt like walking through a beautifully composed film about Shanghai. She has an artist's eye for detail – pointing out the play of light through the ginkgo trees near the Concert Hall, or the contrasting textures of brick and stone in Sinan Mansions. Her explanations were thoughtful and evocative. She framed the tour as a "journey through time and daily life," and truly delivered. From the philosophical contrast of French vs. Chinese parks in Fuxing to the quiet story of survival at Saint Nicolas Church, Alice offered moments of reflection amidst the city bustle. A deeply enriching experience for the heart and mind.
Fun, funny, and full of energy – Chris is a rock-star guide!
Climber56261754821,Feb 21, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Chris turned a walking tour into one of the most entertaining afternoons I've had in Shanghai! His energy kept the whole group engaged from start to finish. He has a hilarious way of explaining things – comparing the Great World to "original social media" or breaking down the Feng Shui of Yan'an Elevated Road had us all laughing while learning. Highly recommend！
It's like a movie!!!
938emig,Feb 14, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I really enjoyed the Monster Day Tours French Concession free walking tour—it was completely different from when I first visited Shanghai years ago. Our guide Jane did a fantastic job explaining the city's history in a way that was easy to understand. She showed us both the past and present of Shanghai's urban development and planning, which I found truly fascinating. The changes in Xintiandi were also remarkable—I really liked the Shikumen architecture and the Site of the First CPC National Congress. Fuxing Park looked beautiful with its New Year flower display, and it was lovely to see locals preparing for the holiday. My friend and I explored Tianzifang, browsing small shops for Chinese souvenirs and artwork, and we also enjoyed plenty of snacks and restaurants along the way. I'll definitely bring more friends next time!
A Must-Do Walking Tour in Shanghai
Adventure55732441624,Feb 11, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This Shanghai Former French Concession Guided Walking Tour was an excellent experience. The guide was knowledgeable, engaging, and shared fascinating stories about the history, architecture, and daily life of the area. Walking through the tree-lined streets really gave a deeper appreciation of Shanghai’s unique blend of Eastern and Western influences. The pace was comfortable, and there was plenty of time for questions and photos. Highly recommended for anyone who wants to understand Shanghai beyond the modern skyline.
Amazing Experience!
Fearless42202581558,Feb 11, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00What I loved most about this tour was how it went far beyond the usual skyline views and glossy highlights. From retirees dancing in Fuxing Park to tucked-away alleyways in Tianzifang and stories about locals lining up for their favourite food spots along Huaihai Road, it offered such an authentic look at everyday life in Shanghai. The guide Michael was fantastic — witty, attentive, and full of small details I would never have noticed on my own, like the “dragon pillar” along Yan’an Road. Being in a small group made everything feel relaxed and personal, and it was easy to ask questions along the way. I came away with a real sense of the city’s rhythm and culture. If you’re hoping to experience Shanghai beyond the guidebook and skyscrapers, this tour is absolutely worth it.
Shanghai Former French Concession Guided Walking Tour
Curious48294624941,Feb 11, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This tour beautifully captured the charm and layered history of the Shanghai Former French Concession. Our guide Alice, was exceptional knowledgeable and passionate in the way she brought the stories of the neighborhood to life.It was a wonderful way to experience Shanghai beyond the skyline—intimate, cultural, and full of character.
-20% off
From US$4.00Was US$5.00
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Operated by Monster Day Tours Shanghai