There are many ways to go around Shanghai. There are buses, the metro, cabs. It’s an easy city to go around in.
One way to experience the city as a tourist is to use the hop on hop off Shanghai tour buses that will take you to all the must-see places in the city.
It’s particularly useful if you don’t have knowledge of the local language. No more squinting at the Metro map or trying to figure out the bus routes.
Coming from India, I did find the rates to be on the high side, but there’s no denying its convenience and safety. They also have an audio commentary that you can turn on so you understand the places you are going through. If the commentary gets too annoying, just switch it off 🙂 .
Check out this trip advisor link for booking tickets. You can opt for a 24 hour (1-day) or 48 hour (2-day) ticket. Some purchase options also include tickets to attractions such as the Jin Mao Tower or River Cruise, which makes this option quite attractive.
Most tourists (especially from India) who travel to China go in for package tours. And yes, that’s a great option. But in Shanghai, going through a package tour will only hinder your freedom.
Instead, try this hop on hop off option, I think you will find it very convenient. They are definitely cheaper than cabs, offer better views than the Metro, and if you sit on the top of the bus, you can get some really good pics of the city.
