Beyond the city

Suzhou, Hangzhou or a water town — there and back in a day

One driver, one vehicle, no train schedules or bus timetables. Leave from your hotel in the morning, home by evening.

DestinationDrive time (one way)Best for
Zhujiajiao~55 minThe closest water town — canals, Fangsheng Bridge, a relaxed half-day feel
Wuzhen~2 hrsThe best-preserved water town, canal-side inns, evening lantern light
Zhouzhuang~1.5 hrsChina's classic "Venice of the East" water town
Suzhou~1.5 hrsClassical gardens, canals, Pingjiang Road old town
Hangzhou~2.5 hrsWest Lake, tea plantations, temples in the hills

One flat day rate whatever the destination — $220 (7-seat GL8) or $255 (9-seat van), including 8 hours and 100 km, plus driver, fuel, tolls and parking. Extra distance $2/km. Entry tickets and your own meals are not included. Prefer to stay in the city? See Shanghai day charter — the same day rate.

Sample days

Start from one of these, then change anything

Suzhou gardens

Humble Administrator's Garden → Lion Grove Garden → lunch on Pingjiang Road → a canal walk before heading back.

Hangzhou West Lake

West Lake loop → Lingyin Temple → a tea-plantation stop in the hills → Hefang Old Street on the way back.

Zhujiajiao water town

Canal boat ride → Fangsheng Bridge → tea house lunch → back in the city by early evening.

Day trip FAQ

Before you book

Yes — with a private driver there's no train or bus schedule to plan around, so most guests are back at their Shanghai hotel by early evening.
Per vehicle for the whole day — driver, fuel, tolls and parking included. GL8 fits up to 6 people, the larger van up to 9.
Zhujiajiao is closest and easiest for a half-day feel; Wuzhen and Zhouzhuang are further but more atmospheric. Tell us how much time you have and we'll recommend one honestly.
Yes — tell us your flight and we'll build the pickup around it. See Pudong or Hongqiao transfer pricing for a straight-to-hotel option too.
Email us for a quote Online now · reply within the hour💬