Shanghai 6-Day Itinerary (Late November)

Day 1: Arrival & Downtown Exploration

Morning: Arrive at Pudong International Airport and take a maglev train to the city centre, checking into your hotel in the Huangpu district. Settle in and enjoy a quick brunch at a local café.

Afternoon: Stroll along The Bund to admire the historic colonial skyline and the futuristic Pudong skyline across the Huangpu River. Continue to People's Square and explore the Shanghai Museum, renowned for its ancient ceramics and calligraphy.

Evening: Wander through the bustling pedestrian street of Nanjing Road, stopping for dinner at a traditional Shanghainese restaurant. End the night with a night‑view cruise on the Huangpu River for dazzling lights.

Book a Hotel

Day 2: Classical Gardens & Old Town

Morning: Visit the tranquil Yu Garden, a classic Ming‑Dynasty garden featuring rockeries, ponds, and pavilions. Explore the surrounding Yuyuan Bazaar for souvenirs and street snacks.

Afternoon: Head to the historic Old City to see the City God Temple and sample dumplings at the famous Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant. Walk along the ancient lanes of Shikumen architecture.

Evening: Experience the lively atmosphere of Tianzifang, a network of narrow alleys filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and cafés. Dine on modern fusion cuisine at one of the rooftop bars.

Book a Hotel

Day 3: Modern Shanghai & Skyline

Morning: Take the metro to Lujiazui and ascend the iconic Shanghai Tower for panoramic views from the world’s second‑tallest building.

Afternoon: Visit the futuristic Shanghai World Financial Center and the observation deck of the Oriental Pearl Tower. Enjoy lunch at a riverside restaurant with views of the Huangpu.

Evening: Explore the chic district of Xintiandi, where historic shikumen houses have been transformed into stylish restaurants and bars. End the night with a cocktail in a trendy lounge.

Book a Hotel

Day 4: Day Trip to Zhujiajiao Water Town

Morning: Depart early by private car or bus to the ancient water town of Zhujiajiao, known as the “Venice of Shanghai”. Board a traditional wooden boat to glide through its canals.

Afternoon: Wander the stone‑paved streets, visiting highlights such as the Fangsheng Bridge, the Kezhi Garden, and the historic Bell Tower. Enjoy a riverside lunch of fresh fish and local delicacies.

Evening: Return to Shanghai and relax at your hotel. If energy permits, take a leisurely walk along the illuminated promenade of the Bund.

Book a Hotel

Day 5: Shanghai Disneyland

Morning: Arrive at Shanghai Disneyland before the gates open to maximize ride time. Start with the thrilling TRON Lightcycle Power Run and explore Fantasyland.

Afternoon: Enjoy a themed lunch at Royal Banquet Hall, then catch the spectacular “Tarzan” show. Visit the newly opened Adventure Isle and ride the Soaring Over the Horizon attraction.

Evening: Stay for the dazzling fireworks display over the castle before heading back to the city. Unwind with a late‑night snack at a nearby noodle shop.

Book a Hotel

Day 6: Culture & Departure

Morning: Visit the serene Jade Buddha Temple, home to two priceless jade Buddha statues. Take a moment for quiet reflection.

Afternoon: Explore the contemporary art district of M50 in the former industrial area of the Putuo district, browsing galleries and street art. Have a farewell lunch featuring Shanghai’s famous braised pork.

Evening: Retrieve your luggage, enjoy a final cup of tea at a local teahouse, and transfer to Pudong International Airport for your departure.

Book a Hotel

Time and Cost Estimates

  • The Bund – 1.5 hours – Free (optional river cruise $25)
  • Shanghai Museum – 2 hours – Free
  • Yu Garden – 2 hours – $10 entry
  • Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant – 1 hour – $15 meal
  • Tianzifang – 2 hours – Free (shopping variable)
  • Shanghai Tower Observation Deck – 1.5 hours – $30
  • Oriental Pearl Tower – 1 hour – $20
  • Xintiandi – 2 hours – Free (dinner $25)
  • Zhujiajiao Water Town – Full day – $40 transport + $15 entry + $20 meals
  • Shanghai Disneyland – Full day – $80 ticket + $30 meals + $20 souvenirs
  • Jade Buddha Temple – 1 hour – Free (donation $5)
  • M50 Art District – 2 hours – Free (optional coffee $8)
  • Airport transfers (round‑trip) – – $30
  • Total Estimated Cost$363

Tips

If you wish to extend your stay, consider adding a day trip to the nearby ancient city of Suzhou for its classical gardens, or spend an extra night in the vibrant French Concession for boutique shopping and café culture. To shorten the itinerary, you can combine Day 2 and Day 3 by focusing on either the historic Old Town or the modern Lujiazui skyline, and replace the Disneyland visit with a half‑day at the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum, which offers a compact yet entertaining experience.

0