Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

Exploring the Vibrant City of Shanghai

Viewed by 52 travelers
Monday, November 6: Arrival in Shanghai

Start your trip to Shanghai by immersing yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Nanjing Road, one of the world's busiest shopping streets. In the morning, explore the various stores and iconic landmarks along the road. For lunch, try some delicious Shanghainese cuisine at a local eatery. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower, offering breathtaking views of the cityscape. As the evening sets in, head to The Bund, the waterfront promenade lined with 19th-century architecture and dazzling city lights.

  • Nanjing Road: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 3-4 hours
  • Oriental Pearl Tower: Cost Estimate - ¥220 (approx.), Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • The Bund: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - Evening
Tuesday, November 7: Historic Shanghai

Explore the historical side of Shanghai today by starting your morning at Yu Garden, a beautiful classical Chinese garden with traditional architecture. Afterward, visit the nearby City God Temple and immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of Shanghai. For lunch, enjoy some authentic dim sum at a local tea house. In the afternoon, take a stroll along the French Concession area, known for its tree-lined streets and European-style buildings. In the evening, experience the vibrant nightlife at Xintiandi, a trendy district filled with restaurants, bars, and boutiques.

  • Yu Garden: Cost Estimate - ¥30 (approx.), Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • City God Temple: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • French Concession: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Xintiandi: Cost Estimate - Free (unless dining/shopping), Time Spent - Evening
Wednesday, November 8: Modern Marvels

Today, discover modern Shanghai by starting your morning with a visit to the Shanghai Museum, showcasing ancient Chinese art and artifacts. For lunch, indulge in some mouthwatering soup dumplings at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, explore the futuristic Pudong district, home to iconic skyscrapers like the Shanghai Tower and Jin Mao Tower. Take an elevator ride to the observation deck of Shanghai Tower for incredible panoramic views. As the evening approaches, enjoy a leisurely river cruise along the Huangpu River, admiring the illuminated skyline of Shanghai.

  • Shanghai Museum: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Pudong District: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 3-4 hours
  • Huangpu River Cruise: Cost Estimate - ¥120 (approx.), Time Spent - Evening
Thursday, November 9: Cultural Immersion

Immerse yourself in Shanghai's cultural heritage today by starting your morning with a visit to the Tianzi Fang area, known for its charming alleyways filled with local art galleries, boutique stores, and cafes. For lunch, savor some traditional Shanghainese noodles at a local eatery. In the afternoon, explore the Moganshan Road Art District, a former industrial area turned vibrant art hub. Visit contemporary art galleries and enjoy street art along the district's streets. As the evening sets in, experience a mesmerizing acrobatic show at Shanghai Circus World.

  • Tianzi Fang: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Moganshan Road Art District: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Shanghai Circus World: Cost Estimate - ¥200 (approx.), Time Spent - Evening
Friday, November 10: Day Trip to Zhujiajiao Water Town

Escape the city and take a day trip to Zhujiajiao Water Town, an ancient canal town located just outside Shanghai. Spend the morning exploring the picturesque waterways, stone bridges, and historic buildings. Enjoy a boat ride along the canals and immerse yourself in the town's serene atmosphere. For lunch, try some local delicacies at a riverside restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the Kezhi Garden, known for its beautiful landscaping and traditional architecture. Return to Shanghai in the evening and relax at your hotel.

  • Zhujiajiao Water Town: Cost Estimate - ¥80 (approx.), Time Spent - Full Day
  • Kezhi Garden: Cost Estimate - ¥12 (approx.), Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Saturday, November 11: Urban Exploration

Today, delve into the local neighborhoods and markets of Shanghai. Begin your morning at the Longhua Temple, one of the city's oldest Buddhist temples. For lunch, venture to the vibrant and chaotic Yuyuan Bazaar, where you can try various street foods and shop for souvenirs. In the afternoon, visit Tianzifang, a former residential area transformed into a maze of artsy shops, galleries, and cafes. Explore the narrow alleyways and discover unique crafts. In the evening, savor a dinner at a local hot pot restaurant and experience a Chinese hot pot feast.

  • Longhua Temple: Cost Estimate - ¥10 (approx.), Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Yuyuan Bazaar: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Tianzifang: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Hot Pot Dinner: Cost Estimate - ¥150-200 (approx.), Time Spent - Evening
Sunday, November 12: Departure from Shanghai

On your last day in Shanghai, enjoy a leisurely morning exploring the peaceful Zhongshan Park, known for its beautiful gardens and walking paths. For lunch, indulge in some delicious Shanghai-style street food at a local food stall. In the afternoon, visit the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center to learn about the city's past, present, and future urban development. Finally, make your way to the airport and bid farewell to the vibrant city of Shanghai.

  • Zhongshan Park: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center: Cost Estimate - ¥30 (approx.), Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience in Shanghai, consider visiting the M50 Creative Park, a thriving art district showcasing contemporary art and design. You can also explore the Former French Concession's charming tree-lined streets, filled with independent boutiques, cafes, and art galleries. Another local favorite is the Jing'an Sculpture Park, where you can relax amidst sculptures and beautifully landscaped gardens. These hidden gems offer a different perspective of Shanghai away from the typical tourist attractions.

Check Hotel and Flight Prices

To find the best hotel and flight prices for your trip to Shanghai, click here.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version