How many days do you need in shanghai?

This itinerary covers 7 days in shanghai, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for shanghai?

Plan your perfect 7 days trip to shanghai. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

City Adventure in Shanghai

Day 1: Riverside Exploration

The Bund, Shanghai, China

9:00AM

Morning Stroll on the Bund

Start your day with a leisurely walk along the historic waterfront area, admiring the mix of architectural styles. The view of the city's iconic skyline is breathtaking.

Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at a Local Dumpling House

Head to a nearby restaurant to indulge in Shanghai's famous xiaolongbao (soup dumplings). Don't miss out on other dim sum delights.

CNY 50, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Shanghai History Museum

Delve into the rich history of Shanghai through interactive exhibits and artifacts at this museum. Gain insights into the city's past.

CNY 30, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner with a View

Enjoy a delicious dinner overlooking the glittering lights of Pudong. Opt for a rooftop restaurant for a spectacular evening.

CNY 300, 2 hours

Find Hotels in The Bund

Day 2: Historic Gardens and Bazaars

Yuyuan Garden, Shanghai, China

10:00AM

Explore Yuyuan Garden

Step into this classical Chinese garden with tranquil ponds, traditional architecture, and lush greenery. It's a peaceful oasis in the bustling city.

CNY 40, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant

Savor authentic Shanghainese cuisine with a variety of steamed buns and local dishes. Nanxiang is renowned for its xiaolongbao.

CNY 80, 1 hour

4:00PM

Shop at Yuyuan Bazaar

Wander through the bustling marketplace selling traditional Chinese handicrafts, souvenirs, and snacks. It's a great place for gifts.

Variable, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Lost Heaven

Dine at Lost Heaven for a fusion of Yunnanese and Tibetan flavors in a stylish setting. The restaurant ambiance is as remarkable as the food.

CNY 200, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Yuyuan Garden

Day 3: Stroll through Art and Culture

French Concession, Shanghai, China

10:00AM

Art Galleries and Boutiques

Explore the charming streets of the French Concession filled with art galleries, chic boutiques, and cozy cafes. It's a hub for creativity and design.

Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Farine

Enjoy a light lunch at Farine, a popular French bakery in the heart of the French Concession. Indulge in freshly baked pastries.

CNY 100, 1 hour

3:00PM

Shikumen Open House Museum

Step back in time to experience a traditional Shanghainese courtyard house at this museum. Learn about the local lifestyle in the 1920s.

CNY 20, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Mercato

Savor Italian cuisine with a contemporary twist at Mercato, a stylish restaurant with a lively ambiance. Enjoy flavors from renowned chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten.

CNY 350, 2 hours

Find Hotels in French Concession

Day 4: Art and History Appreciation

Shanghai Museum, Shanghai, China

10:00AM

Shanghai Museum Tour

Embark on a journey through Chinese art and history at the Shanghai Museum, home to an extensive collection of ancient artifacts and artworks.

CNY 60, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Lost Heaven Silk Road

Indulge in a culinary exploration of the Silk Road at Lost Heaven Silk Road. Taste dishes influenced by the diverse cultures along the ancient trade route.

CNY 150, 1 hour

3:00PM

People's Park Visit

Relax in the peaceful oasis of People's Park. Watch locals practice Tai Chi, stroll around the lake, or enjoy a traditional tea ceremony.

Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Din Tai Fung

Dine at the famous Din Tai Fung for top-quality Taiwanese dumplings and other Taiwanese dishes. Experience the delicious flavors.

CNY 100, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Shanghai Museum

Day 5: Artsy Neighbourhood Exploration

Tianzifang, Shanghai, China

11:00AM

Discover Tianzifang's Lanes

Get lost in the narrow lanes and alleys of Tianzifang, a renovated arts and crafts area filled with boutiques, galleries, and cozy cafes.

Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Kommune

Enjoy a casual lunch at Kommune, a cozy restaurant with a laid-back atmosphere. Try their fusion dishes and refreshing drinks.

CNY 120, 1 hour

3:30PM

Arts and Crafts Shopping

Browse through the unique handicrafts, artworks, and souvenirs in Tianzifang. Find one-of-a-kind gifts to remember your visit.

Variable, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Lost Heaven Silk Road

Return to Lost Heaven Silk Road for a flavorful dinner blending the traditions of Yunnanese and Tibetan cuisines. Experience a culinary journey.

CNY 200, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Tianzifang

Day 6: Historical Water Town Experience

Zhujiajiao Water Town, Shanghai, China

9:00AM

Exploring Zhujiajiao

Travel to Zhujiajiao Water Town, known as the Venice of Shanghai, and wander through ancient canals, historic bridges, and traditional Chinese architecture.

CNY 100, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Chenghuang Temple Street

Savor street food and local delicacies along the bustling Chenghuang Temple Street. Try snacks like tanghulu and stinky tofu.

CNY 50, 1 hour

3:00PM

Boat Ride on the Canals

Experience the charm of Zhujiajiao from the water by taking a relaxing boat ride along the ancient canals. Admire the picturesque scenery.

CNY 80, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Di Shui Dong

Indulge in Hunanese cuisine at Di Shui Dong, a popular restaurant with flavorful and spicy dishes. Taste authentic flavors of Hunan province.

CNY 180, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Zhujiajiao Water Town

Day 7: Sky-High Views

Shanghai Tower, Shanghai, China

10:00AM

Observation Deck at Shanghai Tower

Ascend to the observation deck of the Shanghai Tower, the second tallest building in the world. Enjoy panoramic views of the city from above.

CNY 180, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Jin Mao Tower

Experience a meal with a view at Jin Mao Tower's top-floor restaurants. Indulge in an array of cuisines while gazing at the skyline below.

CNY 250, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Shopping at Lujiazui

Explore the luxury shopping malls and boutiques at Lujiazui, known for high-end brands and designer stores. Shop for upscale goods and souvenirs.

Variable, 2 hours

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Ultraviolet by Paul Pairet

Conclude your Shanghai adventure with a unique dining experience at Ultraviolet by Paul Pairet, a cutting-edge gastronomic journey of sight, sound, and taste.

CNY 3000, 3 hours

Find Hotels in Shanghai Tower

Step 1 Outline Preview:

City Adventure in Shanghai

Day 1: Riverside Exploration

9:00AM

12:00PM

3:00PM

7:00PM

Day 2: Historic Gardens and Bazaars

10:00AM

1:00PM

4:00PM

7:00PM

Day 3: Stroll through Art and Culture

10:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

7:00PM

Day 4: Art and History Appreciation

10:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

7:00PM

Day 5: Artsy Neighbourhood Exploration

11:00AM

1:30PM

3:30PM

7:00PM

Day 6: Historical Water Town Experience

9:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

7:00PM

Day 7: Sky-High Views

10:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

7:00PM

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