Last Updated on October 7, 2024
This summer, we spent a week in the mega metropolis of Shanghai and it completely blew our mind. Check out our Shanghai itinerary 5 days!
Shanghai is a city that hums with energy — a mesmerizing fusion of old-world charm and futuristic ambition. It’s a vibrant metropolis where ancient temples hide among sleek skyscrapers, and narrow alleyways lead you to glitzy shopping districts alive with neon lights. I’m not a big city girl at all, but Shanghai managed to win my heart and turn me into a fan.
In Shanghai, the mighty Huangpu River snakes through the heart of the city, separating the timeless elegance of the Bund from the cutting-edge skyline of Pudong, where some of the world’s tallest towers reach for the clouds. The iconic Oriental Pearl Tower sparkles like a jewel, while below, the buzzing city teems with life — street vendors serving up sizzling xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), locals practicing tai chi in leafy parks, and trendy cafes filled with creatives sketching out tomorrow’s innovations.
But Shanghai is more than its glimmering skyline. It’s a journey through history, where the cobbled streets of the French Concession whisper tales of a bygone colonial era, and traditional shikumen houses stand as a reminder of the city’s humble beginnings. Each neighborhood is like a different chapter in a book you can’t put down.
Shanghai Itinerary & Guide
This summer, we spent 1 week in Shanghai and managed to experience the city’s highlights and even did a day trip or two. It wasn’t our first time in China – our first trip was in 2008 and we traveled all over Beijing, Xi’an, Chengdu, and Guilin. Read my detailed two-week China itinerary.
We were really blown away by how technologically advanced and modern Shanghai is! It’s one of the most modern cities I’ve been (and I’ve traveled to 150 countries). Electric cars are everywhere, robots serve food in restaurants, and cash is hardly used anywhere – everything works with WeChat (but note that the app is still mostly in Chinese): from paying for subway rides to ordering in restaurants and booking rideshares.
Things to Know Before Visiting Shanghai
- Shanghai is a cash-free society, most locals don’t carry a single cent of cash. Even foreigners can now use WeChat or AliPay to scan QR codes and pay (everywhere, including at metro stations, markets and vending machines).
- Very few people speak English or other languages in Shanghai and everything is in Chinese (including restaurant menus and payment registers). Thankfully I speak Mandarin! Download a non-Google translation app to make things easier.
- Google and many western news media and social media networks are banned in China. Get a VPN, but only certain ones will work (N-Cloud works).
- You’ll need internet data on the go to access WeChat and pay for things. I downloaded a Saily eSIM card before traveling to China so it worked pretty well in Shanghai. Plus, I could use my usual apps without using any VPN.
- The easiest way to get around is on Didi (the Chinese equivalent of Uber). It’s cheap and convenient. Make sure to download the app before you go. The app has pretty good translation if you need to speak to the driver. And you can link a foreign credit card to it for payment.
- Shanghai is the second-largest city in the world. Estimates of the city’s population range between 24 to 27 million – rising up to 34 million people when you consider the wider metropolitan area. Many of the popular tourist spots (like Nanjing Road and the Bund) can be overcrowded, try to go early.
- Summer in Shanghai can be excruciatingly hot. We visited in August and it was mostly 40-42 deg C during the day and it barely cooled down at night. I’d suggest visiting Shanghai in spring or autumn (March-May and Sep-Oct) for cooler temperatures and lesser crowds.
Shanghai Itinerary Map
Here’s a map of my Shanghai itinerary. Click to see it on Google Maps.
How to use this map: Click on the top left of the map to display the list of locations, then click on the locations to display further information. To open a larger version in a new tab, click on the top right corner of the map. Star the map to save it to your own Google Maps.
Download my Shanghai itinerary on Google Maps.
1-Week Shanghai Itinerary
Shanghai Day 1: Modern Shanghai
Unless you’re landing in Shanghai at night (like we did), you should absolutely experience the Maglev (magnetic levitation) train from Shanghai Pudong Airport to the city. We took it in the reverse direction and it was super incredibly cool to see the city whisk by outside the window at lightning speed.
It’s the first Maglev line in China and the first and the fastest operational commercial Maglev train in the world. With a top speed of 431 km/h, it shortens the 30 km (18.6 mi) journey to only 8 minutes! The train runs between Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) and Longyang Road in downtown Shanghai, from 7.04am to 21.42 departing from the airport at 20-minute intervals.
There are countless attractions in Shanghai, from the stunning skyline of Pudong to the historic streets of the French Concession, ensuring there’s always something exciting to see and do.
See the Iconic Oriental Pearl Tower
After checking into our hotel, we headed over to Pudong (translates to mean ‘east of the river’), the city’s glitzy financial district where futuristic skyscrapers dominate the skyline. Our first stop was Shanghai Tower, China’s tallest building and the second tallest in the world. The tower’s design twists gracefully as it reaches skyward, and its observation deck on the 118th floor offers a jaw-dropping 360-degree view of the city below. On a clear day, you can see for miles in every direction, with the sprawling metropolis of Shanghai beneath you like a living, breathing entity.
From the Shanghai Tower, we took a short walk to Oriental Pearl Tower – the quintessential icon of Shanghai, with its unique, space-age design. Inside, you’ll find more than just panoramic views — the tower is home to the Shanghai History Museum, where you can learn about Shanghai’s transformation from a humble fishing village into a global powerhouse.
The exhibits are rich with historical artifacts, life-sized dioramas, and multimedia presentations that illustrate various phases of the city’s development, particularly during the 19th and early 20th centuries when Shanghai was a major international trading hub. Be sure to pre-book your tickets to the Oriental Pearl Tower in advance to avoid long lines and ensure a smooth visit to this must-see attraction!
Take the Bund Sightseeing Tunnel
A very cool way of crossing the Huangpu River to get to the historical side of Shanghai is on the Bund Sightseeing Tunnel. The people mover transports you directly from the Bund to Pudong (and back) through psychedelic light displays underneath the water’s surface.
The journey takes just a few minutes, but it’s such a fun experience especially for those traveling Shanghai with kids. Alternatively you can also take a taxi on the underground tunnel or a ferry, but this way is so much more fun!
Stroll along the Bund
Spend the rest of your evening along the Bund. This mile-long promenade meanders along the western bank of the river which is steeped in history. The promenade is flanked by 19th and early 20th-century colonial buildings that once housed banks, consulates, and trading houses. Today, these grand structures stand in stark contrast to the ultra-modern skyline of Pudong across the river, creating a visual representation of Shanghai’s past and future.
Shanghai with Kids: Head to North Bund Green Land
If you’re traveling Shanghai with kids, like we did, I suggest heading to the North Bund Green Land for the kids to stroll in the green park and enjoy a view of the skyline against the famous Bund Egg. We were thrilled to stumble upon Magic Jungle, a high ropes obstacle course for kids. Imported from Germany, the rope course features 94 play areas for both children and adults.
They include a six-story giant swing, a crazy slide and a low bungee jump, which allows visitors to challenge themselves and enjoy a great view over the waterfront at the same time. Kids under 130cm in height can only play on the ground level. Prices start from 160 RMB for one hour.
Catch a River Cruise
The Bund is perfect for a leisurely walk, but to truly appreciate the scope of Shanghai’s architectural prowess, hop on a Huangpu River Cruise. From the deck, you’ll have front-row seats to one of the world’s most captivating skylines, watching the sunlight shift and reflect off the glass and steel towers of Pudong. I recommend booking the 630pm cruise, so you can see the skyline in the daylight and as night falls.
Be warned though, it can get very busy and you might be pushed and jostled like we did. That said, the views were amazing and it was funny watching everyone run into the boat and fighting for the limited seats. I booked this 1-hour river cruise online for $18 per person. It’s even cheaper if you get your tickets there, but there might not be any tickets available.
Shanghai Itinerary Day 2: Old District
Stroll around People’s Park
Day 2 of this Shanghai itinerary will be spent exploring the historical side of Shanghai. We started the day at the Shanghai Museum, in the heart of People’s Square. This world-class museum is renowned for its vast collection of ancient Chinese art, spanning everything from bronze sculptures to calligraphy and jade carvings.
The museum’s architecture is itself a work of art, designed in the shape of a traditional Chinese cooking vessel known as a ding. For a more enriching experience, consider booking tickets for guided tours in advance to gain deeper insights into the museum’s incredible collections and avoid any last-minute rush.
From the museum, we took a leisurely walk through People’s Park, a green oasis in the middle of the city. On weekends, the park hosts the Shanghai Marriage Market, where parents gather to arrange potential matches for their adult children. It’s a fascinating glimpse into a unique aspect of modern Chinese culture, and the park’s tranquil setting makes for a relaxing stroll.
Stroll along Nanjing East Pedestrianized Street
Then we strolled along Nanjing East Road, Shanghai’s most famous shopping street. This 10-km avenue is is an explosion of neon lights, luxury boutiques, and local shops selling everything from traditional Chinese crafts to the latest fashion. Even if you’re not into shopping, the atmosphere is infectious and is a great spot for people-watching.
Pay Respects at Jing’an Temple
Walk all the way to the end of Nanjing Road and you’ll reach Jing’an Temple, a gleaming Buddhist temple located in the middle of Shanghai’s bustling business district. The temple, with its golden roofs and towering pagodas, offers a stunning contrast to the high-rise buildings that surround it. Inside, you’ll find ancient statues and beautiful incense-filled courtyards, as well as a peaceful environment for reflection and contemplation.
Wander around Yu Garden
Then, catch a Didi (China’s Uber) to the breathtaking Yu Garden (Yuyuan Garden), a masterpiece of classical Chinese garden design. Built during the Ming Dynasty, this oasis is a maze of pavilions, koi ponds, and zigzag bridges framed by delicate rockeries and ancient trees. Every corner of the garden reveals intricate carvings, peaceful courtyards, and hidden pathways. Don’t miss the Exquisite Jade Rock, a prized 3.3-meter-high rock that’s said to have mystical qualities.
After soaking in the garden’s beauty, venture into the Old City God Temple Bazaar right next door. This lively market is a sensory overload, buzzing with people, the smell of street food, and stalls brimming with everything from silk scarves to traditional Chinese tea. Here, you’ll find artisans crafting intricate souvenirs alongside vendors selling local snacks.
Try Shanghai’s Famous Soup Dumplings
Yu Yuan is also known for having the best xiao long bao, soup dumplings, in Shanghai. Sample these dumplings at the renowned Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant, which has been serving them for over a century.
I’m a huge fan of soup dumplings and I consider myself an expert when it comes to sniffing out the best dumplings – and Nanxiang didn’t disappoint! We tried the popular giant crab soup dumplings, but my favorite was still the classic soup dumplings.
See the Shanghai Acrobatic Show
Prepare for a fun-filled evening at the ERA- Intersection of Time show! It takes about 45 minutes to reach Shanghai Circus World from the city center, but trust me, the journey is well worth it.
I was completely blown away by the acrobatic show: the acrobats were balancing huge jars on their nose, stacking glassware on heads and juggling swords precariously while balancing on a beam. It’s a multimedia performance set to music, and you don’t have to speak Mandarin to enjoy it. To ensure you get a good seat at this mesmerizing performance, I highly recommend booking your tickets in advance.
Itinerary Day 3: French Concession Area
The French Concession in Shanghai is a historic district brimming with colonial architecture and old-world charm. Once the center of French colonial life in the city, this area is known for its tree-lined streets, European-style villas, Art Deco buildings, and quaint cafes. Today, it’s one of the trendiest neighborhoods in Shanghai, offering a unique fusion of East and West, with boutique shops, stylish restaurants, and cultural landmarks.
Start at Wukang Mansion
One of the most iconic buildings in the French Concession is the Wukang Mansion (also known as the Normandie Apartments), an elegant 1924 Art Deco structure designed by Hungarian-Slovak architect László Hudec. Its distinctive ship-like shape and red brick façade make it a standout architectural gem in the area.
Over the decades, Wukang Mansion has housed many prominent figures, contributing to its reputation as a symbol of the neighborhood’s rich history. Today, it remains a beloved landmark. Only residents are allowed in the building, but there’s a great museum and art gallery on the ground floor that’s open to the public and free to visit.
Get Lost in Tianzifang
Take a leisurely walk through the leafy French Concession area to reach Tianzifang, a creative labyrinth (literal!) of indie shops and street food stands. This area is famous for its preserved shikumen (stone-gate houses) that have been repurposed into artsy shops, cafes, and studios. As you meander through the narrow, winding lanes, you’ll find everything from handmade ceramics to avant-garde fashion.
Relax at Fuxing Park
Just a short walk from Tianzifang is Fuxing Park, one of the city’s most charming green spaces. We loved watching locals practicing tai chi, singing opera, or engaging in spontaneous ballroom dancing. It’s a peaceful retreat where you can watch daily life unfold or join in on a dance if you’re feeling brave!
Experience a Different Side at Xintiandi
In the evening, head to Xintiandi, a chic pedestrian district with shikumen-style buildings converted into high-end boutiques and upscale restaurants. Before picking a spot for dinner, I suggest making a stop at the Propaganda Poster Art Centre, a unique spot that showcases China’s history through Mao-era political posters. Tucked away in the basement of a residential building, this private museum offers a fascinating and thought-provoking look at propaganda art from the mid-20th century.
We ended the night with a delicious dinner at Crystal Jade, one of my favorite Hongkong restaurants (with outlets all over Asia) followed by cocktails at one of the alfresco bars.
Shanghai Itinerary Day 4: Day Trip to Suzhou
For our last day in Shanghai, we ventured out of the city to explore Suzhou, nicknamed the “Venice of the East”. The city is renowned for its classical gardens, serene canals, and rich cultural heritage. At just 30 minutes away by train from Shanghai, it was such a peaceful contrast to the bustling metropolis.
To get to Suzhou from Shanghai, we took a high-speed train from Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station. We bought the tickets there directly but you can also book them online in advance. Trains run frequently and take about 30 minutes to 1 hour depending on which train you book.
Wander around the Gardens
Once we arrived at Suzhou Railway Station, it was easy to catch the subway (connected to the train station) to the historic center. My first stop was Suzhou’s most famous garden, The Humble Administrator’s Garden, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This 16th-century garden spans 52,000 square meters and is one of the finest examples of classical Chinese garden design. As I wandered through its tranquil pavilions, winding pathways, and elegant ponds filled with lotus blossoms, I felt ike I’d stepped back in time.
Stroll along Pingjiang Road
After a peaceful morning in Suzhou’s gardens, head to the historic Pingjiang Road, a narrow, cobblestone street running along a canal that dates back over 2,500 years. This area is lined with charming tea houses, boutique shops, and restaurants. The traditional white-washed buildings and stone bridges will transport you to another era.
Take a leisurely boat ride down the canal to fully experience the water town atmosphere that Suzhou is known for. The boat rides typically last around 30 minutes and offer beautiful views of the ancient homes and gardens that line the waterway. It’s a relaxing way to enjoy Suzhou’s historic charm from a different perspective.
Try Suzhou Regional Dishes
For lunch, we tried some of Suzhou’s famous local dishes including squirrel-shaped Mandarin fish (a sweet-and-sour fish dish) and Suzhou-style noodles are two must-try dishes. There are several traditional restaurants along Pingjiang Road, where you can savor these delicacies while overlooking the tranquil canals.
More Day Trips from Shanghai
We didn’t have time to do any of these day trips, despite spending 1 week in Shanghai. But if time isn’t a constraint for you, check out these other towns that just a hop away from the metropolis.
So, if you’re planning a Shanghai 5 days itinerary, you can easily arrange additional day trips from the city.
Zhujiajiao Water Town
Just an hour from Shanghai, Zhujiajiao is an ancient water town known for its picturesque canals, stone bridges, and Ming and Qing dynasty architecture. This “Venice of Shanghai” is perfect for a day of exploring narrow alleys, visiting historic temples, and taking a boat ride along its serene waterways. Don’t miss the Fangsheng Bridge, the longest and most famous bridge in the town. Enjoy local snacks like zongzi (sticky rice dumplings) and shop for handmade crafts in this charming and peaceful escape from the city. Consider booking this half-day private tour to Zhujiajiao Water Town with a boat ride from Shanghai for a fun and relaxing escape.
Hangzhou
Also an hour from Shanghai by bullet train, Hangzhou is famed for its breathtaking West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spend your day walking or biking around the lake, stopping at scenic spots like Leifeng Pagoda, Lingyin Temple, and the Lotus Pond. Take a traditional boat ride to explore the lake’s islands or sip Dragon Well Tea in the nearby tea plantations.
Nanjing
About 90 minutes from Shanghai by bullet train, Nanjing offers a mix of history and natural beauty. Visit the imposing Nanjing City Wall, one of the oldest and longest city walls in the world, or pay respects at the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum. Take a boat ride on Xuanwu Lake and enjoy the park’s views of the city’s ancient landmarks. Nanjing Massacre Memorial Hall provides a somber reflection on China’s WWII history, offering a deep dive into the city’s past. Consider booking this Flexible Private Nanjing City Highlights Day Tour for a personalized and enjoyable exploration of the city’s must-see attractions.
Wuzhen Water Town
Two hours from Shanghai, Wuzhen is one of China’s most famous water towns, known for its well-preserved canals, wooden houses, and stone bridges. Wander through the maze of alleyways, visit traditional workshops, and stop by the Ancient Bed Museum or Folk Custom Museum to learn about local history. In the evening, the town is especially beautiful as lanterns illuminate the canals, creating a magical atmosphere. This makes Wuzhen a peaceful and photogenic retreat from Shanghai’s urban hustle. I recommend booking this private full-day tour from Shanghai for a memorable day exploring the beauty of this enchanting water town.
There are so many things to do in Shanghai that no matter how many days you plan to stay, you’ll always find something to keep you entertained.
Shanghai Travel Guide
Tourist Visa for China
Most travelers don’t need a visa to enter China these days – EU and Australian citizens can stay in China for up to 15 days without a visa, citizens of Singapore and Brunei can stay in China for up to 30 days. US and Canadian citizens need to apply for a tourist visa for China at the embassy.
From Shanghai Airport to the City Center
Shanghai has two international airports – Pudong International Airport and the Hongqiao Shanghai Airport – most international travelers will arrive at Pudong.
The fastest way to get from the Shanghai Pudong International Airport to the city is on the Shanghai Maglev (Magnetic Levitation) train, the first commercial high-speed Maglev Train in the world. The whole journey to Longyan station takes only eight minutes for a single trip, which is definitely convenient for any passenger. There are ordinary, VIP, and advance types for either single or return tickets. Depending on the kind of ticket you choose, the ticket prices range from 50 RMB to 900 RMB.
Getting around Shanghai
Shanghai public transportation system is very reliable and efficient; signs are in both Chinese and English, and everything is electronic and online.
All public transport systems – bus, subway, light rail, taxi, and ferry are inter-connected. They can all be accessed using a single card called the Shanghai Public Transportation Card (jiao tong ka). You can get the card from any subway station, and use the card as payment to all forms of transportation in the city.
The minimum amount of deposit is 20 RMB, while the maximum is 2000 RMB. You can use WeChat to pay for the card and top it up (Make sure you download the WeChat app, you’ll need it to pay for everything in China!).
Best Time to Visit Shanghai
The best time to visit Shanghai is in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to October), when the temperature is mild and comfortable, the trees are green and flowers bursting into bloom. Long-sleeved T-shirts, a thin overcoat and sweater will be enough.
In summer, Shanghai can get extremely hot and humid, with temperatures sometimes reaching 40°C (104°F). We visited Shanghai in August, and we were shocked by how hot it was (it felt hotter than Singapore).
Shanghai winter temperatures can drop below zero (Celsius) from late January to mid-February and views may be gray and misty. We don’t recommend visiting in winter.
Staying Connected in Shanghai
If you’re looking to stay connected in Shanghai, I recommend getting an eSIM before you reach China. An eSIM can be a great help on your trip to China, as you can use reliable local data to access maps and navigation services to find your way around the city and discover new places. I bought a Saily eSIM card before going to China and it worked very well.
The internet is heavily controlled in China and many sites and social media platforms (like Facebook) cannot be accessed there. One way to get around this censorship is using a VPN (Virtual Private Network). It’s easy and cheap to subscribe to a VPN service before you leave home. If you’re getting an eSIM, you won’t need a VPN.
Where to Stay in Shanghai
Shanghai has no shortage of reasonably-priced modern hotels housed in skyscrapers. The most central area to stay in the Bund, but expect to pay more.
Luxury: The Peninsula Shanghai
Known for its opulent design and impeccable service, The Peninsula Shanghai is undoubtedly one of the best hotels in Shanghai. It blends classic Art Deco elegance with modern comfort, offering spacious rooms with marble bathrooms, state-of-the-art technology, and sweeping views of the river and the city. The hotel also houses two Michelin-starred restaurants: Sir Elly’s, which serves modern European cuisine, and Yi Long Court, specializing in Cantonese delicacies. Check rates here.
Mid-Range: Campanile Shanghai Bund Hotel
For a more affordable yet comfortable stay, Campanile Shanghai Bund Hotel is an excellent mid-range option. The hotel has a trendy lobby café that serves a range of Western and Chinese dishes, as well as a relaxing bar for evening drinks. Its location near Nanjing Road and metro stations ensures easy access to many of Shanghai’s must-see attractions. Check rates here.
Budget: Shanghai Blue Mountain International Youth Hostel
If you’re traveling on a budget, Shanghai Blue Mountain International Youth Hostel is a fantastic choice. This well-rated hostel offers both dormitory-style and private rooms, providing a clean and friendly environment at a very affordable price. The hostel features a cozy common area where you can relax, meet other travelers, and even play pool or watch movies. There’s a rooftop terrace with amazing views of the city. Check rates here.
Best Places to Eat and Drink
Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant
Located in the heart of Yu Garden, Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant is world-famous for its xiao long bao (soup dumplings). Established over a century ago, this iconic restaurant attracts both locals and tourists eager to try Shanghai’s beloved soup dumplings. The delicate buns are filled with savory pork or crab and a rich, flavorful broth. Be sure to try their signature crab roe xiaolongbao. Read reviews here.
Fu He Hui
Fu He Hui is one of Shanghai’s most renowned vegetarian restaurants. This Michelin-starred restaurant offers a multi-course tasting menu that highlights the flavors and textures of local, seasonal ingredients in beautifully plated, innovative dishes. Even non-vegetarians will be wowed by the artistry and balance of the dishes here. Read reviews here.
Lost Heaven
This stylish restaurant offers a menu filled with bold and aromatic flavors from China’s Yunnan province, a region influenced by Southeast Asian cuisines. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with dim lighting, traditional decor, and an expansive dining area. Some must-try dishes include the Yunnan-style grilled fish, Miao minority spicy beef, and the fragrant wild mushroom salad. Read reviews here.
Jia Jia Tang Bao
For another take on soup dumplings, visit the beloved local spot Jia Jia Tang Bao, located near People’s Square. This humble, no-frills restaurant is famous for its flavorful soup dumplings, which are handmade fresh daily. It’s smaller and less touristy than Nanxiang, with locals often lining up for the pork and crab dumplings, as well as the more decadent pork and egg yolk xiaolongbao. The prices are very affordable, and the quality of the dumplings is top-notch. Read reviews here.
Enjoy Your Trip to Shanghai!
And that’s a wrap! I’m not usually a fan of big cities, but Shanghai won me over. I was impressed with its myriad amazing, affordable food, ultra-modern malls and immaculately-preserved European colonial architecture and traditional Chinese enclaves. It’s such a multi-faceted metropolis, that you’ll find it hard not to fall for it.
If you’re planning to travel all over China, here are some other articles I’ve written that you might find helpful.
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