City Introduction
Shanghai, abbreviated as 'Hu' and nicknamed 'The Magic City,' is one of China's four direct-administered municipalities and a global center for finance, trade, and shipping. Located at the mouth of the Yangtze River on the East China Sea coast, it is the core city of the Yangtze River Delta Economic Region.
Shanghai combines Eastern tradition with Western modernity, featuring both the century-old buildings of the Bund and the modern skyscrapers of Pudong Lujiazui. As one of China's earliest treaty ports in modern times, it retains rich historical sites and cultural heritage.
As China's most international metropolis, Shanghai boasts a unique Shanghai-style culture and an inclusive urban atmosphere. From classical gardens and Shikumen architecture to modern shopping malls and art districts, the city showcases its diverse charm.
3-Day Day Itinerary Overview
Day 1
Classic Shanghai City Tour
The first day focuses on classic attractions in Shanghai's Huangpu District, experiencing old Shanghai's charm and the bustling commercial atmosphere.
Day 2
Pudong Modern Landscape Exploration
The second day is dedicated to exploring Pudong New Area, experiencing Shanghai's modernity and futuristic feel, from the Science Museum to landmark buildings and a world-class theme park.
Day 3
Shanghai Cultural and Artistic Journey
The third day focuses on experiencing Shanghai's cultural and artistic atmosphere, from historical museums to creative districts, exploring Shanghai's past, present, and future.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Classic Shanghai City Tour
The first day focuses on classic attractions in Shanghai's Huangpu District, experiencing old Shanghai's charm and the bustling commercial atmosphere.
09:00-10:30
The Bund Tour
Visit the Bund in the morning when it's less crowded and perfect for photos. Stroll along the promenade to admire the Huangpu River views and colonial-era European architecture.
10:30-11:00
Transit
Walk or take the metro to Yu Garden (about 15 minutes)
11:00-13:30
Yu Garden and Surroundings
Explore the classical Yu Garden and its architecture, then enjoy Shanghai local snacks at Yu Garden Bazaar for lunch, such as xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), shengjianbao (pan-fried buns), and crab shell cake.
13:30-14:00
Transit
Walk or take the metro to Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street (about 20 minutes)
14:00-17:30
Nanjing Road Shopping Experience
Shop, sample snacks, and enjoy afternoon tea on Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, experiencing Shanghai's most bustling commercial district. Have dinner at No. 1 Department Store or a restaurant along Nanjing Road.
Day 2: Pudong Modern Landscape Exploration
The second day is dedicated to exploring Pudong New Area, experiencing Shanghai's modernity and futuristic feel, from the Science Museum to landmark buildings and a world-class theme park.
08:30-12:00
Shanghai Science and Technology Museum Visit
Visit the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum in the morning to learn about scientific knowledge through interactive exhibits and experience various technological facilities.
12:00-12:30
Lunch
Enjoy lunch at a restaurant near the museum or at a food court in a nearby mall
12:30-13:00
Transit
Take the metro to the Oriental Pearl TV Tower (about 15 minutes)
13:00-15:00
Oriental Pearl TV Tower Tour
Ascend the Oriental Pearl TV Tower to view Shanghai's skyline from the observation decks and visit the Shanghai Urban History Development Museum.
15:00-16:00
Transit
Take the metro or taxi to Shanghai Disney Resort (about 45 minutes)
16:00-21:00
Shanghai Disney Resort Experience
Enjoy various rides and shows at Disney Resort, watch the fireworks display (if available), and have dinner inside the park.
Day 3: Shanghai Cultural and Artistic Journey
The third day focuses on experiencing Shanghai's cultural and artistic atmosphere, from historical museums to creative districts, exploring Shanghai's past, present, and future.
09:00-12:00
Shanghai Museum Visit
Visit the Shanghai Museum to appreciate Chinese ancient art treasures and learn about China's long history and culture.
12:00-12:30
Lunch
Have lunch at a nearby restaurant
12:30-13:00
Transit
Take the metro or taxi to Tianzifang (about 20 minutes)
13:00-15:00
Tianzifang Stroll
Stroll through Tianzifang, explore boutique shops and art studios, and experience Shanghai's bohemian atmosphere.
15:00-15:30
Transit
Take the metro or taxi to Xintiandi (about 15 minutes)
15:30-17:30
Xintiandi Experience
Admire Shikumen architecture in Xintiandi, experience the East-meets-West fashionable atmosphere, and enjoy afternoon tea here.
17:30-18:00
Transit
Take the metro or taxi to M50 Creative Park (about 25 minutes)
18:00-20:00
M50 Creative Park Visit
Visit art galleries and exhibitions at M50 Creative Park to learn about contemporary Chinese art, then enjoy dinner at a specialty restaurant nearby to conclude the three-day tour.
Attraction Details
The Bund
One of Shanghai's most iconic landmarks, known as a 'museum of international architecture.' Along the riverside is a spacious promenade offering views of the modern Pudong skyline across the Huangpu River, especially spectacular at night.
Yu Garden
Built during the Ming Dynasty, Yu Garden is Shanghai's most famous classical garden. The garden features exquisite pavilions, rockeries, and ponds that showcase the refined techniques of traditional southern Chinese garden design. The adjacent Yu Garden Bazaar offers many Shanghai specialty snacks and craft shops.
Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street
China's premier shopping street with over a century of history. It features department stores, specialty shops, and restaurants, making it an excellent place to experience Shanghai's commercial culture. The pedestrian section extends approximately 1200 meters and is always bustling with crowds.
Shanghai Science and Technology Museum
One of Asia's largest science museums, it educates the public about science through interactive exhibits and multimedia displays. The museum features themed exhibition areas including Earth Exploration, Natural World, and Light of Wisdom, making it suitable for visitors of all ages.
Oriental Pearl TV Tower
A landmark of Shanghai standing 468 meters tall, consisting of 11 spheres of different sizes linked together in a unique design. The tower houses a revolving restaurant, observation decks, and the Shanghai History Museum. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city from its observation levels.
Shanghai Disney Resort
The third Disney resort in Asia and the first in mainland China. The park blends Chinese elements with Disney classics and features seven themed areas including Mickey Avenue, Gardens of Imagination, and Adventure Isle, along with numerous attractions and shows.
Tianzifang
A creative district in central Shanghai converted from traditional Shikumen lane houses. It hosts numerous boutique shops, art studios, cafes, and restaurants, making it an ideal place to experience Shanghai's artistic atmosphere and bohemian charm.
Shanghai Museum
One of China's foremost museums of ancient art, famous for its collection of bronzes, ceramics, calligraphy, and paintings. The circular building symbolizes the ancient Chinese concept of 'round heaven and square earth,' with exhibition halls arranged by art category and dynasty.
Xintiandi
A unique urban tourist attraction in Shanghai, transformed from traditional Shikumen buildings into a fashionable leisure area. It preserves the traditional Shikumen facades while housing modern restaurants, bars, boutiques, and galleries, exemplifying the fusion of East and West.
M50 Creative Park
An art district converted from an abandoned textile factory, now home to over 100 contemporary art galleries, studios, and design agencies. It regularly hosts various art exhibitions and cultural events, serving as an important window into contemporary Chinese art.
Local Specialty Foods
Xiaolongbao (Soup Dumplings)
One of Shanghai's most famous dim sum dishes, featuring thin skin, juicy filling, and flavorful soup inside. When bitten, the soup bursts into your mouth with delicious flavor.
Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant, Dinxiang Garden, Din Tai Fung
Shengjianbao (Pan-fried Buns)
Crispy on the bottom, soft on top, and filled with juicy meat, these are beloved breakfast and snack items for Shanghai locals.
Yang's Fry Dumpling, Da Hu Chun, Shen Da Cheng
Crab Shell Cake
A luxurious version of xiaolongbao made with fresh hairy crabs, incorporating crab meat and roe in the filling for an exquisite flavor.
Wang Jia Sha, Lu Bo Lang, Lao Fan Dian
Shanghai Fried Noodles
Using thicker noodles stir-fried with meat slices and vegetables, this dish has a distinctive texture and savory flavor.
Mei Wei Lin, Lao Zheng Xing, New Ya Cantonese Restaurant
Red-braised Pork
A signature Shanghai dish, featuring tender fatty pork with a glossy red color, often served with sweet and sour spare ribs.
Shanghai Old Restaurant, Song He Lou, Wang Xiang Yuan
Scallion Oil Noodles
A simple yet delicious traditional Shanghai noodle dish seasoned with scallion oil and soy sauce, light and refreshing.
Jia Jia Tang Bao, Shen Da Cheng, Lao Sheng Chang
Practical Tips
Best Time to Visit
The best seasons to visit Shanghai are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when temperatures are pleasant and rainfall is moderate. Summer (June to August) is hot and humid, while winter (December to February) is cold and rainy.
Transportation Tips
Shanghai's metro network is extensive and covers most attractions. It's advisable to purchase a transportation card or use mobile payment. Downtown attractions can be reached on foot or by metro, while specialized metro lines connect to suburban areas like Disney Resort.
Accommodation Recommendations
It's recommended to stay near People's Square, Nanjing Road, or the Bund for convenient transportation and dining options. If your budget allows, you can choose luxury hotels in Pudong Lujiazui to enjoy the beautiful Huangpu River views.
Special Experiences
Consider taking a Huangpu River cruise at night to enjoy the views of the Bund and Pudong; visit traditional teahouses; try a Shanghai cheongsam experience; or explore nearby water towns like Zhujiajiao and Qibao.
Shopping Guide
Nanjing Road and Huaihai Road are the main shopping districts; Yu Garden Bazaar is ideal for traditional crafts and souvenirs; Shanghai Xintiandi and IAPM Mall feature international luxury brands; while Qipu Road offers wholesale clothing at bargain prices.
Conclusion
This three-day journey through Shanghai reveals the city's multifaceted character: from the urban landscape along the Huangpu River to the fantasy world of Disney, from ancient gardens to modern art districts, each place showcases Shanghai's unique charm.
Shanghai is a city that never sleeps, and three days are hardly enough to experience all it has to offer. However, our carefully planned itinerary covers the most representative attractions and experiences. We hope this guide will provide valuable reference for your Shanghai trip and help you create unforgettable memories in this Oriental Pearl.
Itinerary Highlights Summary
- 1Experience the urban landscape along the Huangpu River and appreciate the modern character of China's most international metropolis
- 2Taste authentic Shanghai cuisine, with xiaolongbao, shengjianbao, and crab shell cake among the must-try specialties
- 3Experience the unique charm of East-West cultural fusion, from Yu Garden to the Bund, from Shikumen architecture to Xintiandi
- 4Explore artistic and creative spaces to experience Shanghai's artistic atmosphere and cultural heritage