Day 1: Yu Garden, Nanjing Road and The Bund
Morning: Start your Shanghai adventure in the city’s historic heart at Yu Garden, a peaceful oasis tucked within the bustling Old City. Dating back to the Ming Dynasty, the garden is filled with pavilions, koi ponds, and beautiful stone bridges. Arrive early to beat the crowds and enjoy the tranquility. Afterward, wander through the lively Yuyuan Bazaar just outside, where you can try local snacks or browse traditional crafts.
Afternoon: Next, head to Nanjing Road, Shanghai’s most famous shopping street. It’s a lively pedestrian avenue packed with boutiques, malls, and souvenir shops. But you don’t need to spend to enjoy the buzz—watching the city’s rhythm unfold here is entertainment in itself. Look out for historic architecture tucked between the modern storefronts.
Evening: As night falls, make your way to The Bund, where colonial-era buildings line one side of the Huangpu River, facing the glittering towers of Pudong on the other. Come just before sunset and walk along the waterfront promenade as the city lights up. For an unforgettable view, take a Huangpu River cruise and see the skyline glow from the water.
Save Tip: Enjoy amazing skyline views for free from The Bund or from rooftop cafés instead of observation decks.
Splurge Tip: Book a nighttime river cruise for a panoramic, peaceful experience of the Bund and Pudong.
Day 2: Skyscrapers and Skyline Views
Morning: Cross the river to Pudong and head straight to the iconic Shanghai Tower, the second-tallest building in the world. Take the lightning-fast elevator to the observation deck and marvel at the views from above. While there, also admire the nearby Jin Mao Tower and the space-age Oriental Pearl Tower.
Afternoon: Spend some time at the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium, home to a mesmerizing underwater tunnel and marine life from around the globe. If you prefer green space, unwind in Lujiazui Central Green, a surprisingly peaceful park in the middle of the skyscraper forest. Then take the quirky Bund Sightseeing Tunnel back to the other side of the river—a fun, if cheesy, ride through light and sound.
Evening: Walk along the Binjiang Avenue Promenade, located on the Pudong riverbank directly across from The Bund. It’s less crowded and gives you a panoramic view of the colonial buildings lit up across the water. Grab a drink and enjoy the skyline from this calmer vantage point.
Save Tip: Instead of visiting multiple towers, pick just one and enjoy free views from parks like Lujiazui Green Land.
Splurge Tip: Go for the Shanghai Tower’s top deck, which offers higher and less crowded views than other observation points.
Day 3: French Concession, Jing’an Temple and Local Culture
Morning: Begin in the enchanting Former French Concession, where tree-lined streets are shaded by plane trees and filled with charming architecture. Stroll through Fuxing Park, where you’ll spot locals dancing, doing tai chi, and enjoying their morning routines. Then explore the bohemian art alleys of Tianzifang, a labyrinth of boutique shops, art studios, and creative finds.urated.
Afternoon: Head north to visit Jing’an Temple, a grand Buddhist temple nestled between office towers. It’s one of the oldest religious sites in Shanghai and stands in striking contrast to the city’s modern sprawl. Just a short walk away, coffee lovers shouldn’t miss the Starbucks Reserve Roastery, the largest Starbucks in the world. Inside you’ll find roasting equipment, specialty brews, coffee-themed cocktails, and an energy that rivals the city outside.
Evening: Make your way to Xintiandi, a pedestrian-friendly district where traditional shikumen (stone-gate) houses have been stylishly restored into trendy shops, lounges, and galleries. Visit the Site of the First National Congress of the Communist Party for a dose of history, then spend the evening enjoying the area’s upscale nightlife.
Save Tip: Use the metro and your feet to explore the French Concession and Jing’an—many of the best sights are free to enter and best seen up close.
Splurge Tip: End your day with a seat at a live jazz bar in Xintiandi—a classy throwback to 1930s Shanghai.
Day 4: Daytrip to Hangzhou
Morning: Board a morning high-speed train from Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station to Hangzhou—the journey takes less than an hour. Upon arrival, head straight to the breathtaking West Lake, where bridges, pagodas, and willow-lined paths circle a glassy expanse of water. Stroll or rent a bike to ride along the Su Causeway, and don’t miss the romantic Broken Bridge and panoramic views from Leifeng Pagoda.
Afternoon: After a lakeside lunch, venture to the tranquil Lingyin Temple, one of China’s oldest and most revered Buddhist temples. Nearby, explore Feilai Feng, a hill with ancient Buddhist stone carvings. Then, head into the green hills to explore Longjing Tea Village, where fragrant tea terraces line the hillsides. Learn how Dragon Well tea is harvested and enjoy a cup fresh from the source.
Evening: Stop by Hefang Street, a lively pedestrian market where you can try local snacks, shop for souvenirs, or simply enjoy the nostalgic atmosphere. Then catch an evening train back to Shanghai.
Save Tip: DIY your Hangzhou day trip with high-speed train tickets and public transport—it’s budget-friendly and super efficient.
Splurge Tip: Hire a private driver in Hangzhou to explore more comfortably and cover more ground—many even share helpful insights as unofficial guides.
Download the “DiDi” ride-hailing app before your trip. It’s foreigner-friendly, often has English-language support, and is much easier than hailing taxis, especially in less touristy neighborhoods or during rainy days.