Shanghai-3-day-itinerary

Shanghai 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Bund and French Concession

Morning:

  • Start at The Bund, a famous waterfront area with stunning views of the Huangpu River and Pudong skyline.
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, admiring the colonial-era architecture.

Afternoon:

  • Head to Yu Garden, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. Explore the gardens, temples, and teahouses.
  • Visit the nearby Old Town, with its narrow alleys and traditional shops.

Evening:

  • Enjoy dinner at Jia Jia Tang Bao, a local institution famous for its soup dumplings.
  • Take a romantic evening stroll along the Bund, when it’s beautifully lit up.

Accommodation:

  • Stay at The Yangtze Boutique Hotel, a stylish and centrally located hotel with comfortable rooms.

Day 2: Modern Shanghai and Jing’an

Morning:

  • Visit Oriental Pearl Tower, one of Shanghai’s iconic landmarks, for panoramic views of the city.
  • Explore the nearby Pudong New Area, a futuristic district with gleaming skyscrapers.

Afternoon:

  • Head to Nanjing Road, one of China’s busiest shopping streets, lined with international brands and local boutiques.
  • Visit the Jing’an Temple, a historic Buddhist temple in the heart of the city.

Evening:

  • Dine at Ultraviolet, a futuristic restaurant with a unique dining experience.
  • Explore the trendy bars and clubs in the Jing’an neighborhood.

Day 3: Cultural Shanghai

Morning:

  • Visit the Shanghai Museum, which showcases the city’s rich cultural heritage.
  • Explore the nearby People’s Square, a vibrant public space surrounded by gardens and museums.

Afternoon:

  • Take a stroll along the Suzhou Creek, a historic waterway lined with traditional houses and trendy cafes.
  • Visit the M50 Art District, a former industrial area turned art hub, with galleries and street art.

Evening:

  • Enjoy a farewell dinner at Fu He Hui, a Michelin-starred restaurant serving modern Shanghainese cuisine.
  • Take a scenic evening cruise on the Huangpu River to admire the city’s skyline.

Things to Know:

  • Shanghai has a comprehensive metro system, making it easy to get around without speaking Chinese.
  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions.
  • Try to avoid traveling during peak seasons (e.g., National Day, Chinese New Year) when prices surge and popular spots are extremely crowded.

Transportation:

  • Metro: The most convenient way to get around Shanghai. Buy a prepaid card or use mobile payments.
  • Taxi: Available, but be prepared for language barriers and potential scams.
  • Bus: A cheaper option, but not as efficient as the metro.

Tips:

  • Learn some basic Chinese phrases, such as “hello” (nǐ hǎo), “thank you” (xiè xiè), and “excuse me” (duì bù qǐ).
  • Download a VPN to access Google Maps and other blocked websites.
  • Be mindful of pickpocketing in crowded areas and tourist hotspots.

Other Things of Interest:

  • Take a day trip to the ancient water town Zhujiajiao, known for its canals, bridges, and traditional architecture.
  • Visit the Shanghai Disney Resort, a theme park with Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars attractions.
  • Explore the city’s vibrant street food scene, trying local delicacies like Xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) and Jianbing (savory crêpes).