Last updated on June 8th, 2025
If you’re looking for things to do in Shanghai and want to visit all of the iconic spots, this travel guide blog features a detailed Shanghai itinerary for your trip!
Shanghai (Chinese: 上海) is one of the most exciting cities, not just in China, but in the world. This remarkable city offers a unique blend of rich history and cutting-edge modernity, showcasing dazzling skyscrapers, historical landmarks, and incredible food. It is an immense metropolis with an endless array of fun and interesting activities to enjoy.
As you plan your trip to Shanghai, you may have many questions about the city, its culture, and everything in between. Every country has its own distinct characteristics, and Shanghai is no exception. We’ve making a lot of time to planning the Shanghai itinerary, and I am glad I took the opportunity to explore the city and experience its best features, appreciating all the beauty it has to offer.
To assist you in planning your Shanghai trip, we’ve compiled essential information about how to create your Shanghai itinerary, what to see and do, where to eat, and some useful travel tips. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know before traveling to Shanghai. I hope this travel guide helps you make the most of your time in this incredible city!
Traveling to Shanghai
Shanghai is one of the easiest places to access in China, thanks to its two international airports and affordable flight options. Once you arrive at Pudong Airport, there are several transportation options available to get to the city.
By Flight: Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport, located 20 km from the city center, mainly operates domestic flights. Most international travelers, however, arrive in Shanghai at Pudong International Airport (PVG), which is 45 km away from downtown. We traveled to Shanghai via Pudong International Airport, but there are other ways to get there depending on your departure location.
We recommend checking Trip.com for available flight options.
Getting from the airport to the city center is relatively straightforward. You can choose to take the metro, use ride-hailing services like Didi, take a taxi, or catch a bus.
Notably, the Shanghai Maglev Train runs between Pudong International Airport and Longyang Road. This maglev train, which reaches a top speed of 431 km/h, is the world’s first commercial maglev train and offers a unique experience in Shanghai. A ticket costs CNY 50 and takes about 40 minutes to reach the city area. Reserve your Shanghai Maglev Train Ticket here.
By High Speed Train: Shanghai is a major national rail transportation hub, with an extensive railway network connecting to all major destinations in China. The city receives and departs around 1,000 trains daily.
Getting Around in Shanghai
Getting around Shanghai is easy.
By Metro: There are 20 metro lines in operation, making it a fast and convenient option without the worries of traffic jams. The metros are clean, reliable, and will take you anywhere in the city. Ticket prices range from CNY 2 to CNY 6 for traveling within Shanghai’s inner city, and CNY 6 for longer journeys.
By Taxi: Taking a taxi is another convenient way to get around Shanghai. You can hail a taxi on the street or use an online car-hailing service. By Ride-Hailing Services: Services like Didi are efficient and relatively inexpensive in China. You can easily book a Didi to get around Shanghai. However, be aware that traffic can become congested in busy areas and during peak hours.
By Bus: The city bus is primarily used by locals. The fare is only CNY 1 to CNY 2 per ride. However, buses can be time-consuming and crowded, which may make them inconvenient for travelers.
On Foot: If you are staying in a central area, walking is the best option. We often stroll to city attractions to explore the area, using the metro for destinations that are farther away.
Planning for Shanghai Itinerary
Shanghai offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors. You can plan your Shanghai itinerary for anywhere between 1 to 4 days, depending on your interests and available time. Most travelers typically spend about 2 to 3 days exploring the city’s key landmarks and must-see sights. Below is a suggested 3-day itinerary highlighting the best things to do during your trip.
3 Days Shanghai itinerary:
- Day 1: Arrive in Shanghai. Visit Yu Garden, the City God Temple and Bazaar. End the day at The Bund.
- Day 2: Discover the Former French Concession, stroll down Wukang Road to see the Wukang Mansion, and visit Tianzifang and Xintiandi. Explore Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street. Marver Lujiazui Skyscrapers
- Day 3: Spend the day at Shanghai Disneyland.
If you have additional days in your Shanghai itinerary, we recommend taking a day trip to either Suzhou or Zhujiajiao Water Town. If you have even more time, consider spending 2 to 3 days visiting Hangzhou and Wuzhen Ancient Water Town.
Choosing for Where To Stay in Shanghai
Generally, the top five areas to stay in Shanghai are The Bund, Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, the Old Town near Yu Garden, Pudong, and the Former French Concession. My sincere advice is that if you only have a few days in the city, choose a location that is convenient and close to the attractions you want to visit.
Below is my top picks for hotel recommendations in Shanghai:
- Fairmont Peace Hotel: This hotel is one of Shanghai’s most iconic and legendary historical landmarks. Consider staying here if budget is not a concern.
- Shanghai Elong Hotel: This hotel features a strategic location, situated directly across from Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street and within walking distance of The Bund. It’s popular for its higher-end options.
- Hotel Chalet Shanghai: This beautiful hotel is also well-positioned in the city, conveniently located near the main pedestrian street, close to Nanjing Road and People’s Square.
For more Shanghai accomodation options, read here: Where To Stay in Shanghai: Best Areas and Hotels.
Yu Garden
The Yu Garden (豫园) is a stunning classical Chinese garden that dates back to the Ming Dynasty. It features beautifully designed traditional architecture, tranquil koi ponds, winding paths, lush greenery, and intricate pavilions that transport you back in time.
Exploring Yu Garden in Shanghai offers a mesmerizing journey into Chinese garden artistry and history. The garden is tucked away behind walls and can be accessed for a small fee. The ticket price is quite reasonable: CNY40 for adults, and CNY20 for students and seniors.
Plan to spend about an hour or less exploring the garden, which is an excellent destination for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone seeking a serene yet culturally rich experience in Shanghai.
Yu Garden (豫园)
Opening Hours: Daily from 8:30 to 17:30.
Admission Fee: Adult CNY 40, Senior citizens above 60 years old CNY 20, Free for kids below 6 years old.
Getting there: Take Metro line 10 to Yu Garden Station.
Shanghai Travel Guide Tips: Yu Gardens, the Temple of the City God and bazaar are located close to each other, making them perfect for a half-day visit.
Shanghai City God Temple and Bazaar
After visiting Yu Garden, be sure to stop by the nearby City God Temple and the bazaar to sample some local street food.
The Shanghai City God Temple (上海城隍庙, Cheng Huang Miao) is a complex of ancient temples where visitors can pray or explore. Since it is an active worship site, please be respectful while visiting. There is a small admission fee of CNY 10 to enter.
While the Shanghai City God Temple Bazaar is vibrant, filled with restaurants, eateries, coffee shops, teahouses, and shops. This area is a shopper’s paradise, offering a wide variety of affordable souvenirs and merchandise. Bargaining is essential to get a good deal. There are also row of artist shops where the artists themselves sell their creations, such as paper cuttings, finger paintings, and shadow puppets. If you love shopping, this is the place for you.
The Shanghai City God Temple and Bazaar is an excellent place to experience a variety of traditional Shanghai foods and desserts. In addition to the bustling streets, there is a food court that offers a selection of local cuisine. Be sure to sample as much as you can—it will be a wonderful experience!
We tried some local food while exploring the area. Overall, it is very crowded and touristy, but experiencing the lively atmosphere is still worthwhile.
The Shanghai City God Temple and Bazaar complex is definitely worth a visit, especially at night when the lights are illuminated. The atmosphere differs greatly between day and night. The traditional buildings are beautifully adorned with lights, making it an excellent spot for photos.
However, be prepared for the area to be quite crowded in the evening due to the numerous shops and food stalls.
The Bund
One of the most important places on any tourist’s bucket list when visiting Shanghai is the Bund area. The Bund is just a 10 to 15-minute walk away, making it a great idea to combine your visit to the Yu Garden area with the Bund. We also recommend visiting in the late evening so you can enjoy the fantastic light show at night.
Stretching 1.5 kilometers along the western bank of the Huangpu River, The Bund (外滩) is an iconic landmark of Shanghai. This legendary waterfront was once part of the British Concession and marks the origins of modern Shanghai in the mid-19th century. It remains a vibrant destination that blends stunning skyline views with rich cultural heritage.
Most of the best things to do in Shanghai are located in and around the Bund area, making it a must-visit spot during your time in the city. Take a stroll along the Bund to enjoy breathtaking views of the city skyline in all its glory. It truly deserves the title of the top place to visit on your Shanghai bucket list. Additionally, the neighborhood offers a diverse range of dining options, from casual food centers to upscale restaurants.
Shanghai Travel Guide Tips: If you’re looking for a fantastic way to experience the Bund area, consider taking a cruise tour! The cruise offers a relaxing way to enjoy Shanghai’s iconic skyline and capture photos with the Oriental Pearl Tower in the background!
Get the Shanghai Huangpu River Cruise
Former French Concession – Wukang Road
The Former French Concession (法租界) is one of the most charming and historically rich neighborhoods in Shanghai. Once home to foreign residents, it served as the center of French colonial life in the city. The local government has done an excellent job of preserving the buildings, allowing you to glimpse the lifestyle of locals from many decades ago.
The area’s uniqueness lies in its combination of heritage architecture and modern interiors, blending European influences from past French settlements with contemporary design.
Shanghai French Concession Walking Route
If you enjoy leisurely strolls to explore a city, consider planning a unique walking route through the Former French Concession in Shanghai. This area offers an authentic taste of Old Shanghai with its exotic atmosphere. Exploring on foot is the best way to appreciate the mix of leafy streets, historical landmarks, and local culture.
Depending on your pace and the sights you want to see, the walk can cover up to 7 kilometers. Notable spots like Xintiandi and Tianzifang are also included in this area.
Getting there is easy, as the Shanghai French Concession is well-connected by public transportation. Several subway lines can take you close to various points in the area, depending on where you plan to start.
If you choose to begin your journey on Wukang Road, take Subway Line 10 or 11 and get off at Jiaotong University Station, using exit 1. From there, a short walk will lead you to the area.
Wukang Mansion
Start your journey on Wu Kang Road (武康路), renowned for its European-style buildings. The tree-lined streets and historic buildings create a unique blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy.
Wukang Mansion (武康大楼), an iconic “ship-shaped” building that combines French and Art Deco styles. It symbolizes the neighborhood’s rich history and attracts many photographers eager to capture this landmark.
This Shanghai French Concession walking itinerary will take about half a day, but feel free to shorter or extend it based on your interests. Attractions nearby include:
- Xujiahui Park (徐家汇公园): A large park, perfect for relaxation and walking.
- Fuxing Park (复兴公园): A park with a pleasant atmosphere, ideal for strolling.
- Shanghai Museum of Arts and Crafts (上海工艺美术博物馆): A museum showcasing local arts and crafts.
- Former Residence of Sun Yat-sen (孙中山故居): Visitors can learn about Sun Yat-sen, the founder of modern China, and explore exhibits about his life, work, and contributions from his wife, all housed within the museum.
- Sinan Mansions (上海思南公馆): Once the residence of French diplomats, this site features a blend of red brick exteriors and Gothic spires.
- Tianzifang (田子坊): An arts district filled with shops, cafes, and art galleries.
- Xintiandi (新天地): Renowned for its Shikumen architecture, it features a variety of restaurants and shops nestled within these historic houses.
We spent a pleasant afternoon exploring this area. The main attraction for me was the old architecture, remnants from the French concession period. We highly recommend stopping by to visit as well. We enjoyed our lunch break at Xintiandi, soaking in the lively atmosphere.
Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street
No visit to Shanghai is complete without a stroll down the famous Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street (南京路步行街). As one of the world’s busiest shopping streets, this mile-long pedestrian promenade offers an electrifying glimpse into the pulse of modern China. With iconic neon lights, giant video screens, bustling crowds, and a diverse array of stores, Nanjing Road is truly a feast for the senses.
Since Nanjing Road was just behind our hotel, we explored it several times, taking different stretches for various reasons. We spent hours leisurely wandering, popping into high-end boutiques, local specialty shops, and enticing food stalls that line both sides of the street.
Nanjing Road actually ends at the Bund. It is quite long, and it takes about an hour to walk from the beginning to the Bund. Along the way, you’ll encounter many big brand stores, as well as several malls with eateries and restaurants inside.
Marver Lujiazui Skyscrapers
The Shanghai Lujiazui (上海陆家嘴) neighborhood is a modern financial district known for its impressive architecture and shopping malls. It is home to four iconic skyscrapers: the Shanghai Oriental Pearl Tower, the Shanghai Tower, the Shanghai World Financial Center, and the Jinmao Tower. These towering structures are among the most striking sights in Shanghai.
Visitors can enjoy views of these skyscrapers from the Bund, but there are also opportunities to ascend these supertall buildings for a panoramic view of the city through large glass windows and walkways. For the adventurous, there’s even a thrilling skywalk experience high above the ground.
We didn’t get to those skyscrapers, but in case you are interested, it is worth spending some time to get the aerial view of Shanghai city.
Shanghai Disney Resort
Visiting Shanghai Disney Resort (上海迪士尼乐园) was an enjoyable and incredible experience! While I’m not a fan of rides, they brought back straight childhood memories. Entering the park was hassle-free, as we were able to use our passports as foreigners, making the process quick and efficient. The park itself is amazing, and we loved every moment of our visit.
Get the 1-Day Ticket with attraction Premier Access
We enjoyed attractions like the TRON Lightcycle Power Run, Zootopia, and Soar Over the Horizon, among others. Don’t forget to watch the castle fireworks display; it’s truly stunning. Although there are many attractions, it can be challenging to cover all the rides and activities in one day, even when the park is not crowded.
Food prices inside the park are reasonable, and everything is themed nicely.
Shanghai Travel Tips: Despite the long wait times indicated for rides, we found that the actual queues moved much faster than expected, which was a pleasant surprise. Be sure to download the app in advance to check the waiting times. If possible, we recommend getting Premier Access for an enhanced experience.
In short, if you are a Disney fan visiting Shanghai, a trip to Shanghai Disneyland is a great idea. However, I wouldn’t recommend traveling there solely for the park.
Shanghai Disney Resort (上海迪士尼度假区)
Recommended sightseeing time:1 to 2 days.
Admission Fee: Get the 1-Day Ticket with attraction Premier Access.
Try Crab Roe Xiaolongbao
Shanghai is renowned for its crab roe xiaolongbao, a rich and flavorful dish made with fresh crab meat. It’s absolutely delicious, so be sure to try it when you visit Shanghai.
There are many restaurants that serve crab xiaolongbao, and we discovered Wu You Xian (屋有鲜). This restaurant has high ratings on Dianping and is also featured with 1-star Michelin Guide, so we knew we had to give it a try.
The crab xiaolongbao were indeed rich, and we were glad we chose this place. It was so delicious and we couldn’t resist re-ordering more and try all their varietion. All were delightful.
More Times for Shanghai itinerary?
If your schedule permits, we recommend extending your sightseeing to the surrounding suburbs of Shanghai. Many tourists enjoy day trips or weekend getaways from Shanghai to nearby cities like Suzhou, Hangzhou, and Wuzhen for a fuller cultural experience.
Here are some suggested destinations if you have more time to add to your Shanghai itinerary. Feel free to adjust your itinerary based on your interests and the time you have available!
Suzhou (苏州)– Suzhou is a nearby city famed for its beautiful gardens and canals. This charming town features several museums, traditional gardens, and picturesque canal streets that will keep you engaged throughout the day. Traveling from Shanghai to Suzhou is very convenient, with trains taking about 30 minutes to 1 hour and running frequently throughout the day.
Zhujiajiao Water Town (朱家角古镇) – This scenic water town is located just outside Shanghai. You can take a boat ride along the canals, visit the Kezhi Garden, and sample various local street foods.
Hangzhou ((杭州) – Spend 1 to 2 days in Hangzhou to explore the picturesque West Lake, admire the history of Lingyin Temple, experience the rich culture of the Song Dynasty, and stroll through the historic ancient streets.
Wuzhen Ancient Water Town (乌镇水乡) – A visit to Wuzhen allows you to experience the serene beauty and romantic atmosphere of this ancient Chinese water town. It offers stunning views and a memorable experience.
You may read through our travel itienrary to the nearby cities at below.
Overall: A Visit to Shanghai
All in all, we hope this Shanghai itinerary proves helpful and makes you feel more prepared for your next visit. We recommend spending two to three days exploring the attractions within Shanghai, followed by an extended trip to the surrounding areas, including Suzhou, Hangzhou, Wuzhen, and other nearby sites, for a fulfilling travel experience. This duration is ideal for discovering the best of Shanghai and its neighboring cities.
That’s it. Enjoy your visit to Shanghai!
Lastly, this Shanghai itinerary is part of our Shanghai Suzhou Hangzhou travel blog. Continue reading for more travel stories.
- Where To Stay in Shanghai: Best Areas and Hotels
- Day Trip Suzhou itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog
- Hangzhou itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog
- Where To Stay in Hangzhou: Best Areas and Hotels
- Trip to West Lake: A Travel Guide Blog
- Trip to Wuzhen Ancient Water Town: A Travel Guide Blog
Travelling to Chengdu, be sure to check out our travel blog below:
- Chengdu Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog for First-Timer
- Where To Stay in Chengdu: Best Areas and Hotels
- Trip to Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding (Xiongmao Jidi)
- Chengdu Food Guide: Where and What to Eat in Chengdu
- Jiuzhaigou Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog
Traveling to Chongqing? Read for more travel stories:
- 3 to 5 Days Chongqing Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog
- Where To Stay in Chongqing: Best Areas and Hotels
- Longmenhao and Xiahaoli Old Street Travel Guide Blog
- Day Trip to Wulong Karst itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog
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