Shanghai-3-day-itinerary
Shanghai Itinerary: 3 Days
Day 1: Explore Shanghai’s Iconic Landmarks
Morning
- 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM: Start your day at the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower (Dongfang Jingzhu Ta). Take a lift to the top for panoramic views of the city.
- 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM: Visit the nearby Shanghai Museum (Shànghǎi Bówùguǎn) to learn about China’s art, history, and culture.
Afternoon
- 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM: Have lunch at Jia Jia Tang Bao, a popular restaurant serving delicious soup dumplings.
- 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Explore the lively streets of Nanjing Road (Nánjīng Dàdào), one of Shanghai’s most famous shopping streets.
Evening
- 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Xiaolongkan, a renowned restaurant serving traditional Shanghainese cuisine.
- 10:00 PM - 12:00 AM: End your day with a stroll along the Bund (Wàilā), admiring the city’s skyline.
Day 2: Shanghai’s Modern Side
Morning
- 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM: Visit the trendy Tianzifang area in the French Concession, known for its fashionable boutiques and art galleries.
- 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM: Have lunch at The Garden Restaurant, serving international cuisine.
Afternoon
- 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Explore the futuristic Cloud 9 Observation Deck in the World Financial Center for stunning views of the city.
- 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM: Relax at the beautiful People’s Square (Rénmín Guangchang), a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Evening
- 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Din Tai Fung, a renowned Taiwanese restaurant with delicious xiaolongbao.
- 11:00 PM - 12:30 AM: End your night with a visit to the vibrant Xintiandi (Xīndì’àn) area, known for its shopping and nightlife.
Day 3: Nature and Culture
Morning
- 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM: Visit the beautiful Garden of the Orient, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.
- 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM: Explore the historic Zhujiajiao Ancient Town, a charming water town with traditional architecture.
Afternoon
- 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM: Have lunch at Jade Garden, serving Cantonese cuisine.
- 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM: Visit the fascinating Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall to learn about the city’s development and planning.
Evening
- 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM: Enjoy a farewell dinner at Yu Yuan Garden Restaurant, serving traditional Shanghainese cuisine.
- 10:00 PM - 12:00 AM: End your trip with a visit to the iconic Shanghai Tower (Fəngténg) for panoramic views of the city.
Where to Stay
- The Langham Shanghai (5-star): A luxurious hotel in the heart of the city.
- The Ritz-Carlton, Shanghai (5-star): An upscale hotel with stunning views of the Bund.
- Home Inn Plus (Shanghai Hongqiao Airport) (3-star): A budget-friendly option for travelers.
Transportation
- Metro: Shanghai’s metro system is efficient and convenient. Buy a prepaid card or use a mobile payment app like WeChat or Alipay to pay for fares.
- Taxis: Hail a taxi on the street or book one in advance through a ride-hailing app.
- Maglev Train: Take the high-speed maglev train from Pudong International Airport (PVG) to Longyang Road Station.
Tips and Essentials
- Language: Mandarin Chinese is the official language, but many locals speak English, especially in tourist areas. Download a translation app like Google Translate or WeChat.
- Currency: The yuan (CNY) is the local currency. You can exchange your money at airports, hotels, or banks.
- Weather: Shanghai has a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Pack accordingly and stay hydrated.
- Safety: Be aware of pickpocketing and petty theft in crowded areas. Keep valuables secure and be mindful of traffic rules.
Other Things to Know
- Tipping: Tipping is not customary in China, but you may want to leave a small tip for exceptional service.
- Food: Try authentic street food or visit markets like the People’s Square Night Market.
- Events: Check local event calendars and attend festivals like the Shanghai International Film Festival or Shanghai Jazz Festival.
Enjoy your trip to Shanghai!