Shanghai, China-5-day-itinerary

Shanghai, China - 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the French Concession

  • Morning: Start your day at Jade Buddha Temple, a beautiful Taoist temple home to two famous jade buddhas. (9:00 AM - 10:30 AM)
    • Address: 213, Anhua Road
    • Metro Line: Jing’an Temple Station (Line 2), Exit 1
  • Lunch: Head to Xintiandi, a trendy shopping and dining street, for lunch at Din Tai Fung, famous for its xiaolongbao. (11:00 AM - 12:30 PM)
    • Address: No. 5, Lane 123 Xingye Road
  • Afternoon: Explore the charming streets of the French Concession and visit the Shanghai Propaganda Poster Art Center to learn about China’s history through art. (2:00 PM - 4:00 PM)
    • Address: Building 3, No. 210, Taikang Road
  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Yang’s Fry Dumplings, a popular restaurant for trying Shanghai-style fried dumplings. (6:00 PM - 8:00 PM)
    • Address: No. 20, Lane 283 Xingye Road

Day 2: Skyscrapers and Gardens

  • Morning: Start at the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower for panoramic views of Shanghai. Then visit the nearby Shanghai World Financial Center for another great view. (9:00 AM - 11:30 AM)
    • Address: No. 1, Century Avenue
    • Metro Line: Lujiazui Station (Line 2), Exit 6 or 7
  • Lunch: Lunch at The Bund, a famous waterfront area with stunning views of the city skyline. Try M on the Bund for great food and service. (11:30 AM - 1:30 PM)
    • Address: No. 5, The Bund
  • Afternoon: Visit the beautiful Yu Garden, one of Shanghai’s oldest and most famous gardens. (2:00 PM - 4:00 PM)
    • Address: No. 23, Lane 175, Anren Road
  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Jia Jia Tang Bao, a restaurant known for its delicious xiaolongbao. (6:00 PM - 8:00 PM)
    • Address: Building 4, No. 101, Xiantiandi

Day 3: History and Culture

  • Morning: Visit the Shanghai Museum, which houses a comprehensive collection of Chinese art and history. (9:00 AM - 11:30 AM)
    • Address: No. 201, Renmin Road
    • Metro Line: The Bund Station (Line 2), Exit 13
  • Lunch: Try traditional Shanghainese cuisine at Longing for Spring, a restaurant with a beautiful garden setting. (11:30 AM - 1:30 PM)
    • Address: No. 19, Lane 155, Taikang Road
  • Afternoon: Visit the Xin Tian Di, a trendy shopping and dining street that offers a glimpse into Shanghai’s modern culture. (2:00 PM - 4:00 PM)
    • Address: No. 5, Lane 123 Xingye Road

Day 4: Markets and Food Streets

  • Morning: Visit the famous Jin Mao Tower, which houses a shopping center with great views of the city. Then explore the adjacent Golden Resources Mall for more shopping options. (9:00 AM - 11:30 AM)
    • Address: No. 501, Shanghai Jinmao Center
  • Lunch: Try street food at Yuyintang, a popular spot for snacks and quick meals. (11:30 AM - 1:30 PM)
    • Address: No. 101, Xiantiandi
  • Afternoon: Visit the bustling Xin Xin Lu Jia Food Street, which offers a wide variety of street food and snacks. (2:00 PM - 4:00 PM)
    • Address: Lane 1, 111, Xinjin Road

Day 5: Parks and Relaxation

  • Morning: Spend the morning at Century Park, one of Shanghai’s largest parks. Enjoy a leisurely walk or rent a bike to explore the park’s many attractions. (9:00 AM - 11:30 AM)
    • Address: No. 1, Century Avenue
    • Metro Line: Lujiazui Station (Line 2), Exit 6 or 7
  • Lunch: Have lunch at The Park Place, a restaurant located within the park offering great views and food. (11:30 AM - 1:30 PM)
    • Address: Century Park, No. 1, Century Avenue

Where to Stay:

There are numerous hotels in Shanghai catering to different budgets and preferences. Some top-rated options include:

  • The Portman Ritz-Carlton, Shanghai: A luxury hotel with excellent service and prime location.
    • Address: No. 1376, Pudong Road
  • Grand Hyatt Shanghai: Another luxurious option located on the 56th to 87th floors of the Oriental Pearl Tower.
    • Address: No. 33, Qixin Road

Transportation:

Shanghai has an efficient public transportation system that includes a comprehensive metro network and buses.

  • Metro: The most convenient way to get around Shanghai. Make sure to download the WeChat Metro app for easy navigation.
  • Taxi: Available everywhere but can be expensive, especially during peak hours.
  • Didi Chuxing: A popular ride-hailing service.

Things to Know:

  • Weather: Be prepared for hot and humid summers and cooler winters. Spring and autumn are generally mild and pleasant.
  • Safety: Shanghai is a safe city for tourists, but take normal precautions against pickpocketing and scams.
  • Language: While English is widely spoken, learning some basic Chinese will enhance your experience.

Tips:

  • Respect Local Customs: Take off your shoes before entering temples or traditional homes. Dress modestly when visiting mosques or churches.
  • Use Cashless Payment: WeChat Pay and Alipay are the most convenient ways to pay for goods and services.
  • Haggle at Markets: It’s customary to negotiate prices when shopping at markets.

Other Things of Interest:

  • The Bund Sunset: Find a spot along The Bund to watch the sunset over the city skyline, a truly unforgettable experience.
  • Shanghai Disney Resort: A magical place for families and fans of Disney.