Shanghai

Shanghai stands where the Yangtze meets the sea. Marvel at the futuristic skyline from The Bund, explore the historic Yuyuan Garden, and let the old-world charm of Tianzifang alleyways pull you in. Don’t leave without tasting xiaolongbao, the city’s famous soup dumplings.

Chapters

Shanghai Guide
Where to Stay
Best Season
Local Tips

Local Tips

Highlights:

• The Bund
• Yu Garden
• Shanghai Tower and skyline
• Xintiandi district
• Shanghai cuisine

Lowlights:

• Smog
• Busy traffic
• High cost of living


Currency: –
Festivities: –

Shanghai Guide

Guide for 1 Day

Morning

  • Start your day with a traditional Chinese breakfast at Fu Chun, known for their delicious steamed buns and soy milk.
  • Next, head to the Yu Garden to admire the classical Chinese architecture and peaceful gardens.
  • Take a short walk to the nearby City God Temple, a popular place of worship and cultural landmark.

Midday

  • For lunch, try some authentic Shanghainese cuisine at Xiao Yang Sheng Jian, famous for their pan-fried pork buns.
  • Afterwards, take a stroll along the picturesque Bund waterfront promenade and enjoy the stunning views of the city skyline.

Afternoon

  • Explore the charming French Concession area, starting with a visit to the Shanghai Propaganda Poster Art Centre, which showcases the city’s fascinating history through propaganda art.
  • Next, wander through the trendy boutiques and cafes on Tianzifang alleyways, a hidden gem of the city.

Evening

  • Indulge in a delicious dinner of Xiao Long Bao (soup dumplings) at the famous Din Tai Fung restaurant.
  • Afterwards, sip on some craft cocktails at the upscale speakeasy-style bar, Speak Low.
  • End your evening with a visit to the Oriental Pearl Tower, an iconic Shanghai landmark with breathtaking views of the city at night.

Guide for 2 Days

Day 1

Morning

  • Start your day with a traditional Chinese breakfast at Fuchun Xiaolong, a popular local spot known for its delicious soup dumplings.
  • Visit the iconic The Bund and marvel at the stunning skyline of Shanghai.
  • Explore the Yu Garden, a classical Chinese garden with over 400 years of history.

Midday

  • Enjoy a tasty lunch at Xiaoyang Shengjian, a small restaurant famous for its pan-fried pork buns.
  • Stroll through the trendy Tianzifang neighborhood and discover unique boutiques and galleries.

Afternoon

  • Get a glimpse of Shanghai’s future with a visit to the Shanghai Tower, the world’s second-tallest building.
  • Experience the local culture at Shikumen Open House Museum, a restored traditional Shanghainese home.

Evening

  • Savor traditional Shanghainese cuisine at Xiao Nan Guo, a restaurant known for its flavorful braised pork and steamed buns.
  • Unwind with a drink at The Nest, a rooftop bar with stunning city views.
  • End your night with some live music at JZ Club, a popular jazz venue.

Day 2

Morning

  • Indulge in some more delicious dumplings at Jia Jia Tang Bao, a local favorite for its mouth-watering soup dumplings.
  • Visit the Jing’an Temple, a tranquil Buddhist temple in the heart of the city.
  • Explore the French Concession, a charming neighborhood with tree-lined streets and historic buildings.

Midday

  • Grab a quick bite to eat at Roux, a trendy sandwich shop with creative options.
  • Discover the Propaganda Poster Art Centre, a unique museum showcasing Chinese propaganda posters from the 1940s to 1990s.

Afternoon

  • Escape the city and take a short trip to Zhujiajiao Water Town, a picturesque town with canals and ancient bridges.
  • Experience the local street food scene at Shanghai Old Street, a pedestrian street with a variety of food stalls.

Evening

  • Enjoy a seafood feast at Di Shui Dong, a restaurant known for its spicy Sichuan-style dishes.
  • Relax at The Apartment, a cozy speakeasy-style bar with a vintage vibe.
  • End your night with some karaoke at Party World, a popular karaoke spot with private rooms.

Guide for 3 Days

Day 1

Morning

  • Start the day with a traditional Chinese breakfast at Fuchun Xiaolong, a local favorite for their steamed dumplings and soy milk.
  • Take a short walk to the Shanghai Museum to explore China’s ancient art and artifacts.
  • Visit the Jing’an Temple, a historic Buddhist temple with a beautiful pagoda and serene gardens.

Midday

Afternoon

  • Take a stroll through the Tianzifang neighborhood, known for its charming alleyways and local artisan shops.
  • Visit the Propaganda Poster Art Centre, which showcases vintage propaganda posters from China’s past.

Evening

  • Indulge in some delicious Shanghainese cuisine at Lost Heaven, a trendy restaurant with a modern twist on traditional dishes.
  • Head to the Bar Rouge for panoramic views of the city skyline and some signature cocktails.
  • End the night with a stroll along the Bund, where you can see the iconic skyline and neon lights of Shanghai.

Day 2

Morning

  • Start the day with some freshly-made pastries and coffee at Tiago’s, a cozy coffee shop in the French Concession.
  • Visit the Shanghai French Concession, a charming neighborhood with tree-lined streets and historic architecture.
  • Explore the Shanghai Natural History Museum, which features a wide range of exhibits on China’s flora and fauna.

Midday

  • Satisfy your hunger with some street food at Yunnan Lu Market, a bustling marketplace with endless food options.
  • Take a stroll through the Shanghai Botanical Garden, which boasts over 6,000 species of plants.

Afternoon

Evening

  • Indulge in some delicious Peking duck at Da Dong, a renowned restaurant chain from Beijing.
  • Visit The Pearl, a stunning theater that showcases Chinese acrobatics, dance, and music.
  • End the night with a drink at The Nest, a rooftop bar with a cozy and stylish atmosphere.

Day 3

Morning

Midday

Afternoon

  • Take a stroll through the Shanghai Sculpture Park, which features a diverse collection of contemporary sculptures.
  • Visit The Cool Docks, a waterfront area with trendy shops, cafes, and galleries.

Evening

  • Indulge in some spicy Sichuanese cuisine at Cheng Long Hang, a popular restaurant chain.
  • Experience the vibrant nightlife of Moganshan Road, a former industrial area now transformed into a hub for art and culture.
  • End the night with a drink at Barbarossa, a stylish rooftop bar with stunning views of the city.

Guide for 5 Days

Day 1

Morning

  • Start your day with a traditional breakfast at Xiaoyang Shengjian, a local specialty filled with juicy pork and soup.
  • Visit the iconic Yu Garden, which dates back to the 16th century and is a great example of classical Chinese landscaping.
  • Take a stroll down the bustling Nanjing Road, one of the busiest shopping streets in the world.

Midday

  • Savor some authentic Shanghai cuisine at Xiao Nan Guo, a restaurant specializing in Huaiyang cuisine.
  • Explore the Shanghai Natural History Museum, which boasts a vast collection of fossils and interactive exhibits.

Afternoon

  • Head to Tianzifang, a charming artistic neighborhood with narrow alleyways and quaint shops.
  • Take a peaceful walk along The Bund, a waterfront promenade that offers spectacular views of the city skyline.

Evening

  • Indulge in some delicious seafood at Da Dong Hai, a popular restaurant located in the heart of the city.
  • Sip on a cocktail at The Ritz Carlton rooftop bar, which offers panoramic views of the city.
  • Experience the local nightlife at Mao Live House, a popular music venue that showcases local and international talent.

Day 2

Morning

  • Enjoy a cup of coffee and a pastry at Seesaw Coffee, a trendy cafe with a minimalist decor.
  • Visit the Jade Buddha Temple, a peaceful Buddhist temple that houses two magnificent jade statues.
  • Explore the vibrant Xintiandi neighborhood, which combines traditional Shikumen architecture with modern amenities.

Midday

  • Taste some mouth-watering Shanghainese street food at Yunnan Nan Lu Market, a bustling market with a variety of local vendors.
  • Visit the Shanghai Tower, the tallest building in China and one of the tallest in the world, for stunning views of the city.

Afternoon

Evening

  • Feast on some delicious Peking duck at Da Dong, a restaurant known for its crispy skin and succulent meat.
  • Sip on some craft beer at The Brew, a popular bar with a laid-back atmosphere.
  • Experience the traditional art of Chinese opera at Shanghai Grand Theater, which hosts regular performances.

Day 3

Morning

  • Wake up early and enjoy a traditional Chinese breakfast at Yang’s Fried Dumplings, a local favorite.
  • Explore the Shanghai Museum, which houses over 120,000 artifacts that showcase the history and culture of China.
  • Visit the People’s Square, a large public square that is often used for cultural events and performances.

Midday

  • Try some delicious noodles at Qing Xiang Zhai, a restaurant known for its handmade noodles and spicy Sichuan cuisine.
  • Visit the Shanghai Jewish Refugees Museum, a poignant reminder of the city’s role in saving Jewish refugees during World War II.

Afternoon

  • Discover the charming French Concession neighborhood, which features beautiful tree-lined streets and colonial architecture.
  • Visit the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center, which showcases the city’s development and future plans.

Evening

  • Savor some tasty dim sum at Crystal Jade, a popular restaurant chain with a vast selection of Cantonese cuisine.
  • Enjoy a live jazz performance at Cotton Club, a legendary jazz bar that has hosted many famous musicians.
  • Experience the vibrant nightlife at M1NT, a luxurious club with a stunning view of the city.

Day 4

Morning

Midday

  • Taste some mouth-watering spicy crayfish at Yi Yang Feng Wei, a popular restaurant known for its delicious seafood.
  • Visit the Shanghai Circus World, a world-renowned circus that showcases traditional Chinese acrobatics.

Afternoon

  • Take a relaxing walk through the Shanghai Botanical Garden, which features over 6,000 species of plants and flowers.
  • Visit the Long Museum, which houses a vast collection of contemporary Chinese art.

Evening

  • Savor some authentic Peking duck at Duck de Chine, a restaurant with a trendy atmosphere.
  • Sip on some creative cocktails at Speak Low, a speakeasy-style bar with a hidden entrance.
  • Experience the local nightlife at Bar Rouge, a popular club with a stunning view of the city.

Day 5

Morning

  • Indulge in some mouth-watering Chinese breakfast crepes at Da Hu Chun, a local spot with a variety of fillings.
  • Discover the Tonglefang neighborhood, a charming area with traditional architecture and local shops.
  • Take a peaceful stroll through the Shanghai Sculpture Park, which features a variety of contemporary sculptures.

Midday

Afternoon

Evening

  • Savor some delicious hotpot at Haidilao, a popular restaurant chain with a variety of dipping sauces.
  • Sip on some creative cocktails at The Nest, a trendy bar with a rooftop terrace.
  • Experience the local nightlife at Arkham, a popular club with a variety of music genres.

Guide for 1 Week

Day 1

Morning

  • Start your day with a traditional Shanghai breakfast at Yang’s Dumplings, known for their juicy pork dumplings.
  • Take in the stunning views of the city from the top of the Shanghai Tower, the tallest building in China.
  • Explore the Yu Garden, a classic Chinese garden with over 400 years of history.

Midday

  • Enjoy a delicious Sichuanese lunch at Xiao Wei Yang Hot Pot, where you can cook your own meats and vegetables in a spicy broth.
  • Visit the Shanghai Museum, showcasing ancient Chinese art, ceramics, and furniture.

Afternoon

  • Take a stroll along the famous Bund, a waterfront promenade lined with colonial-era buildings.
  • Get lost in the maze of alleyways at Tianzifang, a bohemian district filled with art galleries, boutiques, and cafes.

Evening

  • Indulge in a tasty Peking duck dinner at Dadong Roast Duck.
  • Sip on a cocktail at the speakeasy-style bar Speak Low, hidden behind a bookshelf.
  • Catch a live jazz performance at Cotton’s, a cozy bar with a vintage vibe.

Day 2

Morning

  • Have a hearty breakfast at Jian Guo 328, a local favorite famous for their soy milk and fried dough sticks.
  • Visit the Shanghai Natural History Museum, featuring interactive exhibits and a vast collection of dinosaur fossils.
  • Discover the ancient art of tea at the Huxinting Tea House, a charming tea house on the edge of the Yu Garden.

Midday

  • Savor a delicious Zhejiang-style lunch at Lou Wai Lou, known for their signature dish of West Lake fish in vinegar sauce.
  • Admire the futuristic architecture of the Oriental Pearl Tower, a landmark TV tower with a glass observation deck.

Afternoon

  • Explore the trendy district of Xintiandi, a pedestrian street filled with high-end boutiques, galleries, and restaurants.
  • Learn about Shanghai’s Jewish history at the Jewish Refugees Museum, housed in a former synagogue.

Evening

  • Enjoy a sumptuous seafood dinner at Old Jesse, a rustic restaurant serving classic Shanghainese dishes.
  • Sip on a creative cocktail at Sober Company, a sleek bar with a speakeasy vibe.
  • Experience the magic of Shanghai at night on a Huangpu River cruise, with stunning views of the city skyline.

Day 3

Morning

  • Start your day with a healthy breakfast at Green & Safe, a farm-to-table cafe with organic produce.
  • Discover the art of Chinese calligraphy at the Shanghai Museum of Calligraphy, featuring works by famous calligraphers.
  • Stroll through the picturesque Fuxing Park, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.

Midday

Afternoon

  • Explore the vibrant French Concession area, filled with tree-lined streets, boutique shops, and charming cafes.
  • Learn about Shanghai’s industrial past at the Shanghai Propaganda Poster Art Centre, featuring a collection of vintage propaganda posters.

Evening

  • Satisfy your cravings for spicy Sichuanese cuisine at Chuan Ban, a restaurant known for their fiery hot pot.
  • Sip on a craft beer at Boxing Cat Brewery, a popular microbrewery with a laid-back atmosphere.
  • Catch a live performance at Shanghai Grand Theatre, showcasing traditional Chinese opera or ballet.

Day 4

Morning

  • Start your day with a sweet breakfast at Mr. Pancake House, a cozy cafe serving fluffy pancakes and waffles.
  • Take a walk through the leafy Jing’an Sculpture Park, featuring sculptures by world-famous artists.
  • Explore the trendy shops and cafes at the Jing’an Kerry Centre, a sleek shopping mall in the heart of the city.

Midday

Afternoon

  • Discover the colorful street art of M50, a contemporary art district with galleries and studios.
  • Take a stroll through the peaceful gardens of the Longhua Temple, one of the oldest and largest temples in Shanghai.

Evening

  • Savor a mouthwatering meal at Lost Heaven, a restaurant serving Yunnanese cuisine in a stylish setting.
  • Sip on a classic cocktail at the elegant Roosevelt Sky Bar, with panoramic views of the city.
  • Experience the thrill of Shanghai’s nightlife at M1NT, a trendy nightclub with a rooftop terrace.

Day 5

Morning

  • Start your day with a traditional Shanghai breakfast at Da Hu Chun, a local institution known for their fried dough sticks and soy milk.
  • Visit the Power Station of Art, a contemporary art museum housed in a former power plant.
  • Stroll through the charming Tianping Road Antique Market, filled with vintage furniture, ceramics, and more.

Midday

Afternoon

  • Take a walk through the picturesque Shanghai French Park, featuring charming villas and gardens.
  • Learn about the history of Shanghai’s Jewish refugees at the Ohel Moishe Synagogue, restored as a museum.

Evening

  • Satisfy your cravings for Korean BBQ at Little Sheep Korean BBQ, a popular restaurant with a lively atmosphere.
  • Sip on a creative cocktail at The Nest, a rooftop bar with panoramic views of the city.
  • Catch a live performance at Jazz at Lincoln Center, featuring local and international jazz musicians.

Day 6

Morning

  • Have a tasty breakfast at Wagas, a popular cafe chain serving healthy options.
  • Visit the China Art Museum, showcasing modern and contemporary Chinese art.
  • Take a stroll through the beautiful Century Park, the largest park in Shanghai.

Midday

  • Savor a delicious Shandong-style lunch at Jin Xuan, a restaurant known for their crispy fried chicken.
  • Explore the Shanghai Tower Art Museum, featuring contemporary art from around the world.

Afternoon

Evening

  • Indulge in a gourmet meal at Ultraviolet, a Michelin-starred restaurant with a multi-sensory dining experience.
  • Sip on a glass of wine at Bar Constellation, a stylish wine bar with an extensive selection.
  • Relax with a cup of tea at Le Passage Secret, a hidden teahouse with a peaceful atmosphere.

Day 7

Morning

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Element Fresh, a popular restaurant chain with healthy options.
  • Learn about the history of Shanghai’s Jewish refugees at the Jewish Cemetery, the final resting place of many Jewish immigrants.
  • Take a stroll through the charming Shanghai Old Street, featuring traditional architecture and souvenir shops.

Midday

Afternoon

Evening

  • Savor a delicious hot pot dinner at Hai Di Lao, a popular chain restaurant with excellent service.
  • Sip on a craft cocktail at The Union Trading Company, a stylish bar with a vintage vibe.
  • End your trip with a bang at the Shanghai Circus World, featuring acrobats, clowns, and more.

Where to Stay

Coming soon for Shanghai!
Luxury: –
Good: –
Budget: –
Hostel: –

Best Season

Coming soon for Shanghai!