Shanghai 6 Day Itinerary

Shanghai 6-Day Itinerary: A Comprehensive Guide

Day 1: Arrival & The Bund

  • Arrive at Pudong International Airport (PVG).
  • Check-in at your preferred hotel in the city center. Some popular choices are The Ritz-Carlton, Shanghai, Hyatt on the Bund, and Four Seasons Hotel Shanghai.
  • Start your day with a visit to The Bund (Wai Tan), where you can enjoy stunning views of iconic skyscrapers such as the Oriental Pearl Tower and the Shanghai Tower.
  • Cross the Huangpu River via the famous Yangpu Bridge or the more modern Oriental Pearl River Crossing.
  • Explore Tianzifang, a charming arts and crafts enclave located in the old French Concession.
  • For dinner, head to Ultraviolet by Paul Pairet, one of Shanghai’s most innovative and popular restaurants. Reservations are essential!

Day 2: Yu Garden & Old Town

  • Begin your day with a visit to the Yu Garden (Yuyuan Yuan) in the Old City of Shanghai.
  • Wander through the bustling bazaar and explore the old town’s narrow lanes, filled with traditional shops and teahouses.
  • Head to Jade Buddha Temple to admire the beautiful Chinese architecture and jade Buddha statues.
  • Lunch at Nanxiang Mantou Dongtai, a famous dumpling restaurant near Yu Garden.
  • In the afternoon, take a stroll along the picturesque French Concession streets, including Tongren Road, Changle Road, and Fuxing Road.
  • For dinner, try Din Tai Fung, a renowned Taiwanese restaurant serving delicious xiao long bao (soup dumplings).

Day 3: Museums & Modern Architecture

  • Spend the morning at the Shanghai Museum to discover Chinese art and history.
  • Visit the Power Station of Art, China’s first state-run museum dedicated to contemporary art.
  • Lunch at Super Tofu Express, a popular vegetarian restaurant in the city.
  • In the afternoon, marvel at the futuristic architecture of the Shanghai Tower and the nearby Oriental Pearl Tower.
  • Take an elevated walk on The Bund Sightseeing Tunnel, a unique underground pedestrian tunnel connecting both sides of the Huangpu River.
  • For dinner, dine at M on the Bund, offering stunning views of the city and an exceptional menu of modern European cuisine.

Day 4: Day trip to Zhujiajiao (Pearl River Town)

  • Take a day trip to Zhujiajiao, an ancient water town located about 50 kilometers from Shanghai.
  • Explore the town’s labyrinth of canals, bridges, and traditional buildings.
  • Visit Kezhi Garden, one of the most famous gardens in Zhujiajiao.
  • Lunch at local restaurants specializing in Dongting Lake Fish and other regional dishes.
  • Return to Shanghai in the evening and relax at your hotel or explore the vibrant nightlife scene in Xintiandi.

Day 5: Shopping & Nightlife

  • Spend the day shopping at Nanjing Road, a famous pedestrian street with a variety of stores ranging from high-end brands to local boutiques.
  • Visit IAPM Mall for even more shopping and dining options.
  • Lunch at Din Tai Fung (Nanjing Road branch) or Shake Shack (IAPM Mall).
  • In the evening, explore the nightlife scene in Xintiandi, a popular entertainment district filled with bars, restaurants, and live music venues.
  • For dinner, try Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse or The Commune Social for modern international cuisine.

Day 6: Departure

  • Spend your final hours in Shanghai exploring any remaining sights or shopping for souvenirs.
  • Depart from Pudong International Airport (PVG).

Transportation:

  • The Metro is the most convenient and affordable way to get around Shanghai, with an extensive network covering almost every tourist attraction in the city.
  • Taxis are widely available but can be expensive during peak hours or for longer distances.
  • Car services like Didi (China’s Uber) and Grab are also popular options.

Tips & Important Information:

  • Shanghai is a bustling, cosmopolitan city with a mix of modern skyscrapers, traditional architecture, and vibrant street life.
  • English is not as widely spoken as in other major cities like Beijing or Hong Kong, so learning a few basic Chinese phrases can be helpful.
  • Be aware of scams targeting tourists, particularly around popular attractions and in crowded areas.
  • Shanghai’s weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers and check the forecast before heading out.
  • Reservations are highly recommended for popular restaurants, especially during peak tourist season (March to November).