Shanghai, China-6-day-itinerary

6-Day Shanghai Itinerary

This itinerary balances iconic landmarks with local experiences for a well-rounded trip.

Where to Stay:

  • Budget: The Bund Youth Hostel, Green Lake Hotel
  • Mid-Range: Hotel Indigo Shanghai on the Bund, The Waterhouse at South Bund
  • Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong, Peninsula Shanghai

Transportation:

  • Shanghai Metro: Efficient, affordable, and easy to navigate. Download a metro app for maps and schedules (e.g., “Metro Trip”).
  • Taxis: Widely available but traffic can be heavy. Use Didi Chuxing app for ride-hailing.
  • Walking: Explore neighborhoods on foot for a unique perspective.

Things to Know:

  • Visa: Most nationalities require a visa to enter China. Apply in advance.
  • Language: Mandarin is the official language. Download a translation app and learn some basic phrases.
  • Currency: Chinese Yuan (CNY). ATMs are readily available.
  • Connectivity: Public Wi-Fi is widely available, but consider getting a local SIM card for data.

Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival & The Bund

  • Morning: Arrive at Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) and take the Maglev train to downtown. Check into your hotel.
  • Afternoon: Stroll along The Bund, admiring colonial architecture and the stunning skyline across the Huangpu River.
  • Evening: Enjoy a Huangpu River cruise for breathtaking views of the city lights. Dine at Lost Heaven (The Bund) for Yunnan cuisine.

Day 2: Old Town & Culture

  • Morning: Explore the charming alleys and tea houses of Shanghai’s Old Town. Visit the Yu Garden, a classical Chinese garden, and the City God Temple.
  • Afternoon: Immerse yourself in art at the Shanghai Museum, showcasing ancient Chinese artifacts.
  • Evening: Savor delicious Shanghainese cuisine at Jia Jia Tang Bao (renowned for their soup dumplings).

Day 3: Modern Shanghai & Shopping

  • Morning: Ascend the Shanghai Tower, one of the tallest buildings in the world, for panoramic city views.
  • Afternoon: Indulge in retail therapy at ** Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street**, a bustling shopping hub.
  • Evening: Catch a captivating acrobatic show at the Shanghai Circus World. Dine at M on the Bund for modern European cuisine with stunning river views.

Day 4: Day Trip to Suzhou

  • Take a high-speed train (about 30 minutes) to Suzhou, known as the “Venice of the East.”
  • Explore the Classical Gardens, including the Humble Administrator’s Garden and Lingering Garden.
  • Wander through the canals and bridges, soak in the serene atmosphere.

Day 5: French Concession & Art Scene

  • Morning: Stroll through the French Concession, a charming neighborhood with tree-lined streets and colonial architecture. Visit the Former Residence of Sun Yat-sen.
  • Afternoon: Explore the trendy art scene in the Tianzifang district, filled with independent boutiques, cafes, and galleries.
  • Evening: Enjoy authentic Cantonese cuisine at Jesse Restaurant, known for its dim sum.

Day 6: Departure

  • Enjoy a final breakfast of Shanghai street food before heading to the airport for your departure.

Tips:

  • Bargain: Haggling is common in markets and smaller shops.
  • Respect local customs: Be mindful of noise levels in public spaces and avoid pointing directly at people.
  • Carry cash: While credit cards are accepted in many establishments, some smaller vendors may only accept cash.
  • Embrace the experience: Shanghai is a vibrant city with something for everyone. Be open to new experiences and enjoy the unique blend of tradition and modernity.