Shanghai is a city that never stops amazing people for its fusion of ancient culture and modern years. It is a city entire of life with a rich history and enormous culture. This fantastic city offers everything, such as the country’s skyscrapers, relaxing gardens, markets, and out-of-the-world food. Shanghai has an incredible, unique charm that attracts travelers from all over the world. This 3-day, meticulously designed itinerary strives to relieve the burden of planning a trip while thoughtfully blending must-see sites, local treasures, and must-try restaurants. Shanghai is one of the most bustling cities in China, so this guide will help you navigate the city as if you have been living there for years.
What to Include in Your 3-Day Shanghai Itinerary?
Must-See Attractions in Shanghai
The Bund (Waitan): The Bund is an emblem of the city’s ancient and contemporary modern history. Tourists can take a beautiful walk beside the Huangpu River. It’s best for walking or taking stunning photographs, especially at sunset or when the city lights turn on, as it has both colonial-style buildings and the modern skyline of Lujiazui on the opposite side of the water. αλλαξω II Interchange.
Yu Garden (Yuyuan Garden): Yu Garden is a stunning example of a classical Chinese garden. It intricately merges the Yu Jia Hall with its surrounding pavilions, rockeries, ponds, and plants. It also has an adjacent busy Old City Bazaar, which is a combination of traditional food stalls and shops, adding to the bustle.
Oriental Pearl Tower: This impressive futuristic structure in Pudong is recognized as one of the most outstanding buildings in Shanghai. Guests can visit the observation decks for a breathtaking 360-degree view of the city. The tower also contains a part dedicated to the Museum of Shanghai’s History, showing how the city has developed.
Shanghai Tower: As an engineering masterpiece and the world’s second tallest building, Shanghai Tower features twisting designs and extraordinary architecture. Elevator visitors can explore the observation deck at 546 meters, experiencing breathtaking views of the ever-changing city skyline.
Tianzifang: Tianzifang can be found deep inside the French Concession, where a cluster of small boutiques and art shops hide within a labyrinth of narrow alleyways. It has become a sanctuary for artists and bohemians alike, providing a unique blend of traditional Shanghai and modern charm.
Jing’an Temple: Those in the Shanghai area can visit the peaceful sanctuary of the Jing’an Temple, a Buddhist temple erected in 247 AD. Besides the tranquil atmosphere, guests can marvel at the exquisite architecture, such as the jaw-dropping jade Buddha statue.
Shanghai Museum: Further northeast in People’s Square lies the Shanghai Museum of Chinese Art and Culture, famous for housing a diverse collection of ancient bronzes, ceramic pieces, calligraphy, and paintings, all representing the vast history of the nation.
Zhujiajiao Water Town: A mere distance from central Shanghai, Zhujiajiao is called the “Venice of Shanghai” for its canals, stone bridges, and historical buildings. Guests are offered a soothing boat ride alongside the town to enjoy its streets and local cuisines.
Such places exemplify Shanghai’s many sides and provide insight into the city’s blend of tradition and modernism.
Best Neighborhoods to Explore
The Bund (Waitan): One of The Bund’s most notable features is the fantastic panorama of the city skyline, which can be enjoyed along the Huangpu River. Shaped by Shanghai’s history and culture, The Bund comprises colonial buildings from a bygone era that are windows to a different world, providing perfect harmony with contemporary elegance. Besides walking alongside these beautiful sites, guests can dine at exquisite restaurants or take riverboat tours of the city during nightfall.
Former French Concession: The Former French Concession attracts numerous visitors with its historical charm and tree-decorated streets. Fashionable shops, delightful coffee shops, and small art galleries are beautifully concealed within the historical surroundings, forming a perfect paradise for those who love lifestyle and history at the same time. The liveliness of this area, paired with its laid-back vibe, makes it popular for tourists and locals alike.
Xintiandi: These days, everyone flocks to Xintiandi for its Shikumen-style architecture blended with modern designs. Not only that, but it’s also a lively area where visitors can indulge in shopping and dining. For upscale culinary experiences, Xintiandi offers exquisite restaurants alongside its many shops and bars, which are ideal for a modernized urban feel.
Tianzifang: Bursting with creativity, this unique and vibrant neighborhood still retains its original Shikumen buildings, which give it a bohemian touch. While feeling the area’s vibe, visitors can roam around for unique souvenirs or grab a bite of the various food and drink options nearby.
Lujiazui Financial District: Like most cities, each has its business hubs and recreational buildings, and Lujiazui exemplifies that with the famous Shanghai Tower, Jin Mao Tower, and Pearl Tower. In addition to the area’s commercial value, there is value in fine dining, luxury shops, and high vantage points that offer stunning views of the city.
Nanjing Road: Nanjing’s most famous shopping street is called the city itself. East Nanjing is known to be for tourists, and West Nanjing is geared towards locals. Due to its electrifying atmosphere, the place never sleeps and becomes even more splendid when the neon lights are on.
These neighborhoods together define multifaceted Shanghai, showcasing its historical and cultural roots alongside stunning innovation and vibrancy.
Tips for a Memorable Day in Shanghai
Start the Day with a Local Breakfast: Fuel your day with a local breakfast pick, such as soup dumplings (xiaolongbao) or fried dough sticks (youtiao) with soy milk. The Old Town area is particularly famous for its authentic breakfast spots serving Shanghai’s xiaolongbao.
Visit An Important Attraction: Don’t miss out on visiting the Bund and spending the rest of your morning marveling at colonial buildings blended with modern Shanghai skyscrapers—they’re a sight to see. When you’re done, go to the observation decks of the Shanghai Tower or Jin Mao Tower for mind-blowing views of the city.
Taste Local Dishes for Lunch: Add some variety to your lunch by ordering a plate of Shanghai-style noodles or the legendary Zhongshan rou. In Tianzifang, there are plenty of eateries where you can enjoy these dishes, and the same goes for Yuyuan Bazaar.
Sunset Sightseeing Cruise on Huangpu River: Witnessing the city illuminated while cruising the river at sunset is nothing short of spectacular. The Pudong silhouette and the Bund merge as one, and the contrasting lights form an unforgettable scene.
Evening Entertainment to Cap the Day: Moving on to the next activity to end the day, enjoy an awe-inspiring show at the grand Shanghai Grand Theater or visit the busy Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street. Shanghai’s nightlife is always alive, with skyline bars like Flair serving signature drinks and cocktails on the sky-high terraces.
Stay Connected—What You Need To Know Apps: Using an app for navigation, translation, and transport makes it easy to achieve everything needed for the day. The public transport system, especially the metro, is exceptional, and cashless mobile transactions are accessible.
With thoughtful scheduling and a mix of modern, historical, and cultural attractions, Shanghai will undoubtedly provide a rich and delightful experience.
How to Plan Your Day 1 in Shanghai?
Starting Your Trip: Arrival and Getting to Shanghai
When traveling to Shanghai, the city’s address shows you it has two main international airports: Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) and Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA). PVG mainly receives international flights and is approximately 30 kilometers from the city center (30 30-minute drive by car); Hongqiao Airport, which manages domestic flights, is closer to 13 kilometers from downtown Shanghai. Like any international airport, both offer currency exchanges, Wi-Fi, Wifi, restaurants, and transport services.
To reach the city from either of the airports, the Maglev Train, the world’s fastest train, takes 8 minutes to get from PVG to Longyang Road Metro Station (at a chest-thumping speed of 430 km/h). Taxi services are considerably more straightforward than public transport; however, their price depends on the time of day, traffic, and other factors. Didi is a tremendous service-driven rideshare option to get around the city on schedule.
If you wish to have everything sorted in advance, a number of hotels and travel companies have airport shuttles that will take you smoothly to your hotel. With these options for transportation, arriving in Shanghai is nothing less than simple and offers a glimpse of the city’s developed infrastructure and urban vitality. Just make sure you have the destination address written down in Chinese characters in case you need to communicate with staff or drivers.
Exploring the Bund: A Cultural Icon
The Bund is an iconic waterfront on the Huangpu River and is considered one of Shanghai’s landmarks. The Bund is not just an iconic landmark but also historically crucial to Shanghai as it represents the city’s colonial past. This area has many stunning neoclassical, baroque, gothic, and Art Deco buildings alongside the 1.5-kilometer promenade. Known as a lively center, the Bund also offers spectacular views of Shanghai’s modern Pudong skyline, which features the futuristic Oriental Pearl Tower and the towering Shanghai Tower.
While strolling along the Bund, take note of other historical structures like the former HSBC Building, now the Shanghai Pudong Development Bank, and the awe-inspiring Peace Hotel, which marks the height of the city’s opulence in the 1920s. The river and its surroundings are illuminated spectacularly, marking a stunning blend of traditionalism and modernity that Shanghai is known for. With its meticulously manicured pathways, restaurants, and ferry rides, the Bund acts as a hub for both leisure and recreation, showcasing Shangai’s ever-evolving cultural heritage.
Evening Activities: Night Views of the Skyscrapers
The skyline of Shangai is painted by various archeological structures and their twinkling lights. The Oriental Pearl Tower, with its iconic spheres glowing in vibrant colors, serves as a good starting point. Moreover, the Shanghai Tower, located near the Pearl Tower, also displays breathtaking design elements as it is the tallest building in China and one of the tallest in the world. Jin Mao Tower and the World Financial Center also add to the awe-inspiring skyline by featuring outstanding architectural designs.
For the best experience, visitors should explore the rooftop bars or other vantage points in the Lujiazui area, as it provides breathtaking views of the city. Another great option is the Huangpu River cruise, which offers a more relaxing and effortless means of taking in the city from afar. The blend of modern wonder and historical culture seamlessly combines in the skyline. The city can be appreciated not only for its buildings but also for its leadership status in creativity and innovation globally during nighttime.
What to Do on Day 2 of Your 3 Days in Shanghai?
Experience Zhujiajiao Watertown
On the second day, visit the beautiful and scenic historic Zhujiajiao Watertown, popularly known as the ‘Venice of Shanghai’. This ancient town is over 1,700 years old and is famous for its serene canals, classical bridges, and architectural marvels. Strolling along its narrow streets, you can spot artisan shops, delicious local food, and ancient buildings that have stood the test of time and blend beautifully with the town’s waterways.
A highlight of the visit is Fangsheng Bridge, the largest stone arch bridge into Zhujiajiao, which gives a stunning glimpse of the surrounding scenery. Also, enjoy a leisurely ride inside a gondola-style boat cruising through the canals to soak in the peace. History buffs can explore Zhezi Garden and the Post Office from the Qing Dynasty for a taste of the wonderful history this enchanting town has to offer.
From enjoying steamed buns from street vendors to guarded sites, Zhujiajiao Watertown is a peaceful contrast to the incessant bustle of the city. It serves as a respite with a glimpse of China’s deep history combined with a tranquil experience.
Must-See Attractions: Shanghai Museum and Yu Garden
Widely known as one of the best Shanghai museums, Shanghai Museum: Yu Garden combines the history of China with the country’s rich culture. With an unusual architectural design, this museum has more than 120,000 relics, masterpieces, bronze wares, jade, ancient ceramics, and calligraphy, remembering the evolution of China’s art for thousands of years. This is one of the Shanghai Museums that foster the art of dynasty China and exhibits thousands of years old masterpieces. The museum’s design is also excellent since it resembles a traditional “ding” or symbol of ancient China’s civilization. It further adds to the charm of the emblem of modern culture simultaneously. Entry is free or without charge, so it is convenient for everyone to enjoy the art hub.
Yu Gardens breaks the Lei Feng Pagoda and the splendor of Lijiang City. It is built towards the south of shanghai old city and yu gardens is a quiet harbour or fortress away from the busy roads and towers of highways brimming with vehicles, teeming people, shops, hotels. It also shows an example of the traditional Yangzhou gardening style. This area is an entire history and is decorated with rockwork, delicate pavilions, Suzhounese streams, and magnificent buildings such as the Exquisite Jade Rock. Built during the Ming Dynasty in 1559, Yu is a stylized classical garden with a famous unlimited Ming classic and colonial period.
Next to the garden is the lively Yuyuan Bazaar, where shops and local snacks capture the buzzing activity. Yu Garden perfectly blends cultural richness with Shanhai’s Yu Garden tranquility, making it a must-visit destination for serenity seekers.
Dining Options in the French Concession
The French Concession in Shanghai is a paradise for gourmets and lovers of food from all over the world due to the region’s blend of culinary traditions. The dining district has cafes and energetic eateries, from classy restaurants to casual food joints. Shentang Street is also home to modern bistros such as Gu Shou Fang, whose Shagnaise soup dumplings and braised pork are authentic. Innovative restaurants also don’t fall behind, offering many international and fusion meals. For those who enjoy sweet delicacies, numerous artisan bakeries and dessert places serve amazing pastries and other mouth-watering sweet treats.
The numerous food stalls that dot the alleyways offer a more laid-back atmosphere, selling scallion pancakes, fried dumplings, and tasty skewers. The restaurants on the French Concession also offer some of the best people-watching spots, as many of them have outdoor seating. Whether you prefer historic dishes or the inventiveness of fusion dishes, the French Concession is guaranteed to deliver an unforgettable culinary experience.
How to Make the Most of Day 3 in Shanghai?
Lujiazui and the Shanghai Tower: Modern Wonders
Day 3 of my adventure began with my attempt to uncover further the Lujiazui area of Shanghai, which houses the Shanghai Tower and poses a glimpse of the future, given the advancement of technology and infrastructure. From the Oriental Pearl Tower, which was accompanied by the rest of the Oriental Pearl TV Tower complex, to the Jin Mao Tower and Shanghai Tower, I was nothing short of how far ahead Shanghai is in terms of development. While strolling at the Lujiazui Riverside Promenade, I saw The Bund, a perfect blend of modernity and ancient traditions.
The most unforgettable part of my tour was the Shanghai Tower, which, at 632 meters, is the second tallest building in the world. It also has the fastest elevators, which reach 20.5 meters per second. Riding one of the elevators to the 118th observation deck was an extraordinary experience. From that viewpoint, I was astonished by the breathtaking panoramic view of the entire region. The unparalleled view far surpasses the best views I’ve seen anywhere, as Shanghai outdid itself. It was a moment I will forever appreciate.
To soak in the spirit of Lujiazui, I also checked out the regional malls and dining options. For shopping enthusiasts, these places provided glimpses of local culture, while for those seeking a taste of the world, local brands abounded at IFC Mall and Super Brand Mall. To cap off the day, I enjoyed a sumptuous meal at a high-end restaurant facing the skyline, which perfectly balanced the celebration of Shanghai’s bold and futuristic nature. In my view, Lujiazui and Shanghai Tower are examples of how modern dynamism is exhibited as a world city.
Cultural Experiences: Temples and Traditional Markets
When I went to Shanghai, I was struck by the beautiful blend of modern sophistication and rich history. This is most striking in the city’s temples and traditional marketplaces, where the ancient calmness of spirituality gets mixed with daily hustle and bustle. One of the places that I loved exploring the most is the Jade Buddha Temple. It had astounding architecture from the late Qing Dynasty and a wondrous collection of Buddha statues that provided refuge from the hectic city. I spent a while looking at the two famous jade Buddha statues, which are carved from whole white jade and are not just pristine pieces of craftsmanship but also, like many visitors and worshippers, vessels of faith.
Another remarkable location was Longhua Temple, Shanghai’s oldest and most extensive temple complex. Even today, it continues to capture the essence of the past. My stroll along the temple grounds, accompanied by the soft whiff of burning incense, which rests in the air, felt ethereal. The grand pagoda of the temple and boldly red walls shouted love and timelessness at the same time. The extra chanting offered daily by the monks added a different rhythmical elegance to the place. Longhua Temple, whether you are a lover of religion or just a plain history buff, provides an exquisite insight into China’s spiritual heritage.
Examples of how the Yu Garden illustrates Shanghai’s rich culture include tourist attractions such as the Yu Yuan Bazaar. I explored everything from locally trained craftsmen to restaurants specializing in traditional delicacies such as xiaolongbao and osmanthus cake here. The vivid colors accompanying the vibrant culture combined with scents and sounds from the lively interactions of people placed me in a sensory overload. Through these markets, one can appreciate the cultural and culinary diversity within Shanghai.
While Shopping on Nanjing Road, Getting Lost Will Not Be An Option
In my experience, Nanjing Street is considered one of the central shopping locations in the world and captures a mixture of historical attractions alongside modern entertainment. Sprawling across three miles, it is filled with lavish stores such as department stores and international clothing franchises, ensuring shoppers of almost every level can shop from their preferred stores. While walking through Nanjing Road, I was inspired by how tradition and modern moves are showcased in one walkable area.
My journey started at East Nanjing Road, famous for its historic shops and high-end brands. It is home to flagship stores and walls of timeless, historic establishments. I admired local stores selling all sorts of traditional Chinese crafts, silk goods, and teas as their staff happily explained the illustrations on the packages. The modern holographic billboards and old-style skyscrapers placed side by side somewhere along this street perfectly demonstrate the coexistence of modernity and relics of the city’s past.
While moving towards West Nanjing Road, the atmosphere shifted into a more luxurious realm. This area features The Shanghai International Hotel, towering shopping centers, and flagship stores for luxury brands like Chanel, Prada, and Louis Vuitton. It’s a great place to do some shopping, but what blew me away was the overall experience—boutiques with an unparalleled concierge, futuristic design, and even leisure and dining spaces. Aside from shopping, Nanjing Road is bustling with natural life where you can enjoy street performances or indulge in food from the many stalls. This visit cemented the idea that Nanjing Road is not only a landmark of Shanghai but also a mecca for shoppers all around the globe.
What are the best day trips to Shanghai?
Explore the Enchanting Water Towns of Zhujiajiao
Located 47 kilometers from downtown Shanghai, Zhujiajiao is known as “the Venice of Shanghai,” and it’s one of the famous Chinese Water Towns that every traveler should visit. Zhujiajiao boasts 1700 years of history, so it’s not surprising that the Ming and Qing-era buildings constructed alongside the canals and waterways are breathtaking.
During your visit to Zhujiajiao, walk through the narrow streets. You’ll get to cross stone bridges like Fangsheng Bridge and go into many shops that sell unique Chinese crafts and tasty food. Zhujiajiao’s atmosphere is marvelous, with its vast canals and gondola-like boats in which to take rides. The city is also home to many attractions like the Kezhi Garden, which is known for its gardens and pagodas. With all the calm yet captivating history and culture that Zhujiajiao offers, it is a perfect getaway from Shanghai.
Sightseeing On The Outskirts of Shanghai
Tongli is a charming water town located about an hour and a half outside Shanghai. Noted for its canals and architecture, it gives tourists a glimpse into ancient Chinese civilization. The town boasts several Ming and Qing Era gardens and residences, including the iconic Retreat and Reflection Garden, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. This garden perfectly blends turbulent nature and serene structure, which every culture lover must appreciate.
Great Strolling is also known for its famous “Three Bridges,” which are Taiping, Jili, and Changqing. These bridges were believed to bring good luck, happiness, and long life. Crossing the old bridges is wonderfully enriched with local history. The layout of the town, along with its tea houses, makes it a great immersion into Chinese culture and perfect for a day trip from Shanghai.
How to Go on a Day Trip to Zhujiajiao Water Town?
Traveling to Zhujiajiao Water Town through Shanghai is uncomplicated and enhances your experience. You can observe how Chinese people live in water villages. Zhujiajiao is located roughly 25 miles west of Shanghai and can be reached by public transport, guided tours, or even private vehicles.
Getting There: The metro is the cheapest option for independent travelers trying to cut costs. Take Line 17 and get off at Zhujiajiao Station, a shuttle or a short walk from the town entrance. If you want to travel by bus, many routes connect Shanghai to Zhujiajiao. The Huzhu Express Line at People’s Square Bus Terminal or Hongqiao Hub is the most famous. Taxis and private cars are great for those with flexible time and looking for faster travel. They take around an hour, depending on traffic.
What to Do: Upon arriving in Zhujiajiao, you can do anything. Start by strolling through the narrow streets full of Ming and Qing dynasty buildings, which will undoubtedly attract the attention of photographers. As a must-do, embark on a boat ride on the waterways while basking in the majestic sight of the town’s arched bridges and well-preserved buildings. Do not forget Kezhi Garden, a garden within the city, and the majestic Fangsheng Bridge, the largest stone bridge in Zhujiajiao, which has been around for a long time and is said to have many local myths surrounding it.
Costs and Tips: The Kezhi Garden charges an entrance fee while temples accept donations. Packs of tickets are sold for tourists who intend to visit multiple attractions. Your feet must be fitted in comfy walking shoes, have a little local currency for drinks and trinkets, and if you can, come on a weekday to beat the bigger weekend lines.
Spending one day in Zhujiajiao Water Town allows for a fascinating trip to see China’s ancient water town heritage and gives the chance to escape the city life of Shanghai. Plan well because it is a cultural getaway meant to be beautiful and enriching.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What are the must-see attractions for visiting Shanghai in 3 days?
A: In a 3-day visit to Shanghai, do not forget to stop by the Oriental Pearl Tower, the City God Temple, and take in The Bund. Additionally, stroll through Xintiandi and Tianzifang to experience the local culture and walk the Huangpu River promenade.
Q: What is the best way to get around Shanghai during my stay?
A: The easiest way to get around Shanghai is by the fitness Metro system, which covers most major attractions. Taxis are another appropriate option, especially for private transport to less accessible locations. However, walking between nearby locations would prove most beneficial for the most enriching experience.
Q: Can you provide some Shanghai travel tips for first-time visitors?
A: Know a few Mandarin phrases and have a translation application. It is also important not to lose offline navigation or a physical map. Trying local street food is encouraged, but plan your visits to popular attractions early in the day for less traffic.
Q: When should one go to Shanghai?
A: The most appropriate time to visit Shanghai is in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), as the weather is relatively mild and pleasant. This enables the full enjoyment of outdoor sights and activities without enduring summer’s scorching heat and moisture.
Q: Can you suggest any day tours from Shanghai?
A: Sure, visiting ancient water towns Zhujiajiao and Tongli or visiting the beautiful gardens in Suzhou are popular day trips from Shanghai. You may also visit Hangzhou, which is famous for the West Lake, an excellent escape from the busy city.
Q: What boutique hotels in Shanghai can you stay at?
A: The Waterhouse at South Bund is a boutique hotel in Shanghai with a modern design offering gorgeous views of the Huangpu River. Les Suites Orient, which sits in the middle of the city with easy access to all places of interest and an astonishing ambience, are great options to consider.
Q: Which Buddhist temples in Shanghai are worth visiting?
A: In Shanghai, a must-visit is the Jade Buddha Temple, which houses two exquisite jade Buddha statues. Longhua Temple, considered the oldest and largest in the city, has astounding architectural structures combined with tranquil surroundings.
Q: How best to enjoy Shanghai in 3 days?
A: To make the most of Shanghai’s offerings in 3 days, visit The Bund, the Pudong area, and some historic neighborhoods while adhering to a particular timetable. Remember to leave some of your shopping time from Nanjing Road, local dishes, and a bird’s eye view from the observation deck of Pearl Tower.
Q: What are some attractions of downtown Shanghai?
A: To sightseeing in Shanghai’s downtown area, head to Nanjing Road for shopping, visit the Shanghai Museum to appreciate artifacts from different eras, and enjoy the fresh air along the Bund while taking in the skyline. Also, check out the vibrant nightlife at Xintiandi and Tianzifang.