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China · duration itinerary

Shanghai 10 days

Shanghai offers a dazzling blend of ancient traditions and futuristic ambition, a city that pulses with energy and surprises at every turn. Immerse yourself in its vibrant street life, from the colonial charm of the Bund to the avant-garde art scene in M50 Creative Park. Explore tranquil gardens like Yu Garden, then ascend the Shanghai Tower for breathtaking panoramic views. The city's culinary landscape is a journey in itself, featuring everything from delicate xiaolongbao to innovative fusion cuisine. For a 10-day trip, consider basing yourself in the French Concession for its leafy streets, boutique shops, and historic architecture, or the Jing'an district for its blend of modern amenities, upscale shopping, and proximity to cultural sites. An insider truth most guides miss is that while Shanghai is undeniably modern, its true magic lies in the unexpected pockets of old Shanghai that still exist. Seek out the narrow alleyways, known as lilong, to discover authentic local life and hidden culinary gems far from the tourist crowds. During September, the weather is pleasant, marking a sweet spot before the cooler autumn months, ideal for exploring both indoor and outdoor attractions.

Photo by Li Yang on Unsplash

Your 10-day plan

PaceStandard

This 10-day itinerary for Shanghai offers a balanced exploration of its blend of historical charm and futuristic dynamism. You'll wander through the colonial architecture of the Bund and the French Concession, marvel at the modern skyscrapers of Pudong, delve into traditional gardens and temples, and experience the vibrant art scene. Culinary adventures range from world-famous soup dumplings to authentic local flavors, complemented by ample opportunities for shopping.

Day 1 · Shanghai

Historic Bund and French Concession Charm

$45–$100
  1. Morning
    ~90 min
    The Bund
    viewpoint

    A historic waterfront promenade showcasing Shanghai's colonial past with iconic Art Deco and Neoclassical buildings. Offers stunning views of the Pudong skyline across the Huangpu River.

    • Arrive early to avoid crowds and get the best light for photos.
    • Consider a river cruise for a different perspective.
  2. Midday
    ~45 min
    Peace Hotel
    landmark

    An iconic Art Deco hotel on the Bund, famous for its history and the Jazz Bar. Even if not staying, the lobby is worth a visit.

  3. Afternoon
    ~180 min
    Former French Concession
    neighborhood

    Wander through tree-lined streets with European-style villas, chic boutiques, and charming cafes. Explore streets like Wukang Road and Anfu Road.

    • Wear comfortable shoes for extensive walking.
    • Look out for hidden courtyards and independent shops.
  4. Evening
    ~90 min
    Lost Heaven
    restaurant

    A popular mid-range restaurant offering a taste of Yunnan cuisine in a beautifully decorated, atmospheric setting.

    • Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends.
    • Try their signature dishes like the 'Crossing the Bridge Noodles'.
Day 2 · Shanghai

Pudong's Modern Marvels and Riverside Views

$105–$160
  1. Morning
    ~90 min
    Shanghai Tower
    viewpoint

    Ascend to the observation deck of China's tallest building for breathtaking panoramic views of Shanghai.

    • Book tickets online in advance to save time.
    • Visit on a clear day for the best visibility.
  2. Midday
    ~120 min
    Oriental Pearl TV Tower
    landmark

    An iconic symbol of Shanghai, this futuristic tower offers multiple observation levels and dining options with unique city vistas.

  3. Afternoon
    ~60 min
    Lujiazui Central Green Space
    park

    A surprisingly tranquil urban oasis amidst the skyscrapers of Lujiazui, offering a green respite and interesting sculptures.

  4. Evening
    ~90 min
    Hutong
    restaurant

    Dine at this upscale restaurant offering refined Shanghainese cuisine in a stylish, modern setting.

    • Dress code is smart casual.
    • The tasting menu is a good way to sample a variety of dishes.
Day 3 · Shanghai

Art, Culture, and Old Shanghai

$35–$90
  1. Morning
    ~150 min
    Shanghai Museum
    museum

    Home to an extensive collection of ancient Chinese art, including bronze, ceramics, calligraphy, and jade.

    • Allow at least 2-3 hours to explore the main exhibits.
    • Check for special temporary exhibitions.
  2. Midday
    ~60 min
    People's Park
    park

    A large urban park in the city center, known for its lively atmosphere, tea houses, and the famous 'marriage market' on weekends.

  3. Afternoon
    ~150 min
    Tianzifang
    neighborhood

    A bohemian arts and crafts enclave in a former residential area, filled with narrow alleyways, studios, boutiques, and cafes.

    • Get lost in the maze-like alleys to discover hidden gems.
    • Be mindful of the narrow passageways and crowds.
  4. Evening
    ~75 min
    Din Tai Fung
    restaurant

    World-renowned for its delicate xiao long bao (soup dumplings), this chain offers a consistent and delicious dining experience.

    • Expect a wait, especially during peak hours.
    • Don't miss the truffle oil xiao long bao.
Day 4 · Shanghai

Yu Garden and Old City Exploration

$70–$150
  1. Morning
    ~120 min
    Yu Garden
    park

    A classical Chinese garden dating back to the Ming Dynasty, featuring intricate rockeries, pavilions, and ponds.

    • Visit early to avoid the largest crowds.
    • Combine with a visit to the adjacent bazaar.
  2. Midday
    ~90 min
    Yuyuan Bazaar
    shopping

    A bustling market area surrounding Yu Garden, offering traditional crafts, souvenirs, snacks, and local street food.

  3. Afternoon
    ~45 min
    City God Temple
    landmark

    A Taoist temple complex located within the Yuyuan Bazaar, offering a glimpse into traditional religious practices.

  4. Evening
    ~90 min
    Grandma's Home
    restaurant

    A popular chain serving authentic Zhejiang cuisine at reasonable prices, known for its home-style dishes.

    • The Dongpo Pork is a must-try.
    • Expect queues during peak dining hours.
Day 5 · Shanghai

Art District and Riverside Relaxation

$80–$160
  1. Morning
    ~150 min
    M50 Creative Park (Moganshan Road)
    activity

    A contemporary art district housed in former industrial buildings, featuring numerous galleries, artist studios, and creative shops.

    • Explore the diverse range of contemporary art.
    • Some galleries may have specific opening hours.
  2. Midday
    ~90 min
    1933 Old Millfun
    landmark

    A unique and striking Art Deco building with a complex labyrinth of ramps, bridges, and staircases, now housing shops and restaurants.

    • Great for photography due to its unusual architecture.
    • Enjoy a coffee or light meal at one of its cafes.
  3. Afternoon
    ~90 min
    North Bund
    viewpoint

    A less crowded alternative to the South Bund, offering excellent views of the Lujiazui skyline and a pleasant riverside promenade.

  4. Evening
    ~120 min
    Mr & Mrs. Bund
    restaurant

    A chic, modern European restaurant offering creative cuisine and stunning views of the Pudong skyline.

    • This is a fine-dining experience, so dress accordingly.
    • Make reservations well in advance.
Day 6 · Shanghai

Shopping Extravaganza and Local Flavors

$100–$335
  1. Morning
    ~120 min
    Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street
    shopping

    One of the world's busiest shopping streets, lined with department stores, international brands, and local shops.

    • Take the tourist tram if you want to cover a long distance.
    • Be aware of your surroundings due to the high volume of people.
  2. Midday
    ~90 min
    Shanghai World Financial Center (SWFC)
    viewpoint

    Known for its distinctive 'bottle opener' shape, the SWFC offers spectacular views from its Sky Walk.

  3. Afternoon
    ~120 min
    Huaihai Road
    shopping

    A more upscale shopping street than Nanjing Road, featuring luxury boutiques, designer stores, and modern shopping malls.

  4. Evening
    ~90 min
    Ye Olde Station
    restaurant

    A unique themed restaurant designed like an old train station, offering a mix of Western and Chinese dishes.

    • The ambiance is the main draw here.
    • Good for a casual dinner experience.
Day 7 · Shanghai

Water Town Excursion: Zhujiajiao

$85–$175
  1. Morning
    ~240 min
    Zhujiajiao Water Town
    neighborhood

    A charming ancient water town on the outskirts of Shanghai, known for its canals, stone bridges, and traditional architecture.

    • Take a gondola ride along the canals.
    • Try local snacks like 'ciba' (sticky rice cake).
    → Travel via Shanghai Metro Line 17 or a pre-booked tour/taxi.
  2. Midday
    ~90 min
    Local Restaurants in Zhujiajiao
    restaurant

    Enjoy fresh, local seafood and traditional Shanghainese dishes at one of the many eateries within the water town.

  3. Afternoon
    ~120 min
    Explore Zhujiajiao
    activity

    Wander through the old streets, visit ancient bridges like the Fangsheng Bridge, and browse local craft shops.

  4. Evening
    ~90 min
    Dinner back in Shanghai
    restaurant

    Return to Shanghai for dinner at a restaurant of your choice, perhaps exploring a different cuisine.

    → Return via Shanghai Metro Line 17 or pre-booked transport.
Day 8 · Shanghai

Architectural Gems and Artistic Flair

$85–$190
  1. Morning
    ~60 min
    Jing'an Temple
    landmark

    A magnificent Buddhist temple located in the heart of the bustling Jing'an district, featuring golden roofs and intricate details.

  2. Midday
    ~90 min
    Jing'an Kerry Centre
    shopping

    A modern, high-end mixed-use development adjacent to Jing'an Temple, offering luxury retail, dining, and office spaces.

  3. Afternoon
    ~120 min
    Power Station of Art
    museum

    Shanghai's first state-run contemporary art museum, housed in a former power plant, known for its large-scale exhibitions and the Shanghai Biennale.

    • Check the museum's schedule for current exhibitions.
    • The building itself is an impressive industrial structure.
  4. Evening
    ~90 min
    Lost Heaven - The Bund
    restaurant

    The Bund location of the popular Yunnan restaurant, offering a more refined dining experience with river views.

Day 9 · Shanghai

Local Life and Culinary Delights

$75–$210
  1. Morning
    ~120 min
    Dongtai Road Antique Market
    shopping

    A bustling market where you can find a wide array of antiques, curios, jade, calligraphy, and local crafts. (Note: The original Dongtai Road Market has largely moved or dispersed; check local listings for current reputable antique markets like those near Tianzifang or Caojiadu for similar experiences).

    • Haggling is expected, but do so politely.
    • Be discerning about authenticity and quality.
  2. Midday
    ~75 min
    Local Shanghainese Eatery
    restaurant

    Seek out a small, local restaurant for an authentic taste of Shanghainese home cooking, away from the main tourist hubs.

    • Look for places filled with locals.
    • Try 'hong shao rou' (braised pork belly) or 'shengjian bao' (pan-fried buns).
  3. Afternoon
    ~120 min
    Xintiandi
    neighborhood

    A stylish pedestrian area blending traditional Shikumen architecture with modern boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. It's a popular spot for leisure and entertainment.

  4. Evening
    ~90 min
    Avenue 1933
    restaurant

    Located within the 1933 Old Millfun, this restaurant offers a unique dining experience in a historically significant architectural setting.

Day 10 · Shanghai

Leisurely Exploration and Departure

$65–$190
  1. Morning
    ~90 min
    Fuxing Park
    park

    A beautiful French-style park in the Former French Concession, perfect for a relaxed morning stroll, observing locals practicing Tai Chi or dancing.

  2. Midday
    ~75 min
    Shanghai Propaganda Poster Art Centre
    museum

    A fascinating private museum showcasing a unique collection of historical Chinese propaganda posters, offering insight into political art and history.

    • Located in a residential building basement, so look carefully for the entrance.
    • A truly unique and thought-provoking collection.
  3. Afternoon
    ~90 min
    Last-minute Souvenir Shopping
    shopping

    Revisit favorite shopping areas or explore local markets for any last-minute gifts or mementos.

  4. Evening
    ~90 min
    Farewell Dinner
    restaurant

    Enjoy a final Shanghai meal at a restaurant of your choice, perhaps revisiting a favorite or trying a highly-rated establishment.

Insider tips

  • ◆Download a translation app and a VPN before your trip.
  • ◆Consider purchasing a Shanghai Public Transportation Card for easy travel on subways and buses.
  • ◆Learn a few basic Mandarin phrases; it can enhance interactions.
  • ◆Be prepared for crowds, especially at popular attractions.
  • ◆Tipping is not customary in China.

Packing highlights

  • ◆Comfortable walking shoes
  • ◆Layers for variable weather
  • ◆Portable power bank
  • ◆Adapter for Chinese outlets
  • ◆Small umbrella

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