Shanghai 2 weeks

Shanghai Pudong International Airport is a major international airport serving Shanghai and a global hub for air traffic.

Experience the world's first commercial high-speed magnetic levitation train, offering a thrilling and swift journey from Pudong Airport to Longyang Road station.

• Purchase tickets at the airport station.
• The ride is incredibly smooth and quiet.

Ascend to the top of Shanghai's tallest building for breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline, including the Huangpu River and historic Bund.

• Book tickets online in advance to save time.
• Visit during sunset for a spectacular light show over the city.
• The elevator is one of the fastest in the world.

A renowned Taiwanese restaurant chain famous for its delicate xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) and other Shanghainese specialties.

• Expect a wait, especially during peak hours.
• Try the truffle xiaolongbao for a unique flavor.

Stroll along the iconic waterfront promenade, admiring the grand colonial-era architecture on one side and the futuristic Pudong skyline on the other.

• Go early in the morning to avoid crowds.
• The contrast between old and new architecture is stunning.

A historic landmark hotel on the Bund, famous for its Art Deco architecture and the legendary Jazz Bar.

• Consider having a drink at the Jazz Bar for a taste of old Shanghai.
• The building itself is an architectural masterpiece.

Wander through tree-lined streets filled with charming European-style villas, boutiques, cafes, and art galleries.

• Explore streets like Wukang Road, Anfu Road, and Fuxing Road.
• This area is perfect for leisurely walks and discovering hidden gems.

An atmospheric restaurant offering exquisite Yunnan cuisine, known for its elegant decor and unique flavors.

• Reservations are highly recommended.
• Try the Yak Meat and the Butterfly Shrimp.

Explore a vast collection of ancient Chinese art, including bronzes, ceramics, calligraphy, and paintings, housed in a striking, modern building.

• Admission is free, but special exhibitions may have a fee.
• Focus on one or two galleries if time is limited.

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

• Visit early to avoid the largest crowds.
• The surrounding bazaar offers traditional crafts and snacks.

A bustling market adjacent to Yu Garden, filled with traditional Chinese architecture, tea houses, souvenir shops, and street food vendors.

• Try the Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant for famous xiaolongbao.
• Bargain for souvenirs, but be polite.

Experience authentic Shanghainese cuisine in a setting that evokes the city's glamorous past, with traditional dishes and decor.

• Must-try dishes include braised pork belly (Hong Shao Rou) and hairy crab (seasonal).
• The ambiance is as important as the food.

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

• Wear comfortable shoes to explore the many galleries.
• Look for street art on the exterior walls.

A unique, labyrinthine Art Deco building with a fascinating history, now housing shops, restaurants, and event spaces.

• The architecture is incredibly photogenic.
• Explore its many levels and hidden corners.

A charming, artsy neighborhood characterized by narrow alleyways filled with boutiques, craft stores, cafes, and small galleries.

• It can get very crowded; visit on a weekday if possible.
• Great for finding unique souvenirs and enjoying a coffee.

A popular, stylish restaurant in the French Concession known for its contemporary European cuisine and relaxed ambiance.

• Reservations are essential.
• Offers a good selection of wines.

One of the world's busiest shopping streets, offering a vast array of department stores, international brands, and local shops.

• Explore both the eastern (more tourist-oriented) and western (more upscale) sections.
• Look out for the historic No. 1 Department Store.

A famous local chain serving delicious sheng jian bao (pan-fried pork buns), a Shanghai breakfast and snack staple.

• Be careful, the soup inside is very hot!
• A must-try for an authentic local taste.

A chic, modern entertainment district that has preserved and restored traditional Shikumen (stone-gate) architecture, now housing upscale boutiques, restaurants, and bars.

• Great for people-watching and enjoying a drink.
• Visit the Shikumen Open House Museum for historical context.

Enjoy the popular Yunnanese cuisine in the stylish setting of Xintiandi, offering a different ambiance from its original location.

• Reservations are strongly advised.
• Try the braised pork belly with a unique Yunnan twist.

A picturesque ancient water town on the outskirts of Shanghai, known for its canals, stone bridges, old houses, and traditional way of life.

• Take a gondola ride along the canals.
• Sample local snacks like sticky rice cake.

Enjoy fresh, local cuisine in one of the many restaurants lining the canals, offering a taste of traditional Jiangnan flavors.

• Look for restaurants serving river fish or local vegetables.

Continue exploring the narrow lanes, ancient bridges, and historic buildings of this charming water town.

• Visit the oldest bridge, Fangsheng Bridge.
• Consider visiting the historical houses like Kezhi Garden.

Head back to the city center after a day trip to the water town.

Enjoy a relaxed dinner after returning from Zhujiajiao.

Shanghai's first state-run contemporary art museum, housed in a former power plant, showcasing major exhibitions and installations.

• Check their website for current exhibitions.
• The building's industrial architecture is also impressive.

A quirky, short underground ride with colorful lights and sounds, connecting the Bund to Pudong's Lujiazui area.

• It's more of a novelty than a practical transport option.
• An experience in itself!

An iconic landmark in Pudong, offering multiple observation decks with stunning views of the city and river.

• The revolving restaurant offers a dining experience with a view.
• Book tickets for higher levels for the best panoramas.

Enjoy sophisticated cocktails and Asian-inspired tapas with unparalleled views of the Bund and Pudong skyline from this chic rooftop bar.

• Dress code is smart casual; reservations recommended, especially for a table with a view.
• It's a popular spot, so arrive early or book well in advance.

Embark on a guided walking tour to sample a variety of authentic Shanghainese street food and local delicacies, learning about the city's culinary heritage.

• Come hungry! You'll taste many different dishes.
• Ask your guide about the history and ingredients of each food.

Visit a bustling local market to experience daily life, browse for unique items, and observe the vibrant atmosphere.

• Be prepared for crowds and a sensory overload.
• Practice your bargaining skills politely.

A unique, privately-run museum showcasing a fascinating collection of Chinese propaganda posters from the Mao era.

• It's located in the basement of an apartment building, so follow the signs carefully.
• Offers a rare glimpse into a significant period of Chinese history.

Dine in a beautifully restored Shikumen villa, offering refined Shanghainese cuisine in an elegant, intimate setting.

• This is a high-end dining experience; reservations are essential.
• The ambiance is perfect for a romantic evening.

A beautiful French-style garden in the heart of the Former French Concession, popular for morning tai chi, dancing, and leisurely strolls.

• Observe locals practicing various activities.
• Enjoy the serene atmosphere and the fountains.

A stunning, active Buddhist temple in the bustling Jing'an district, featuring ornate halls, gilded statues, and a peaceful courtyard.

• The temple is surrounded by modern shopping malls, creating a striking contrast.
• Respect the religious nature of the site; dress modestly.

Discover Shanghai's past, present, and future through interactive exhibits, models, and displays, most notably the massive model of the city.

• The scale model of Shanghai is a highlight.
• Provides great context for understanding the city's rapid development.

Enjoy the world-famous soup dumplings and other Taiwanese dishes in a modern, upscale setting within the Jing'an Kerry Centre.

• Expect a wait, but it's usually worth it.
• The location is convenient for shopping and entertainment.

A contemporary art space located along the West Bund, hosting major international art exhibitions and events.

• Check the schedule for current exhibitions.
• The waterfront promenade here is less crowded than the Bund.

A striking contemporary art museum with impressive architecture, featuring a vast collection of Chinese and international art.

• The building's design, with its concrete arches, is a highlight.
• Often hosts major retrospectives and group shows.

A long, scenic stretch along the Huangpu River, perfect for cycling, walking, and enjoying modern public art installations.

• Rent a bike for a more extensive exploration.
• Enjoy the views of the river and the city's modern architecture.

An upscale Italian restaurant by Michelin-starred chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, known for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious pizzas and pastas.

• Reservations are recommended, especially for window seats.
• The truffle burrata is a popular starter.

A sophisticated shopping street known for its high-end boutiques, department stores, and stylish cafes, reflecting Shanghai's modern cosmopolitan flair.

• Explore the IAPM Mall and Shanghai Plaza 500.
• This area is less crowded than Nanjing Road but equally chic.

A popular spot for authentic Shanghainese cuisine, offering classic dishes in a comfortable, local setting.

• Try the 'Lion's Head' meatballs and braised pork.
• Good value for traditional Shanghainese food.

A collection of beautifully restored historic villas housing upscale restaurants, bars, and boutiques, offering a tranquil escape.

• Enjoy a coffee or drink in one of the courtyards.
• The architecture is a highlight.

Experience the unique Yunnanese flavors and enchanting ambiance at this popular restaurant, known for its exotic decor and delicious food.

• Reservations are highly recommended.
• The bar area is also a great place for pre-dinner drinks.

Shanghai's primary Confucius Temple, offering a glimpse into traditional Chinese scholarship and philosophy, with serene courtyards and ancient halls.

• Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds.
• It's a peaceful retreat from the city bustle.

Located in the former Ohel Moshe Synagogue, this museum commemorates the thousands of Jewish refugees who found sanctuary in Shanghai during WWII.

• A poignant and important historical site.
• The exhibits are well-curated and informative.

A stunning and unique Art Deco architectural masterpiece, originally a meat processing plant, now a creative hub with shops and cafes.

• The labyrinthine structure is a photographer's dream.
• Explore its many levels and appreciate the intricate design.

A classic Shanghai eatery famous for its crispy, pan-fried dumplings (sheng jian bao) and traditional noodle dishes.

• A no-frills, authentic dining experience.
• The dumplings are a must-try.

Enjoy a scenic cruise along the Huangpu River, offering unparalleled views of the historic Bund skyline and the modern Pudong cityscape.

• Consider an evening cruise to see the city lights.
• Departures are frequent from the Bund.

Experience exquisite Cantonese cuisine and dim sum in an elegant setting with stunning city views, located in the Ritz-Carlton.

• Reservations are recommended.
• Their dim sum selection is extensive and high-quality.

Ascend to the 'Bottle Opener' skyscraper for breathtaking panoramic views from its Sky Walk observatory, including the adjacent Shanghai Tower.

• The observatory offers a unique perspective of the city.
• Visit on a clear day for maximum visibility.

A sophisticated rooftop bar on the Bund offering stunning views of the Pudong skyline, known for its chic ambiance and creative cocktails.

• Dress code is smart casual; reservations are recommended for prime seating.
• The atmosphere is lively, especially on weekends.

Pick up any last-minute gifts or mementos from local shops or department stores.

Enjoy a final delicious meal in Shanghai, perhaps revisiting a favorite dish or trying a new local specialty.

Depart from Shanghai after a memorable trip.