Shanghai 2 weeks

A historic waterfront promenade showcasing Shanghai's colonial past with a stunning collection of early 20th-century buildings. It offers iconic views across the Huangpu River to the futuristic skyline of Pudong.

• Go early to avoid crowds and get the best light for photos.
• Look for the historical architectural details on the buildings.

A quirky, short underground tunnel that transports pedestrians across the Huangpu River using automated, light-and-sound-enhanced pods. It's a kitschy but memorable experience connecting the Bund to Pudong.

• Embrace the kitsch and enjoy the light show.
• It's more about the experience than efficient transport.

One of the world's tallest skyscrapers, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Shanghai from its observation deck. The building itself is an architectural marvel with a unique twisting design.

• Book tickets online in advance to save time.
• Visit on a clear day for the best visibility.

The heart of Shanghai's modern financial center, characterized by its dazzling array of futuristic skyscrapers. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and illuminated cityscape at night.

A classical Chinese garden dating back to the Ming Dynasty, featuring exquisite rockeries, ponds, pavilions, and traditional architecture. It's a peaceful oasis amidst the bustling city.

• Arrive at opening to avoid the largest crowds.
• Wander through the adjacent Yuyuan Bazaar for souvenirs and snacks.

A historic Taoist temple located within the Yuyuan Garden area, dedicated to the City God. It's a vibrant spiritual center and a popular spot for locals and tourists.

A charming district characterized by tree-lined avenues, European-style architecture, boutique shops, and cozy cafes. It offers a glimpse into Shanghai's colonial past.

A stylish entertainment district known for its restored traditional Shikumen (stone-gate) houses, now housing upscale restaurants, bars, and boutiques. It's a popular spot for a sophisticated evening out.

A vibrant art district housed in former industrial buildings, featuring numerous contemporary art galleries, studios, and artist workshops. It's a hub for Shanghai's modern art scene.

• Wear comfortable shoes as there's a lot to explore.
• Check for any temporary exhibitions or artist talks.

A maze of narrow alleyways filled with artsy boutiques, craft shops, cafes, and small restaurants, all within renovated Shikumen buildings. It's a bohemian and lively area.

One of the world's busiest shopping streets, offering a vast array of department stores, international brands, local boutiques, and food stalls. It's a quintessential Shanghai shopping experience.

• Be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends.
• Look for the historic No. 1 Food Store for local snacks.

A world-class museum showcasing ancient Chinese art, including bronzes, ceramics, calligraphy, and paintings. Its distinctive round-top, square-base design is iconic.

• Focus on a few galleries if time is limited.
• The bronze and ceramics collections are particularly outstanding.

A large urban park in the heart of Shanghai, surrounding the Shanghai Museum. It's a popular spot for locals to relax, exercise, and socialize, with a famous marriage market on weekends.

An engaging center displaying Shanghai's past, present, and future urban development through detailed models, interactive exhibits, and historical photos. The centerpiece is a massive scale model of the city.

• Don't miss the detailed model of Shanghai.
• It provides excellent context for understanding the city's rapid growth.

A picturesque ancient water town on the outskirts of Shanghai, known for its canals, stone bridges, and traditional houses. It offers a glimpse into a slower pace of life.

• Take a boat ride along the canals for a unique perspective.
• Try local snacks like 'sticky rice cake'.

Enjoy traditional Shanghai cuisine in one of the many charming restaurants within Zhujiajiao. Sample local specialties in a relaxed canal-side setting.

Wander through the narrow, winding alleys, browse local craft shops, and discover hidden courtyards. It's a perfect opportunity to soak in the atmosphere.

Shanghai's contemporary art museum, housed in a former power station. It hosts major international exhibitions and showcases cutting-edge art.

• Check their schedule for temporary exhibitions.
• The building's industrial architecture is also impressive.

A large riverside park that was the site of the 2010 Shanghai World Expo. It features diverse pavilions, green spaces, and public art installations.

An interactive museum with engaging exhibits on science, technology, nature, and human exploration. It's particularly great for families but enjoyable for all ages.

• Allow ample time for interactive exhibits.
• The IMAX theater offers immersive film experiences.

A charming ancient town within Shanghai's Minhang District, offering a more local and less crowded experience than other water towns. It features traditional architecture, canals, and food stalls.

• Try the local delicacy 'Qibao sticky rice cake'.
• Visit on a weekday for a more authentic feel.

Sample a variety of Shanghainese snacks and dishes from street vendors and small restaurants in Qibao. From savory pancakes to sweet dumplings, it's a foodie paradise.

A unique, semi-hidden museum showcasing a fascinating collection of Chinese propaganda posters from the Mao era. It offers a distinct historical and artistic perspective.

• The museum is located in a residential building basement, so look carefully for the entrance.
• It provides insightful context to China's modern history.

A major shopping street known for its upscale boutiques, department stores, and international luxury brands. It offers a more sophisticated shopping experience compared to Nanjing Road.

A stunning and unique Art Deco building with an intricate maze of concrete staircases, bridges, and passages. Originally a slaughterhouse, it's now a creative hub with shops and restaurants.

• Get lost in the complex's labyrinthine structure.
• It's a popular spot for photography.

Enjoy lunch in the vicinity of this architectural marvel. Options range from casual eateries to more established restaurants.

Located in the former Ohel Moshe Synagogue, this museum commemorates the Jewish refugees who found sanctuary in Shanghai during World War II. It's a poignant and important historical site.

• Allocate time to read the exhibits and personal stories.
• It offers a lesser-known but significant chapter of Shanghai's history.

A developing waterfront area offering impressive views of the Pudong skyline, often less crowded than the Bund. It's a pleasant place for an evening stroll.

A quiet residential street known for its beautiful plane trees and charming old Shanghai houses. It's a tranquil escape offering a glimpse into local daily life.

Experience authentic Shanghainese home-style cooking at a small, local restaurant. This is where you can find genuine flavors away from tourist traps.

A magnificent Buddhist temple located in the heart of the bustling Jing'an district. Its golden roof and serene atmosphere provide a striking contrast to the surrounding modern cityscape.

• Observe the intricate details of the temple architecture.
• It's an active place of worship, so be respectful.

A picturesque street in the Former French Concession, famous for its well-preserved historic villas and the iconic Wukang Building (Normandie Apartments). It's ideal for a leisurely evening stroll.

A dynamic cultural corridor along the Huangpu River, featuring contemporary art museums, galleries, and green spaces. It's a more relaxed and art-focused alternative to the Bund.

A striking contemporary art museum with a vast collection, housed in a building with impressive industrial-chic architecture. It's a highlight of the West Bund cultural area.

• Check for special exhibitions.
• The building's design itself is a work of art.

A beautifully restored historic villa offering a glimpse into Shanghai's opulent past. It showcases exquisite architecture and design, often featuring temporary art installations.

• Enjoy the peaceful garden setting.
• Look for details on the historical significance of the house.

An upscale shopping mall in Pudong, offering a wide range of luxury brands, designer boutiques, and high-end retailers. It's connected to the Ritz-Carlton and Grand Hyatt hotels.

Dine at one of the many fine dining or casual restaurants within the IFC Mall, offering diverse cuisines to suit any palate.

A large shopping complex on the Pudong side of the Huangpu River, featuring a mix of international and local brands, a cinema, and entertainment options. It offers great views of the Bund.

Experience Shanghai's dazzling skyline from the water with a leisurely cruise on the Huangpu River. It offers unparalleled views of both the historic Bund and the modern Pudong.

• Opt for an evening cruise to see the city lights.
• Consider a cruise that departs from or arrives near the North Bund.

A contemporary art and cultural center known for its striking organic architecture. It hosts a variety of exhibitions, performances, and cultural events.

• The building's design is inspired by nature.
• Check the schedule for ongoing exhibitions.

Enjoy a relaxed lunch or coffee break at a local cafe in the vicinity. It's a chance to experience the local neighborhood vibe.

A tranquil park dedicated to the renowned Chinese writer Lu Xun, featuring a memorial hall, a statue, and serene walking paths. It's a place for reflection and appreciating Chinese literature.

A popular rooftop bar on the Bund offering spectacular views of the Pudong skyline. It's known for its sophisticated ambiance, cocktails, and lively atmosphere.

• Arrive early to secure a good spot with a view.
• Dress code might apply, especially on weekends.

A famous Buddhist temple housing two precious jade Buddha statues, brought from Burma. It's an active place of worship with intricate halls and peaceful courtyards.

• Be mindful of the dress code (shoulders and knees covered).
• Observe the detailed carvings and religious artifacts.

Enjoy a traditional Shanghainese meal at a local restaurant in the vicinity of the temple. It's a great opportunity to try authentic dishes.

A large, multi-functional complex featuring a shopping mall, offices, and the Shanghai Exhibition Centre. The distinctive star-shaped building is an architectural landmark.

A popular underground dining and entertainment complex offering a variety of international restaurants, bars, and live music venues. It's a lively spot for an evening out.

A unique museum dedicated to the art of glassmaking, featuring intricate glass sculptures, historical artifacts, and interactive displays. It's housed in a renovated glass factory.

• Look for the live glassblowing demonstrations.
• It offers a different artistic perspective.

Enjoy a final delicious Shanghainese meal, perhaps revisiting a favorite dish or trying a highly-recommended restaurant.

Shanghai's main international airport, serving as the departure point for your flight. Ensure ample time for check-in and security procedures.