![[Central] Shanghai Itinerary for First-Timers](https://res.klook.com/image/upload/q_85/c_fill,w_1360/v1742133755/tknb1gfmsqfjrolih0tc.webp)
Experience the Best of Old & New Shanghai in 6 Days
Planning a trip to China and wondering where to start? Shanghai is the perfect city to kick off your China adventure — a dazzling blend of modern skyscrapers, historical landmarks, and incredible food. Having visited Shanghai three times (and counting!), I can confidently say this city never gets old.
If you're visiting China for the first time, Shanghai offers a great mix of the country's rich history and cutting-edge modernity, all wrapped up in a city that's easy to explore.
From walking along the iconic Bund with its postcard-worthy skyline to sipping coffee in a quiet lane of the French Concession, to sampling xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) at a local street stall — Shanghai is full of surprises at every turn.
Plus, there are tons of new attractions, restaurants, and shops popping up all the time. This means no two trips to Shanghai will be the same!
Shanghai Itinerary Overview
Day 1 | Yu Garden | Nanjing Road & Zhongshan Road | Huangpu River Cruise OR ERA Intersection of Time Acrobatics Show |
Day 2 | French Concession | Tianzifang | Xuyan Immersive Imperial Feast |
Day 3 | |
Day 4 | Shanghai Greenhouse Garden | Shanghai Tower OR Oriental Pearl TV Tower |
Day 5 | |
Day 6 | North Bund | Yuan Ming Yuan Road |
In this Shanghai itinerary, we’ll share not only the must-visit attractions but also hidden gems and local food spots, so you can experience the very best of this dynamic city — whether it's your first visit or you’re planning to come back for more!
Day 1: Classic Shanghai
Yu Garden (豫园)
Yu Garden, located in the heart of Shanghai’s old town, is a masterpiece of classical Chinese garden design. This classical Chinese garden, built in the 16th century, is filled with ornate pavilions, koi ponds, and stone bridges, all surrounded by beautifully landscaped trees and rocks.
It’s also a great spot for photography, with lots of detailed carvings, curved rooftops, and reflections in the water.
- Entrance fee: ¥30
- Opening hours: 9 AM - 4:30 PM (Last entry at 4 PM)
Yu Garden Bazaar (豫园商场)
After visiting Yu Garden, head over to the Yu Garden Bazaar! The area is full of traditional buildings and lively streets packed with shops and food stalls.
Don't miss the famous Nine Turn Bridge, which leads to the historic Huxinting Teahouse. The bridge’s design isn’t just for decoration but to ward off evil spirits, which are believed to only be able to follow straight paths according to Chinese folklore.
Fun fact: Huxinting Teahouse is known for hosting dignitaries like the Queen of England!
It's a great place to shop for souvenirs like silk fans and snacks, but honestly, the street food was the highlight for us. We tried xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), and tanghulu, and saw plenty of stalls selling skewers and local snacks.
- Entrance fee: Free
- Opening hours: 9 AM - 10 PM
Nanjing Road (南京路) & Zhongshan Road (中山路)
No visit to Shanghai is complete without a stroll down Nanjing Road, the city's most famous shopping street.
Stretching over 5.5km, Nanjing Road is lined with everything from luxury brands and modern malls to quirky souvenir shops and local snack stalls. It’s a great place to soak in the city’s energy — especially when the neon lights come on at night and the whole street comes alive.
At the eastern end of Nanjing Road, you'll reach Zhongshan Road, also known as The Bund. This historic waterfront street is famous for its row of grand colonial-era buildings that face the Huangpu River, with Shanghai's futuristic skyline rising just across the water.
A walk along Zhongshan Road is like stepping through time, with stunning views both day and night — especially when the city lights reflect on the river.
Crab Noodles at Zhuang's Longxing Crab (庄氏隆兴·蟹樽小笼外滩店)
Shanghai is known for crab noodles — a rich and flavorful dish with fresh crab meat. We found Zhuang's Longxing Crab (庄氏隆兴·蟹樽小笼外滩店) highly rated on Dianping and was also featured in the Michelin Guide, so of course we had to try it.
The noodles were indeed rich; we made the right decision to share two bowls. Alongside the noodles, we couldn’t resist ordering their crab and truffle xiaolongbao which were both yummy.
- Cost: ~¥82/pax
- Opening hours: 9 AM - 9 PM
Night Activity Option A: Huangpu River Cruise
A Huangpu River Cruise is a perfect way to end your first day in Shanghai, offering a unique perspective on the city’s architectural splendor with views of both the historic Bund and modern skyscrapers of Lujiazui.
Klook Tip: The best time for the cruise is around 6:30 PM, just as the city lights start to illuminate the skyline.
The one-hour cruise is a relaxing way to appreciate Shanghai's iconic skyline and snap photos with the Oriental Pearl Tower in the background!
Night Activity Option B: ERA Intersection of Time Acrobatics Show
If you’re looking for something memorable to do in Shanghai at night, ERA: Intersection of Time is definitely worth checking out.
There were moments when the performers were doing death-defying stunts — like flipping through the air, jumping through spinning hoops, and balancing on top of moving objects! One of the coolest acts was definitely the motorcycle cage — watching multiple riders zoom around at crazy speeds inside a giant metal sphere was honestly wild.
The whole production feels super polished, and the venue isn’t too big, so no matter where you sit, you get a good view.
Day 2: Shanghai's Charming Neighborhoods
French Concession and Wukang Road (武康路)
The French Concession is a charming district that once served as the center of French colonial life in Shanghai. This neighborhood is most known for Wukang Mansion — an iconic Art Deco building symbolizing the neighborhood’s rich history.
Its tree-lined streets and historic buildings create a unique blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy. The area is dotted with trendy cafes, boutiques, and art galleries, making it a delightful spot for leisurely exploration.
Coffee at Gathering (集雅)
Wukang Road is known for aesthetic cafes, so we decided to check out a popular spot called Gathering (集雅). I got an orange cinnamon latte while Chriss ordered a marshmallow latte; this spot was great for people-watching.
- Cost: ~¥46/pax
- Opening hours: 9 AM – 7 PM
Tianzifang
Tucked away in a maze of narrow alleys and preserved stone-gate houses, Tianzifang is an artsy district is packed with indie boutiques, local craft stores, and cozy cafés, making it a perfect spot for a slow afternoon.
As you explore, you’ll come across galleries, studios, and hidden courtyards, each with its own creative charm.
Xuyan Immersive Imperial Feast
Dining at Xuyan Immersive Imperial Feast felt like stepping into a different era. Since it was our first times experiencing something like this — we decided to go all out and opted for the dinner with costume and makeup package.
Dinner starts at 7 PM, but you can arrive as early as 5:30 PM to select your costume! There's dozens of designs and colors to choose from — I eventually settled on a green outfit.
Klook Tip: Arrive early for the costume and makeup session, so that you'll have sufficient time to choose your outfit and take some photos!
If you opted for the make-up package (females only), you'll have to take a queue number and wait your turn. It might be a good idea to get a number before selecting your costume!
The 15-minute makeup session included light makeup and an intricate hairstyle with accessories.
The 80–90 minute dinner combined storytelling, music, and dance with an elaborate Chang’an Fu theme menu. You can choose from two themed dinners — Chang'an Fu or Ne Zha!
The meal started with cold dishes, like Cherry Foie Gras and Plum Blossom Hawthorn Cake, followed by rich mains like Braised Shark’s Fin Soup and Bright Grilled Flame Shrimp. The food was yummy — more so than I expected — and every dish was beautifully plated.
The performances throughout the evening added to the atmosphere; a performer even handed out tanghulu!
Day 3: Shanghai Disneyland
Shanghai Disneyland is a must-visit for Disney fans and theme park lovers alike. It’s the largest Disney park in Asia and has exclusive rides and shows you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re here for the thrilling attractions or the magical atmosphere, spending a full day in the park is well worth it.
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Photo by: @wcnxx
One of the biggest highlights is TRON Lightcycle Power Run, a high-speed roller coaster where you race through a futuristic digital world on a lightcycle. Unlike any other Disney ride, it offers an intense, immersive experience that’s a must for thrill-seekers.
Another standout is Pirates of the Caribbean: Battle forthe Sunken Treasure, a high-tech take on the classic Disney attraction that combines massive screens, animatronics, and a stunning undersea battle sequence.
The Enchanted Storybook Castle of Shanghai Disneyland is one of the most breathtaking sights in the Happiest Place on Earth! Credits: @capricorn_song on Unsplash
Shanghai Disneyland is also home to Enchanted Storybook Castle, the largest Disney castle in the world, which houses a boat ride, live performances, and stunning photo spots.
One of the newest and most exciting additions to the park is Zootopia! Opened in late 2023, it's the first and only Zootopia-themed land in the world.
The highlight here is Zootopia: Hot Pursuit, a trackless dark ride that takes visitors on an action-packed chase through the city alongside Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde.
To make the most of your day at Shanghai Disneyland, it's best to arrive early, as the park often allows guests in before the official opening time. This is the best way to get ahead of the crowds for top attractions like TRON, Zootopia: Hot Pursuit, and Pirates of the Caribbean.
The park also offers Disney Premier Access, a paid system that works like a FastPass, allowing visitors to skip long lines for popular rides. Since Shanghai Disneyland tends to get busy, this can save a lot of time.
Day 4: Modern Shanghai
Shanghai Greenhouse Garden
If you’re looking for a quiet spot to take a break from Shanghai’s fast pace, Shanghai Greenhouse Garden is a great place to unwind. Opened in September 2024, it went viral on TikTok for its resemblance to the Gardens by the Bay in Singapore.
There are three greenhouses, each one beautifully designed, with a glass dome that lets in tons of natural light. Inside, there are different zones filled with tropical plants, flowers, and even desert plants, so you can walk from a rainforest-like setting to a cactus garden in minutes.
Shanghai Tower
No trip to Shanghai feels complete without heading up Shanghai Tower, and after visiting, I totally get why it’s one of the city's top attractions. Standing at 632 meters, it’s not only the tallest building in China but also the second tallest in the world, which is pretty wild when you’re looking up at it from the ground.
The observation deck is on the 118th floor, and the elevator ride alone is an experience — it’s one of the fastest in the world, and you’re up there in less than a minute. When we stepped out at the top, we were blown away by the 360-degree views of the city.
On a clear day, you can see the Huangpu River winding through the skyline, and all the way across to other famous landmarks like the Oriental Pearl Tower. If you’re into photography, definitely bring your camera because sunset views from up there are incredible!
Klook Tip: Go around sunset for the best views when the city starts lighting up, but check the weather first — clear days make a huge difference for visibility.
Day 5: Yaoxue Snow World
I bet you didn't know you could go snowboarding in Shanghai! Well, at Yaoxue Snow World, you can. Opened in 2024 and located just an hour from the city centre, it’s officially the world’s largest indoor ski resort.
The resort is separated into two main areas — the Ski Area and the Snow Entertainment Area — and each requires a separate ticket to enter, so it’s good to plan ahead depending on what you want to do.
Ski Area
Inside, there are four ski slopes, including one that’s over 300 meters long! I’m by no means a good snowboarder, so I stuck to the green and blue slopes — which was more than enough to keep me entertained.
You can access the slopes by chair lift or cable car, just like a regular ski resort.
All the ski gear (helmet, ski jacket, pants, as well as snowboard or skis) is included in the entrance ticket — just remember to pack your own gloves. There are also lockers available for rental in the changing rooms.
One of the coolest spots at Yaoxue Snow World is the ice bar inside the ski area, where you can warm up with mulled wine or sip a cocktail while watching others on the slopes.
Snow Entertainment Area
If skiing isn’t your thing, or if you're visiting Yaoxue Snow World with kids, the Snow Entertainment Area is a great option. It's separate from the Ski Area, and you’ll need a different ticket to enter, but it offers plenty of ways to enjoy the snow without needing to ski or snowboard.
One of the most fun parts was the giant tubing slides — you hop onto a rubber tube and slide down snowy ramps! It’s also a good choice if you’re traveling with kids, since there are gentler slides and play areas designed just for younger visitors.
Dining Options
There are several dining options inside Yaoxue Snow World, so you don’t have to leave if you get hungry. You’ll find cafés and casual restaurants serving everything from quick snacks to full meals, including noodles, rice dishes, and Western options.
- Entrance fee: ¥420 (4hr ski), ¥520 (full-day ski), ¥290 (full day snow entertainment)
- Opening hours: 10 AM - 8 PM
Hot Pot Dinner at Mi Chongshan Hotpot (芈重山老火锅)
After spending the day at Yaoxue Snow World, hot pot is the perfect way to warm up — and that’s exactly what we did! Shanghai is known for hot pot restaurants, and we ended up going to 芈重山老火锅 which was highly rated on Dianping (China's restaurant review app).
There were dozens of dishes to choose from — they had everything from thinly sliced beef and lamb to prawn paste, vegetables, tofu, and handmade noodles. If you’re into spicy food, mala broth is the way to go (though they usually offer a mild or split pot option too).
We ordered a lot — the staff actually asked if we wanted to remove a few dishes. Spoiler: We did not. This hotpot dinner ended up costing ¥552 for our group of four and was one of the best meals we had in Shanghai!
- Opening hours: 11 AM - 11 PM
- Address:
Day 6: North Bund
North Bund Walking Route
If you’re looking for great skyline views without the crowds of The Bund, North Bund is the place to go. I learned about this place from Xiaohongshu (China's version of Instagram), which has some of the best angles of Shanghai’s skyline, with fewer people, making it perfect for photos.
The area has a mix of modern glass buildings, riverside walkways, and hidden coffee shops, so it’s a great spot to spend a morning.
The North Bund Riverside Walk was a great place to capture wide-angle shots of the city with the river in the foreground — minus the crowds. A popular walking route is to start from North Bund and follow the river till Nanjing Road, which is what we did.
Klook Tip: Like any Instagrammable spot, it's worth waking up early to avoid the crowds. This was taken around 8 AM!
We stopped by Manner Coffee for some coffee and desserts, which has a perfect view of the Oriental Pearl Tower!
One of our favorite streets in Shanghai is Yuan Ming Yuan Road (圆明园路), which features a unique blend of Western and colonial-era buildings. Key landmarks like the Yuanmingyuan Apartment exemplify the Queen Anne style which is characterized by red-brick facades and white protruding windows.
There are also quite a few shops and cafes here, such as tosummer (a local perfume brand) and %Arabica — we really enjoyed shopping here.
Where to Stay in Shanghai
Shanghai is a massive city, so choosing the right area to stay in can make a big difference to your trip.
If you want to be in the heart of the action, The Bund is a great choice, offering stunning skyline views and easy access to top attractions. For a more local and stylish vibe, the Former French Concession is filled with tree-lined streets, trendy cafés, and boutique hotels.
Luxury Hotels in Shanghai
Located at the center of the Bund, this hotel offers stunning views of Shanghai’s iconic skyline. Guests can enjoy easy access to attractions like Yu Garden and Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street. | |
Located within walking distance of Tianzifang, it provides both convenience and a peaceful retreat. Set within a British-style garden villa, this hotel features lush greenery and a serene atmosphere rarely found in the city center. |
Mid-Range Hotels in Shanghai
Centrally located, this hotel offers comfortable accommodations with easy access to shopping and dining areas. Guests appreciate its convenient location and friendly staff. | |
A stylish hotel located in Huangpu, offering modern amenities and comfortable rooms. It's well-situated for travelers looking to explore the city. |
Planning for Your First Trip to Shanghai
1) Best Time to Visit Shanghai
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best times to visit Shanghai, offering mild weather and fewer tourists, ideal for exploring the city’s outdoor attractions and enjoying leisurely walks through its scenic parks and gardens.
The two main holiday periods to avoid are the Lunar New Year (first week of February) and China's birthday, also known as Golden Week (first week of October).
2) Getting to Shanghai
By Plane
Shanghai is a major transportation hub, making it incredibly accessible for travelers from around the globe. The city boasts two international airports: Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) and Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA).
Shanghai Pudong International Airport is the primary gateway for international flights. On the other hand, Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport mainly handles domestic flights, making it a convenient option for travelers flying in from other parts of China.
By High-Speed Rail
For those already in China, high-speed trains offer a fast and efficient way to reach Shanghai. The city is well-connected to major cities like Beijing, with high-speed trains providing a comfortable and quick journey.
3) Shanghai Private Transfer
For long trips to the airport or train station, booking a private transfer in advance is the most convenient option. It saves you from crowded metros, taxi shortages, or luggage hassles, especially during peak hours.
We booked an MPV for our group of four for our airport transfer, and it was a lifesaver after a week of shopping. With plenty of space for our luggage, it made the ride to the airport much more comfortable.
4) Stay Connected with an eSIM
If you're worried about the "Great Firewall of China", we'll let you in on a secret. Klook’s China eSIM lets you access Instagram, WhatsApp, Google, and more without needing a VPN!
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5) Must-Have Apps for China Travel
Whether you're exploring the futuristic skyline of Shanghai or getting lost in Beijing’s historic hutongs, there’s one thing you’ll quickly realize — everything runs on apps. Here are 10 essential apps that I used (and loved) during my trip — and trust me, they’ll save you a ton of time and stress!
🇨🇳 Shanghai Travel Essentials 🇨🇳
- Day trips: Zhujiajiao Ancient Town | Chongming Island
Getting around
Stay connected with a China eSIM and find the best places to stay in Shanghai — plus exclusive hotel promos and bundle deals!
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