Itinerary for 10 day trip to Shanghai

Shanghai is a vibrant city with a perfect blend of modernity and tradition, and I’m excited to help you craft a relaxed 10-day itinerary. Let’s take it easy and soak in the sights, sounds, and flavors of this incredible city!

Day 1: Arrival in Shanghai

Morning: Arrive in Shanghai and check into your hotel. Take some time to settle in and refresh.
Afternoon: Stroll along the Bund. This iconic waterfront area offers stunning views of the skyline and the Huangpu River. Snap some photos and enjoy the architecture.
Evening: Have dinner at a riverside restaurant. Try some local dishes like Xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) and enjoy the view of the illuminated skyline.

Day 2: Explore the

Morning: Head to the . Wander through the tree-lined streets and admire the charming colonial architecture. Stop by , a trendy arts and crafts enclave.
Afternoon: Enjoy lunch at a café in . Afterward, visit the for a unique glimpse into China’s history.
Evening: Relax at a local tea house. Experience a traditional tea ceremony and unwind with some fragrant tea.

Day 3: and

Morning: Visit , a classical Chinese garden filled with beautiful pavilions, rockeries, and ponds. Take your time to explore and enjoy the tranquility.
Afternoon: Explore the surrounding . Try some street food, like Shengjianbao (pan-fried dumplings), and browse the shops for souvenirs.
Evening: Head to a local restaurant for dinner. Consider trying some Szechuan cuisine for a bit of spice!

Day 4: and

Morning: Visit the in . It’s free and has an impressive collection of ancient Chinese art and artifacts.
Afternoon: Take a leisurely walk around and enjoy the gardens. Grab lunch at a nearby café.
Evening: Catch a performance at the or enjoy a night out in the lively area, known for its dining and nightlife.

Day 5: Day Trip to

Morning: Take a day trip to Zhujiajiao, a picturesque water town about an hour from Shanghai. Explore the canals, bridges, and ancient buildings.
Afternoon: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a riverside restaurant and take a boat ride through the canals.
Evening: Return to Shanghai and have a relaxed dinner at your hotel or a nearby restaurant.

Day 6: and

Morning: Visit the , the tallest building in China. Take the elevator to the observation deck for breathtaking views of the city.
Afternoon: Stroll down , one of the world’s busiest shopping streets. Enjoy some window shopping and grab lunch at a local eatery.
Evening: Treat yourself to a nice dinner at a restaurant with a view, perhaps in the Pudong area.

Day 7: Art and Culture

Morning: Visit the , a contemporary art museum housed in a former power station. Explore the exhibitions and enjoy the creative atmosphere.
Afternoon: Head to the , a hub for local artists. Wander through galleries and studios, and maybe pick up a unique piece of art.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and consider catching a live music performance or a cultural show.

Day 8: Relaxation Day

Morning: Treat yourself to a spa day. Many hotels offer excellent spa services, or you can find a local spa for a traditional Chinese massage.
Afternoon: Spend some time at a local park, like , where you can relax, people-watch, or even join in on a tai chi class.
Evening: Have a casual dinner at a local eatery and enjoy a quiet evening.

Day 9: or

Morning: If you’re up for some fun, spend the day at or . Both offer a magical experience, but Disneyland is particularly enchanting!
Afternoon: Enjoy the attractions and shows. Don’t forget to try some themed snacks!
Evening: Return to the city and have a relaxed dinner. Reflect on your day of fun!

Day 10: Departure

Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel. If time allows, do some last-minute shopping or visit a nearby café for a final taste of Shanghai.
Afternoon: Check out of your hotel and head to the airport for your departure.

Tips for Your Trip:

Transportation: Use the metro for easy and affordable travel around the city. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are also convenient.
Language: While many people in tourist areas speak some English, having a translation app can be helpful.
Cash and Cards: While credit cards are widely accepted, it’s good to have some cash for street vendors and smaller shops.

I hope this itinerary helps you have a wonderful and relaxed time in Shanghai! Enjoy every moment! 🌟