Shanghai

Shanghai is a vibrant city with a perfect blend of modernity and tradition, and it’s super family-friendly. Let’s dive into a fun-filled 3-day itinerary that includes parks, delicious eats, and some truly unreal places!

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Shanghai

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Dim Sum Spot: Start your day with some delicious dim sum at Din Tai Fung in Xintiandi. Their xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) are a must-try!
• People’s Square & People’s Park: After breakfast, head to People’s Square. The park is a lovely green space where kids can run around, and you can enjoy the beautiful landscaping. There are also some fun activities like kite flying!

Afternoon:

• Lunch at Yuyuan Garden: Stroll over to Yuyuan Garden, a classical Chinese garden that’s a feast for the eyes. Grab lunch at the nearby Yuyuan Bazaar, where you can sample local snacks like shengjianbao (pan-fried buns) and stinky tofu (if you’re feeling adventurous!).
• Yuyuan Garden: After lunch, explore the garden itself. The intricate rockeries, ponds, and pavilions are stunning, and the kids will love the koi fish!

Evening:

• The Bund: Head to the Bund for a magical evening. The skyline views are unreal, especially as the sun sets. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront.
• Dinner at a Riverside Restaurant: Enjoy dinner at The House of Dancing Water or Hakkasan, where you can savor some exquisite dishes while enjoying the view of the illuminated skyline.

Day 2: Nature and Adventure

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Bakery: Start your day with some fresh pastries from Paul Bakery or Baker & Spice.
• Shanghai Zoo: Spend the morning at the Shanghai Zoo, where kids can see giant pandas, tigers, and a variety of other animals. The zoo is spacious and has plenty of green areas for a picnic.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at a Local Noodle Shop: After the zoo, grab a bowl of delicious hand-pulled noodles at Lanzhou Beef Noodle.
• Century Park: Head to Century Park, the largest park in Shanghai. It’s perfect for a family day out! Rent a bike or a paddleboat, and let the kids enjoy the playgrounds and open spaces.

Evening:

• Dinner at a Hot Pot Restaurant: Experience a fun family dinner at a hot pot restaurant like Hai Di Lao. It’s interactive, and the kids will love cooking their own food!
• Shanghai Tower: If you’re up for it, visit the Shanghai Tower for breathtaking views of the city at night. The observation deck is one of the highest in the world!

Day 3: Culture and Relaxation

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Café: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Moka Bros, which offers a great selection of healthy options.
• Jing’an Sculpture Park: After breakfast, visit Jing’an Sculpture Park. It’s a beautiful green space with art installations, perfect for a morning stroll and some family photos.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at a Local Food Court: Head to Xintiandi Style for lunch, where you can find a variety of local and international food options. It’s a great way to sample different cuisines!
• Tianzifang: Explore the artsy alleyways of Tianzifang, filled with boutique shops and cafes. It’s a great place to pick up some unique souvenirs and enjoy the local art scene.

Evening:

• Dinner at a Rooftop Restaurant: For your last night, treat yourselves to dinner at The Nest or Flair Rooftop, where you can enjoy stunning views and delicious food.
• Huangpu River Cruise: End your trip with a relaxing cruise on the Huangpu River. It’s a fantastic way to see the city lights and reflect on your adventures!

Tips:

• Transportation: Use the metro for easy and efficient travel around the city. It’s family-friendly and very affordable!
• Weather: Check the weather before your trip, as Shanghai can be quite humid in summer and chilly in winter. Dress accordingly!

I hope this itinerary helps you create wonderful memories in Shanghai with your family! Enjoy your trip! 🌟