Shanghai is a vibrant city that beautifully blends modernity with tradition, and it has some lovely parks and green spaces to enjoy. Here’s a fun and relaxing 3-day itinerary that includes plenty of nature along with the city's iconic sights. Let’s dive in!

Day 1: Exploring the Bund and Yu Garden

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café. Try some traditional Chinese breakfast items like soy milk and fried dough sticks (youtiao).
• The Bund: After breakfast, head to the Bund. Stroll along the waterfront promenade and take in the stunning views of the Huangpu River and the iconic skyline of Pudong. It’s a great spot for photos!

Midday:

• Lunch at a Riverside Restaurant: Enjoy lunch at one of the restaurants along the Bund. You can find a variety of cuisines, but I recommend trying some local Shanghainese dishes.

Afternoon:

• Yu Garden: After lunch, make your way to Yu Garden (Yuyuan Garden). This classical Chinese garden is a serene escape from the bustling city. Wander through the beautiful pavilions, rockeries, and ponds. Don’t forget to check out the nearby Yuyuan Bazaar for some shopping!

Evening:

• Dinner in Old City: Enjoy dinner in the Old City area, where you can find street food and local restaurants. Try some xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) – they’re a must!
• Night Walk on the Bund: After dinner, take another stroll along the Bund to see the skyline illuminated at night. It’s a magical experience!

Day 2: Parks and Culture

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Dim Sum Place: Start your day with some delicious dim sum. There are plenty of great spots around the city.
• People’s Park: After breakfast, head to People’s Park. This park is a lovely green space in the heart of the city, perfect for a leisurely walk. You can also check out the Shanghai Museum nearby if you’re interested in art and history.

Midday:

• Lunch at a Nearby Restaurant: Grab lunch at a nearby restaurant. Try some local noodles or rice dishes.

Afternoon:

• Fuxing Park: After lunch, visit Fuxing Park, a beautiful French-style park. It’s a great place to relax, people-watch, and enjoy the lush greenery. You might even see locals practicing tai chi or playing chess.

Evening:

• Dinner in the French Concession: Explore the charming streets of the French Concession and have dinner at one of the trendy restaurants or cafes. The area is known for its vibrant atmosphere and unique dining options.
• Evening Stroll: After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the tree-lined streets of the French Concession. It’s a lovely way to end the day!

Day 3: Modern Shanghai and Nature

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Bakery: Treat yourself to some pastries at a local bakery for breakfast.
• Shanghai Tower: Start your day with a visit to the Shanghai Tower. Take the elevator to the observation deck for breathtaking views of the city.

Midday:

• Lunch at a Local Eatery: Enjoy lunch in the Lujiazui area, where you can find a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants.

Afternoon:

• Century Park: After lunch, head to Century Park, the largest park in Shanghai. It’s a fantastic place to unwind, with beautiful landscapes, lakes, and walking paths. You can rent a bike or simply enjoy a peaceful walk.

Evening:

• Dinner at a Riverside Restaurant: For your last dinner in Shanghai, consider dining at a restaurant along the Huangpu River. Enjoy the view of the skyline as you savor your meal.
• Huangpu River Cruise: End your trip with a relaxing cruise on the Huangpu River. It’s a wonderful way to see the city from a different perspective, especially as the lights come on at night.

Tips:

• Transportation: Shanghai has an excellent metro system, so getting around is easy. Consider getting a transportation card for convenience.
• Weather: Check the weather before your trip, as Shanghai can be quite humid in the summer and chilly in the winter. Dress accordingly!

I hope this itinerary helps you make the most of your 3 days in Shanghai! Enjoy the blend of nature, culture, and the vibrant city life. Safe travels! 🌏✈️