Itinerary for 5 day trip to Shanghai

Shanghai is a vibrant city with a rich blend of culture, modernity, and fun, especially for families. And adding Suzhou into the mix is a fantastic idea! Here’s a delightful 5-day itinerary that balances sightseeing, fun, and relaxation. Let’s dive in!

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Shanghai

Morning:

Arrive in Shanghai and check into your hotel. If you’re staying in the city center, you’ll be close to many attractions!
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café. Try some traditional Chinese breakfast items like steamed buns (baozi) or jianbing (Chinese crepes).

Afternoon:

Head to Yu Garden (Yuyuan Garden). This classical Chinese garden is a beautiful place to stroll around, with stunning rockeries, pavilions, and ponds. Don’t forget to explore the nearby for some shopping and snacks!
Grab lunch at one of the local restaurants in the bazaar. You can try some dumplings or noodles.

Evening:

Take a walk along the Bund. The view of the skyline is breathtaking, especially as the sun sets and the buildings light up.
Enjoy dinner at a restaurant with a view of the Huangpu River. There are plenty of family-friendly options here!

Day 2:

Morning:

After breakfast, head to ! It’s about a 30-minute drive from the city center, so plan accordingly.
Arrive early to make the most of your day. Don’t forget to grab a map and plan your must-see attractions!

Afternoon:

Enjoy the various themed lands, from Adventure Isle to Tomorrowland. Make sure to catch the parades and character meet-and-greets!
Have lunch in the park. There are plenty of family-friendly dining options, from quick bites to sit-down meals.

Evening:

Stay for the spectacular evening show, Disney Illuminations, which features fireworks and projections. It’s a magical way to end your day!
Head back to your hotel for a good night’s rest.

Day 3: Day Trip to Suzhou

Morning:

After breakfast, take a high-speed train to Suzhou (about 30 minutes). The train station is easily accessible from Shanghai.
Once you arrive, head straight to the Humble Administrator's Garden (Zhuozheng Yuan), one of the most famous classical gardens in China.

Afternoon:

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Suzhou is known for its delicious soup dumplings (xiao long bao), so be sure to try some!
After lunch, visit the to learn about the city’s silk-making history. It’s fascinating and very family-friendly!

Evening:

Stroll along the , a charming ancient street lined with shops and tea houses. It’s a great place to pick up souvenirs.
Head back to Shanghai in the evening and enjoy a relaxing dinner at your hotel or a nearby restaurant.

Day 4: Culture and Modernity in Shanghai

Morning:

Start your day at the in People’s Square. The museum is free and has a fantastic collection of Chinese art and artifacts. Kids usually love the ancient coins and pottery!

Afternoon:

Have lunch in the area, then head to the . Take the elevator to the observation deck for stunning views of the city.
Afterward, visit the . It’s one of the largest aquariums in the world and has a fantastic underwater tunnel that kids will love!

Evening:

For dinner, consider visiting for some shopping and street food. It’s a bustling area with lots of options for families.
If you have the energy, take a night cruise on the Huangpu River to see the city lights from the water!

Day 5: Relaxation and Departure

Morning:

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel. If you have time, visit , an artsy area with shops, cafes, and galleries. It’s a great place to pick up some last-minute souvenirs.

Afternoon:

Depending on your flight time, you might want to visit for a relaxing stroll or a picnic. It’s a lovely green space in the city.
Have lunch at a nearby restaurant, and then head back to your hotel to pack up.

Evening:

Depart from Shanghai, taking with you wonderful memories of your family adventure!

And there you have it! A fun-filled, family-friendly itinerary that balances the excitement of Shanghai with the charm of Suzhou. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! 🌟