Itinerary for 5 day trip to Shanghai

Shanghai is a vibrant city with a perfect blend of modernity and tradition, making it a fantastic destination for families. Here’s a fun and family-friendly 5-day itinerary that covers all your interests, including the old city, gardens, tea ceremonies, shopping, and a trip to . Let’s dive in!

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the Old City

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 adventure with a visit to the Yu Garden (Yuyuan Garden). This classical Chinese garden is a beautiful place to stroll around, with stunning rockeries, pavilions, and koi ponds. Kids will love exploring the winding paths!

Lunch:

Grab a bite at in the Yuyuan Garden area. Their soup dumplings (xiaolongbao) are a must-try!

Afternoon:

After lunch, explore the Old City (Nanshi). Wander through the narrow streets, and don’t forget to check out the local shops selling traditional crafts and snacks. The atmosphere is lively and colorful!

Evening:

Head to for a stunning view of the skyline at sunset. It’s a great spot for family photos!
Enjoy dinner at a family-friendly restaurant along the Bund, like , where you can enjoy live music.

Day 2: Tea Ceremony and Shopping

Morning:

Start your day with a visit to a traditional tea house for a tea ceremony. The near Yu Garden is a great choice. The kids will enjoy learning about different teas and the art of tea-making!

Lunch:

Have lunch at a nearby restaurant, perhaps trying some local dishes like Shanghainese noodles.

Afternoon:

After lunch, head to , one of the world’s busiest shopping streets. There are plenty of shops, from luxury brands to quirky local stores. Don’t forget to stop by the for some family-friendly shopping!

Evening:

For dinner, consider visiting for more delicious dumplings. The kids will love watching the chefs make them!

Day 3: Water Town

Morning:

Take a day trip to , a charming water town about an hour from Shanghai. You can take a taxi or a guided tour. The picturesque canals and ancient bridges are perfect for family exploration!

Lunch:

Enjoy lunch at one of the local restaurants in , where you can try fresh river shrimp and other local specialties.

Afternoon:

Spend the afternoon wandering through the town, visiting the and taking a boat ride on the canals. Kids will love the boat ride!

Evening:

Return to Shanghai and have a relaxed dinner at your hotel or a nearby restaurant. You might want to try Hot Pot, which is a fun and interactive dining experience for families!

Day 4: and

Morning:

Visit the . It’s very family-friendly with interactive exhibits that kids will love. There’s even an IMAX theater!

Lunch:

Have lunch at the museum’s café or nearby.

Afternoon:

Head to and visit the . Take the elevator to the observation deck for breathtaking views of the city. The kids will be amazed by the height!

Evening:

Enjoy dinner at or another family-friendly restaurant in . After dinner, take a stroll along the for a beautiful view of the illuminated skyline.

Day 5: Relaxation and Departure

Morning:

Spend your last morning at . It’s a large urban park with playgrounds, bike rentals, and beautiful gardens. Perfect for a leisurely family stroll!

Lunch:

Have a picnic lunch in the park or visit a nearby café.

Afternoon:

Depending on your flight time, you can do some last-minute shopping or visit the if you have time. It’s a great way to wrap up your cultural experience in Shanghai!

Evening:

Head back to your hotel to collect your bags and make your way to the airport for departure.

And there you have it! A delightful 5-day itinerary that balances exploration, culture, and family fun in Shanghai. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! Safe travels! 🌏✈️