Itinerary for 7 day trip to Shanghai

Shanghai is a vibrant city with a rich blend of history, culture, and modern attractions, making it a fantastic destination for families. Here’s a fun and family-friendly 7-day itinerary that balances sightseeing, cultural experiences, and relaxation. Let’s dive in!

Day 1: Arrival and

Morning: Arrive in Shanghai! After checking into your hotel, take some time to settle in. If you’re staying in a central location, you’ll be close to many attractions.

Afternoon: Head to , Shanghai’s iconic waterfront. Stroll along the promenade and enjoy the stunning views of the skyline. Kids will love the open space to run around, and you can snap some family photos with the historic buildings in the background.

Evening: Enjoy dinner at a family-friendly restaurant nearby. Try some local cuisine at a restaurant like Din Tai Fung for delicious dumplings. After dinner, take a relaxing Huangpu River cruise to see the city lights. It’s a magical experience!

Day 2:

All Day: Dedicate this day to ! It’s a fantastic place for families, with rides and attractions suitable for all ages. Be sure to check out the Enchanted Storybook Castle and the various themed lands. Don’t forget to take breaks and enjoy some snacks—there are plenty of options!

Evening: After a fun-filled day, have dinner at one of the park’s restaurants or head back to your hotel for a more relaxed meal.

Day 3: and Old City

Morning: Visit , a beautiful classical Chinese garden. The kids will love exploring the rockeries, ponds, and pavilions. It’s a great place for some family photos!

Afternoon: After the garden, wander through the nearby . You can shop for souvenirs, try local snacks like soup dumplings, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Evening: Head to a nearby restaurant for dinner. Try some traditional Shanghainese dishes. If the kids are still energetic, consider visiting the for a breathtaking view of the city from the observation deck.

Day 4:

Morning: Spend the morning at the . It’s interactive and educational, with exhibits that will engage both kids and adults. The dinosaur exhibit is usually a hit!

Afternoon: After the museum, have lunch at a nearby café. Then, head to , where the kids can run around, play, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. You can rent bikes or take a paddle boat on the lake.

Evening: For dinner, consider a family-friendly restaurant in the area. Afterward, you might want to catch a family-friendly show, like an acrobatics performance, which is always a crowd-pleaser!

Day 5:

All Day: Take a day trip to Zhujiajiao, a charming ancient water town about an hour from Shanghai. Explore the canals, bridges, and traditional architecture. You can take a boat ride, which is a fun experience for the whole family!

Lunch: Enjoy lunch at one of the local restaurants, where you can try some fresh seafood or local snacks.

Evening: Return to Shanghai and have a relaxed dinner at your hotel or a nearby restaurant.

Day 6: and

Morning: Visit the , which is home to a variety of animals, including giant pandas! The zoo is spacious, and kids will love seeing the animals up close.

Afternoon: After the zoo, head to , one of the world’s busiest shopping streets. You can shop for souvenirs, enjoy street performances, and grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants.

Evening: Have dinner at a family-friendly restaurant on . Afterward, take a stroll to and enjoy the evening atmosphere.

Day 7: and Departure

Morning: Visit the in . It’s free and has a fantastic collection of Chinese art and artifacts. The kids can learn about Chinese history in a fun way!

Afternoon: Depending on your flight time, you can have a leisurely lunch nearby and do some last-minute shopping or sightseeing. If time allows, consider visiting the for a peaceful end to your trip.

Evening: Head to the airport for your departure. Reflect on the wonderful memories you’ve made in Shanghai!

I hope this itinerary helps you have an amazing family adventure in Shanghai! Each day is packed with fun activities that cater to all ages, ensuring everyone has a great time. Safe travels! 🌏✈️