8 day itinerary for Shanghai

Itinerary

Shanghai is a vibrant city that beautifully blends the old with the new, and there’s so much to see and do. Here’s a fun and engaging 8-day itinerary that will help you soak in the culture, history, and modernity of this incredible city. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival and The Bund

Morning: Arrive in Shanghai! After checking into your hotel, take a moment to freshen up and get settled.

Afternoon: Head to The Bund, Shanghai’s iconic waterfront. Stroll along the promenade and take in the stunning views of the Pudong skyline. Don’t forget to snap some photos!

Evening: Enjoy dinner at a restaurant with a view of The Bund. You could try some local cuisine at a place like M on the Bund. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the river and enjoy the dazzling lights of the city.

## Day 2: Yu Garden and Old City

Morning: Start your day at Yu Garden, a classical Chinese garden filled with beautiful pavilions, rockeries, and ponds. It’s a peaceful oasis in the bustling city.

Afternoon: Explore the surrounding Old City, where you can wander through traditional streets and markets. Grab some street food for lunch—try the famous soup dumplings (xiaolongbao)!

Evening: Visit the City God Temple nearby, then head to the nearby Yuyuan Bazaar for some shopping. You can find unique souvenirs and local snacks.

## Day 3: Shanghai Museum and People’s Square

Morning: Visit the Shanghai Museum located in People’s Square. It’s free and houses an impressive collection of ancient Chinese art and artifacts.

Afternoon: After the museum, take a stroll around People’s Square and enjoy the greenery. You can also visit the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center to learn about the city’s development.

Evening: Head to Nanjing Road, one of the world’s busiest shopping streets. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and indulge in some shopping or just people-watching!

## Day 4: Pudong and Shanghai Tower

Morning: Cross over to Pudong and visit the Shanghai Tower, the tallest building in China. Take the elevator to the observation deck for breathtaking views of the city.

Afternoon: Explore the nearby Shanghai Ocean Aquarium or the futuristic Shanghai Science and Technology Museum.

Evening: For dinner, consider dining at a restaurant in the area, like the famous Din Tai Fung for more dumplings! Afterward, enjoy a river cruise on the Huangpu River to see the city illuminated at night.

## Day 5: Zhujiajiao Water Town

Morning: Take a day trip to Zhujiajiao, a charming ancient water town located about an hour from Shanghai. You can take a bus or a guided tour.

Afternoon: Explore the canals, bridges, and traditional architecture. Don’t miss trying some local snacks and maybe even a boat ride!

Evening: Return to Shanghai and relax at your hotel or explore a local bar for a nightcap.

## Day 6: French Concession and Tianzifang

Morning: Spend the day in the French Concession, known for its tree-lined streets and European-style architecture. Visit the Shanghai Propaganda Poster Art Centre for a unique glimpse into China’s history.

Afternoon: Head to Tianzifang, an artsy area filled with boutiques, galleries, and cafes. It’s a great place to shop for unique crafts and enjoy a leisurely lunch.

Evening: Enjoy dinner in Tianzifang at one of the many cozy restaurants. The atmosphere is lively, and you can find a variety of cuisines.

## Day 7: Day Trip to Suzhou

Morning: Take a train to Suzhou, famous for its classical gardens and silk production. Visit the Humble Administrator's Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Afternoon: Explore the Suzhou Silk Museum and take a stroll along the picturesque canals. Don’t forget to try some local specialties for lunch!

Evening: Return to Shanghai and enjoy a relaxing evening. Perhaps catch a show at the Shanghai Grand Theatre or enjoy a quiet dinner.

## Day 8: Departure

Morning: Depending on your flight time, you might have a chance for some last-minute shopping or sightseeing. Consider visiting the Jade Buddha Temple or taking a walk in Fuxing Park.

Afternoon: Pack up and check out of your hotel. Head to the airport, taking with you wonderful memories of your Shanghai adventure!

And there you have it! An exciting 8-day itinerary that captures the essence of Shanghai. Each day is packed with activities, but feel free to adjust based on your interests and pace. Enjoy your trip! 🌏✈️