Planning a trip to Shanghai and not sure where to start? Then this Shanghai itinerary is exactly what you need.
Shanghai is a city of many contrasts. One moment, you’re walking past old-school buildings like Yu Garden that make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Next, you’re staring up at glass skyscrapers that make the skyline look straight out of the future.
It’s that mix of history and innovation that makes the city so fascinating and also why planning 2 days in Shanghai can sometimes feel like a challenge.
After spending two full days exploring, I’ve put together this guide to help you see the city’s best highlights. You’ll find the top things to do in Shanghai, practical tips, and a route that makes sense.
From the calm beauty of Yu Garden to the glittering lights of Pudong, you’ll find what to see in Shanghai in 2 days and how to make the most of every minute.
I still remember standing on The Bund at night, watching the skyline glow, completely in awe of how this city blends the old and the new so effortlessly.
In a hurry? Plan your trip to Shanghai now!
📍Top sights: Yu Garden | | Yuyuan Old Street | The Bund | Nanjing Road | Jing’an Temple | Tianzifang | | Pudong Skyline
🚶♀️ How to get around: Use the metro since it’s fast, safe, and easy. Or grab a DiDi for longer distances.
⌛ How many days in Shanghai: 2 to 3 days for a balanced itinerary — enough to see the main highlights and enjoy the city’s energy.
🍜 Most popular tours in Shanghai
1. Evening cruise on the Huangpu River
2. Local food tasting tour in downtown Shanghai
3. Half-day tour to Zhujiajiao Water Town
4. French Concession walking tour with a local
5. Shanghai city tour
😴 Where to stay in Shanghai: Campanile Shanghai Natural History Museum Hotel
💸 How to pay in China – It’s a cashless society. You’ll need Alipay or WeChat Pay to make purchases — literally everywhere. Use Revolut to pay in yuan and avoid foreign transaction fees.
💊 Best travel insurance for China – I recommend Heymondo for its excellent balance between affordability and quality.
🛜 Best way to stay connected in China – If your phone supports eSIM, use Airalo (MARIAN4315 = 3$ off). Otherwise, get a China Unicom or China Telecom SIM. Don’t forget a VPN to access apps like WhatsApp and Instagram.
Is Shanghai worth visiting?
Shanghai is worth visiting, for sure. It’s one of those cities that perfectly blends the old and the new, where ancient temples stand beside futuristic skyscrapers.
You can wander through peaceful gardens in the morning, shop along lively streets in Shanghai by afternoon, and end your day watching the skyline light up from The Bund.
Is 2 days enough to visit Shanghai?
If you plan smartly, 2 days in Shanghai is enough to see the city’s main highlights.
Shanghai is big and spread out, so not everything is within walking distance. But the good news is that the metro system is fast, reliable, and connects almost every major attraction.
To make the most of your time, it’s worth staying somewhere central. The best area to stay in Shanghai depends a bit on your travel style.
The Bund is perfect for first-time visitors who want skyline views, Downtown Shanghai offers a central location, and the French Concession is ideal if you prefer a quieter neighborhood with cool streets and local cafés.
With a well-planned Shanghai trip itinerary, you can easily fit in the must-see spots, enjoy local food, and still have time to soak in the city’s unique rhythm.
How to get to Shanghai
Getting to Shanghai by plane
Most travelers arrive by air, as Shanghai has two major airports: Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) and Hongqiao Airport (SHA).
Pudong mainly handles international flights, while Hongqiao serves most domestic routes. Both are well-connected to the city center.
Getting to Shanghai by train
If you’re already in China, arriving by high-speed train is a great option.
Trains from Beijing, Suzhou, Hangzhou, and Nanjing are fast, punctual, and comfortable and it’s one of the most efficient ways to travel in the country.
If you’re not sure how the process works, check out my detailed guide on how to buy train tickets in China.
How to get from Shanghai airport to the city
If you land at Pudong, the Maglev train is the fastest way to reach downtown. It takes less than 8 minutes to get to Longyang Road Station and it’s not just transport, it’s an attraction in itself.
The Maglev is the fastest commercial train on the planet, reaching speeds of up to 430 km/h. It’s a bit pricier than the metro, but definitely worth it for the experience.
For a cheaper option, take Metro Line 2, which connects both airports to the city center. It’s slower but affordable and easy to navigate.
🚐 If you prefer a smooth arrival without having to figure out transport on the spot, booking a transfer in advance is a great option.
I recommend Kiwitaxi since you get a fixed price upfront and a driver waiting for you at the airport, which makes things much easier after a long flight or a late arrival.
👉 Get 5% off when you book through this link and use code TICKETTOTAKEOFF
How to get around Shanghai
Metro
The metro is cheap, efficient, and covers nearly every major attraction. You can use WeChat or Alipay to tap in and out. Just scan the app when entering and leaving the station, and the fare will be deducted automatically at the end of your ride. It’s fast, cashless, and hassle-free.
If you prefer, you can still buy paper tickets at the vending machines. They’re simple to use and available in English, though less efficient if you’re taking multiple trips.
DiDi app
For longer distances, download DiDi, China’s version of Uber. It’s reliable, safe, and surprisingly affordable. For more essential tools like this, don’t miss my post about the must-have apps in China.
💡 EXTRA TIP: Since you’ll need internet to get directions, make sure you are always connected in China. I highly recommend using the Airalo eSIM in China. Use my code MARIAN4315 to get 3€ off your first purchase, or buy through this link with the code ATICKETTOTAKEOFF for 10% off.
Walking
Shanghai is generally very safe for pedestrians, and walking is one of the best ways to experience local life.
Where to stay in Shanghai
Choosing the right base can make a big difference in how much you enjoy your trip. The city is quite big, so staying in a well-connected area will help you make the most of your Shanghai itinerary.
If it’s your first visit, I’d suggest picking a hotel in The Bund, Downtown Shanghai, or the French Concession. These neighborhoods are central, full of restaurants and shops, and within easy reach of the main attractions. Plus, they’re all located near the metro, which is a lifesaver in a city this big.
Even if you decide not to stay right in the city center, make sure your accommodation is near a metro station. The metro network is fast, safe, and efficient.
Here are a few great options for different budgets:
Where I’ve stayed in Shanghai
During my trip, I stayed at the Campanile Shanghai Natural History Museum Hotel, and it turned out to be a great choice. Even though it wasn’t right in the city center, it was only a few minutes’ walk from a metro station, which made getting around super easy.
The hotel felt new and modern, with clean rooms and comfortable beds. It’s a solid mid-range option if you want good value without compromising on comfort or convenience.
💼 TRAVEL INSURANCE: It’s one of those things you hope you won’t need… but it can save you a lot of money and stress if something goes wrong.
I personally use Heymondo because it offers strong coverage at a reasonable price, including medical expenses, lost luggage, and electronics.
What I like most is how easy it is to manage everything through their app, especially if you ever need assistance while traveling.
🎉 Get 15% off until June 28. The discount is already applied through the link below, but only for a limited time.
If you’ve been planning a trip, this is a good time to secure your policy before the offer ends.
Shanghai itinerary map
I’ve plotted all the places to visit in Shanghai on a custom Google Map, color-coded by day. Day 1 pins are one color. Day 2 pins are another. It makes the route easy to follow at a glance.
📌HOW TO USE THE MAP: Click on the top left corner to access the various layers of the map. You can select the layers you’re interested in and also find out more about each point of interest by clicking on it in the left-hand sidebar or on the pin on the map. Add the map to your Google Maps by clicking on the star next to the title. To access the map, simply go to Google Maps ‘Saved’ and click on ‘Maps’!
Activities & Tours in Shanghai
🎫 Don’t leave your activities until the last minute. Some of the most popular tours sell out quickly, especially during peak season. I personally use GetYourGuide to book activities because it’s easy to compare options and most tours offer free cancellation. Use code ATICKETTOTAKEOFF5 for 5% off your first booking in the app. Download here!
Shanghai itinerary: 2 days in the city
Shanghai is a city that never stops. It’s a place where ancient temples sit beside glass towers and quiet gardens meet neon lights. Two days may not sound like much, but with the right plan, you can see the city’s best sides without feeling rushed.
This Shanghai itinerary brings together all the must-dos in Shanghai, from peaceful spots like Yu Garden to the lively streets that never sleep.
Day 1 in Shanghai
» People’s Park and People’s Square
Start your morning at People’s Park, right in the heart of the city. It’s one of the quirkiest things to see in Shanghai, especially on weekends when it turns into something truly unique. I’m talking about the Shanghai Marriage Market.
Every Saturday and Sunday, parents gather here holding handwritten posters listing their children’s age, height, education, and job, hoping to find them a match.
It’s both fascinating and funny to watch, though remember that many people don’t like being filmed. I found it hilarious to read the notes and used Google Translate to figure out what each ad said.
Take a walk around the Lotus Pond, where locals relax or practice tai chi, and also stop by the English Corner.
Nearby, you’ll also find the Memorial to the May Thirtieth Movement, which commemorates one of Shanghai’s most important labor protests, and the Shanghai Museum of Contemporary Art, showcasing both local and international artists.
Before leaving, wander through People’s Square, the city’s main open plaza surrounded by fountains and gardens. In the evenings, there’s often a sound and light show at the central fountain. The show happens every day from 9 am to 9 pm (every hour). We didn’t know about this and were completely taken by surprise when it started.
Another museum you can visit close by is the Shanghai Museum, dedicated to ancient Chinese art.
» Jade Buddha Temple
The Jade Buddha Temple is one of the most peaceful places to visit in Shanghai, offering a quiet break from the city’s constant buzz.
Inside, you’ll find two stunning jade Buddha statues brought from Myanmar, one seated and one reclining, both carved from pure white jade.
Remember to dress respectfully and keep your voice low since this is an active temple where many locals come to pray.
📝 USEFUL INFO: The entry fee is officially 30 CNY (4€), but when I visited, they didn’t charge anything. It’s open daily from 8 am to 4.30 pm.
» Jing’an Temple
You can also visit Jing’an Temple, a striking golden complex surrounded by glass towers and modern shopping malls. It’s hard not to be amazed by how this ancient site stands right in the middle of such a busy street.
📝 USEFUL INFO: The entrance costs 50 CNY (6€), and it’s open from 7.30 am to 6 pm.
I loved watching people throw coins toward the large incense burner, a local tradition believed to bring good luck. The mix of spirituality, superstition, and city life all happening at once makes it feel uniquely Shanghai.
This was actually my favorite temple in the city. The contrast between the shining golden roofs and the modern skyline behind them perfectly sums up what makes Shanghai so special.
» Pudong district
Across the river from The Bund lies Pudong, Shanghai’s modern heart and financial center.
This is where you’ll find the city’s most famous skyscrapers: the Oriental Pearl Tower, Jin Mao Tower, Shanghai Tower, and the Shanghai World Financial Center. Each of them offers a different perspective of the skyline, and visiting at least one is considered a must-do in Shanghai.
I didn’t go up any of the observation decks because of the high ticket prices, and honestly, I regretted it a little. Some towers have open-air decks, others feature glass floors, and a few even have adrenaline-filled attractions like skywalks.
They’re not cheap, but the views are unforgettable. If you’re unsure which one to visit, check out this detailed comparison guide.
Even if you don’t go inside, Pudong is still impressive from the outside. I especially loved the Oriental Pearl Tower. For skyline views, though, I’d probably visit the Shanghai Tower or the Shanghai World Financial Center.
You can easily reach Pudong by metro or Grab (China’s Uber equivalent). If you want something different, take the Bund Sightseeing Tunnel, an illuminated tunnel that connects The Bund to Pudong in a quirky, futuristic way. I skipped it for budget reasons after two weeks of traveling across China, but it looked pretty fun.
👉 Book your spot here: Bund Sightseeing Tunnel
» Nanjing Road
No Shanghai trip itinerary would be complete without a visit to Nanjing Road.
Nanjing Road is Shanghai’s famous shopping street, a lively pedestrian zone packed with lights, stores, and energy.
It’s especially beautiful at night, which is why I saved it for the end of the day. Just be cautious: you might be approached by people selling counterfeit goods. Politely decline and move on, as some of these situations can lead to scams.
» The Bund
If you walk through Nanjing Road, you’ll end up at the Bund Promenade (Zhongshan Lu). It’s a fairly long walk, but flat and totally worth it.
This is the best spot in the city to admire the Pudong skyline. Come near sunset so you get to see it before and after dark. Honestly, I don’t know which version I prefer, but I must admit that watching the reflection of the lights shimmer across the Huangpu River was one of my favorite moments in Shanghai.
🎫 For an unforgettable night, take a Huangpu River evening cruise and watch Shanghai’s skyline light up from the water.
For drinks with a view, head to The House of Roosevelt. We went there for the evening, and it was fantastic. There is a great atmosphere, stunning views, and surprisingly reasonable prices considering the location.
You don’t need a reservation, and they have a lovely terrace (though we ended up sitting inside because it got chilly, and I was starting to feel unwell).
I’m a sucker for a good view, so seeing the sun set over the skyline was the perfect way to wrap up the day. It’s one of those things to do in Shanghai that you’ll remember long after you’ve left.
Day 2 in Shanghai
» Yu Garden (Yuyuan Garden)
If you’re wondering what to do in Shanghai beyond skyscrapers and shopping, start with Yu Garden, one of the city’s most iconic attractions.
This classic Chinese garden is filled with ponds, stone bridges, and beautifully detailed pavilions that make you feel like you’ve stepped into another time.
- Entry: 40 CNY (5.3€)
- Hours: 9 am–4.30 pm
- Entrance: North Gate, No. 168 Fuyou Road
- Tickets often sell out, so it’s best to reserve in advance through WeChat or Trip.com (more convenient option)
Inside the complex, you’ll find highlights like the Kuailou Pavilion, Wanhua Chamber, Jade Rock, Great Rockery, and the winding Nine Bend Bridge.
Although I enjoyed visiting, I expected a bit more. Plus, the crowds made it harder to appreciate its peaceful side. Still, it’s one of those places you have to see at least once.
🎫 Discover the city’s highlights your way with this 4-hour Shanghai city tour.
» Yuyuan Old Street
Right next to the garden is Yuyuan Old Street, one of my favorite parts of the city. It combines traditional architecture and buzzing local life, giving you a glimpse of old Shanghai that still feels alive today.
The red lanterns, curved rooftops, and busy streets in Shanghai around this area make it one of the best things to do in Shanghai.
It’s a great spot to buy souvenirs (I bought the cutest keychain for my mother) or grab a bite to eat. You’ll find everything from small snacks to full meals, including some of the best dumplings in town.
Even though it’s beautiful during the day, I recommend returning at night. Once it’s all lit up, the wooden façades and glowing lanterns make the whole area feel magical. At night, it’s even more magical.
» Longhua Temple
Located in the southwest part of the city, Longhua Temple is one of the oldest temples in Shanghai and one of the most peaceful places to visit in Shanghai.
The temple grounds include several prayer halls, a tall pagoda, and the scent of incense drifting through the air.
📝 USEFUL INFORMATION: Officially, the entrance fee is 10 CNY (1.3€), but when I visited, they didn’t charge anything. It’s open daily from 7.10 am to 4.30 pm.
» Tianzifang and the French Concession
If you’re looking for a more creative side of the city, head to Tianzifang, in the heart of the French Concession.
This area was once part of the former French settlement established in the 19th century, and its cute streets and narrow alleys still preserve that old European feel.
Today, it’s full of small cafés, art galleries, and boutique shops. Every corner feels inviting, and honestly, it’s hard not to step into every store. Though be warned, some sellers can be a bit pushy and don’t love it when you leave without buying anything.
We were starving when we got there, so we stopped at a small street stall called Shanghai Tumb Fried Bun, recognizable by its blue façade. The fried dumplings were delicious and the perfect quick snack between exploring.
👉 Book this French Concession walking tour to discover the hidden charm of this part of town with a local guide.
» Xintiandi district
End your day in Xintiandi, a lively district in the city. The area is filled with beautifully restored shikumen houses (traditional stone gate buildings) that now host trendy bars and international restaurants.
It’s the perfect spot to relax after a long day of sightseeing, enjoy dinner, or grab a drink.
How many days do you need in Shanghai?
Ideally, 2 to 3 days is enough to explore the main highlights without feeling rushed. The city is big and full of things to see, so planning ahead will help you make the most of your time.
Distances can be long, and traffic unpredictable, but the metro system makes it easy to move around once you know your route.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- 1 day: Focus on The Bund, Nanjing Road, Yu Garden, and the Pudong skyline.
- 2 days: Add the French Concession, Tianzifang, and Jing’an Temple.
- 3 days: Include a day trip to Zhujiajiao Water Town or Suzhou for a change of scenery.
🎫 Escape the city with this Zhujiajiao Water Town tour and enjoy a peaceful boat ride through Shanghai’s “Venice of the East.”
I spent 2 full days in Shanghai and felt it was the perfect balance between sightseeing and soaking up the city’s energy.
Best time to visit Shanghai
The best time to visit Shanghai is in spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) when the weather is mild and the skies are clear.
Here’s what to expect throughout the year:
- Spring (Mar–May): Comfortable temperatures around 18°C–25°C (64°F–77°F). Perfect for walking tours and visiting gardens.
- Summer (Jun–Aug): Hot, humid, and crowded. Expect temperatures above 30°C (86°F+).
- Autumn (Sep–Nov): Pleasant weather, fewer tourists, and ideal conditions for skyline views.
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Cold but manageable (around 5°C–10°C / 41°F–50°F) and great if you prefer fewer crowds.
Avoid traveling during China’s national holidays, especially Golden Week (first week of October) and Chinese New Year, when transportation and attractions get extremely busy. It’s one of the most essential travel tips for China.
👉 Find more things to know before visiting China.
I visited in late April and early May, and the weather was perfect. It was warm enough to sit outside for meals but still cool enough to walk around comfortably all day.
Must-try restaurants/food in Shanghai
I really enjoyed the food scene in Shanghai. The city has everything from traditional dumpling shops to sleek rooftop restaurants, and finding good spots is half the fun.
Since Google Maps doesn’t always work well in China, try searching for restaurants in Amap (Gaode Maps) instead.
Shanghai’s food scene mixes old-school flavors with modern flair. Here are a few places I loved:
- Yang’s Fried Dumplings: Known for their shrimp sheng jian bao. The bottom is crispy, the top soft and they’re absolutely delicious.
- Jia Jia Tang Bao: A local favorite famous for xiao long bao (soup dumplings).
- Crab noodles at Chansan Chixie Fenxiaolong: Hidden in the basement of a shopping mall, this place serves rich, flavorful noodles with fresh crab meat.
🎫 Taste your way through the city with this authentic Shanghai food tour!
Final thoughts on this Shanghai itinerary
Shanghai is a city that truly leaves an impression. In just 2 days in Shanghai, you can explore centuries of history, taste incredible food, and witness some of the most futuristic skylines in the world. It’s a destination that never stops moving, yet still finds ways to surprise you at every turn.
I hope this Shanghai itinerary helps you plan your trip and make the most of your time in this incredible city. Whether you spend your days wandering through Yu Garden, sipping cocktails with skyline views, or getting lost in the energy of Nanjing Road, Shanghai has a way of making you fall in love with it.
Have you been to Shanghai or planning to go soon? I’d love to hear your experience!
Disclaimer: this post may contain some affiliate links, which means I get a small commission if you buy something through my links. This doesn’t represent any additional cost to you and you’ll be supporting my work here on the blog😊
