Shanghai: China's Gateway to the World
Modern metropolis with traditional charm, perfect for first-time visitors to China. Experience the iconic Bund, world-class dining, and vibrant nightlife.
Best Season
Mar-May, Sep-Nov
Daily Budget
$80-150/day
Language
Chinese/English
Recommended Stay
3-4 days
Top Attractions
The Bund 外滩
Iconic waterfront with colonial architecture and stunning Pudong skyline views
💡 Best at dusk for Pudong skyline night view
Yu Garden 豫园
Classical Chinese garden in the old city, built in 1559
💡 Buy tickets on-site or via Ctrip app
Oriental Pearl Tower 东方明珠
Iconic TV tower with observation deck and glass floor
💡 Book online to skip lines
Suggested Itineraries
Compact
3 Days
$400-600
- 📅 Day 1: The Bund & Nanjing Road
- 📅 Day 2: Yu Garden & French Concession
- 📅 Day 3: Disneyland
Standard
5 Days
$700-1000
- 📅 Day 1: Arrival & The Bund
- 📅 Day 2: Yu Garden & City God Temple
- 📅 Day 3: French Concession
- 📅 Day 4: Disneyland
- 📅 Day 5: Departure
Relaxed
7 Days
$1000-1500
- 📅 Day 1: Arrival
- 📅 Day 2: The Bund
- 📅 Day 3: Yu Garden
- 📅 Day 4: Water Town Day Trip
- 📅 Day 5: Museums
- 📅 Day 6: Shopping
- 📅 Day 7: Departure
Recommended Hotels
Foreigner-friendly hotels with English service
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐5-Star
Fairmont Peace Hotel
和平饭店
Historic luxury on the Bund, Art Deco masterpiece since 1929
$200-350/night
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4-Star
SSAW Boutique Hotel
中星君亭酒店
Boutique hotel near Yu Garden with modern amenities
$80-120/night
Where to Eat
Fu 1015
Authentic Shanghainese cuisine in a historic villa
$50-100
Nanxiang Steamed Bun
Famous xiaolongbao since 1900
$5-15
Local Culture
Shanghai culture blends Chinese and Western influences. Explore shikumen architecture, alleyway life, coffee culture, and vibrant nightlife. The city is known for its cosmopolitan attitude and fast-paced lifestyle.