Ultimate Shanghai 4-Day Itinerary for Foreign Travelers
-
Planning a trip to Shanghai? Here's a comprehensive 4-day itinerary tailored for foreign visitors with some insider tips to avoid common pitfalls. Shanghai is a bustling metropolis, so it’s important to know what to expect and where to go. Let's dive in! Day 1: Start your journey at Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, one of the busiest shopping streets in China. Then head over to The Bund, a symbol of Shanghai with its stunning skyline. Cross the Huangpu River via Waibaidu Bridge and explore Lujiazui, home to towering skyscrapers including the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower. Finish the day at Gujin Center, a high-end shopping mall. Day 2: Begin with a leisurely stroll down Wukang Road, known for its colonial architecture. Next, visit Xintiandi, a vibrant area filled with trendy cafes and restaurants. Afterward, check out Tianzifang, a bohemian neighborhood brimming with art studios and boutiques. Continue to Yu Garden and Chenghuang Temple, two quintessential spots showcasing traditional Chinese culture. Day 3: Spend the entire day enjoying the magical world of Disneyland Shanghai. Day 4: Start at People's Square, an expansive plaza surrounded by cultural landmarks. Explore Laofangxiang, a historic area preserving old Shanghai charm. Walk along Sweet Love Road, famous for its romantic ambiance. Visit Lu Xun Park, named after the renowned Chinese writer. Lastly, stop by M50 Creative Park, a hub for contemporary art. For accommodation, consider staying near Nanjing Road or People's Square if you prefer convenience despite higher costs. If you're interested in night views, opt for places close to The Bund or Lujiazui, though they tend to be pricey. Alternatively, choose areas like Tianzifang or Yuyuan Road for a more artistic vibe with better value for money. If you're traveling solo, youth hostels around Nanjing Road, The Bund, and Jing'an Temple are great options as they offer affordable rates compared to hotels. Remember to make reservations for popular attractions well in advance: Shanghai Disneyland (10 days ahead), Oriental Pearl Tower (3 days ahead), Shanghai Astronomical Museum (3 days ahead), Shanghai Meteorological Museum (7 days ahead), Shanghai Museum (14 days ahead), and Shanghai Natural History Museum (7 days ahead). Regarding dining, don't miss out on local delicacies such as Thai Qing Zao Powder Vinegar Hot Pot and fried ice from Taichung in Zhongshan Park area. In Jing'an district, try Hu Xi Old Lane Noodles for authentic Shanghai-style noodles and enjoy reasonably priced Cantonese dishes at Xiangjiang Ji Yuan. At Lujiazui, Fuhe Noodle Shop offers hearty portions without long queues. Avoid underground food courts within Nanjing Road Walking Street due to exorbitant prices and poor quality food. One traveler recounted paying nearly $6 for a single tiny shengjianbao (pan-fried dumpling) that wasn’t even worth it.
-
For those seeking local flavors, check out Taiqiong Zao Powder Vinegar Hot Pot in Zhongshan Park for a taste of Hainanese sour soup hot pot right here in Shanghai. Dahu Chun serves classic Shanghai-style pan-fried buns.
-
If you plan to visit both downtown areas and Disney Resort but don’t want to switch hotels, consider staying near Hongqiao Transportation Hub or Minhang District. These locations strike a balance between accessibility and cost-effectiveness.
-
The two-yuan ferry ride across the Huangpu River provides breathtaking views of The Bund and Pudong skyline. You can catch this scenic ferry at the Zhongshan Dongyi Road Pier.