Three Days in Shanghai: A No-Nonsense Travel Guide

[Misty Dare]

Just got back from Shanghai and wanted to share some real talk about what worked and what didn’t. If you're planning a trip to Shanghai, this guide will save you some headaches!

Weather & What to Wear
The average temperature is around 15°C-23°C (59°F-73°F). Pack comfortable clothing like shorts, T-shirts, light jeans, or casual outfits. Remember, Shanghai's weather can be unpredictable and humid, so bring an umbrella just in case.

Night Views Worth Seeing
Shanghai’s skyline at night is stunning. Must-visits include the Bund, Lujiazui, Oriental Pearl Tower, Wujiaochang, Hengshan Road, and Chenghuang Temple. The city lights reflect beautifully on the Huangpu River.

Travel Tips
The Bund lights up at 7 PM and turns off at 11 PM. For those short on time, consider taking a cruise; tickets bought directly from vendors are often cheaper.
Avoid the open-top sightseeing buses—they’re overpriced and not worth it. Instead, explore Anfu Road and Wukang Road if you're into trendy spots. They're close together, so pick one if pressed for time.
For accommodations, stay near Nanjing Road. It’s convenient for food and transportation to major attractions.

Where to Stay

• Nanjing Road: Close to the subway and within walking distance of the Bund.
• Yuyuan Road: Great for visiting popular Instagram-worthy cafes.
• Lujiazui: Perfect for enjoying nighttime views and easy access to public transport.

Food Recommendations
Shanghai has amazing local cuisine. Here are some must-try places:

• Taiqiong Zao Po Cu Hotpot: Their signature fermented vinegar broth is rich and flavorful—perfect for seafood lovers.
• Molai Xiaolongbao: These crab-filled dumplings are delicate with thin wrappers. Pair them with vinegar for extra tanginess.
• Xian Delai Paigu Niangao: Crispy pork ribs paired with sticky rice cakes make for a satisfying snack.
• Lanting Ji: Try their oily eel noodles wrapped in pancakes or black garlic honey-braised conger eel.
• Huxi Laonongtang: Don’t miss the clam liver soup, which comes with unlimited free refills.
• Guangmingcun Grand Restaurant: Known for its fresh meat mooncakes and classic Shanghainese dishes.

Additional Notes
If you plan to visit museums like the Shanghai Museum, check their opening hours carefully as they may vary. Also, avoid running to the Science and Technology Museum—it’s currently closed for renovations.

For first-time visitors, start your day exploring the Bund, then head to Chenghuang Temple or Yuyuan Garden for cultural immersion. End the evening strolling along Nanjing Road or relaxing in Xintiandi.

Hope these tips help! Let me know if you have any questions.

[Glenn Ryan PhD]

This is super helpful! Love all the detailed advice.

[Dr. Wade Boyer]

Make sure to also hit Sweet Love Road—it’s romantic and great for photos.

[Zachary Hayes]

Yes, there’s a huge wall perfect for photo ops!

[Rosemarie Sawayn PhD]

Thinking of adding the Egyptian exhibit at the Shanghai Museum—can I fit it into my schedule without extending my trip?

[Katrina Sporer]

Day 1 would work well for that.

[Miss Alison Collier]

What’s the best area to stay if I want to see the Bund, Oriental Pearl Tower, Jing’an Temple, Wu Kang Road, Disneyland, Lujiazui, and Chenghuang Temple?