A Must-Read Shanghai Travel Guide for First-Timers

[Kristopher Schultz PhD]

With summer here, I’ve spent three sleepless nights putting together this ultimate Shanghai travel guide. Here’s how to make the most of your time in one of China’s most vibrant cities!

Day 1:
Start at Nanjing Road, often called the “First Commercial Street of China.” It’s a bustling shopping area that reflects both modern and historical Shanghai. From there, head to the iconic Bund, where you can marvel at the colonial-era buildings lit up at night. Don’t miss the Bund Pier for stunning views of the Huangpu River. Then cross over to Lujiazui, home to some of the tallest skyscrapers in the world, including the famous Oriental Pearl Tower. End your day at the Pudong Museum of Art, perfect for art lovers.

Tip: The Bund is on the west side of the river, while Lujiazui is on the east. A short ferry ride connects them.

Day 2:
Take it slow with a stroll down Wukang Road, lined with charming old villas. Next, explore Anfu Road, known for its trendy boutiques and cafes. Head to Huaihai Middle Road for more shopping, then visit Jing’an Temple, a peaceful escape from the urban chaos. For a taste of traditional Shanghai, check out City God Temple (Chenghuangmiao) and the nearby Yuyuan Garden, especially beautiful at night when lanterns light up the ancient architecture.

Day 3:
Wrap up your trip with a visit to Disneytown for souvenirs before heading into Shanghai Disneyland itself. Highlights include:

• Tron Lightcycle Power Run: An adrenaline-pumping roller coaster.
• Rapids Adventure on Thunder Mountain: Great for cooling off during hot days.
• Zootopia Land: New and highly recommended.
• Pirates of the Caribbean: A breathtaking 3D experience.
  Don’t forget about the nightly parade and fireworks show!

Food Recommendations:
Shanghai has no shortage of delicious local dishes. Try these must-haves:

• Crabmeat Fried Rice at Renheguan
• Sizzling Eel Slices & Fresh Meat Mooncakes at Guangmingcun
• Crabmeat Soup Dumplings at Nanxiang Mantou Dian or Lailai Xiaolongbao
• Pork Ribs with Glutinous Rice Cakes at Xiande Lai
• Fried Chicken Legs at Pengpu Yizha

You’ll leave satisfied—and maybe even heavier!

Let me know if you need any further tips or adjustments based on your schedule.

[Cathy Gulgowski]

I’m GaonaiJ, a worker bee in Shanghai who dreams of exploring the world map one weekend/holiday at a time. If you enjoyed this guide, stay tuned for my upcoming posts on Yunnan, Netherlands, Belgium, and beyond!

[Anita Wiza]

Hi! How do I get from Pudong Airport to Metropolo Jinjiang Hotels Classiq near People's Square?

[Stacey Kulas]

The first day seems solid, but consider starting with People’s Square and Nanjing Road earlier. Also, visiting Puxi (west bank) in the morning and Pudong (east bank) in the evening might save time.

[Antoinette Ferry]

Great feedback! I’ll tweak the itinerary accordingly.

[Lucia Feest]

For those arriving at Pudong Airport, consider staying in central areas like Lujiazui or People’s Square for easy access to major attractions.

[Nathan Dickinson-Steuber]

Does the Pudong Museum of Art require tickets? Yes, it does—book in advance online.

[Daisy Hermiston]

If anyone needs an English version of this guide, let me know! Coming soon: Harbin-Snow Town winter adventures.

[Abraham Kris]

Follow me if you enjoy learning about travel, architecture, and city life!

[Iris Marquardt]

Can you visit the Bund and Lujiazui in one evening? Absolutely—they’re just across the river from each other. Take the ferry or subway Line 2 for convenience.