Shanghai 5-Day: Old Town to Pudong

Introduction

For travelers who want to experience Shanghai beyond the surface, this 5-day itinerary offers a deeper dive into the city’s history, culture, and local life.

Day 1: Historic Shanghai

• The Bund: Iconic waterfront with colonial architecture.
• Yu Garden: Classical Chinese garden and bazaar.
• Nanjing Road: Famous shopping street.

Day 2: Modern Pudong

• Shanghai Tower: Second tallest building in the world.
• Oriental Pearl Tower: Iconic TV tower with observation decks.
• Shanghai World Financial Center: Skywalk experience.
• Huangpu River Cruise: Evening boat tour.

Day 3: Art and Culture

• Shanghai Museum: Ancient Chinese art and artifacts.
• Power Station of Art: Contemporary art museum.
• M50 Creative Park: Art galleries in converted factories.
• Former French Concession: Historic architecture and cafes.

Day 4: Local Life

• Morning: Tianzifang for arts and crafts.
• Afternoon: Xintiandi for shikumen architecture.
• Evening: Explore local street food markets.

Day 5: Day Trip

• Morning: Zhujiajiao Water Town – Ancient water town with canals.
• Afternoon: Return to Shanghai for last-minute shopping.
• Evening: Farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant.

Travel Tips

• Pace Yourself: Allow time to soak in the atmosphere.
• Local Food: Try street food and local restaurants.
• Transportation: Use metro and Didi for convenient travel.

Last Updated: July 2026