Introduction

Shanghai is a city that rewards travelers who take their time.
In seven days, you can experience every layer - the grandeur of the Bund, the intimacy of ancient alleyways, the explosive energy of its art scenes, and the peaceful rhythm of its traditional gardens. With easy ways to Book Flights to Shanghai and a fantastic selection of Hotels in Shanghai, building your dream week in this dazzling city is simple. Here’s how to dive deep into all that Shanghai has to offer.

Day 1: Arrival and Setting the Scene

Morning

Arrive in Shanghai and check into your hotel.
Whether you choose a luxury spot overlooking the Bund or a chic boutique hotel in the French Concession, take a moment to breathe in the energy of the city.

Take a leisurely walk along the Bund to get your first views of the sweeping skyline across the Huangpu River.

Afternoon

Cross to Lujiazui and visit the observation decks of the Shanghai Tower or World Financial Center.
Watch the city stretch endlessly in every direction, a vast sea of rooftops, parks, and neon dreams.

Grab a relaxed lunch in one of the nearby malls or restaurants offering everything from high-end Chinese to casual international flavors.

Evening

Take a river cruise at sunset.
Watch the buildings light up, creating a shimmering reflection across the water. End the day with a relaxed dinner along the Bund, savoring classic Shanghainese dishes.

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Day 2: Dive into Old Shanghai

Morning

Visit Yu Garden, a masterpiece of classical Chinese garden design.
Wander through carved pavilions, koi ponds, and elaborate rockeries, soaking in a different rhythm of life.

Explore the bustling Old City Bazaar nearby, filled with shops selling souvenirs, teas, and traditional snacks.

Afternoon

Enjoy lunch in the area - be sure to try authentic xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) from one of the local restaurants.

After lunch, head to the Jade Buddha Temple, one of the city’s most famous religious sites, where serene halls hold intricate, sparkling Buddha statues.

Evening

Dine casually in the French Concession.
Choose a small bistro or café tucked under the plane trees, and relax into Shanghai’s softer, quieter side.

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Day 3: Art, Creativity, and Design

Morning

Spend your morning at M50 Creative Park.
Explore contemporary art galleries, studios, and graffiti-covered lanes housed in a former industrial complex.

Afternoon

Have lunch at a nearby café, then visit the West Bund Art District.
This redeveloped riverfront area is home to galleries like the Long Museum and Yuz Museum, perfect for an afternoon of modern art immersion.

If you prefer shopping, Xintiandi offers beautiful boutiques housed in historic Shikumen buildings.

Evening

Enjoy dinner at a trendy restaurant offering creative twists on Chinese cuisine.
Afterward, find a rooftop bar to sip cocktails with panoramic nighttime views over the city.

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Day 4: Traditional and Modern Culture

Morning

Head to People’s Square and visit the Shanghai Museum.
Admire its world-class collection of ancient bronzes, ceramics, jade, and calligraphy.

Walk through the peaceful People’s Park afterward, often alive with tai chi practitioners and lively “marriage markets” where parents post profiles of their children.

Afternoon

Visit the Propaganda Poster Art Centre - a fascinating, small museum hidden in an ordinary apartment building that offers insight into China’s history through art.

Stop for lunch nearby and spend a relaxed afternoon exploring the lesser-known streets of Jing'an District.

Evening

Catch a performance at the Shanghai Grand Theatre if you love ballet, opera, or symphony - or simply enjoy a beautiful dinner in one of Shanghai’s acclaimed international restaurants.

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Day 5: Water Town Escape

Morning

Take a day trip to Zhujiajiao, an ancient water town about an hour from central Shanghai.
Walk stone bridges, glide along narrow canals by boat, and wander atmospheric lanes filled with old teahouses and local snacks.

Afternoon

Enjoy a simple riverside lunch - fresh river shrimp, green vegetables, and sweet rice dumplings are local favorites.

Spend more time exploring quiet corners and traditional homes before returning to the city in the late afternoon.

Evening

Unwind with a casual dinner back in Shanghai, perhaps choosing a cozy restaurant in the Old French Concession to contrast with the ancient streets you visited earlier.

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Day 6: Relaxed Exploration and Local Life

Morning

Spend the morning wandering through Fuxing Park.
Watch locals practicing tai chi, flying kites, or simply chatting under the trees.

Afterward, stroll into the French Concession’s quiet streets, browsing independent boutiques and historic villas.

Afternoon

Have a lazy lunch and then head to Tianzifang.
Explore this bustling maze of artsy shops, galleries, and cafés tucked into renovated alleyways.

Pick up souvenirs, enjoy artisan coffee, and soak in the vibrant energy of this unique area.

Evening

Dine in Tianzifang or nearby.
Opt for something different tonight - perhaps a trendy Asian-fusion spot or an intimate wine bar serving small plates.

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Day 7: Farewell Shanghai

Morning

Spend your last morning revisiting your favorite spots.
Maybe it’s another stroll on the Bund, a last xiaolongbao breakfast, or some quiet moments in a small café.

Pick up last-minute gifts like silk scarves, tea, ceramics, or traditional crafts.

Afternoon

Relax with a slow lunch by the river or in one of Shanghai’s garden cafés, reflecting on everything you’ve experienced.

If time allows, visit the beautiful Jing’an Temple or simply wander through a park for one final breath of Shanghai’s energy.

Evening

Depart for the airport, carrying memories of a city that shimmered with dreams, surprised you at every turn, and left you with a longing to return.

Conclusion

Seven days in Shanghai unlock the full tapestry of a city that never stops moving, but always invites you to pause, savor, and connect.
From ancient gardens to sky-piercing towers, from quiet alleys to buzzing marketplaces, Shanghai is a place where every experience feels vivid and alive. With easy ways to Book Flights to Shanghai and an incredible selection of Hotels in Shanghai, creating your ultimate Shanghai story is effortless. And once you leave, a part of you will always remain - wandering somewhere along the city’s endless streets.

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