Day 1: Discovering the Best of Old Shanghai
Shanghai is a city of contrasts where modern skyscrapers stand alongside colonial buildings and traditional Chinese temples. Start your journey by exploring the city's old-world charm with a visit to the famous Yuyuan Garden. This beautiful garden is over 400 years old and offers an oasis of tranquility in the heart of the bustling city. Take a tour of the garden's rock formations, koi ponds, and pavilions, and don't forget to sample some of the local snacks from the various food vendors.
From there, walk through the nearby Old City bazaar, where you will experience the traditional Chinese market atmosphere and see locals bargaining and selling a variety of goods, including silk, tea, and souvenirs. After satisfying your shopping cravings, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and try some of the city's famous local cuisine.
After lunch, head over to the famous Shanghai French Concession, which is known for its European-style architecture and charming streets. Take a leisurely stroll through the tree-lined avenues and explore the quaint vintage shops and cafes. Don't miss out on the opportunity to try some of the best coffee in Shanghai at the many specialty coffee shops that the French Concession has to offer.
In the evening, head over to the famous Bund area to experience the city's iconic skyline and admire the architecture of the historic buildings. Take a river cruise along the Huangpu River, which offers some of the best views of the city's skyline. End the evening with a dinner at one of the many restaurants that offer a beautiful view of the Bund.
Day 2: Modern Shanghai Exploration
Start your second day in Shanghai with a visit to the Oriental Pearl Tower. This iconic tower offers a 360-degree view of the city from its observation deck on the 118th floor. On a clear day, you can even see as far as the Yangtze River. After taking in the views, head over to the nearby Shanghai World Financial Center, which is the tallest building in China, for more panoramic views of the city.
Afterwards, visit the Shanghai Museum, which is one of the best museums in China that houses over 120,000 pieces of ancient art and artifacts. The museum offers a comprehensive overview of China's history, including ancient pottery, jade, and bronze, as well as calligraphy and painting exhibits.
Next, head over to the trendy Xintiandi neighborhood, a pedestrianized area composed of restored shikumen houses that now house shops, cafes, and art galleries. Explore the area by foot and stop by one of the many boutiques to purchase some unique souvenirs. Enjoy a late lunch at one of the many restaurants that offer a wide variety of international cuisine.
In the evening, take a stroll along Nanjing Road, one of the busiest shopping streets in the world that offers a wide range of high-end luxury goods and handcrafted items. Afterward, visit the Shanghai Circus World, which showcases traditional Chinese acrobatics and circus performances that are sure to leave you in awe.
End your second day in Shanghai by having dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant, such as Ultraviolet or Fu1015, which offers a gastronomic dining experience like no other.
With its unique blend of the old and the new, Shanghai is a city that has so much to offer. Whether you're exploring its historic landmarks or experiencing its modern skyline, you're sure to fall in love with the charm and vibrancy of this cosmopolitan city.