Insider Tips for Exploring Shanghai, China in 3 Days and 3 Nights

Independent travel in China may still pose challenges due to language barriers and lack of experience. However, this is a fantastic destination not to be missed! Check out the shared itinerary for experiencing 3 Days and 3 Nights in Shanghai.

Emerging from a humble origin as a fishing village on the mainland coast of China, Shanghai is now the largest city in China and the 8th largest in the world.

With towering skyscrapers, sprawling commercial and entertainment districts, along with famous parks and museums attracting locals, foreigners, and tourists alike, Shanghai epitomizes modern China perfectly. To help you explore this special city, here's a weekend itinerary to guide you through this gem!

Start your exploration of Shanghai by immersing yourself in the dazzling scenery and traditional Chinese architecture of Yuyuan Garden. Located adjacent to the City God Temple, these gardens exhibit cultural relics, calligraphy, paintings, and sculptures by renowned artists. Take a stroll around the shopping streets near the garden to pick up some traditional Chinese souvenirs and delicious Shanghai delicacies.

Experience a swift subway ride from Yuyuan Gardens to Xintiandi, a pedestrian shopping and entertainment district in Shanghai. Featuring 19th-century-style buildings now converted into cafes and restaurants, this is the ideal place for you to wander along narrow alleyways and appreciate the unique blend of international exteriors and traditional Chinese interiors.

After your visit to Yuyuan Gardens and Xintiandi, spend your afternoon strolling along the famous Nanjing Pedestrian Road, China's premier shopping street. Conveniently located above a bustling subway station, this car-free street hosts hundreds of commercial enterprises, offering a variety of goods and services including popular fashion brands like Forever 21, and restaurants serving Western and Chinese cuisines, as well as traditional shops selling silk, jade, and embroidered clothing.

At the eastern end of the pedestrian street lies Puxi Bund, Shanghai's waterfront area surrounded by buildings of various architectural styles and offering stunning views of the city skyline across the Huangpu River. Don't forget to bring your camera as you'll surely want to capture the enchanting city lights at dusk. A quick taxi ride through Yan'an Tunnel will take you to the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium, home to thousands of ocean creatures and the world's longest underwater pedestrian tunnel.

Amidst the bustling energy of downtown Shanghai lies the serene Jing'an Temple. With its resplendent golden roofs and sweet fragrance permeating the corridors, it's the largest Buddhist temple and a perfect place to start your morning.

Not far from the temple, at the intersection of Changle Road and Maoming Road, is a small market selling ready-to-wear garments as well as custom-designed cheongsams, an elegant dress style for women. After souvenir shopping here, take a stroll down to Fuxing Park, a beautiful French-style park in the heart of Shanghai. An oasis amidst a bustling city, this park is an ideal place to unwind from the fast-paced environment of Shanghai.

Indulge in a light meal or a sumptuous lunch at one of the many restaurants and cafes in Tianzifang. Originally built for French colonists in Shanghai and maintaining Shikum architecture on the outside, this area has now been transformed into the most famous nightlife hub, bars, cafes, art galleries, and antique shops.

Finally, explore the renowned Shanghai Museum, housing Buddhist sculptures, traditional Chinese furniture, and an extensive collection of ancient ceramics. Strolling through the museum will enlighten you about the philosophy, behaviors, and mindset of traditional Chinese culture.

Begin your final day adventure on the eastern side of the Huangpu River in Century Park, the largest park in Shanghai. With an enticing blend of Eastern and Western landscapes, a lake, bird conservation area, and children's playgrounds, this park offers an exciting atmosphere for both adults and kids. After a relaxing morning in the park, head to the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum, the city's largest science museum. Learn more about the wonders of science with exhibits on plant and animal life, robotics, and space technology, all under one roof.

Next, explore modern Shanghai and visit Lujiazui Financial District to discover a highly developed part of the city with giant shopping centers and the city's most prominent landmarks. You'll get a close-up view of Shanghai's tallest buildings, including the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, the Shanghai World Financial Center shaped like a handbag, the Jinmao Tower resembling a temple, and the sleek shape of the new Shanghai Tower. If you have time, ascend to the observation deck of the Oriental Pearl TV Tower and get a 360-degree view of the city from 350 meters above ground level.

Visit Shanghai Circus World, a spectacular scene of acrobatic and martial arts performances. Don't miss the breathtaking acrobatics of talented Chinese dancers combined with special music, sound, and lighting effects. Marvel at the Nanpu Bridge from across the river, as it's said to feature a golden dragon flying over the river at night.

With a blend of colonial classic architecture and modern skyscrapers, along with ancient temples and serene gardens, Shanghai offers plenty of excitement, whether you're a local or a first-time visitor to China. Hop on a plane and spend your perfect weekend in Shanghai right now!