Here’s an itinerary example for a 4-day 3-night stay in Shanghai. It covers the iconic attractions, the modern face of Shanghai and traditional Shanghai, plus, shopping.
Day 1
- Explore the skyscrapers of Pudong including Jin Mao, Shanghai World Financial Centre, and the new Shanghai Tower
- Head to Dongcheng Road Ferry Wharf (东昌路渡口) and take a ferry across the river to the Bund (金陵东路)
- Stroll north along the Bund taking in all the key historic buildings
- Enjoy a nighttime stroll along Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street
Day 2
- Shanghai Urban Planning Museum & People’s Square
- Jing’an Temple
- Xintiandi & The former French Concession
- Foot Massage
- Shopping at Huaihai Middle Road
Day 3
- Shanghai Confucian Temple
- Yuyuan Garden & City of God Temple
- Science and Technology Museum
- Nighttime Huangpu River Cruise
Day 4
- Zhujiajiao Water Town
- Traditional Chinese Massage
- Last Minute Shopping
- Ride the fastest train in the world, the Maglev (if you are departing via Pudong Airport)
The main mode of transport used throughout the trip is the Shanghai Metro and in particular line 2. For hotels, you could choose from my hand-picked list of Five Star hotels in Shanghai or from hotels along Nanjing Road. Being close to a metro station on line 2 will certainly make things more convenient.