Begin your day with a visit to the exquisite Yuyuan Garden. Built during the Ming Dynasty, it is renowned for its architectural elegance, and is a masterpiece of Chinese garden design, featuring intricate rockeries, serene ponds, and beautiful pavilions. As you stroll through the garden, you'll be able to enjoy traditional Chinese performances such as Pingtan, a form of musical storytelling.
Next, explore the City God Temple and its surrounding bazaar which makes up a bustling hub where you can experience local culture, shop for traditional crafts and eat Shanghai street cuisine.
Venture into the rapidly disappearing Nongtang alleys. These narrow lanes lined with historic Shikumen houses showcase the more traditional side of the city, where the close-knit neighborhoods paint a picture of what old Shanghai was like.
Take a leisurely stroll down Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, one of Shanghai’s premier shopping streets. Famous for its high-end stores, local boutiques, and street vendors, Nanjing East Road offers a blend of modern retail and historical landmarks. It’s a bustling pedestrian street, perfect for soaking up the city’s energy.
Instead of the traditional Shanghai Museum in People's Square, head to the Shanghai Museum East, a new branch located in Pudong. Opened in 2023, this museum offers a modern, spacious environment featuring various exhibitions on Chinese culture, art, and history. It showcases both ancient artifacts and contemporary art across multiple floors.
Head to Shanghai Tower, the second tallest building in the world, for a spectacular view of the city from its observation deck on the 118th floor. The Shanghai skyline, including The Bund and Huangpu River, is particularly stunning at sunset
Transition to the modern and fashionable side of Shanghai with a visit to The Bund. This iconic waterfront promenade offers stunning views of colonial-era architecture juxtaposed against the towering skyscrapers of Pudong. Take a walk along the scenic Huangpu River as you soak in the vibrant energy of this iconic district.
You'll get to explore Xintiandi, a chic shopping and entertainment district that epitomizes Shanghai’s blend of old and new. This modern pedestrian area features restored Shikumen houses that now host trendy boutiques, cafes, and restaurants.