Shanghai doesn’t mess around. The city hits you with neon lights, smells of street food, and the sense that you might be living five years in the future. But don’t worry—even if you’ve only got 11 days, you can see the best of it without losing your mind (or your appetite).
Day 1: Arrival & The Bund
You land at Pudong, a little dazed. Check into your hotel and shake off the jet lag with a walk along The Bund. This is Shanghai’s show-off spot: colonial architecture on one side, a sci-fi skyline on the other. Snap some photos of the Pearl Tower and treat yourself to street snacks nearby.
For an unforgettable introduction to Shanghai’s glamorous past, check out the Bund 1930: Welcome to the 1930s Shanghai Tycoon’s Party. Step into an immersive experience that transports you straight into the golden age of Old Shanghai, mingling with actors, sipping on cocktails, and soaking in the vintage jazz club vibes. It’s the perfect way to start your trip with a blend of history, theater, and nightlife.
Tip: You can book your spot for this unique Bund 1930 experience here and guarantee your ticket in advance!
Day 2: Old Meets New in Yu Garden & City God Temple
Start with the Yu Garden, a maze of koi ponds, rockeries, and Ming dynasty calm. The bazaar outside is chaos by comparison, but it’s worth it for xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) and people-watching.
Tip: To make your visit seamless, you can book your Yu Garden admission ticket here in advance. Skip the lines and dive straight into one of Shanghai’s most iconic sights!
Day 3: French Concession Wandering
If you want to dive deeper into the neighborhood’s flavors, join a Late Night Food Tour in the Former French Concession. This guided experience lets you taste authentic Shanghainese dishes and local snacks at hidden eateries, all while soaking up the district’s atmospheric streets after dark. It’s a great way to meet fellow travelers and locals alike, plus you’ll get the stories behind what you’re eating.
Tip: You can book this delicious adventure here to guarantee your spot and make your culinary exploration hassle-free!
Day 4: Museums & Art
For something truly unique, visit the Shanghai Glass Museum, where contemporary art and glass craftsmanship collide. Explore interactive exhibits, mesmerizing glass sculptures, and even live glass-blowing demonstrations. The museum is known for its innovative installations, family-friendly experiences, and a cool on-site café to recharge after you wander.
Tip: You can book your ticket to the Shanghai Glass Museum here for a hassle-free visit and to skip the lines!
Day 5: Pudong Skyscrapers & City Views
Cross the river to Pudong, where the skyline feels like a scene from the future. The highlight here is the Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai’s most iconic skyscraper. Take the elevator up to the observation deck for jaw-dropping, 360-degree views of the city and the Huangpu River. If you’re feeling brave, step out onto the glass-bottomed skywalk and look straight down at the bustling city below! Inside the tower, you’ll also find a futuristic space capsule, a history museum, and even a revolving restaurant if you want to dine with a view.
Tip: You can book your Oriental Pearl Tower experience here to reserve your spot and skip the ticket lines.
Day 6: Zhujiajiao Water Town & Shanghai Film Park Tour
For a truly immersive day trip, join a one-day tour to Zhujiajiao Water Town and the Shanghai Film Park. Zhujiajiao is one of the best-preserved ancient water towns near Shanghai, famous for its picturesque canals, stone bridges, and centuries-old architecture. Stroll along ancient alleyways, take a relaxing boat ride, and savor traditional snacks by the water.
The tour also includes a visit to the Shanghai Film Park, where you can step onto movie sets that recreate scenes from old Shanghai, watch live performances, and even spot a filming in progress if you’re lucky. It’s the perfect blend of culture, history, and a little cinematic magic.
Tip: You can book this day tour here to secure your spot and enjoy a hassle-free experience with convenient transfers.
Day 10: Disney Magic in Shanghai
If you want a day packed with pure fun and imagination, spend it at Shanghai Disney Resort. This is not just any Disney park—it’s home to the magical Enchanted Storybook Castle, the jaw-dropping TRON Lightcycle Power Run coaster, and unique attractions you won’t find anywhere else, like Pirates of the Caribbean: Battle for the Sunken Treasure. There are dazzling parades, world-class shows, and themed cuisine, all set in the whimsical world of Disney with a Shanghai twist.
Tip: You can easily secure your tickets in advance through this link, so you’re ready to hit the park first thing and make the most of every magical moment!
Day 11: Soaring Over Shanghai – 8D Naked-Eye Experience
For an epic finale to your Shanghai adventure, treat yourself to the Soaring Over Shanghai 8D Naked-Eye Experience. This thrilling attraction takes you on a virtual flight above Shanghai’s skyline, historic landmarks, and the city’s most dazzling sights—all brought to life with cutting-edge 8D technology and panoramic visuals. The ride is fully immersive, letting you “soar” over the Bund, Huangpu River, and even the futuristic skyscrapers of Pudong, all without leaving your seat.
Tip: You can book your ticket for this unforgettable experience here to guarantee your spot and wrap up your trip with a truly memorable view of the city!
Final Thoughts
Shanghai is a city that dazzles at every turn, blending history, modern marvels, and unforgettable flavors. With this 11-day itinerary, you’ll get a real taste of everything that makes Shanghai special, and with easy booking links for each highlight, your trip will be smooth from start to finish. Whether you came for the food, the sights, or the adventure, you’ll leave with memories you’ll want to relive again and again.
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