5 Days Shanghai Travel Itinerary, Plan a 5-Day Trip to Shanghai

5 Days Shanghai Travel Itinerary

Shanghai, a city where tradition meets modernity, enchants travelers with its dynamic skyline, elegant historical neighborhoods, rich blend of Eastern and Western cultures, and vibrant culinary scene. From the timeless charm of the Bund to the futuristic glow of Pudong, from classical gardens to cutting-edge art spaces, Shanghai offers a diverse and immersive experience.

If you have five days to explore this captivating metropolis, how can you make the most of your time and fully experience its allure? This carefully packed five-day itinerary offers a detailed plan for an unforgettable trip to Shanghai, ensuring that you can explore Shanghai to the fullest without missing out on its iconic wonders.

5 Days Shanghai Itinerary for Family with Kids

Day 1: Feel Charm of the Bund

Arrive in Shanghai and begin your family adventure with a visit to the Bund, where you can admire the city’s iconic skyline and historic colonial architecture along the Huangpu River. Then, head to Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street Let the kids enjoy the vibrant lights, grab a local snack and satisfy your cravings for local delicacies.

For accommodation, staying near the Bund offers not only access to some of Shanghai’s best dining but also puts you at the heart of the city’s culture, history, nightlife, and iconic skyline views.

Day 2: Experience the Magical Disney

Full day at Shanghai Disneyland, explore various themed lands, enjoy attractions, shows, and parades, return to the hotel after the fireworks show. Popular attractions include ‌TRON Light cycle Power Run‌, ‌Pirates of the Caribbean, Battle for the Sunken Treasure‌, and dazzling nighttime fireworks spectaculars. it's a dream come true for kids and a joyful escape for parents. Make sure to arrive early and stay for the unforgettable finale.

Day 3: Visit Classical Gardens, Culture and Hands-On Fun

Begin your morning with a visit to the charming Yu Garden, a classical Chinese garden filled with winding paths, stone bridges, koi ponds, and traditional pavilions, kids can explore freely while adults appreciate the historical beauty. Right next door is the lively City God Temple area, perfect for grabbing a quick breakfast or local snacks. Next, take a short ride to Shanghai Museum at People’s Square, where interactive displays and kid-friendly exhibits bring history and art to life.

In the afternoon, exploring Wukang Road by bicycle is one of the best ways to soak in the romantic atmosphere of the former French Concession. As night falls, be sure to take in the breathtaking skyline view from Xuhui Riverside Park. Enjoy your evening with the stunning acrobatic show ERA: Intersection of Time at Shanghai Circus World.

Day 4: Immerse in Shanghai Water Town

Start your day with a short 4-kilometer bike ride to Nanxiang Old Street and Guyi Garden. Along the way, enjoy the serene scenery of a classic Jiangnan water town, with ancient bridges, pagodas, and tranquil canals. Once in Nanxiang, don’t miss the chance to taste its famous Nanxiang Tangbao (soup dumplings) in the town where they originated.

In the afternoon, it's highly recommended to visit Zhujiajiao Ancient Town, a picturesque water town known for its stone bridges, narrow alleys, traditional houses, and tranquil canals that offer a glimpse into old Jiangnan life. You can take a ride on a traditional black-awning boat to explore the waterways, experience local intangible cultural heritage such as crochet weaving or hand-dyed homespun fabrics.

Day 5: A Final Glimpse of Shanghai’s Modern Skyline

Visit the iconic Oriental Pearl TV Tower. Take the elevator up to the observation deck for sweeping views of the city, it will be an unforgettable experience for both kids and adults. At the base, you’ll find fun museums such as the Shanghai City History Development Exhibition Hall, where children can explore interactive exhibits about the city’s past. it will be an unforgettable experience for both kids and adults.

5 Days Shanghai Itinerary for Seniors with Slow Travel Pace

Day 1: Explore the Heart of Shanghai

Upon arrival in Shanghai, check into your hotel and take time to rest. Enjoy a local Shanghainese-style lunch on the way. Visit the Bund to admire the city's iconic skyline and colonial architecture along the Huangpu River.

Day 2: Modern elegance and peaceful greenery

Begin your day with a visit to the Shanghai Tower observatory, where elevators will take you effortlessly to one of the highest viewpoints in the world for a breathtaking panoramic view. Then head to Lujiazui Riverside Park for a gentle stroll along the riverbank.

After lunch, escape the city’s hustle and visit Zhujiajiao Ancient Town, a picturesque water town known for its stone bridges, narrow alleys, traditional houses, and tranquil canals that offer a glimpse into old Jiangnan life. Return to the city center and conclude your trip with a relaxing stroll along Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, where you can enjoy delicious local food and pick up some souvenirs.

Day 3: Discover history and culture

In the morning, start the day with a traditional local breakfast such as soup dumplings (xiaolongbao). Then visit the Shanghai Museum in People’s Square to explore its exquisite collection of Chinese art and cultural relics. Continue your cultural tour at the nearby Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center to learn how the city has transformed over the years.

After lunch and a short rest, visit Yuyuan Garden and the surrounding Old Town area, where you can enjoy classic garden landscapes and sip tea at a traditional teahouse. In the evening, enjoy a peaceful Huangpu River night cruise and take in the glittering views of Lujiazui and the historic buildings along the Bund.

Day 4: Embrace Shanghai’s charm at a gentle pace

In the morning, head to the Former French Concession area and take a relaxed walk-through tree-lined streets filled with heritage villas, cozy cafés, and boutique shops.

After lunch, explore the Tianzifang, a lively maze of alleys with local crafts, art galleries, and small eateries, perfect for browsing and relaxing.

In the evening, enjoy a peaceful dinner at a riverside restaurant along the Huangpu River in Xuhui Riverside area.

Day 5: Feel the Nature, Leisure and Departure

On your final day in Shanghai, head to Century Park, the city’s largest urban park. Take a peaceful morning walk as you observe locals practicing tai chi, dancing, or enjoying leisurely activities. Wander through quiet wooded paths and, in summer, admire the beautiful lotus flowers in full bloom across the lake.

Later, visit Jing’an Temple, a striking Buddhist temple nestled among the skyscrapers of downtown Shanghai. End your five-day trip with unforgettable memories of the city’s perfect blend of tradition and modernity.

5 Days Shanghai Itinerary for Young Travelers

Day 1: Arrival and visit the Shanghai Center District

Arrive in Shanghai and check in at your hotel. Begin your journey at The Bund, where you can admire the iconic skyline and colonial architecture along the Huangpu River. Take a leisurely stroll along Nanjing Road, one of the busiest shopping streets in China. In the evening, dive into Shanghai’s vibrant nightlife with a visit toXintiandi, a stylish district filled with trendy bars, restaurants, and live music.

Day 2: Historical and Cultural Exploration

Start your day with a visit to the Shanghai Museum in People’s Square, home to a world-class collection of Chinese artifacts. Then, wander through the tranquil Yuyuan Garden and explore the surrounding Old Town, known for its traditional architecture and bustling markets. Savor authentic Chinese cuisine at a local restaurant. In the late afternoon, rent a bike and enjoy a scenic riverside cycling experience along the Huangpu River, soaking in views of both the historic Bund and futuristic Pudong skyline.

Day 3: Modern Shanghai Adventures

Discover the modern face of Shanghai by visiting the Shanghai Tower, the second-tallest building in the world, for breathtaking views from the observatory. Explore the Pudong district, including the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower and nearby shopping and entertainment venues. In the evening, board a Huangpu River cruise and enjoy the dazzling nightscape of Shanghai from the water.

Day 4: Shanghai Industrial Visit

Take a one-hour drive from the city center to visit the headquarters of Baosteel, one of China’s leading steel manufacturers. Upon arrival, your guide will provide a brief overview of the company’s history, followed by a tour of the exhibition halls and production facilities. A Baosteel employee will walk you through the fascinating process of steel production. This is a rare and enriching experience which is one you won’t want to miss.

In the afternoon, head to the Former French Concession area and take a relaxed walk-through tree-lined streets filled with heritage villas, cozy cafés, and boutique shops. explore the Tianzifang, a lively maze of alleys with local crafts, art galleries, and small eateries, perfect for browsing and relaxing.

Day 5: Water Town Excursion

Escape the city with a day trip to one of Shanghai’s nearby water towns, such as Zhujiajiao or Qibao. Wander through charming canals, stone bridges, and old houses that reflect traditional Jiangnan architecture. Sample local snacks, shop for handmade crafts, and soak in the slower pace of life before returning to the city in the evening or heading to the airport.

5 Days Shanghai cultural Immersion Itinerary and Leisure

Day 1: Feel the Modern Shanghai – The Lujiazui Financial District

Arrive in Shanghai, start your journey in the heart of Shanghai’s financial hub. Take a peaceful walk through this modern park surrounded by skyscrapers. Admire the Oriental Pearl TV Tower up close or take an elevator up for panoramic views of the city’s skyline.

Day 2: Art, Architecture & Skyline Views

Explore the Shanghai Museum East Pavilion, exhibitions of ancient artifacts and gain insight into Shanghai’s deep historical roots. And then visit Wukang Road, take a stroll along this charming street lined with European-style architecture, boutique shops, and quiet cafés. After lunch, discover a stylish area that blends restored Shikumen buildings with trendy restaurants and cultural venues in Xintiandi. Head to Jinmao Tower Observatory (advance booking recommended), take the elevator to the top for breathtaking, bird’s-eye views of Shanghai at dusk.

Day 3: Old Alley Life and Water Town Charm

Start your morning with a visit to a traditional Shanghai alley (longtang), where you can engage in friendly conversations with local residents, listen to their stories, and catch a glimpse of daily life in old Shanghai. After lunch, take a leisurely trip to Zhujiajiao or Qibao Ancient Town, two picturesque water towns on the outskirts of the city. Stroll across stone bridges, sip tea beside tranquil canals, or take a traditional black-awning boat to explore the waterways, enjoy the peaceful rhythm of Jiangnan life before returning to the city in the evening.

Day 4: Discover Historic Huangpu District

Begin your final day at The Bund, starting from Chen Yi Square and strolling north along the scenic riverside promenade. To your left, admire the historic Western-style buildings known as the “Wall Street of the Far East,” and to your right, take in the modern skyline of Lujiazui. If you prefer not to walk, consider a Suzhou Creek cruise to enjoy the cityscape from the water. Continue your journey to Yu Garden, where classical Jiangnan Garden design meets a lively heritage market filled with traditional snacks and souvenirs.

Day 5: Dive Shanghai cuisine in Nanxiang

On your final day in Shanghai, with a short 4-kilometer bike ride to Nanxiang Old Street and Guyi Garden. Along the way, enjoy the serene scenery of a classic Jiangnan water town, with ancient bridges, pagodas, and tranquil canals. Once in Nanxiang, don’t miss the chance to taste its famous Nanxiang Tangbao (soup dumplings) in the town where they originated.

After visit countryside, returned to the city and Unwind with a stroll along Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, pick up souvenirs and bring a memorable end to your Shanghai adventure.

5 Days Shanghai and Xitang Village Itinerary

This 5-day itinerary combines the modernity of Shanghai with the historical charm of Xitang Water Town, providing a diverse experience of both urban and traditional Chinese culture. Adjustments can be made based on personal preferences and the time of year.

Day 1: Arrival in Shanghai

Arrive in Shanghai, check into your hotel, Explore The Bund and Nanjing Road, Enjoy a cruise on the Huangpu River for skyline views.

Day 2: Modern Shanghai Exploration

Visit the Shanghai Tower and Jin Mao Tower for panoramic views, Explore the Shanghai Museum and People's Square, Experience the vibrant nightlife at Xintiandi.

Day 3: Day Trip to Xitang Water Town

Morning departure to Xitang Water Town, Stroll along the ancient canals, visit historic sites, Enjoy the scenic beauty of Xitang at night, Overnight stay in Xitang.

Day 4: Return to Shanghai and Cultural Exploration

Explore more of Xitang or return to Shanghai, Visit Yuyuan Garden and Bazaar, Wander around the Old City God Temple area.

Day 5: Relaxation and Departure

Relax at Fuxing Park or explore Tianzifang, Last-minute shopping or leisure time, Depart from Shanghai.

5 Days Shanghai including 2 Days Hangzhou Itinerary

This 5-day itinerary combines the dynamic energy of Shanghai with the serene beauty of Hangzhou, allowing you to experience the modernity of urban life and the traditional charm of West Lake. Adjustments can be made based on personal preferences and the time of year.

Day 1: Arrival in Shanghai

Arrive in Shanghai, check into your hotel, Explore The Bund and Nanjing Road, Enjoy a cruise on the Huangpu River for skyline views.

Day 2: Modern Shanghai Exploration

Visit the Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai World Financial Center, Explore the Shanghai Museum and People's Square, Experience the vibrant nightlife at Xintiandi.

Day 3: Shanghai to Hangzhou by train

Take a high-speed train to Hangzhou, Explore West Lake, visit Leifeng Pagoda, Stroll along Hefang Street for local snacks, Overnight stay in Hangzhou.

Day 4: More Hangzhou Highlights

Visit Lingyin Temple and Feilai Feng Grottoes, Explore Longjing Tea Plantation and enjoy a tea tasting, Return to Shanghai.

Day 5: Cultural Exploration and Farewell

Explore Yuyuan Garden and Bazaar, Visit the Old City God Temple area, Last-minute shopping or leisure time, Depart from Shanghai.

5 Days Shanghai including 2 Days Suzhou Itinerary

This 5-day itinerary combines the bustling city life of Shanghai with the classical gardens and charm of Suzhou, offering a mix of modernity and traditional Chinese culture. Adjustments can be made based on personal preferences and the time of year.

Day 1: Arrival in Shanghai

Arrive in Shanghai, check into your hotel, Explore The Bund and Nanjing Road, Enjoy a cruise on the Huangpu River for skyline views.

Day 2: Modern Shanghai Exploration

Visit the Oriental Pearl Tower and Jin Mao Tower for panoramic views, Explore the Shanghai Museum and People's Square, Experience the vibrant nightlife at Xintiandi.

Day 3: Shanghai to Suzhou

Take a high-speed train to Suzhou, Explore the classical gardens of Suzhou (Humble Administrator's Garden or Lingering Garden), Stroll along Pingjiang Road for traditional architecture and local snacks. Overnight stay in Suzhou.

Day 4: Suzhou Water Town and Return to Shanghai

Visit Zhouzhuang Water Town, Explore Suzhou's Suzhou Museum or Suzhou Silk Museum, Return to Shanghai.

Day 5: Cultural Exploration and Farewell

Explore Yuyuan Garden and Bazaar, Visit the Old City God Temple area, Last-minute shopping or leisure time, Depart from Shanghai.

5 Days Shanghai including Hangzhou

This 5-day itinerary combines the dynamic energy of Shanghai with the serene beauty of Hangzhou, allowing you to experience the modernity of urban life and the traditional charm of West Lake. Adjustments can be made based on personal preferences and the time of year.

Day 1: Arrival in Shanghai

Arrive in Shanghai, check into your hotel, Explore The Bund and Nanjing Road, Enjoy a cruise on the Huangpu River for skyline views.

Day 2: Modern Shanghai Exploration

Visit the Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai World Financial Center, Explore the Shanghai Museum and People's Square, Experience the vibrant nightlife at Xintiandi.

Day 3: Shanghai to Hangzhou

Take a high-speed train to Hangzhou, Explore West Lake, visit Leifeng Pagoda, Stroll along Hefang Street for local snacks, Overnight stay in Hangzhou.

Day 4: More Hangzhou Highlights

Visit Lingyin Temple and Feilai Feng Grottoes, Explore Longjing Tea Plantation and enjoy a tea tasting, Return to Shanghai.

Day 5: Cultural Exploration and Farewell

Explore Yuyuan Garden and Bazaar, Visit the Old City God Temple area, Last-minute shopping or leisure time, Depart from Shanghai.

Customize Your Unique Shanghai Tour

If you are interested in one of the Shanghai itineraries mentioned above, please contact us, and we will be happy to customize it and provide a quote tailored to your preferences.

Alternatively, if you would like to customize your Shanghai Tour, please visit our Shanghai Tour Customized Center. We assure you that you will receive a reply within 24 working hours.

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