What to Do in Shanghai for a Week: A Comprehensive Guide

Shanghai, a vibrant metropolis blending traditional Chinese culture with modern flair, offers a myriad of experiences for travelers. Spending a week in Shanghai allows you to delve deep into the city's rich history, explore its stunning architecture, and immerse yourself in its dynamic lifestyle. Here’s a detailed day-by-day itinerary to make the most of your week in Shanghai.

Day 1: The Bund and Nanjing Road

• Start your journey at The Bund, the iconic waterfront that showcases Shanghai's colonial past. Stroll along the promenade, marveling at the juxtaposition of historical buildings on one side and the futuristic skyline of Pudong on the other.
• Must-see highlights: The HSBC Building, the Customs House, and the Peace Hotel.
• Take a river cruise on the Huangpu River to get a closer look at both sides of the city.
• After exploring The Bund, head to Nanjing Road, one of the world’s busiest shopping streets. Here, you can shop for luxury goods, local souvenirs, and enjoy some street food.

Day 2: Yu Garden and Old City

• Visit the Yu Garden (Yuyuan Garden), a classic Chinese garden that dates back to the Ming Dynasty. The garden features beautiful pavilions, ponds, and rockeries, providing a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
• Explore the surrounding Old City, where you’ll find traditional architecture, narrow alleyways, and bustling markets.
• Don’t miss the City God Temple, a Taoist temple that has been an important religious site for centuries.
• In the evening, enjoy some local cuisine at one of the many restaurants in the area. Xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) are a must-try!

Day 3: Modern Shanghai - Lujiazui and the Shanghai Tower

• Cross the river to Lujiazui, Shanghai’s financial district, known for its stunning skyline.
• Start your day with a visit to the Shanghai Tower, the tallest building in China. The observation deck offers panoramic views of the city.
• Also, visit the Jin Mao Tower and the Shanghai World Financial Center (often referred to as the "bottle opener" due to its distinctive shape).
• For art lovers, the Power Station of Art, housed in a former power station, offers a contemporary art experience.
• Spend your evening at Super Brand Mall or IFC Mall for some upscale shopping and dining.

Day 4: French Concession and Xintiandi

• Explore the French Concession, a charming area that was once the center of colonial life in Shanghai. The tree-lined streets are dotted with European-style buildings, cafes, and boutiques.
• Visit Tianzifang, a labyrinth of narrow alleys filled with artsy shops, cafes, and galleries.
• For a deeper understanding of Shanghai’s history, visit the Shanghai Propaganda Poster Art Centre, which houses a fascinating collection of propaganda posters from the Mao era.
• In the evening, head to Xintiandi, a stylish pedestrian street with restored shikumen houses, now home to high-end restaurants, bars, and shops.

Day 5: Museums and Cultural Exploration

• Spend the day exploring Shanghai’s top museums. Start with the Shanghai Museum, which boasts a vast collection of Chinese artifacts, including ancient bronzes, ceramics, and calligraphy.
• Next, visit the China Art Museum, housed in the former China Pavilion from the 2010 World Expo. It showcases modern Chinese art and offers insight into the country’s evolving artistic landscape.
• If time permits, visit the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center to learn about the city’s development and future plans.
• End your day with a visit to Jade Buddha Temple, one of Shanghai’s few active Buddhist monasteries, famous for its two jade Buddha statues.

Day 6: Day Trip to Zhujiajiao Water Town

• Take a day trip to Zhujiajiao, an ancient water town located about an hour from Shanghai. Often referred to as the “Venice of Shanghai,” Zhujiajiao features charming canals, ancient bridges, and traditional houses.
• Stroll along the canals, take a boat ride, and visit the Ke Zhi Garden.
• Enjoy some local snacks and explore the shops selling traditional handicrafts.
• Return to Shanghai in the evening and relax at your hotel or explore one of the city’s vibrant nightlife spots.

Day 7: Shopping and Relaxation

• Spend your final day in Shanghai indulging in some shopping and relaxation.
• Visit Xintiandi Style or Plaza 66 for luxury shopping, or head to South Bund Fabric Market to get custom-tailored clothes.
• For a more local experience, visit the AP Plaza Yinyang Market in the basement of the Science and Technology Museum, where you can find everything from electronics to souvenirs at bargain prices.
• In the afternoon, relax with a traditional Chinese massage or visit a tea house to enjoy a tea ceremony.
• In the evening, treat yourself to a final meal at one of Shanghai’s top restaurants, such as M on the Bund or Ultraviolet by Paul Pairet, and reflect on your week of exploration in this dynamic city.

Shanghai offers a perfect blend of the old and the new, tradition and modernity. This itinerary ensures you experience the best the city has to offer, from its historical sites to its modern marvels, making your week in Shanghai an unforgettable adventure.