Shanghai itinerary — 3 days

Shanghai Disneyland Park is a captivating destination that brings the magic of Disney to life in mainland China. Opened in 2016, this enchanting resort features iconic attractions and themed areas like Fantasyland, Adventure Isle, and Tomorrowland. As you step into the park, you're greeted by stunning photo opportunities against whimsical buildings and beloved Disney characters.

People's Square is a bustling transport hub that attracts visitors to Nanjing West Road, a popular shopping street with malls offering local fashion and electronics, as well as food stalls selling kebabs and scallion pancakes. The area is home to landmarks like the Shanghai Museum, known for its calligraphy scrolls and bronze vessels, and the Shanghai Grand Theatre. People's Park nearby offers a peaceful retreat and is also home to the Museum of Contemporary Art.

The Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center is a modern six-story marvel that immerses visitors in the city's architectural evolution and urban development. Upon entering, you're greeted by an impressive golden monument showcasing Shanghai's iconic skyscrapers, setting the tone for what lies ahead. This interactive museum spans five floors, featuring engaging exhibits that highlight the city’s transformation through detailed scale models, historical photographs, multimedia displays, and fun interactive games.

Nestled in the heart of Shanghai's Former French Concession, Fuxing Park is a delightful 25-acre oasis that beautifully marries Western and Eastern design elements. Established in 1909 during the French colonial era, this park features serene fountains, picturesque ponds, and vibrant rose gardens that invite visitors to unwind. Each day, you'll find an array of activities taking place—from tai chi sessions and lively ballroom dancing to chess games and kite flying.

Shanghai Old Street, also known as Chenghuangmiao Old Street, is a bustling hub in the Huangpu District featuring ancient pagoda-style architecture and a variety of shops and attractions. It is easily accessible by metro or bus, making it a must-visit destination for experiencing the kingdom of snacks in Shanghai. Located near Yuyuan Garden, this area offers a glimpse into the city's past with its mix of authentic old buildings and reconstructed ones.

Pudong is a vast area in Shanghai, known for its family-friendly attractions like Century Park and the Shanghai Disney Resort. The district also boasts small, local eateries serving Shanghainese cuisine and a lively nightlife scene in the glitzy Lujiazui district. Visitors can explore the futuristic pavilions of the Shanghai World Expo Center and utilize Pudong International Airport as a major transportation hub.

Qibao is a charming water town located in Shanghai's Minhang District, featuring picturesque canals, traditional architecture, and historic landmarks. The town center is adorned with two scenic waterways flanked by houses and gardens. Visitors can explore the elaborate Qibao Temple and enjoy shadow puppet performances at the Shadow Play Hall. The Old Street area offers a glimpse into traditional Chinese culture with its calligraphy and craft stores, as well as authentic dining options.

Huangpu River, located in Shanghai, is surrounded by various architectural marvels designed by renowned architects such as Benjamin Wood, Kengo Kuma, and Yichun Liu. The area features pedestrianized zones with bars and boutiques like Xintiandi, a mixed-use complex at Shipyard 1862 Renovation in the financial district of Pudong, and an art museum called Long Museum West Bund. Additionally, tour buses offer guided rides along the river passing classic city landmarks.

The China Art Museum, also known as the China Art Palace, is a prominent attraction in Shanghai. Housed in the striking China Pavilion from Expo 2010, it's the largest art gallery in Asia and showcases an extensive collection of modern Chinese art. Visitors can explore fascinating exhibits featuring works by renowned Chinese artists and delve into Shanghai's cultural history through various displays. The museum offers free admission and presents engaging activities such as shadow puppet shows and insights into Shanghai dialect.

Lujiazui Central Green Space, situated in the heart of Pudong New District, offers a serene escape amidst the bustling skyscrapers. Spanning 100,000 square meters, it is the largest green space in downtown Shanghai. The park features a lake shaped like Pudong and a path resembling a magnolia flower, the city's official bloom. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls while admiring art exhibitions such as colorful horse displays that encircle the tranquil lake.

Shanghai Circus World is a large circus that showcases multimedia shows featuring traditional Chinese acrobatics. The venue, designed in the shape of a golden vault, can accommodate up to 1,638 spectators and is equipped with advanced stage facilities, lighting, and sound equipment. It hosts various domestic and international circus performances as well as singing and dancing shows. Notably, it is also the home of the Shanghai International Magic Festival and Competition.

Shanghai Ocean Aquarium is a modern marine life facility that boasts an impressive collection of over 10,000 sea creatures from both local and exotic habitats. With its long glass-enclosed underwater walkways, visitors can embark on a journey through various zones showcasing diverse marine life, including the Yangtze Alligator, Chinese Giant Salamander, great white sharks, giant stingrays, and emperor penguins.

Shanghai's Jin Mao Tower is an 88-story skyscraper that boasts a striking design and houses various amenities such as restaurants, offices, and the Grand Hyatt hotel. This architectural marvel stands at 420.5 meters tall and is known for its impressive Skywalk, an enclosed observation deck located on the 88th floor that can accommodate over 1,000 visitors at once.