Shanghai 8-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrive & Check-in

Arrive at Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) or Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA), transfer to your hotel, and check in.

Take some time to freshen up.

Ensure you have your visa ready for entry into China. Exchange some local currency upon arrival.

Evening Stroll on The Bund

Take a leisurely walk along The Bund, Shanghai's iconic waterfront promenade, to admire the stunning colonial architecture on one side and the futuristic Pudong skyline on the other.

This is especially magical as the lights come on.

Best experienced at dusk and night for the illuminated skyline views. Wear comfortable shoes.

Dinner with a View

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant near The Bund, offering views of the illuminated skyscrapers across the Huangpu River.

Shanghai Breakfast Walking Tour

Spend your morning by all your senses in the south part of Shanghai's former French Concession where you will try out over 15 local breakfast, such as pan-fried dumplings (sheng jian bao), soup dumplings.

A fantastic way to start the day and experience authentic local flavors. Come hungry!

Explore French Concession

Continue exploring the charming tree-lined streets of the Former French Concession, admiring its unique architecture, boutiques, and cafes.

Perfect for a post-breakfast stroll and some relaxed sightseeing. Look for hidden lanes and local shops.

Lunch in French Concession

Enjoy a casual lunch at a local eatery in the French Concession, trying more Shanghainese specialties.

Shanghai Museum

Visit the Shanghai Museum, one of China's first world-class modern museums, known for its extensive collection of ancient Chinese art, including bronzes, ceramics, calligraphy, and paintings.

Entry is free, but you may need to book in advance. Audio guides are available for a fee.

Shanghai Food and Culture Tour

Discover the most authentic and delicious Chinese cuisine and dessert spots, sharing the fascinating stories behind the food.

Along the way, we’ll pass iconic landmarks.

This public food tour is a great way to try many local dishes and learn about the city's food culture.

Zhujiajiao Water Town Tour

Enjoy a relaxing and exclusive private half day tour to the remarkable ancient water town Zhujiajiao, located in Qingpu District of Shanghai.

This private tour takes you to experience the charming 'Oriental Venice' with a boat ride option.

Travel time to Zhujiajiao is approximately 1 hour each way. The boat ride offers a unique perspective of the town.

Lunch in Zhujiajiao

Have lunch at a local restaurant in Zhujiajiao, enjoying the traditional atmosphere and local dishes.

Return & Relax

Travel back to Shanghai and take some time to relax at your hotel or enjoy a leisurely coffee at a cafe.

Explore Xintiandi

Visit Xintiandi, a fashionable pedestrian area composed of Shikumen (stone-gate houses) housing and modern shopping, dining, and entertainment complexes.

It's a blend of old and new Shanghai.

Dinner in Xintiandi

Enjoy dinner at one of the many trendy restaurants in the Xintiandi area.

Old City Exploration Walk

Follow a tour leader for a 3-hour walk to discover the secrets of Shanghai's Old City before parts of it disappear.

Experience what is still there.

A unique opportunity to see traditional Shanghai and learn about its history and rapid changes.

Lunch near Yuyuan Bazaar

Have lunch at one of the many eateries around the Yuyuan Bazaar, offering various local snacks and dishes.

Yuyuan Garden & Bazaar

Visit the exquisite Yuyuan Garden, a classical Chinese garden, and explore the bustling Yuyuan Bazaar surrounding it, perfect for souvenir shopping and street food.

The garden can get crowded; go early if possible. The bazaar is great for unique gifts.

Chinese Calligraphy Class

Learn the art of Chinese calligraphy from a professional calligrapher during this small-group workshop. Understand the spirit behind this ancient art form.

A hands-on cultural experience. All materials are provided.

Dim Sum Dinner

Enjoy a dinner of various delicious dim sum, a popular Chinese culinary tradition.

Many restaurants specialize in dim sum. Try a variety of steamed and fried options.

Urban Planning Exhibition Center

Explore the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center, showcasing the city's past, present, and future development with a huge scale model of Shanghai.

Offers fascinating insights into Shanghai's rapid transformation. A good way to understand the city's layout.

Shanghai Tower Observation Deck

Ascend to the observation deck of the Shanghai Tower, one of the world's tallest buildings, for breathtaking panoramic views of the city.

Book tickets in advance, especially during peak season. Check the weather for clear visibility.

Lunch in Pudong

Enjoy lunch at a restaurant in the Pudong financial district, with many modern options available.

Huangpu River Cruise

Embark on a relaxing Huangpu River cruise to see both sides of Shanghai – the historical Bund and the modern Pudong skyline – from a different perspective.

Cruises run frequently. Consider an evening cruise for illuminated views, though a daytime one offers clearer architectural details.

Farewell Dinner in Shanghai

Enjoy a farewell dinner, savoring your last evening in Shanghai.

Perhaps try a restaurant specializing in regional Chinese cuisine you haven't yet experienced.

High-Speed Train to Beijing

Board a comfortable high-speed train from Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station to Beijing South Railway Station.

Enjoy the scenic journey through China's countryside.

Hotel Check-in & Refresh

Arrive at your accommodation in Beijing, check-in, and take some time to refresh before heading out.

Tiananmen Square Visit

Explore the historic Tiananmen Square, one of the world's largest public squares, home to the Tiananmen Gate, Monument to the People's Heroes, and Great Hall of the People.

Security checks are common; have your passport ready.

Forbidden City Exploration

Step into the majestic Forbidden City, the former imperial palace for 24 emperors, and explore its vast courtyards, halls, and intricate architecture. Note: Entrance typically closes earlier, but some areas might be visible from outside or special evening tours might be available.

Book tickets online in advance. Last entry is usually 1 hour before closing. Ensure you arrive early enough to enter, as it typically closes at 17:00/17:30.

Dinner & Wangfujing Street

Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants in the bustling Wangfujing area, then take a stroll to experience its vibrant atmosphere and street food stalls.

Try local snacks and explore the shopping options.

Great Wall Excursion (Mutianyu)

Embark on a day trip to the magnificent Mutianyu section of the Great Wall.

This well-preserved section offers stunning views and options for cable car or chairlift ascent/descent.

Consider booking a guided tour for convenience, e.g., via 'Catherine Lu Tours' or 'China Highlights - Beijing' (price varies, see TripAdvisor). Wear comfortable shoes. Bring water and snacks.

Summer Palace Visit

Explore the sprawling Summer Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a masterpiece of Chinese landscape garden design.

Enjoy its lakes, gardens, and temples.

Walk along the Long Corridor, visit the Marble Boat, and enjoy a peaceful boat ride if weather permits.

Peking Duck Dinner

Indulge in an authentic Peking Duck dinner, a culinary highlight of Beijing, at a renowned local restaurant.

Make reservations in advance, especially for popular establishments.

Optional: Peking Opera Show

Experience a traditional Peking Opera performance, showcasing a unique blend of music, vocal performance, mime, dance, and acrobatics.

Booking in advance is highly recommended.

Temple of Heaven Park

Visit the majestic Temple of Heaven, where emperors once performed sacrificial rites to pray for good harvests.

Observe locals practicing tai chi, calligraphy, and other activities in the surrounding park.

Arrive early to witness locals' morning routines. Explore the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests.

Hutong Exploration & Lunch

Wander through Beijing's historic Hutongs (narrow alleyways) to get a glimpse of traditional local life.

Enjoy lunch at a small, authentic local eatery.

Consider a rickshaw tour for a unique perspective. Many small shops and cafes to explore.

Last-Minute Souvenir Shopping

Grab any last-minute souvenirs or gifts at local markets or shops before heading to the airport.

Travel to Beijing Capital Airport

Depart from your hotel and travel to Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) for your onward flight.

Ensure you allow ample time for traffic and airport procedures.