✨An All-Day Adventure in Downtown Shanghai✨
#china #couplestrip #travel #thingstodo #myitinerary #localfood #citydaytours #shanghai
I explored Shanghai’s downtown in a day, visiting Shanghai Old Street, People’s Square, Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, The Bund, Oriental Pearl Tower, Lujiazui, and the Bund Sightseeing Tunnel—a brilliant mix of Shanghai’s historic charm and modern energy in one day! 😊
Must-Visit Attractions 🏙️
Shanghai Old Street 🏮
Highlights: Narrow alleys with traditional shops selling tea, silk, crafts, and souvenirs. The Ming and Qing-style architecture gives a nostalgic taste of old Shanghai. Visitors can grab fresh xiaolongbao from street stalls—super tasty! 🥟
People’s Square 🏞️
Highlights: Huge urban plaza with gardens and cultural sites. The Shanghai Museum (free entry) displays ancient Chinese artifacts like bronzes and ceramics, offering a dive into the city’s rich past. Lively vibe! 🌳
Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street 🛍️
Highlights: A 5.5km shopping street buzzing with global brands, department stores, and local vendors. The bright lights and lively crowds make it a vibrant spot to feel Shanghai’s urban pulse. ⚡️
The Bund 🌅
Highlights: Iconic waterfront with colonial-era buildings facing Pudong’s modern skyline across the Huangpu River. The contrast of old and new Shanghai is a stunning must-see for all. 🌃
Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower 🗼
Highlights: This 468m Pudong landmark, with its pink spheres, is a Shanghai icon. Visitors can enjoy the 263m observation deck for 360° city views or the 259m transparent glass skywalk for a thrilling look down. The 351m Space Capsule (extra 80 CNY) offers higher views, though similar to lower decks. Tickets cost 180-250 CNY, covering two or three spheres and the Shanghai History Museum at the base, featuring 80+ exhibits of artifacts, wax figures, and models of old Shanghai. Other activities include a VR roller coaster at 90m and the “Ascending Shanghai” multimedia show. The revolving restaurant at 267m (buffet: 368-418 CNY) serves global dishes with rotating views. Pre-booking tickets online helps avoid long queues, especially during peak seasons.
Lujiazui 🏙️
Highlights: Futuristic financial district in Pudong with towering skyscrapers like the Shanghai World Financial Center.🏦
Bund Sightseeing Tunnel 🚇
Highlights: A quirky underground ride under the Huangpu River, connecting the Bund to Pudong. The colorful, psychedelic light show is a fun, touristy experience! 🎆
Must-Try Food 🍜
🔸Yuyuan Bazaar (near Shanghai Old Street) 🥟
🔸 Must-Try: Xiaolongbao at Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant. Juicy, flavorful soup dumplings—a must!
🔸 Jia Jia Tang Bao (near People’s Square) 🥮
Must-Try: Crab roe tangbao. Rich, savory steamed buns—delicious!
🔸 Yang’s Fried Dumplings (Nanjing Road) 🥟
Must-Try: Shengjianbao (pan-fried pork buns). Crispy and juicy—perfect street food!
Interesting Tips for This Itinerary 🧳
❇️Hidden Photo Spot: At Shanghai Old Street, head to the small courtyard near Yuyuan Garden’s entrance for Instagram-worthy shots of traditional rooftops against modern skyscrapers. 📸
❇️Bund Sunset Trick: Stand near the Peace Hotel on The Bund for a clear view of Pudong’s skyline at golden hour—perfect for dramatic photos without the crowds. 🌅