China is a unique, but huge country featuring many amazing cities and landscapes. During my trip to China I had 72 hours to explore the city of Shanghai and to be honest that is simply not enough time to explore any big city. But unfortunately time is often one of the biggest struggles travellers have to face. In this guide I share how to spend 72 hours in Shanghai
DAY ONE
THE BUND BY DAY
The first stop on your Shanghai itinerary should be to the Bund waterfront – one of the most famous cityscapes in the world. What is incredible about the Bund is the contrast between Puxi and Pudong. When looking at the west side of Huangpu river it almost feels like you are in the heart of London because of the western looking buildings, whereas the east side reminds you of Manhattan’s skyline. In this area you will find all of Shanghai’s famous skyscrapers such as the Oriental Pearl TV Tower and the Shanghai World Financial Center.
PUDONG
Crossing the Huangpu river and entering into this impressive part of Shanghai made of skyscrapers was an incredible experience. If you have always dreamed of strolling among a forest of skyscrapers, Pudong is a must. I wanted to get a bird’s eye view of this landscape and since I can’t fly (yet) I had to go up to the 99th floor of the Shanghai World Financial Center.
I suggest heading to the 90th floor of the Park Hyatt Hotel to enjoy a drink in the modern, chic bar and take in the view.
DAY TWO
ZHUJIAJIAO
Shanghai is everything, but traditional. If like me, you enjoy getting a glimpse into the past of a city, there are a few places such as Zhujiajiao that will give you a traditional taste of China. Known as Shanghai’s Venice, Zhujiajiao is a water town situated one hour away from Shanghai. I recommend spending the whole day there.
DAY THREE
JADE TEMPLE
A great way to start your final day in Shanghai is to visit Jade Temple. Surrounded by big skyscrapers and modern infrastructures is the old Jade Buddha Temple. The original temple was destroyed during the revolution that overthrew the Qing Dynasty. However, the statues were saved and the temple that we know was built as a replacement in 1928.
TIANZIFANG
With a 1930’s architecture, Tianzifang is a very nice, but crowded shopping and cafe area in Shanghai in the Old French Quarter. This area is the perfect pace to explore and spend your final hours in Shanghai.
HOW TO GET AROUND SHANGHAI
I would normally recommend the Subway however if you are in a rush taxis taxis taxis! Taxis are really cheap and reliable (as long as they have a counter). Most of the journeys inside shanghai cost around 25 yuen (4€). If you have more time than I did, definitely take the subway!
We hope that this article has inspired you to visit Shanghai. If you have any questions about the destination or have your own travel tips to share please leave these in the comments below.
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We Are Travel Girls Contributor Marine Mignot of LostInWanders.Wordpress.Com
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Susie says
This sound so exciting, especially Zhujiajiao. I’d love to visit Shanghai one day and learn more about their cultures and traditions. Thank you for sharing. xx
We Are Travel Girls says
Thanks for reading Susie! If you make it to Shanghai, let us know we would love to follow your adventures x
Susie says
definitely my dear! Thank you and greetings from Rome! xxx
Cyndi says
I ❤️ reading all about your adventures and look forward to the experiences as I venture out! Shanghai is definitely on my bucket list – my Grandma was stationed there just before communism took over! Thanks for sharing your experiences! You’ve peaked an interest for me to start blogging about my travels!!??
We Are Travel Girls says
Thanks for reading Cyndi! Hope you make it to Shanghai x
Christobel says
Beautiful pictures and well written Marine. Very nice
We Are Travel Girls says
Thanks for reading Christobel!
Dagmar says
Great post! I recommend the City God Temple and nearby shopping in the Chenghuang Miao area. There are lots of great places to eat, get a glimpse of old Shanghai and buy souvenirs.
We Are Travel Girls says
Thanks for reading and sharing your own tips Dagmar! Pleased to hear you enjoyed this post! XO, Becky
Jennifer Ashworth says
Wow! great read and useful tips. I will be visiting Shanghai in May, with my best friend we are there for 3 nights. Looking forward to our adventure, we have 2 nights in Tokyo, then sail from Yokohama on a 3 night cruise to Shanghai, then fly back to Manchester UK, from Pudong Airport.. getting excited. Any useful tips ? all appreciated..