48 Hours in Shanghai: A Whirlwind Itinerary Through China's Most Dynamic City

‍DAY 1: ICONIC SHANGHAI

Morning

Before you head out, grab breakfast from wherever you're staying.

A warm bowl of soy milk and fried dough, some dumplings, or even a quick noodle soup from a local stall will set you up for the day ahead.

Start your day early with a walk along The Bund, the iconic riverfront promenade that gives you that postcard-perfect skyline view of the Lujiazui financial district.

It’s best in the morning when it’s less crowded, and you’ll get a beautiful, hazy sunrise glow over the skyscrapers.

Next, walk south along the riverbank toward Yu Garden, an oasis of calm in the middle of the city.

Entry is just 30 yuan (about £3), and inside, you’ll find a traditional Chinese garden that feels like stepping into a scroll painting.

Wander through rockeries, koi ponds, pavilions and teahouses at your own pace.

Afternoon

Just outside the garden is Yu Garden Old Street, a buzzing maze of souvenir stalls, snack shops and - you guessed it - dumplings.

Though the oversized soup dumplings here look tempting, I’d suggest saving your appetite and checking out my Shanghai dumpling guide for the real must-eats.

For a major change of pace, jump on the metro to Lujiazui, home of the famous Oriental Pearl Tower.

While you can go up the tower (tickets are about 160 yuan or ~£17, and you’ll need to bring your passport or ID to get one), I actually recommend watching the sunset from the park right next door.

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Or better yet, hopping on a river cruise for panoramic views of the city as it lights up.

Evening

For dinner, Shanghai is never short of food options.

But one thing the locals are obsessed with is crab roe. It’s rich, savoury, and considered a delicacy here - served over noodles or tucked into soup dumplings.

At night, The Bund turns into a sea of people.

For a calmer experience with the same epic views, head to the rooftop bar Condé at the Royal Regent Hotel, just slightly north of the main strip.

Sip a cocktail and enjoy the city skyline in peace.

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DAY 2: SLOW LIVING IN THE FRENCH CONCESSION

Morning

Start your second morning in the French Concession, particularly around Huaihai Road and Anfu Road.

This area is full of leafy boulevards, hidden alleys, colonial architecture, and boutique cafés.

It’s perfect for a slow wander, a spot of breakfast and coffee, some window shopping, and a cheeky ice cream from a tiny local kiosk.

No need for a rigid plan - just explore and follow your senses.

Afternoon

If you keep strolling north on Anfu Road, you’ll end up near the golden-roofed Jing’an Temple.

You can buy a ticket to enter, but honestly, I usually come for the vibe and the surrounding restaurants and malls.

This area has plenty of non-Chinese options too, and in particular, if you’re craving a taste of the West, then check out Xintiandi.

Xintiandi is a trendy area filled with cocktail bars, pasta spots, and international shops. It’s a polished pocket of Shanghai that shows just how global this city really is.

Nearby, don’t miss Zhang Yuan, a recently revitalised heritage complex mixing old Shikumen houses with modern boutiques and dining. This is where I discovered Lai Lai Xiaolong, one of my favourite spots from the dumpling guide.

Evening

If you’ve still got some energy to spare, head toward West Nanjing Road or Wujiang Road, two popular nightlife strips packed with great bars and a buzzy evening atmosphere.

These areas are full of locals and visitors soaking up the night. Whether you're after a sophisticated rooftop drink or some rowdy karaoke, the city’s got you covered.

Taxis are cheap in Shanghai, so if your stamina holds up, there's really no excuse not to keep the night going.

The city never sleeps, and frankly, neither should you.

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Wrap-Up

And just like that, your 48 hours in Shanghai are up.

From skyscraper sunsets to sleepy alleys and steaming dumplings, this city is the kind of place that lingers in your memory long after you leave.

Let me know what you'd love to see next - or better yet, when you're booking your flight.

Travel Tips Recap:

• Use the Shanghai Metro: It's clean, efficient, and super affordable.
• Start early for crowd-free views.
• Save your dumpling cravings for the good spots.
• Don’t be afraid to get a little lost in the French Concession.
• Always, always stay for sunset.

Until next time, Shanghai ❤️

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