Shanghai Like a Local: The Ultimate 7-Day Food, History & Skyline Itinerary

Introduction: Why Shanghai is Asia’s Most Fascinating City

Shanghai is a city of contrasts—colonial-era mansions stand beside neon skyscrapers, and sleepy alleyways hide speakeasy bars serving craft cocktails. Unlike Beijing’s imperial grandeur, Shanghai thrives on glamour, innovation, and a rebellious spirit. This 7-day itinerary goes beyond the Bund to uncover hidden food stalls, Art Deco gems, and the city’s best-kept secrets.

Day 1: The Bund & Colonial History

• Morning: Walk the Bund at sunrise (best photo spot: the Rockbund Art Museum rooftop).
• Breakfast: Yang’s Fry Dumplings (crispy shengjianbao with pork broth).
• Afternoon: Explore the Shanghai Jewish Refugees Museum (untold WWII history).
• Evening: Sunset cocktails at Bar Rouge (Bund views with a dress code).

Day 2: French Concession Deep Dive

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• Brunch: Lost Bakery (almond croissants in a tulou-inspired courtyard).
• Walking Tour:
  • Tianzifang (artsy alleyways vs. touristy Xintiandi).
  • Ferguson Lane (hidden bookshops and vine-covered cafés).
• Dinner: Fu 1039 (Michelin-starred Shanghainese in a 1930s villa).
• Nightcap: JZ Club (live jazz since 2004).

Day 3: Pudong’s Futuristic Skyline

• Morning: Shanghai Tower (fastest elevator in the world + 118th-floor coffee).
• Lunch: Din Tai Fung (yes, it’s a chain—but their xiaolongbao is perfect).
• Afternoon: Shanghai Science & Technology Museum (great for kids).
• Evening: Captain Bar (cheap beers with skyline views).

Day 4: Day Trip – Zhujiajiao or Suzhou?

• Option 1: Zhujiajiao
  • Gondola ride under stone bridges.
  • Try sticky rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves.
• Option 2: Suzhou
  • Humble Administrator’s Garden (UNESCO site).
  • Silk factory tour.

Day 5: Shanghai’s Underground Culture

• Morning: M50 Art District (graffiti and avant-garde galleries).
• Lunch: Halal food street near the Jing’an Temple.
• Evening: Yuyintang (indie live music venue).

Day 6: Luxury & Local Markets

• Brunch: Mr & Mrs Bund (French toast with foie gras).
• Shopping: AP Plaza Fake Market (bargaining hacks for “Rolexes”).
• Dinner: Ultraviolet (20-course sensory dining—book 3 months ahead!).

Day 7: Departure – Last-Minute Tips

• Breakfast: Ajian Jianbing (street crepes with chili sauce).
• Souvenirs: Tianzifang handmade ceramics.

Where to Stay in Shanghai

• Luxury: The Peninsula (Bund views + Rolls-Royce transfers).
• Mid-Range: Waterhouse at South Bund (industrial-chic loft rooms).
• Budget: Mingtown Etour Youth Hostel (social vibe in the French Concession).

Final Tips & Booking Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit: April–May (cherry blossoms) or September–October.
• Transport Hacks: Use Didi (China’s Uber) or the super-efficient metro.