Shanghai, a city of dazzling modernity, is also a treasure trove of history, where stories of a bygone era are etched into its very foundations. This 2-day itinerary is designed for the traveler eager to peel back the layers of the bustling metropolis and discover the soul of Old Shanghai. We will journey through world-class museums, wander along the iconic Bund, and meander through streets lined with historic architecture. This is not just a trip back in time, but an exploration of how Shanghai’s rich heritage gracefully coexists with its vibrant present. Prepare to walk the paths of history, witness the architectural marvels of the former French Concession, and experience the living history preserved in the city's most charming districts.

Begin your historical exploration in the heart of the city at People's Square, home to some of Shanghai's most significant cultural institutions. The Shanghai Museum and the Shanghai History Museum are essential first stops for anyone looking to understand the city's deep and complex past. Best of all, both are often free to enter, making them accessible to all.

To make the most of your visit, planning is key. As noted by locals, it's crucial to book your visit in advance.

• Booking: Reservations should be made at least 3 days ahead of time through the museums' official WeChat accounts. This ensures you'll have a spot, especially if you plan to visit on a weekday for a more relaxed and immersive experience.

Once inside the Shanghai Museum, you can immerse yourself in vast collections of Chinese art. Recent exhibitions have included spectacular displays such as the "Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing Dynasty Bronze Ware Special Exhibition" and the "To the Highest Degree of Beauty: Masterpieces of Chinese Fan Painting and Calligraphy from the Museum Collection." These exhibits offer a rare glimpse into the delicate artistry and cultural achievements of ancient China. Visiting on a weekday allows for a quieter atmosphere, giving you the space to slowly appreciate the intricate details of each piece.

The nearby Shanghai History Museum offers a more focused narrative on the city's own development, from its origins as a small fishing village to its rise as a global metropolis. Together, these institutions provide a foundational understanding of the cultural and historical currents that have shaped Shanghai into the city it is today.

No historical tour of Shanghai is complete without a stroll along The Bund. This famous waterfront promenade is lined with grand colonial-era buildings that stand as monuments to Shanghai's time as a global financial hub in the early 20th century. For the best views and a more peaceful experience, consider visiting in the early morning or on a weekday evening.

A particularly stunning perspective can be found from the North Bund, especially at sunset. From here, you can watch the sky change colors behind the futuristic skyline of Lujiazui, featuring the iconic 'three-piece suit' of skyscrapers, including the Oriental Pearl Tower. It's a moment where the city's past and future are perfectly framed in a single view.

As evening descends, the area comes alive in different ways. During the winter season, the historic Bund Origin (Wai Tan Yuan) area hosts a German-style Christmas Market. The market is a festive affair filled with charming stalls, a carousel, and the aroma of hot mulled wine and German sausages, drawing a lively international crowd. It’s a wonderful example of how Shanghai’s historic districts continue to be vibrant centers of contemporary culture and celebration. You can plan your visit from Wednesday to Sunday, with extended hours on weekends.

For dinner, the area around The Bund offers a multitude of options. For a unique experience, there's a small but popular car-themed restaurant nearby where you can dine with a direct view of the Oriental Pearl Tower. The ambiance is perfect for a date night, and signature dishes like the fiery roasted pork knuckle, crab paste and tiger prawn squid ink pasta, and Spanish ham brioche come highly recommended. It’s a modern culinary experience set against one of Shanghai’s most historic backdrops.

Day two is dedicated to exploring the leafy, atmospheric streets of the former French Concession. A 'city walk' here feels like stepping into another time. Begin your journey on iconic streets like Wukang Road, Huaihai Middle Road, or Nanjing West Road. These areas are known for their distinctively 'petty bourgeois' or 'xiaozī' atmosphere.

In spring and summer, the streets are shaded by a lush canopy of plane trees, with sunlight dappling the pavement, creating a picturesque scene. This is the perfect environment for a leisurely walk, where you'll discover old villas, hidden gardens, and charming independent shops. Key sights in the area include architectural gems that are often free to visit:

• He Dong Residence (何东旧居): An old villa known for its beautiful architecture and a stunning large tree on its grounds.
• Paulun Garden (保罗花园): Another historic villa with a classic old-world style, which often serves as a venue for brand events.

These streets are not just about quiet admiration; they are alive with modern culture. You'll find people sitting at sidewalk cafes, enjoying a coffee and watching the world go by. It’s a quintessential Shanghai experience that blends historical ambiance with a contemporary, relaxed lifestyle. To commemorate your walk, you can find unique souvenirs like a refrigerator magnet of the famous Wukang Building, a perfect memento of one of Shanghai's most beloved historical landmarks.

For your final afternoon, head to Xintiandi. This district is a masterful example of urban regeneration, where traditional Shikumen (stone gate) houses have been beautifully restored and transformed into a fashionable hub of restaurants, boutiques, and galleries. It's a place where you can literally touch the city's architectural history while enjoying its modern comforts.

A highlight of the area is Xintiandi One, a four-story mixed-structure old villa originally built in 1925. It stands as the most completely preserved historical building from the original neighborhood. While it often functions as a private club, it periodically opens to the public for special events and art exhibitions, such as a recent pop-up by fashion brand Massimo Dutti. A visit here offers a rare look inside a beautifully maintained piece of Shanghai's past. The building itself is a blend of styles, with a European-style facade featuring a classical colonnade and a central hall that reveals a traditional Chinese interior. The reconstructed courtyard, with sunlight streaming in from a glass ceiling, is particularly photogenic.

Xintiandi is also famous for its vibrant atmosphere, especially during festive seasons. In December, the entire district transforms into a winter wonderland, with countless Christmas trees and decorations. A walk through the Shikumen street reveals that nearly every shop and restaurant, from chocolatiers to cafes, participates in creating a magical holiday mood. It’s a perfect end to your journey, showcasing how Shanghai’s historical spaces are not relics, but are instead dynamic, living parts of the city that continue to evolve and create new memories.