Welcome to Shanghai, a city of dazzling contrasts where futuristic skylines meet historic laneways and culinary adventures await at every turn. For the first-time visitor, navigating this sprawling metropolis can feel overwhelming, but fear not. This curated 72-hour itinerary is designed to give you the perfect taste of Shanghai's multifaceted charm, from its iconic waterfront to its vibrant cultural scene. We'll guide you through must-see landmarks, hidden gems, and unforgettable culinary experiences, all based on tips from those who know the city best. Prepare to immerse yourself in a city that is constantly evolving yet deeply rooted in its rich history. Whether you're here for the culture, the food, or the sheer energy of it all, Shanghai is ready to captivate you. Let's begin your unforgettable three-day journey!

Your first day in Shanghai is all about soaking in the classic sights and diving into the city's profound history. We'll start with a stroll along its world-famous waterfront before exploring its cultural heart.

Morning: A Classic City Walk on The Bund

Begin your adventure with a quintessential Shanghai experience: a 'City Walk'. Head to the North Bund濱江 (Bīnjiāng) at sunrise or in the early morning to avoid the crowds. From here, you'll be treated to a spectacular, unobstructed view of the 'Lujiazui three-piece suite'—the iconic trio of skyscrapers that define the modern skyline. As you walk south along the Bund, you'll be flanked by a stunning collection of grand, European-style historical buildings. This architectural gallery tells the story of Shanghai's colonial past and provides a dramatic contrast to the futuristic cityscape across the Huangpu River.

Lunch: Authentic Local Flavors near Nanjing Road

After your walk, you're just a stone's throw from Nanjing Road, a bustling commercial street perfect for a midday meal. For an authentic taste of Shanghai, seek out these local favorites:

• 鲜得来 (Xiān Dé Lái): Try their famous 排骨年糕 (pái gǔ nián gāo), a dish of crispy fried pork chops served with soft, chewy rice cakes in a sweet and savory sauce. It’s a classic comfort food.
• 大壶春 (Dà Hú Chūn): Sample some of Shanghai's best 生煎 (shēng jiān), pan-fried pork buns with a crispy bottom, juicy filling, and fluffy top. Pair them with a bowl of curry beef soup for the full experience.
• 莱莱小笼 (Lái Lái Xiǎo Lóng): You can't leave Shanghai without trying soup dumplings. This spot is known for its delicate, thin-skinned xiaolongbao filled with flavorful broth and tender pork.

Afternoon: A Journey Through Time at Shanghai's Museums

Spend your afternoon immersing yourself in art and history. Shanghai is home to several world-class museums that are completely free to enter, though you must book your visit in advance.

• Shanghai Museum: A treasure trove of ancient Chinese art, featuring bronzes, ceramics, calligraphy, and paintings. It's recommended to book your free ticket at least three days in advance via their official channels, and visiting on a weekday offers a more serene experience, allowing you to appreciate the intricate details of the exhibits.
• Shanghai Natural History Museum: Another excellent free option, perfect for families and science enthusiasts. Like the Shanghai Museum, advance reservation is key to securing your spot.

Evening: Dinner with a Dazzling View

As night falls, return to the Bund for a memorable dinner with a view. Several restaurants offer stunning vistas of the glittering Oriental Pearl Tower and the Pudong skyline. One recommended spot is a unique car-themed restaurant where the ambiance is as captivating as the scenery. Indulge in their signature dishes like the spectacular flame-grilled pork knuckle, which arrives with a crispy skin and tender meat, or the decadent Spanish ham brioche with a soft-boiled egg. It's the perfect way to cap off a day of exploration, watching the city lights dance across the river.

On your second day, venture beyond the main tourist hubs to discover Shanghai's artistic soul, trendy neighborhoods, and dynamic local culture. It’s a day for leisurely strolls, creative inspiration, and spontaneous discoveries.

Morning: Charming Streets and Riverside Views

Start your day with a City Walk through some of Shanghai's most atmospheric streets. Explore areas like Wukang Road and Huaihai Middle Road, known for their 'petty-bourgeois' charm. In spring and summer, the dense canopy of plane trees creates a beautiful dappled light effect, perfect for a scenic stroll. These streets are lined with independent coffee shops and unique boutiques, making it an ideal place to sit, sip a coffee, and people-watch.

Afterward, head to the Xuhui Binjiang (West Bund). This revitalized waterfront area is a haven of green lawns and open spaces. It's a wonderfully healing environment, especially on a quiet morning or a Wednesday evening when you can enjoy the river breeze and might even encounter street artists sharing their craft.

Afternoon: A World of Exhibitions

Shanghai is a city that celebrates art and culture, with a constantly rotating calendar of fascinating exhibitions, many of which are free to the public. Spend your afternoon exploring one of the major venues:

• China Art Palace (中华艺术宫): Housed in the former China Pavilion from the 2010 World Expo, this museum focuses on modern Chinese art and often hosts large-scale exhibitions, which are typically free to visit.
• Shanghai World Expo Exhibition & Convention Center: This massive venue frequently holds diverse expos, from digital technology and anime conventions to tea culture fairs. Many of these are free and open to the public; just be sure to check their official website to see what's on and register in advance.

Keep an eye out for exhibitions at other major venues like the Shanghai Exhibition Center and Pudong Art Museum. The city's art scene is incredibly vibrant, with everything from ancient Roman artifacts to contemporary art showcases available to explore.

Evening: Markets, Music, and Mingling

Experience the electric energy of Shanghai at night by diving into its ever-changing landscape of events. The city is famous for its lively markets and pop-up events, which are especially magical during the holiday seasons. For example, the Waitanyuan (The Bund Origin) area often hosts a German-style Christmas Market, complete with festive stalls, hot mulled wine, German sausages, and a magical atmosphere created by the historic church and twinkling lights. Food festivals, like the popular Burger Festival held at venues like Shanghai MIXC, bring together top vendors for a culinary celebration.

For a nightcap, explore the diverse bar scene. The area around Huaihai Road is known for its chic, albeit pricey, cocktail bars. For a more laid-back and affordable option, University Road (大学路) near Fudan University offers a long street packed with bars perfect for a relaxed evening drink.

For your final day in Shanghai, choose your own adventure. Whether you're seeking the adrenaline rush of a world-class theme park or the peaceful embrace of nature, the city has an option for you. End your trip with a culinary tour of Shanghai's most beloved dishes.

Full Day Option A: Magical Thrills at Shanghai Disneyland

For a day of pure fun and fantasy, immerse yourself in the magic of Shanghai Disneyland. This is a full-day commitment, as the park is vast and located a bit outside the city center. Plan for an early start to make the most of your time. Must-experience attractions include:

• Zootopia: Hot Pursuit: Step into the world of Zootopia in this new, highly immersive ride where you join Officers Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde on a chase through the city's different districts.
• TRON Lightcycle Power Run: A thrilling, high-speed coaster that launches you into the digital world of TRON.
• Pirates of the Caribbean: Battle for the Sunken Treasure: A breathtaking boat ride with stunning visuals and animatronics that will leave you in awe.

Be sure to check the park's schedule for seasonal events. Throughout the year, Disneyland hosts special celebrations like the 'Crazy Howling Festival' for Halloween, where you can meet Disney villains and see characters like Judy and Nick in festive costumes, and a beautiful Christmas season with festive decorations and shows.

Full Day Option B: A Tranquil Retreat into Nature

If you prefer a more relaxed pace, escape the urban hustle and explore Shanghai's beautiful green spaces or historic water towns.

• Gongqing Forest Park (共青森林公园): Located in Yangpu district, this park is described as 'absolutely beautiful' and offers a vast expanse of woods, lakes, and recreational areas. It's a favorite spot for locals to have picnics, especially in the spring.
• Chenshan Botanical Garden (辰山植物园): For a truly immersive nature experience, visit this botanical garden. Its massive greenhouses feel like stepping into a tropical rainforest and are perfect for photos, especially on less-crowded weekdays.
• Zhujiajiao Ancient Town (朱家角古镇): For a glimpse into old Shanghai, take a short trip to this charming water town. Stroll along its ancient canals, cross stone bridges, and experience a more leisurely pace of life. It’s an ideal destination for a weekend day trip.

Farewell Dinner: A Feast of Shanghai Delicacies

For your last meal, dive deep into the local cuisine. Head to a bustling area like Dingxi Road, known for its authentic eateries. Don't leave without trying:

• Steam Pot Seafood: Experience the original fresh flavors of the sea at a restaurant where a variety of live seafood is steamed right at your table. Favorites include razor clams, flower squid, and fresh beef with sand onions.
• Hǎicháng Lāofàn (海肠捞饭): A savory and satisfying dish of sea worm stir-fried in a thick sauce and served over rice. The crispy rice pot version (wok ba) is particularly delicious.
• Crab Roe Noodles (蟹黄面): An indulgent dish featuring a generous amount of rich, golden crab roe and meat served over noodles. It’s a true Shanghai delicacy.