Begin your Shanghai adventure at its most iconic landmark: The Bund. For the best experience with fewer crowds, take a stroll along this waterfront promenade in the early morning or on a weekday evening. As dusk settles, the real magic happens. Find a spot along the North Bund滨江 for a breathtaking sunset view of the Lujiazui skyline, famously known as the "three-piece suit." The glittering skyscrapers across the Huangpu River create a spectacle of modern architectural prowess.

For dinner, elevate your evening at a restaurant with a view. There are several options right on the Bund, including a unique car-themed restaurant where you can savor delicious dishes like a signature flame-roasted pork knuckle, Spanish ham with brioche, or a rich cuttlefish ink pasta with crab roe and tiger prawns. Dining with the Oriental Pearl Tower glittering outside your window is an unforgettable way to kick off your week in Shanghai.

Immerse yourself in culture with a day dedicated to Shanghai's world-class museums. The best part? Many of them are free to enter. Start your journey at the Shanghai Museum, home to an incredible collection of ancient Chinese art. Other fantastic options include the Shanghai Natural History Museum, the China Art Museum (housed in the former China Pavilion of the 2010 World Expo), and the Shanghai History Museum.

Pro-Tip: To ensure entry and have the best experience, it's crucial to book your tickets through the museums' official WeChat accounts at least three days in advance. Visiting on a weekday is highly recommended to avoid large crowds, allowing you to appreciate the exhibits, like special calligraphy and painting displays, in peace.

In the evening, continue your intellectual exploration by joining a local themed reading club. Shanghai has a vibrant scene with groups discussing everything from literature and film to philosophy. It's a fantastic way to connect with locals and fellow travelers over shared interests. You can find listings for these events on platforms like WeChat or Xiaohongshu.

Discover the soul of Shanghai through a City Walk. Dedicate today to exploring the city's most picturesque and atmospheric streets.

• Wukang Road (武康路): Famous for its historic architecture and the iconic Wukang Building, this street is a photographer's dream.
• Nanjing West Road (南京西路) & Huaihai Middle Road (淮海中路): These bustling avenues are known for their chic, 'petty-bourgeois' vibe, lined with independent coffee shops, designer boutiques, and trendy cafes. During spring and summer, the lush plane trees create a beautiful canopy, with sunlight dappling the sidewalks.
• Xuhui Binjiang (徐汇滨江): For a more tranquil experience, head to the Xuhui Riverside. The combination of gentle river breezes and expansive lawns is incredibly refreshing. It's a popular spot where you might even encounter street artists performing.

These walks offer a glimpse into the daily life and aesthetic of Shanghai, where historic European-style buildings stand alongside modern design. It's the perfect way to spend a day simply wandering, observing, and soaking in the city's unique charm.

After days of urban exploration, take a breather in one of Shanghai's beautiful green spaces. Gongqing Forest Park in Yangpu is described as exceptionally beautiful, while Chenshan Botanical Garden offers a stunning greenhouse that feels like a tropical rainforest, especially on a quiet weekday. Shanghai locals love to picnic, and in the spring, you'll see parks dotted with small tents. It's a wonderful way to experience the city's leisurely side.

Alternatively, take a short trip to a nearby ancient water town. Zhujiajiao is a popular choice, offering a glimpse into a more traditional, waterside way of life. The convenient transport links from Shanghai make it an ideal day trip for those looking to experience the region's historical charm. You can also consider other towns like Wuzhen or Zhouzhuang for a weekend getaway.

No trip to Shanghai is complete without a visit to the place where dreams come true. Shanghai Disneyland offers a full day of enchantment for all ages. Be sure to download the official Shanghai Disney Resort app to check wait times, show schedules, and navigate the park.

Depending on the time of your visit, you might encounter spectacular seasonal events. The park transforms completely for holidays like Halloween and Christmas. During the Halloween season, you can meet Disney Villains, see the Donald Duck's Halloween Villain Cavalcade, and enjoy the Villain's Night Out Party. The Christmas season brings festive decorations, special character costumes, and a magical winter atmosphere. The park is also home to the world's first Zootopia-themed land, where you can join Judy and Nick at the Zootopia Police Department.

Don't miss the classic attractions like the thrilling TRON Lightcycle Power Run and the immersive Pirates of the Caribbean: Battle for the Sunken Treasure. End your day with the breathtaking 'ILLUMINATE! A Nighttime Celebration' fireworks show over the Enchanted Storybook Castle. It’s a perfect finale to a magical day.

Today is all about indulging your taste buds. Shanghai is a food lover's paradise, offering everything from street food staples to high-end dining. Start your day with local breakfast classics. You can find many small, beloved eateries serving these dishes.

For lunch, explore the city's diverse offerings:

• Steam Seafood: Visit a restaurant on Dingxi Road where fresh seafood is steamed right at your table, preserving its natural, delicate flavors. A must-try is the platter of oysters, sea urchin, and sweet shrimp.
• Yunnan Mushroom Hotpot: Experience the earthy, fragrant flavors of Yunnan with a hotpot featuring a variety of fresh, wild mushrooms.
• Local Eateries: Don't miss out on classics like 排骨年糕 (pork chop with rice cakes), found at famous spots like 'Xian De Lai', or a comforting bowl of noodles from a decades-old institution like 'Ha Ling'.

In the evening, dive into Shanghai's vibrant nightlife. For a more casual and affordable experience, head to University Road (大学路), which is lined with bars popular among students and young professionals. If you're looking for something more upscale, the bars around Huaihai Road offer sophisticated cocktails in a chic setting, though at a higher price point. For more information on local favorites, you can check out this Shanghai food guide.

Spend your last day exploring Shanghai's dynamic market and exhibition scene. The city hosts numerous events year-round, catering to every interest.

• Seasonal Markets: If you're visiting during the holidays, you're in for a treat. The German Christmas Market at Waitanyuan (外滩源) is a festive highlight, offering hot mulled wine, German sausages, and charming stalls selling crafts. Throughout the year, you can also find events like bread festivals and other themed markets.
• Secondhand Markets: For unique souvenirs and a taste of local life, visit one of Shanghai's large secondhand markets, such as the one on Lingshi Road. You can find everything from vintage clothing to antiques. A word of caution: be careful when purchasing valuable items like jade to avoid scams.
• Exhibitions and Conventions: Check the schedules for major venues like the National Exhibition and Convention Center or the Shanghai World Expo Exhibition & Convention Center. They often host fascinating exhibitions on topics ranging from digital technology to tea culture, many of which are free to the public with advance online registration.

This is the perfect way to pick up some last-minute gifts and experience one final slice of Shanghai's vibrant culture before you depart.