Shanghai, in two days.
Two days, one river, zero tour buses. The route we send our own friends on — with the timings that actually work.
Day one stays on the river. Day two goes inland.
Most visitors try to do Shanghai and Hangzhou in two days. Don't. Shanghai is a city of layers: the riverfront is the postcard, but the good stuff is one block back — the wet market, the noodle shop with no English sign, the art deco apartment block with a guard who has worked there for thirty years.
This route assumes you land the night before. If you arrive at Pudong at 6am, drop your bags and start at the Bund — the morning light is worth it.
The Bund, before the crowds
Walk north from Yan'an Road to the Garden Bridge. The promenade is quiet before 9am, and the Pudong skyline is still visible through the morning haze.
Breakfast in a lane-way
Cross into Huangpu for congee, youtiao and soy milk. Ask your hotel for the nearest “breakfast street” — every neighbourhood has one.
Yu Garden & the old city
Book ahead. The garden takes 60–90 minutes; the surrounding bazaar is touristy, but the side lanes are not. Leave time for a tea house.
Ferry to Pudong
Take the public ferry from Jinling Road (2 RMB) rather than the sightseeing boat. It is faster, cheaper and more fun.
French Concession, on foot
Start at Wukang Mansion, walk Anfu Road to Wuyuan Road. This is the best 3km in Shanghai for coffee, independent shops and plane trees.
West Bund at golden hour
Three museums within walking distance. Pick one; two is too many. The riverside walk between them is free and better than the shows.
Two days, one line.
Deliberately loose. Pick the stops that fit your energy, not the other way round. We can build it around your hotel, your kids and the weather.