Shanghai Weekend
3-Day Getaway
Just 2-3 hours from most major cities, Shanghai is the perfect weekend escape. Arrive Friday evening, return Sunday night - here's your complete itinerary.
Friday Evening
Arrival & The Bund Night Views
Depart from Home Airport
Evening flights work best for maximizing your weekend
Arrive at Shanghai Pudong Airport
Immigration takes 30 min - 1 hour (use visa-free transit lane)
Transfer to City Center
Maglev train + Metro or Taxi (approx. 200 RMB / $30)
The Bund Night Views
Shanghai's iconic waterfront! Stunning views of the Pudong skyline and historic architecture
Hotel Check-in & Rest
Recommended: Stay near Nanjing Road or The Bund
Pro Tips
- * Friday evening flights sell out fast - book 2-3 weeks in advance
- * Pudong Airport to city: Maglev 50 RMB (8 min) + Metro connection
- * The Bund lights stay on until 22:30 (23:00 on weekends)
Saturday
Shanghai Highlights + Night Market
Morning (09:00-12:00)
Yuyuan Garden & City God Temple
A 400-year-old traditional Chinese garden. Famous xiaolongbao restaurant "Nanxiang Mantou Dian" is right next door!
Admission: 40 RMB (~$6)Xiaolongbao Brunch
Try Nanxiang Mantou Dian (original location in Yuyuan) or Din Tai Fung nearby
Must Try!Afternoon (13:00-18:00)
Nanjing Road Shopping
China's most famous shopping street! Department stores, brand shops, and street food. Walk all the way to The Bund.
FreePudong Lujiazui (Optional)
Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai Tower, IFC Mall. Amazing city views from the observation decks.
Observation: 120-200 RMBWukang Road & French Concession
Instagram hotspot! Beautiful tree-lined streets with European architecture. Try on a qipao (traditional dress) for photos.
Photo SpotEvening (19:00-23:00)
Lamb Skewers or Haidilao Hot Pot
Shouning Road for lamb skewers with Tsingtao beer! Or try Haidilao - famous for free snacks, nail service, and noodle performances.
Must Experience!Supermarket Shopping (Ole' / Hema)
Visit Ole' or Hema Fresh for Chinese snacks, drinks, and instant noodles. Great for souvenirs and late-night treats!
Alternative: Shanghai Disneyland
Want to spend Saturday at Disney instead? Weekends are crowded, but use the Genie+ app and arrive early for efficient touring.
- * Tickets: 475-719 RMB (~$65-100) depending on season
- * Hours: Usually 08:30-20:30
- * Metro Line 11 to Disney Resort Station
Sunday
Relaxed Morning & Departure
Hotel Breakfast & Check-out
Leave luggage at the hotel and explore light
Cultural Sites (Optional)
Visit museums, historic sites, or explore any areas you missed. The Shanghai Museum or Propaganda Poster Art Centre are popular choices.
Xintiandi Brunch
Trendy cafe district with a relaxed vibe. Enjoy brunch at a nice cafe before heading home.
Head to Airport
Metro Line 2 to Pudong Airport (~1 hour) or taxi (~40 min)
Depart Shanghai
Arrive home Sunday evening (ready for Monday!)
Estimated Budget (Per Person)
Round-trip Flights
Budget carrier estimate
Accommodation (2 nights)
3-4 star hotel
Food & Dining
Local food + nice restaurants
Transportation
Metro, taxi, ride-share
Activities & Shopping
Admission fees, souvenirs
Total Estimated Cost
* Flight prices vary significantly based on booking time and fuel surcharges. Book at least 2-3 weeks in advance for best rates.
Shanghai Transportation Tips
Metro
Most convenient! Pay with Alipay/WeChat QR code. Install the "Metro Daduhui" app for easy navigation.
Taxi / DiDi
Use the DiDi app for ride-hailing. Base fare 14 RMB. Screenshot your destination address in Chinese.
Maglev Train
Pudong Airport to Longyang Rd in 8 minutes! Hits 431 km/h. One-way 50 RMB, round-trip 80 RMB.
Bike Share
Hello Bike, Meituan Bike, etc. Link via Alipay. Perfect for short distances around the city.
Pre-Trip Checklist
Before you leave, make sure you've got everything ready!