If you’re planning a trip to China’s bustling metropolis, you’ll want to know the best things to do in Shanghai. This city blends rich history, cutting-edge modernity, and vibrant culture into one unforgettable experience. From walking along the iconic Bund to exploring quirky neighborhoods and sampling delicious street food, Shanghai never fails to impress. But don’t stop there—taking day trips from Shanghai lets you dive deeper into the region’s charm. Whether it’s ancient water towns or scenic countryside, these excursions offer a perfect break from the city buzz. In this guide, we’ll cover must-see attractions and the best day trips from Shanghai to make your visit truly memorable.
What does the 4-day itinerary include?
The Oriental Pearl Tower
What are the best things to do?
The Bund:It is Shanghai’s most iconic waterfront. It lines the Huangpu River. Colonial buildings stand on one side. Futuristic towers rise across the water. You’ll get stunning skyline views—especially at sunset. Walk the promenade or join a river cruise. The Bund’s charm never fades.
The Oriental Pearl Tower：This tower dominates the Pudong skyline. Ride the elevator to the top. The glass floor observation deck is wild. You’ll see the whole city below. Visit the small museum inside too. It tells Shanghai’s story well. It’s a must-stop on your first visit.
Yu Garden：Step into this peaceful garden in Old Shanghai. It has pavilions, ponds, and bridges. Yu Garden feels calm despite the crowds. Look closely at the rockeries—they’re handmade. Don’t miss the zigzag bridge or teahouse. It’s a perfect break from skyscrapers.
Nanjing Road：This street buzzes with life day and night. It’s Shanghai’s shopping heart. You’ll find big malls and tiny shops. Walk from People’s Square to the Bund. Neon lights make it extra cool at night. Grab a snack and join the energy.
Shanghai Museum：Find this museum inside People’s Square. It has ancient bronzes, calligraphy, and jade. Everything’s displayed beautifully. Audio guides help you learn quickly. You’ll leave knowing more about Chinese history. The building itself is also shaped like an ancient pot.
The Jade Buddha Temple：Tucked away in the city’s northwest, this temple is serene. Two white jade Buddhas shine in candlelight. Monks chant softly around you. It’s peaceful and spiritual. Take your time walking through each hall. This place offers quiet within chaos.
Tianzifang：It blends old homes and creative shops. It’s perfect for wandering. Cafés hide in narrow lanes. Artists sell handmade jewelry and paintings. You’ll find murals, lights, and surprises everywhere. It’s a fun change from glass towers. Great for souvenirs too.
The City God Temple：This temple complex sits near Yu Garden. Locals come here to pray. Incense fills the air. The red halls glow in sunlight. Check out the golden statues inside. This temple connects you to Shanghai’s spiritual roots. It’s deeply local and always moving.
When is the best time to visit?
If you’re wondering about the best time to visit Shanghai, the answer is pretty clear: spring and autumn are hands down the most comfortable and enjoyable seasons to explore this vibrant city. Let’s break down why these times are perfect and what you can expect.
From March to May, Shanghai bursts into life with colorful flowers blooming across parks, gardens, and streets. The weather is pleasantly mild — not too hot, not too cold — making it ideal for walking around all day without feeling sweaty or chilly. During spring, the skies tend to stay mostly clear, which means you get plenty of sunshine without the oppressive heat of summer. It’s a perfect time for outdoor sightseeing, whether you want to stroll along the Bund, explore Yu Garden, or wander through leafy neighborhoods. Plus, this season is great if you enjoy photography — the natural light and blossoms create beautiful backdrops.
Autumn, from September to November, is another fantastic window to visit Shanghai. The air becomes crisp and fresh, offering relief after the hot, humid summer months. Temperatures during fall are comfortable — cool enough to wear light jackets or sweaters but rarely too cold. What’s even better is that the city feels a bit quieter. The tourist crowds tend to thin out after summer, so you’ll experience shorter lines at popular attractions and more peaceful public spaces. Fall is also known for its clear skies and golden hues as the leaves change color, giving the city a charming, picturesque vibe. This season is perfect if you want to enjoy outdoor markets, rooftop bars, or riverside walks without the hassle of big crowds or sticky heat.
What are some quick tips for first-time visitors?
Must-have apps for traveling in Shanghai
Sim Card
Getting a local SIM card in Shanghai is simple. Buy one at the airport or convenience stores. Major providers include China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom. These all offer 4G data and good coverage. Make sure your phone is unlocked before you arrive. You need your passport to register the SIM card. Prices usually range from 100 to 200 CNY for a week’s data. For tourists, China Unicom often has good tourist SIM packages. You can also buy prepaid SIMs with data and calls combined. Consider online options like Airalo or Nomad for eSIMs before you travel. These let you skip the queues and activate instantly. Topping up your SIM is easy at convenience stores or via apps. Having a local SIM helps you navigate Shanghai smoothly. It’s cheaper than international roaming from your home carrier.
VPN
Many popular websites are blocked in China. Google, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and many others don’t work normally. You’ll want a VPN to access these. Get your VPN subscription before you fly. Good VPNs for China include ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark. These offer fast connections and reliable service. Test your VPN at home to make sure it works. Free VPNs often don’t work well or are slow. When you land in Shanghai, turn on your VPN right away. It helps you use maps, messaging, and social media apps freely. Some VPN apps have a stealth mode to bypass Chinese firewalls. Remember, without VPN, many apps won’t work. A good VPN keeps you connected with friends and work. Make sure your VPN supports your devices—phone, tablet, or laptop.
Plus, some other useful info you should know：
- Currency – Chinese Yuan CN¥ ( here)
- Language – Mandarin
- Cuisine – Chinese (Sichuan, Shandong, Cantonese, Huaiyang, and Northeastern)
- Apps – Alipay, WeChat, Didi App (like uber) & Baidu Maps or Amaps
- Power Voltage – Plugs A & C (220 V)
Day 1:Dive into Shanghai’s Heart – Main Streets, The Bund & Pudong
People’s Park Marriage Market
Wander through People’s Park
People’s Park sits right in the heart of Shanghai. It’s a busy green space where locals start their day. Every morning, you’ll see people doing tai chi, dancing, or chatting. It’s a perfect spot to catch Shanghai’s everyday life in action. You can walk slowly and absorb the calm before diving into the city bustle.
On weekends, People’s Park transforms into a lively and unusual scene known as the Marriage Market. Here, parents gather with hope and determination, posting handwritten ads to find suitable partners for their children. These ads often include details like age, job, education, and even hobbies. It’s like a traditional matchmaking bulletin board come to life right in the middle of modern Shanghai.
The atmosphere is surprisingly warm and friendly. Parents chat, negotiate, and exchange contact info, all while keeping a watchful eye on the crowd. It’s a fascinating mix of old-school values and modern city life. You’ll see grandparents proudly promoting their grandchildren and young parents eager to find the right match for their kids. For visitors, it’s a rare chance to witness a very human, heartfelt effort to build futures—right in a public park.
The park blends natural beauty with city life. Lotus flowers bloom in the ponds. Trees provide shady spots to relax. This place feels like a quiet pause in a busy city. Even if you plan some exciting day trips from Shanghai, starting here grounds you in the city’s culture and pace.
Check out People’s Square
Right next to People’s Park is People’s Square, Shanghai’s bustling core. It’s a huge open space surrounded by museums and government buildings. People come here to meet friends, take photos, or enjoy street performances. You’ll find plenty of locals and tourists soaking up the lively atmosphere.
The Shanghai Museum sits in the square and deserves a visit. It houses ancient Chinese art, jade carvings, and pottery. The museum is free and easy to navigate. If you want to understand China’s history, spend an hour or two here. It’s a smart stop before you explore further.At night, People’s Square lights up with fountains and glowing buildings. It’s a beautiful spot for an evening stroll. Whether you’re planning more day trips from Shanghai or just starting your adventure, People’s Square sets the tone perfectly.
Browse Nanjing Road East
Nanjing Road East is Shanghai’s shopping heartbeat. It stretches from People’s Square to the Bund, always buzzing with life. You’ll find everything here—from luxury stores to street vendors selling snacks. Walk slowly and sample local treats like fried dumplings or steamed buns.
The street never sleeps. At night, colorful neon signs and huge digital screens light up the area. It looks like a mini Times Square. This vibrant vibe pulls locals and visitors alike. Even if shopping isn’t your thing, the energy is worth experiencing.Walking Nanjing Road East helps you feel Shanghai’s pulse. It’s also a great warm-up before taking on longer day trips from Shanghai. Keep your camera ready for bright signs, street artists, and lively crowds. This street captures the city’s modern buzz.
Take in the views on the Bund
The Bund is Shanghai’s iconic riverside promenade. It runs along the Huangpu River and offers stunning city views. On one side, you see colonial-era buildings. On the other, Pudong’s futuristic skyline rises tall and bright. Walking here feels like stepping into a postcard.Take your time to enjoy the architecture. Buildings like the Customs House and Peace Hotel tell Shanghai’s international story. Street performers often entertain visitors. Grab a snack from a food cart and stroll slowly. The river breeze adds a refreshing touch.
Sunset is the best time to visit the Bund. Golden light hits the river and buildings. As night falls, Pudong lights sparkle spectacularly. The Bund is a must-see, even if you plan exciting day trips from Shanghai outside the city. This spot captures Shanghai’s unique charm.
Admire Pudong’s Skyscrapers
Cross the Huangpu River and enter Pudong’s skyscraper district. This area symbolizes Shanghai’s modern growth. The Oriental Pearl Tower is a standout with its distinctive spheres. You can ride up for panoramic city views or enjoy the revolving restaurant.Nearby, the Shanghai Tower and Jin Mao Tower compete for attention. The Shanghai Tower is China’s tallest building and the world’s second tallest. Visit one observation deck for a breathtaking 360-degree view. These towers represent Shanghai’s ambition and style.
While Pudong is all about the future, its skyline perfectly balances with old Shanghai. This mix makes your day richer. After soaking in Pudong, you might plan day trips from Shanghai’s city center, but this view stays unforgettable.
Sail along the Huangpu River
Sailing along the Huangpu River offers a unique view of Shanghai’s cityscape. The river divides old Shanghai and Pudong’s modern skyline. On the cruise, you see both sides in one stunning panorama. Boats leave regularly from docks near the Bund, making it easy to join a tour.During the day, the cruise lets you spot famous landmarks like the Oriental Pearl Tower and the historic Customs House. You can snap great photos from the deck. The gentle river breeze feels refreshing after exploring busy streets. Many locals enjoy these rides, so you’re in good company.
Evening cruises are extra special. As the sun sets, buildings light up in vibrant colors. Pudong’s skyscrapers sparkle like jewels against the night sky. The Bund’s colonial architecture glows warmly, creating a magical atmosphere. Music often plays softly on the boat, adding to the vibe.These cruises last about one hour, perfect for a relaxed break. You’ll hear interesting facts from guides or recorded commentary. It’s a calm way to see the city after a busy day. If you’re planning day trips from Shanghai beyond the city, this cruise offers a great intro to the skyline before you go.
Day 2: Step Back in Time – Old Shanghai & the French Concession
Shanghai Yuyuan
Step into Yuyuan Garden
Yuyuan Garden sits in Shanghai’s Old City and dates back over 400 years. It was built during the Ming Dynasty by a government official named Pan Yunduan. He created the garden as a peaceful retreat for his aging parents, hoping it would bring them comfort and joy. The garden showcases classic Chinese landscaping, combining architecture, water features, and plants to form a harmonious environment. Over centuries, Yuyuan has survived wars, renovations, and changes, preserving its original style and cultural significance.
When you visit Yuyuan, take your time to explore its winding stone paths, elegant pavilions, and koi-filled ponds. Don’t miss the famous zigzag bridge, which locals say keeps evil spirits away. Admire the detailed wood carvings and the dragon motifs on the garden walls. Early mornings offer the best chance to enjoy quiet moments. Stop by a traditional teahouse inside the garden to sip jasmine tea and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
Visiting Yuyuan offers insight into old Chinese design and philosophy. If you’re planning any day trips from Shanghai, this is a great cultural intro. It’s a must-see before heading to nearby temples or towns. Yuyuan helps you feel Shanghai’s deep roots before exploring beyond the city.
Yuyuan Garden welcomes visitors daily from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM. You can buy tickets at the entrance or online in advance. The standard admission fee is around 40 RMB for adults, with discounts for students and seniors. It’s best to arrive early or on weekdays to avoid crowds, especially if you want a calm experience. Guided tours are available if you want to learn more about the garden’s rich history and design
Explore the City God Temple
Next to Yuyuan Garden stands the City God Temple. It’s a spiritual center in old Shanghai. People come to light incense and make wishes. The temple honors city gods who protect locals. It’s busy, smoky, and full of energy. You can feel the history in every corner.Walk through its red halls and golden statues. You’ll see people praying and leaving fruit offerings. The temple is small but rich with detail. Don’t rush—look up at the rooftops. They’re decorated with figures from Chinese myths. Vendors outside sell trinkets and snacks.
The temple reflects Shanghai’s traditional beliefs. It connects you to the city’s past before you explore its future. Whether you’re visiting modern landmarks or taking day trips from Shanghai, this temple adds depth to your journey. It’s not just sightseeing—it’s soul-searching.
Stroll through the French Concession
The French Concession shows a totally different side of Shanghai. This area was once controlled by the French. Today, it blends European charm with Chinese life. Tree-lined streets, art deco buildings, and boutique cafés make it feel relaxed and stylish.You can walk for hours here. Turn off the main roads to find hidden gems—quiet lanes, vintage shops, or cozy bakeries. Locals call it the “most walkable” part of the city. Don’t forget to check out Tianzifang. It’s a maze of narrow alleys packed with art studios and street food.
This area feels like a world apart from the skyscrapers of Pudong. If you’re planning day trips from Shanghai to nearby towns, the French Concession offers a softer, slower vibe beforehand. It’s perfect for slowing down, grabbing a drink, and soaking up the old-meets-new atmosphere.
Day 3:Exploring Shanghai at LeisureWest–Nanjing, Jade Buddha & Sunset Cruising
Take a night cruise on the Huangpu River
Browse shops on West Nanjing Road
Start your day on West Nanjing Road. It’s one of Shanghai’s busiest streets. You’ll see a mix of local and luxury brands. Big malls like Plaza 66 and Citic Square attract stylish crowds. The vibe is energetic, with bright signs and non-stop action.
Don’t just shop—look around. You’ll pass colonial buildings and sleek glass towers. Grab a coffee and people-watch. There’s always something happening here. If you’re tired, hop on the Metro. It’s fast, cheap, and stops right under the street.West Nanjing Road is great for souvenirs or fashion. Before heading on day trips from Shanghai, stock up here. You’ll find clothes, electronics, and tasty snacks. It’s more than shopping—it’s a true city experience. The energy keeps you moving and curious.
Appreciate the Jade Buddha Temple
Just a short ride away sits the Jade Buddha Temple. It’s peaceful and quiet, a sharp contrast to downtown. Two jade Buddhas were brought here from Myanmar. The statues are stunning, especially the seated Buddha carved from pure white jade.
The scent of incense fills the temple. Monks chant softly in the background. You can light a stick, make a wish, or just observe. The temple blends old-world charm with modern city life. Walk through prayer halls, small gardens, and gift shops.This temple feels like a retreat in the city. It’s perfect before or after any day trips from Shanghai. You get to slow down, reflect, and connect with something spiritual. The Jade Buddha Temple isn’t flashy—but it leaves a deep impression.
Catch a Sunset Cruise on the Huangpu River
As the day winds down, take a sunset cruise. The Huangpu River glows as the sun drops low. Buildings light up, and the sky turns gold. It’s one of Shanghai’s most unforgettable views. Boats board near the Bund and sail past both sides of the skyline.You’ll see the historic Bund on one side. On the other, Pudong’s towers gleam in neon. Bring a light jacket—it gets breezy on deck. Take photos, relax, or just enjoy the lights. The cruise lasts about one hour, but the memories last longer.
This peaceful ride is a great way to reflect. If you’ve taken day trips from Shanghai earlier, the skyline reminds you why the city’s so special. It’s a mix of old and new, tradition and ambition. End your day with calm waters and glowing lights—it’s magic.
Day 4:Escape the City – Top Day Trips from Shanghai
Best Day Trips from Shanghai: Suzhou
Take a cultural trip to Suzhou
Suzhou is just 30 minutes from Shanghai by bullet train. It’s one of the best day trips from Shanghai if you love history, gardens, and silk. Locals call it “Venice of the East” thanks to its canals. But it’s much more than that—it’s a deep dive into traditional Chinese life.
Start with the Classical Gardens of Suzhou. The Humble Administrator’s Garden is the largest and most famous. It features winding paths, koi ponds, and quiet teahouses. Then head to the Master of the Nets Garden for a smaller, more intimate vibe. Both spots reflect the art of balance in Chinese landscape design.
Next, explore Suzhou’s old streets like Pingjiang Road. You’ll walk by canals lined with stone houses. Shops sell silk scarves, calligraphy sets, and handmade fans. Visit the Suzhou Museum too—it was designed by I.M. Pei and blends old and new perfectly. You’ll find paintings, jade carvings, and historic relics.
Don’t skip the Suzhou Silk Museum. It tells the story of silk in China and even shows live silkworms. Watching them spin threads is oddly calming. This museum adds depth to one of the most meaningful day trips from Shanghai. You’ll leave with stories, souvenirs, and a new respect for craftsmanship.
Suzhou wraps history, elegance, and charm into one neat package. If you only have time for one cultural escape, choose this. Among all one-day escapes near the city, Suzhou blends art, nature, and local life like no other. It’s a timeless place that stays with you long after your return.
Enjoy the magic at Disneyland Shanghai
If you’re craving fun, head straight to Shanghai Disneyland. It’s one of the best day trips from Shanghai for families, couples, or Disney fans. Located in Pudong, this park mixes Disney charm with Chinese culture. The rides, shows, and food all offer something magical.
Start your visit with Mickey Avenue—it’s bright, cheerful, and full of snacks. Then head to the Enchanted Storybook Castle. It’s the tallest Disney castle ever built. Don’t miss TRON Lightcycle Run, a fast and thrilling ride you won’t forget. Pirates of the Caribbean is another top pick. It’s high-tech and super immersive.
You can spend a full day here without getting bored. Take breaks at shaded benches, or grab bubble tea from themed cafés. At night, fireworks light up the sky above the castle. That’s the perfect way to end one of the most fun day trips from Shanghai. You’ll leave tired but smiling, with great photos and even better memories.
Roam through a Historic Water Town
Want to slow things down? Head to a nearby water town. These ancient towns offer one of the most peaceful day trips from Shanghai. Just one hour away, places like Zhujiajiao or Qibao feel worlds apart. You’ll swap city lights for stone bridges and quiet canals.
Walk along narrow alleys lined with red lanterns. Locals sell handmade crafts, snacks, and tea. Grab a rice dumpling or sip osmanthus wine by the river. You can take a gondola ride and pass under centuries-old bridges. Everything moves slower here—and that’s the point.
These towns preserve old China in a beautiful, living way. They let you experience culture without the crowds of big cities. Before you dive back into Shanghai’s energy, take this peaceful escape. Among all the day trips from Shanghai, this one offers calm, charm, and countless photo spots. It’s history you can walk through.
Reference
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Where to stay in Shanghai?
A: Shanghai has many great areas to stay in, and your choice depends on your style and budget. For example, the Bund is perfect for first-timers. Hotels like Waldorf Astoria and The Peninsula offer luxury and stunning views of the river and skyline. Moreover, it’s close to many main attractions. You’ll also love walking along the waterfront here. If you want charm and history instead, try the French Concession. It has tree-lined streets, cozy cafes, and small boutique hotels. The Phoenix Hostel is great for budget stays, while Capella Shanghai is a top luxury option. Alternatively, Huangpu District suits budget travelers, as it’s near Nanjing Road and metro stations. You’ll find many affordable hostels here, like Mingtown Etour Youth Hostel. For modern hotels and business stays, check out Lujiazui in Pudong. It’s near the Oriental Pearl Tower and malls. Wherever you stay, being near a metro helps. You can also try Airbnb for longer stays.
Q: What are the best places to eat as a vegan in Shanghai?
A: Shanghai offers many vegan-friendly restaurants, so you won’t go hungry here. To start, Pure & Whole is a popular vegan cafe. It serves fresh salads, smoothies, and desserts, and the atmosphere feels cozy and relaxed. For vegan Chinese food, try Veggie Table, which offers traditional dishes without meat. You should also try their vegan dumplings and stir-fried veggies. Happy Buddha is another great option, with noodles, tofu, and rice plates. The portions are generous, and the prices are fair. However, street food can be tricky for vegans. Look for steamed buns with vegetables or sweet potato snacks. Fortunately, many dim sum places have veggie options. In malls, food courts often list ingredients clearly. Apps like HappyCow help you find vegan spots nearby. Also, many Western restaurants offer vegan dishes. Always ask about ingredients, since some may include fish sauce or eggs. Saying “wo chi su” (I eat vegetarian) can help you order confidently.
Q: How to get to Shanghai, China?
A: Most travelers fly into Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG), as it’s the main international gateway. Some flights also land at Shanghai Hongqiao Airport (SHA), which mainly handles domestic and regional flights. Fortunately, direct flights from many countries connect to Shanghai. Airlines like China Eastern, Air China, and other global carriers serve PVG regularly. Alternatively, you can reach Shanghai by train from other Chinese cities. High-speed trains link Shanghai to Beijing, Hangzhou, and more. If you land at Pudong Airport, take the Maglev train to the city. It’s the world’s fastest train and reaches downtown in about 8 minutes. Airport buses and taxis are also available, though a taxi ride from Pudong to downtown costs around 150–200 CNY. Booking your flight early can help you save money. You can also use tools like Skyscanner or Google Flights. If you arrive from Hong Kong or Macau, ferries are available too. Flying remains the fastest way.
Q: How to get around Shanghai, China?
A: Shanghai has a large and clean metro system that covers almost the entire city. It’s both cheap and efficient, making it a top choice for travelers. To save money and time, buy a Shanghai Public Transportation Card. It works on metros, buses, and ferries. Taxis are easy to find, but to avoid scams, use apps like DiDi. It’s similar to Uber and offers an English interface. For short distances, bikes and e-scooters are great. You can rent them via HelloBike or Mobike apps. Walking is also enjoyable in downtown areas like the Bund and French Concession. These streets are safe and pedestrian-friendly. However, avoid rush hours (7–9 AM and 5–7 PM), as public transport gets crowded. Metro signs are in both Chinese and English, making navigation easy. Additionally, you can take river ferries to cross the Huangpu River—it’s scenic and cheap. For day trips, use trains or buses for easy access.
Q: Is Shanghai expensive?
A: Shanghai’s prices vary by area and lifestyle, so it can be both affordable and expensive. For instance, budget travelers can find cheap hostels under 100 CNY per night. Likewise, street food meals cost around 10–30 CNY. Meanwhile, mid-range hotels and restaurants are moderately priced. Expect to pay 300–600 CNY for a decent hotel room. On the other hand, luxury hotels and fine dining cost much more. For example, hotels on the Bund can charge over 2000 CNY per night. Transportation, however, is affordable. Metro rides cost between 3–9 CNY, and taxis start at around 14 CNY. Shopping prices vary too—local markets are budget-friendly, while malls and luxury stores are pricey. Eating at Western restaurants is more expensive, but Chinese food is usually cheaper and just as delicious. If you plan wisely, Shanghai offers good value. Just remember to book early during festivals, as prices often rise sharply.
Q: Is Shanghai worth visiting?
A: Shanghai is definitely a must-visit city in China. It mixes modern city life with rich cultural history. For example, the skyline at the Bund is iconic, with skyscrapers like the Oriental Pearl Tower. Meanwhile, the French Concession offers charming streets, cool cafes, and peaceful walks. If you love culture, visit museums like the Shanghai Museum, which showcase Chinese art and history. Many are free or very affordable. Moreover, food lovers will enjoy the city’s variety—from street snacks to fine dining. Shanghai is also very clean, safe, and easy to navigate. English signs help tourists get around easily. The city also hosts exciting events year-round, such as the Shanghai International Film Festival. Furthermore, nearby water towns make great day trips. With its blend of old and new, Shanghai leaves a lasting impression on everyone. It’s exciting, diverse, and unforgettable.
Q: Where to visit after Shanghai?
A: After visiting Shanghai, many travelers explore other top Chinese cities. Beijing and Hangzhou are two popular choices. Beijing, for example, is China’s capital and offers deep history and culture. You can visit the Great Wall, Forbidden City, and Tiananmen Square—all showcasing imperial China. The 798 Art District adds a modern touch. A high-speed train ride from Shanghai to Beijing takes about 5 hours, so it’s great if you have more time. In contrast, Hangzhou is closer and perfect for day trips. It’s famous for West Lake, known for gardens, temples, and scenic bike or boat rides. You’ll also find peaceful tea plantations, like Longjing Tea Village. The city beautifully blends nature and culture. High-speed trains from Shanghai reach Hangzhou in about an hour, making it super convenient. Both cities offer unique experiences. If you’re planning more day trips from Shanghai, include Hangzhou for nature and Beijing for history.