2-Day Shanghai Adventure: Disney & Downtown Delights

Author's Profile Picture

by Elizabeth

May 7, 2024 · 2 min read

Shanghai 2 Days Itinerary

Embark on a 2-day journey through Shanghai's most enchanting attractions with Trip.com. Day one is dedicated to the wonders of Shanghai Disney Resort, where fairy tales come to life and adventures await at every corner. Spend a full day exploring its themed lands, from the enchanting Fantasyland to the thrilling Tomorrowland, ensuring a day of non-stop fun and excitement. On day two, step into the serene Yu Garden, a masterpiece of Chinese landscape gardening, for an hour of tranquility amidst the bustling city. Next, stroll down Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, a vibrant and characteristic neighborhood perfect for shopping and people-watching for two hours. Continue your journey to The Bund, a historic waterfront area offering stunning views of Shanghai's skyline for an hour of exploration. Conclude your trip with a visit to the iconic Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower, where you can gaze out from the observation deck for two hours and soak in panoramic views of the city's futuristic landscape. This itinerary promises a perfect blend of Shanghai's rich heritage and its cosmopolitan pulse.

Top 6 Hotels in Shanghai
TOP 1
Novotel Shanghai Pudong Chuansha
Novotel Shanghai Pudong Chuansha
hotelStar
4/5
3284 reviews
View Hotel Info
TOP 2
Shanghai Lujiazui Rezen Hotel
Shanghai Lujiazui Rezen Hotel
hotelStar
4/5
3702 reviews
View Hotel Info
TOP 3
Pullman Shanghai Skyway Hotel
Pullman Shanghai Skyway Hotel
hotelStar
5/5
5981 reviews
View Hotel Info
Vienna International Hotel (Shanghai Pudong Airport)
Vienna International Hotel (Shanghai Pudong Airport)
hotelStar
4/5
6246 reviews
View Hotel Info
Yan An Hotel
Yan An Hotel
hotelStar
4/5
5223 reviews
View Hotel Info
The Bund Puyan Hotel, Shanghai
The Bund Puyan Hotel, Shanghai
hotelStar
5/5
11308 reviews
View Hotel Info

2 Days in Shanghai Itinerary: Day 1

1

Shanghai Disney Resort

arrow-image

Kicking off our Shanghai adventure, we dive into a world of wonder at the Shanghai Disney Resort. As the first stop on our itinerary, this enchanting theme park promises a full day of excitement and magic. Located in the heart of Pudong New Area, the resort beckons visitors with its iconic fairy-tale castle and thrilling rides. From the moment you step into this joyous realm, you're transported to a place where dreams come true. Whether you're soaring through the skies on the TRON Lightcycle Power Run or sailing the seas with Pirates of the Caribbean, each attraction is meticulously crafted for an unforgettable experience. With live entertainment, sumptuous dining, and beloved characters around every corner, Shanghai Disney Resort is not just an attraction but a cherished memory in the making.

Attraction Info

  • Shanghai Disney Resort, Chuansha New Town, Pudong New Area, Shanghai
  • Suggested tour duration: 1-2 days
  • Open from 04/25-05/12,8:30am-9:30pm

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

Royal Banquet Hall
Royal Banquet Hall
4.8/5 · 13431 reviews
0.6 km from attraction
Stargazer Grill
Stargazer Grill
4.3/5 · 37 reviews
0.7 km from attraction
上海百万石温泉酒店·百万石全日餐厅
上海百万石温泉酒店·百万石全日餐厅
4.5/5 · 11 reviews
1.1 km from attraction
Bluefrog (Disney Town)
Bluefrog (Disney Town)
4.7/5 · 13854 reviews
0.4 km from attraction
DONDONYA (Disney Town)
DONDONYA (Disney Town)
4.7/5 · 12622 reviews
0.5 km from attraction
The Cheesecake Factory (Disneytown)
The Cheesecake Factory (Disneytown)
4.7/5 · 14296 reviews
0.5 km from attraction

Where to Stay Tonight

4.6/54481 Reviews
4.6/5Outstanding4481 Reviews
Shanghai Disney Resort
Shanghai
|0.75km from city center
4.7/54825 Reviews
4.7/5Outstanding4825 Reviews
Shanghai Disney Resort
Shanghai
|0.95km from city center

2 Days in Shanghai Itinerary: Day 2

1

Yu Garden

arrow-image

Begin your second day in Shanghai with a serene morning stroll through the Yu Garden, an oasis of tranquility in the bustling city. This exquisite landscape garden, boasting traditional pavilions, ponds, and rockeries, offers a glimpse into the sophisticated garden design of the Ming Dynasty. Allow yourself an hour to meander through the zigzagging pathways, admiring the intricate details and the harmonious blend of nature and architecture.

Attraction Info

  • Shanghai Yuyuan Tourism Business District (the main entrance of Yuyuan Garden on the north side of Huxin Pavilion Jiuqu Bridge)
  • Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
  • Open from 02/01-02/08,Tue-Sun,9:00am-4:30pm;Closed from 02/01-02/08,Mon;Open 9:00am-2:30pm on 02/09,Fri;Open from 02/10-02/17,9:00am-4:00pm;Open from 02/18-12/31,Tue-Sun,9:00am-4:30pm;Closed from 02/18-12/31,Mon;Open from 9:00am-4:30pm during Ching Ming Festival,Labour Day,Dragon Boat Festival,Mid-Autumn Festival,China's national day

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

Yong Fu (Huangpu)
Yong Fu (Huangpu)
4.7/5 · 12117 reviews
3.1 km from attraction
The 1515 WEST CHOPHOUSE & BAR
The 1515 WEST CHOPHOUSE & BAR
4.6/5 · 281 reviews
4.0 km from attraction
Jin Xuan
Jin Xuan
4.8/5 · 156 reviews
1.4 km from attraction
Shang-Xi @ Regent Hotel Pudong
Shang-Xi @ Regent Hotel Pudong
4.8/5 · 4327 reviews
1.9 km from attraction
Large Eight Italy Lounge&Restaurant
Large Eight Italy Lounge&Restaurant
4.7/5 · 95 reviews
2.8 km from attraction
Kathleen's Waitan K
Kathleen's Waitan K
4.6/5 · 102 reviews
1.6 km from attraction
10 min,2.25 km
2

Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street

arrow-image

Next, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, a bustling commercial boulevard that's a shopper's paradise. Spend a couple of hours exploring the myriad of shops, from international brands to local boutiques, and indulge in some retail therapy. The street's energetic vibe, combined with its historical significance, makes it a perfect spot to observe the daily life of Shanghai's residents and to pick up unique souvenirs.

Attraction Info

  • Henan Middle Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai
  • Suggested tour duration: 1-3 hour
  • Open 24 hours
10 min,0.73 km
3

The Bund

arrow-image

As the day progresses, make your way to The Bund, Shanghai's iconic waterfront promenade. This characteristic neighborhood, lined with colonial-era buildings, offers a stark contrast to the modern skyscrapers across the Huangpu River. Dedicate an hour to wander along the riverside, soak in the architectural grandeur, and capture stunning photographs of the city's skyline, especially as the lights begin to twinkle at dusk.

Attraction Info

  • Zhongshan East Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai (Close to Huangpu River)
  • Suggested tour duration: 1-3 hour
  • Open from 1/1-12/31
22 min,1.47 km
4

Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower

arrow-image

Conclude your Shanghai adventure at the Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower, one of the city's most futuristic landmarks. Ascend to the observation deck and spend a couple of hours marveling at the panoramic views of Shanghai from this unique vantage point. The tower's distinctive spheres and striking silhouette against the night sky provide a fitting finale to your two-day exploration of Shanghai's past and present.

Attraction Info

  • No. 1 Century Avenue, Lujiazui, Pudong New Area, Shanghai
  • Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour
  • Open from 01/01-09/28,9:00am-9:00pm;Open from 09/29-10/06,8:30am-9:00pm;Open from 10/07-12/31,9:00am-9:00pm

Where to Stay Tonight

4.7/51975 Reviews
4.7/5Outstanding1975 Reviews
Lujiazui Area
Shanghai
|0.28km from city center
4.8/53463 Reviews
4.8/5Outstanding3463 Reviews
Lujiazui Area
Shanghai
|0.36km from city center

Top Things to Do in Shanghai-2024

TOP 1
Shanghai Disney Resort
Shanghai Disney Resort
4.7/5 · 239,091 review
taCommentInfo-imageBased on 2,301 review
Highlights:

Shanghai Disney Resort is located in Pudong New Area, Shanghai. It is the first Disney resort in mainland China. You can experience many classic Disney attractions here, including the Disney Castle, the pirate-themed park, and the Mickey’s Storybook Express and so on, experience the Magic Kingdom as if you were there.

Disneyland

Shanghai Disneyland is divided into eight distinctive theme parks, including "Mickey Street", "Gardens of Imagination", "Fantasyland", "Disney·Pixar Toy Story Land", "Adventure Isle", "Treasure Cove", "Tomorrowland” and “Zootopia.” Both men and women, old and young, can find a happy world here.

Mickey Avenue

As soon as you enter the entrance of Disneyland, you enter "Mickey Avenue". Minnie, Donald Duck, Daisy, Goofy, Pluto and other friends will gather here, where you can warmly hug and take photos with your favorite Disney friends. Among the various shops on the street, the "Avenue M Arcade" will provide a rich selection of gifts and souvenirs in the park.

Gardens of Imagination

The Gardens of Imagination is composed of 7 magical small gardens of different styles. You can ride the "Fantasia Carousel" in joy, or ride the "Dumbo" to soar in the sky, as well as the castle stage show and the "Fantasy Light Phantom Show" and many other iconic Disney entertainment performances are available for viewing. Visitors can also enjoy the "Mickey’s Storybook Express", the longest Disney-themed float parade in the world, from different angles here.

Fantasyland

Fantasyland is the largest park in the park and is also the location of the magnificent "Fantasy Fairytale Castle". In this fairy tale-like wonderland, animation fans can explore the Hundred Acre Wood with Winnie the Pooh, walk through the maze in Wonderland with Alice, take a mine cart adventure with the seven dwarfs, and board the "Peter Pan" Take the "Sky Adventures" spaceship across London's sky, or follow the "Crystal Adventures" meandering through familiar Disney stories.

Disney·Pixar Toy Story Land

Here, you can sit on the coiled springs of "Slinky Dog" and happily circle around a big dog filled with toy bones. "Cuddle Dragon" will invite everyone to sit on the remote-controlled sky racing car and ride on the long Start an exciting adventure on the "U"-shaped track. In addition, you can also buy your favorite games, toys, clothing, badges, etc. at the "Al Toy Store".

Adventure Isle

When you come to Adventure Isle, you feel like you are in a newly discovered ancient tribe. The majestic Thunder Mountain will point out a clear direction for your adventure island trip. You can go on your own adventure path in the "Historic Sites Exploration Camp", or cross the world and time and space in "Soar·Flying Over the Horizon", take a raft on the "Thunder Mountain Rafting" and go deep into the hinterland of Adventure Island to explore a mysterious beasts live.

Treasure Cove

"Treasure Cove" is the first pirate-themed park in Disney parks around the world. "Pirates of the Caribbean - Battle for the Sunken Treasure" turns the waterborne ride into a thrilling adventure. Visitors with an adventurous spirit can also paddle the "Explorer Canoe" to explore the beautiful bay and step onto the deck of a pirate ship. Dine at Barbossa Grill.

Tomorrowland

"Tomorrowland" is full of possibilities and presents a bright vision of the future. The interstellar adventure project "Buzz Lightyear Interstellar Rescue" leads tourists to move forward bravely and beyond the infinite; the "jetpack aircraft" allows people to break through the constraints of gravity; and the "Tron Speed ​​Light Wheel" is wrapped under a huge translucent dome building, changing into different brilliance , attracting tourists to get on the queue of two-wheel light motorcycles and challenge one of the more exciting roller coaster projects in Disney parks around the world.

Zootopia

“Zootopia” is another unique highlight of Shanghai Disneyland. New attractions, entertainment performances, merchandise and dining options will provide more exciting experiences for visitors to Shanghai Disneyland. The new theme park will lead visitors into the lifelike "Zootopia", a mammal metropolis,"where every animal has unlimited possibilities." Visitors will also follow the protagonists of this Oscar-winning film - Judy and Nick - on a crazy and exciting adventure.

Disneytown

Disneytown is a large shopping, dining and entertainment area in Shanghai Disney Resort, adjacent to Shanghai Disneyland, and will be open to the public free of charge. The cosmopolitan and charming neighborhood is unforgettable, and visitors can enjoy the charming scenery of Shanghai Disneyland while enjoying delicious food. The "Walt Disney Grand Theater" located in "Disney Town" performs classic Broadway musicals, and tickets are sold separately for watching the shows.

Dining

In Disneyland, there are Barbossa Grill, Royal Banquet Hall, Pinocchio Country Kitchen, Tribal Plenty Hall, Mickey’s Pals Food Market, Star Terrace Restaurant, Xiaomi Chef Bakery, Man Yue Xuan, and Old Vine Tree Food Store. There are many theme restaurants scattered in various theme parks, with a wide range of Eastern and Western cuisines, specialty snacks and tempting desserts, making your magical trip endlessly memorable.

Disney Themed Hotel

Step into the enchanted world of the Shanghai Disneyland Hotel, where Mickey and his friends lead you on a magical journey.

View More
TOP 2
Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower
Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower
4.7/5 · 147,961 review
taCommentInfo-imageBased on 6,609 review
Highlights:
The Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower is arguably the most recognizable feature on Shanghai’s skyline. Completed in 1994, it has come to symbolize China’s modernization and emergence on the global scene. Visitors travel up and down the Oriental Pearl Tower in double-decker elevators that can hold up to fifty people. Located on the tower’s lower levels is the Shanghai Municipal History Museum. Given its iconic status, this is certainly a can’t-miss attraction.
View More
TOP 3
Lujiazui
Lujiazui
4.8/5 · 3,849 review
taCommentInfo-imageBased on 4 review
Highlights:
Located opposite the Bund, Lujiazui is the heart of China's budding financial sector and the only specifically designated financial development zone on the mainland. Landmark attractions include the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, Shanghai World Financial Center, Jin Mao Tower, and the Shanghai Tower. As night falls, the skyscrapers come alive with lights. The nightscape is breathtaking, showing off the modern metropolis that is Shanghai. Parents can take their kids to the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium to explore the magical wonders beneath the sea. Lujiazui is also home to great shopping and dining. It is a modern neighborhood in a very modern city.
View More
TOP 4
The Bund
The Bund
4.8/5 · 153,357 review
taCommentInfo-imageBased on 19,526 review
Highlights:
Arguably Shanghai's most-famous tourist attraction, the Bund is a waterfront promenade and famous business district in central Shanghai. Historically, the Bund was the city’s main financial and trading center, and was located within the Shanghai International Settlement, an area under nominal British control between 1843 and 1941. The walking areas extend roughly 1.6 km along the west bank of the Huangpu River. Owing to its historic status and zoning restrictions, the Bund contains fantastic examples of classic Shanghai architecture. For this reason, it is a popular spot for photography. No visit to Shanghai would be complete without a visit to the Bund.
View More
TOP 5
Shanghai Wild Animal Park
Shanghai Wild Animal Park
4.7/5 · 102,620 review
taCommentInfo-imageBased on 437 review
Highlights:

Opened in 1995, the Shanghai Wild Animal Park was one of the first AAAAA (highest-rated) tourist attractions in China. Visitors can see more than 10,000 exotic animals, most of which are rare wildlife, including giant pandas, snub-nosed monkeys, takins, crested ibis, giraffes, zebras, antelopes, white rhinos, and cheetahs. The park is divided into drive-through and pedestrian areas. The drive-through portions are modeled on safari parks where animals roam through natural habitats. Another popular attraction is the park’s tiger feeding pen where you can witness up close giant tigers. With lots to see and do, the Shanghai Wild Animal Park is fun for people of all ages.

View More

* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

Disclaimer: This article has been provided by an individual contributor or third party platform. If there is any discrepancy regarding the copyright, please contact us directly and we will delete the content immediately.
>>
Shanghai 2 Days Itinerary