What to Do in Shanghai in 6 Days? Travel Guide and Tips

Day 1

Shanghai Disney Resort

Opening Hours: Open from 11/25-11/25,Thu,9:00am-8:30pm;Open from 11/26-11/26,Fri,9:00am-8:00pm;Open from 11/27-11/27,Sat,9:00am-8:30pm;Open from 11/28-11/28,Sun,9:00am-8:30pm;Open from 11/29-11/29,Mon,9:00am-8:00pm;Open from 11/30-12/5,Tue-Sun,9:00am-8:30pm

Ticket Price: 399 RMB

Recommended Length of Stay: 1-2 Days

Location: Shanghai Disney Resort, Chuansha New Town, Pudong New Area, Shanghai

As the first Disney resort in mainland China, Shanghai Disney Resort is a world-class family entertainment destination. It features Shanghai Disneyland Park, an entertainment district, two themed hotels, recreational facilities, a lake, and associated transportation hubs. One unique aspect about Shanghai Disney is the way the park incorporates Chinese tastes into its design. With plenty to do and fun for people of all ages, the Shanghai Disney Resort is certainly one of the city’s premiere attractions.

Reviews from Real Guests:

Expatexplorer: Before visiting Shanghai Disneyland i didn’t really understand the hype surrounding Disney theme parks. I have now returned 3 times and it has completely blown my expectations out of the water. - Before you go, download the app. This will help you understand show times, queue times and where the restaurants are located - Stay til the fireworks and light display at the end. I usually hate fireworks but again this was truly an incredible show and i loved it - Visit Disneytown, this is actually just outside the theme park itself, but there are some great restaurants (Cheesecake factory) and shops here to explore - Enjoy everything the park has to offer! If you enjoy fast rides, go on Tron. Admire the work of Imagineers on the Pirates of the Caribbean ride. Enjoy the musical performances at the parade and shows. Embrace the magic and you won’t be disappointed!

Daniel: You can drink alcohol here. I, like many others, have forever wondered at various parks if i can. so you will be pleased to know that there is a food hall to the east a short walk from the main pavillion you can. As for the park...it is one of the better ones. Prices are acceptable. The ride wait time is low and most of the rides are very enjoyable. The Tron cycles so much that we did them three times. The mountain line walk is the right mix of concerning and exciting. With an unbeatable view of the park. Food is a typical Disney fare. Nothing to write home about. Definitely come for the end of the day light show. One of the best I have seen at any park. Florida, France, Hong Kong... they just dont compare. Just remember to beat the foot traffic and power walk out od there when its done.

Day 1 | Evening

Don’t forget to book Hyakumangoku Onsen Hotel in advance, because all the tourists head to Shanghai Disney Resort love staying at it.

Hyakumangoku Onsen Hotel

Opened in 2021, the Hyakumangoku Onsen Hotel offers travelers a pleasant stay in Shanghai, whether for business or leisure purposes.

Shanghai Pudong International Airport is located approximately 18km away and Shanghai Railway Station around 35km away. Being just minutes away from Disney Resort Metro Station allows guests to explore the city with ease. Guests will find Aoxing Park, 浦東國際影視產業園共享空間 and JEGOPLAY TOO Family Park just a short distance from the hotel.

When guests have some time on their hands they can make use of the onsite facilities. This Shanghai hotel offers parking on site.

Our guests rate this hotel as one of the best hotels for cleanliness. This hotel is a popular accommodation for guests traveling with families.

Day 2 | Morning

Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower

Opening Hours: Open from 1/1-9/30,9:00am-9:00pm;Open from 10/1-10/7,8:00am-10:00pm;Open from 10/8-12/31,9:00am-9:00pm

Ticket Price: 35 RMB

Recommended Length of Stay: 2-3 Hours

Location: No. 1 Century Avenue, Lujia zu i, Pudong New Area, Shanghai

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.

Reviews from Real Guests:

Trip.com User: Amazing views across shanghai from a 360 degree perspective! Even though I went when the weather was terrible, cloudy, foggy and raining, I still couldn’t fault the view! Multiple observation areas which were quite busy but not too bad! My only comment was that it was quite difficult as an English speaker (no written Chinese understanding) to work out what was actually included in each of the tickets at different price points! But overall a great experience, it took about an hour and a half to go all the way up and back down including getting tickets and queuing, but I was in no rush, however I also feel like I could have taken even more time easily. I imagine sunset would be a great time to go (if it is better weather than my visit) as it is lovey to see all the lights x

Yoghurtfighter: Shanghai Overseas Beach Photo Raiders Oriental Pearl Tower Photo Excellent location The Bund is probably the place where everyone who goes to the Mordor must punch in. Although I have been to Shanghai countless times, I will come here to share a few photos of the Bund and punch in. Very good location, such as: Dianchi Road Nanjing East Road Jiujiang Road and other sections of these roads have a high rate of filming. It is very casual to take pictures of the Oriental Pearl Tower. No tourists are required to locate others. Also know where you are ～

Day 2 | Afternoon

After finishing the tour at Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower, you can head to Shanghai Wild Animal Park, the most worth visiting place around the corner.

Shanghai Wild Animal Park

Opening Hours: Open from 3/1-6/30,9:00am-5:00pm;Open from 7/1-8/31,9:00am-8:00pm;Open from 9/1-11/30,9:00am-5:00pm;Open from 12/1-2/28,9:00am-4:30pm

Ticket Price: 130 RMB

Recommended Length of Stay: 0.5-1 Days

Location: No.178, Nanliu Road, Pudong New Area, Shanghai

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.

Reviews from Real Guests:

Ohime_gozasoro: The Shanghai Wildlife Zoo was relatively close to Shanghai Airport and the taxi fare was quite cheap. You can go by train from the center of Shanghai, but it takes a little time. There is a locker to leave your luggage and it seems that you need a smartphone app to use it. I felt that the hurdle was high for foreigners. The number of animals, the size of the site, the comfort was quite good and the satisfaction was high. There were many pandas and I thought it was a rare creature, but it was all over. You can pay an additional fee to the safari, but this is really recommended. I experienced the highest fee, but it was a powerful point such as a large group of white tigers and bears, and feeding raw meat. You can take a bus to go around the course, but if you sit near the entrance of the feeding, you can see where you eat the feed in front of you. All the explanations were Chinese. There are several places to eat in the garden. There were many people in fast food everywhere.

Trip.com User: thats the best animal park ive been to. super clean, animals are easy to reach and look happy. stuff is very friendly. Its a luttle far, but you still can easily go with the metro, you’ll soend the whole day there. Better weekdays to avoid the crowd. The territory is really big and beautiful. rent a bicucle, otherwise could be to tiresom to walk around. enjoed it very much. want to go again

Day 2 | Evening

Looking for a bed nearby after finishing your journey at Shanghai Wild Animal Park? Heyitang Hotel Shanghai International Tourism Resort is one of your top choices.

Heyitang Hotel Shanghai International Tourism Resort

The Heyitang Hotel Shanghai International Tourism Resort was recently opened in 2022, making it a fantastic choice for those staying in Shanghai.

Shanghai Pudong International Airport and Shanghai South Railway Station are located 25km and 50km away respectively. The closest major public transportation, Huinan Metro Station, is only 300m away. Keeping busy is easy, with Fuquan Naos, Old Bell Park and Taoyuan Folk Culture Village all nearby.

This hotel makes a great place to kick back and relax after a long day of sightseeing. This Shanghai hotel provides parking on site.

Our guests consider this hotel to have excellent service. This hotel is the usual choice for a large number of business travelers.

Day 3 | Morning

Shanghai Science and Technology Museum

Opening Hours: Open on Tue-Sun,9:00am-5:00pm;Closed on Mon;Open from 8:30am-5:30pm during Chinese public holidays

Ticket Price: 45 RMB

Recommended Length of Stay: 4-8 Hours

Location: 2000 Century Avenue, Pudong New Area, Shanghai

Located near Century Park, the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum (SSTM) is the city’s premiere museum dedicated to enhancing public awareness of and engagement with science and technology. The museum’s large collection covers everything from geology and plate tectonics to space exploration and human health. With many interactive features, SSTM is a great destination for families with young children. No matter who you are, there is something to spark your curiosity. You won’t regret spending a few hours exploring this vast museum.

Reviews from Real Guests:

Trip.com User: Shanghai Science and Technology Museum is located in the Century Avenue of Pudong New District, covering an area of 6.8 sq. m. and building area of 9.8 sq. m., with the theme of "Natural, Humanities, Science and Technology", so that every visitor can enjoy the influence of modern science and technology. Crustal Search, Intelligent Light, BioVientiane, Audiovisual Paradise, Children's Science Park, BioVientiane, Natural Museum, and four different styles of cinemas, including IMAX three-dimensional giant cinema, IWERKS four-dimensional cinema, IMAX ball-screen cinema, The high-tech movie theater in the space theater, but the movie is more expensive than the money.

TaztoesInChina: We initially thought this museum was for kids but it turned out we were wrong. There’s so much to explore and learn in this museum. It sports various sections and themes. It takes alot of walking but you’re able to cover the museum in an afternoon. As there are kids sections, be prepared to see groups of children on school excursions. This also means that its a great day trip for families. The shop has some really cool goodies but mostly overpriced! There’s a vending machine where you can purchase some drinks and many restaurants in the area making it easy to get some food along the way.

Day 3 | Afternoon

Shanghai Ocean Aquarium nearby is the top choice before you leave Shanghai Science and Technology Museum and hit the road.

Shanghai Ocean Aquarium

Opening Hours: Open from 9/1-6/30,9:00am-6:00pm;Open from 7/1-8/31,9:00am-9:00pm;Open from 9:00am-9:00pm during China's national day

Ticket Price: 160 RMB

Recommended Length of Stay: 1-3 Hours

Location: 1388 Lujiazu i Ring Road, Pudong New Area, Shanghai1388 Lujiazui Ring Road, Pudong New Area, Shanghai

The Shanghai Ocean Aquarium is located in the bustling Lujiazui section of Pudong, Shanghai. Located near the Oriental Pearl Tower, the aquarium exhibits a wide variety of marine life. The Aquarium's 168 m underwater tunnel is a central attraction and provides visitors the chance to explore several, distinct aquatic environments. The many animal species on display include spotted seals, Antarctic penguins, giant salamanders, and Chinese alligators, not to mention such aquarium treasures as weedy seadragons and zebra sharks.

Reviews from Real Guests:

Trip.com User: On the major travel information networks, I agree with you that Shanghai Ocean Aquarium is one of the must-visit attractions. I use Didi to call the car in the morning, call the car in the busy time, and take about 45 minutes to sit in the car. Arrived at the aquarium about 9:30, the flow is OK, the adult fare 160, the elderly $90, 1 meter - 1.4 meter $110, the museum is wonderful everywhere, especially the four underwater tunnels, it is a great call.

My Shanghai Life: Amazing place! we just walked by and decided to take a look (160 rmb - Adult; 110 rmb - child). it is surprisingly big: 3 floors (note: you can only go one way). I liked that the information about the sea life is both in English and Chinese. we had a great afternoon!

Day 3 | Evening

Looking for a bed nearby after finishing your journey at Shanghai Ocean Aquarium? JOYA Shanghai Lujiazui Hotel is one of your top choices.

JOYA Shanghai Lujiazui Hotel

Opened in 2020, the JOYA Shanghai Lujiazui Hotel offers travelers a pleasant stay in Shanghai, whether for business or leisure purposes.

Boasting a convenient location, the hotel is just 10km from Shanghai Railway Station and 24km from Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport. Just a short walk from Shangcheng Road Metro Station, traveling to most city destinations is a breeze. Famous local attractions Halcyon Gallery, Laobaidu Riverside Greenland Chimney Plaza and 卓睿號遊艇俱樂部, can all be reached with a short walk.

When guests have some time on their hands they can make use of the onsite facilities. This Shanghai hotel offers parking on site.

According to our guests, this hotel provides a very high level of service. For guests traveling with families, this hotel is consistently one of the most popular choices.

Day 4 | Morning

Madame Tussauds Shanghai

Opening Hours: Open from 8/11-12/31,10:00am-9:00pm

Ticket Price: 190 RMB

Recommended Length of Stay: 2-3 Hours

Location: 10th Floor, New World Commercial Building, People's Square, Huangpu District, Shanghai

Madame Tussauds Shanghai has become famous throughout the world for its lifelike wax figures. As only the second Madame Tussauds located in Asia, the museum features uncannily lifelike reproductions of nearly 80 celebrities, including Yao Ming, Jackie Chan, David Beckham, Tom Cruise, Michael Jordan, and Bill Clinton. Each figurine is elaborately made in a London studio with more than 200 years of wax making experience. By incorporating new technologies into the figurines, Madame Tussauds Shanghai is able to offer visitors a more immersive experience. Certainly this particular museum lives up to the reputation Madame Tussauds has garnered throughout the world.

Reviews from Real Guests:

Isa in 中国: Quite an interesting visit! The tour will only take you about an hour. Make sure to stay around for the ice age movie it’s quite fun! 😁

Trip.com User: a bit expensive at ¥190 for an adult ticket, but the laughs and pictures and fun made it worth it.

Day 4 | Afternoon

After finishing the tour at Madame Tussauds Shanghai, you can head to Shanghai Haichang Ocean Park, the most worth visiting place around the corner.

Shanghai Haichang Ocean Park

Opening Hours: Open from 11/1-11/30,Mon-Fri,9:30am-5:30pm;Open from 11/1-11/30,Sat-Sun,9:30am-6:00pm;Open from 12/1-12/31,Mon-Fri,10:00am-5:00pm;Open from 12/1-12/31,Sat-Sun,9:30am-5:30pm;Open from 12/24-12/26,Fri-Sun,9:30am-8:00pm

Ticket Price: 330 RMB

Recommended Length of Stay: 0.5-1.0 Days

Location: No.166 Yinfei Road, Nanhui New Town, Pudong New District, Shanghai

Shanghai Haichang Ocean Park has been rated as a national 4A-level tourist attraction. With the theme of marine culture, it has created five regions and a resort hotel. It has 16 major stars such as "Killer Whale Science Lecture Hall", "Walrus Travel Notes" and "Dolphin Love Song". Repertoire: There are six animal exhibition venues including Antarctic Penguin Pavilion and Sea Beast Quest Pavilion, providing more than ten amusement facilities such as volcano rafting, dolphin roller coaster, etc., bringing together more than 30,000 marine creatures, showing the ocean dream float parade and 100 performances! The first deep-sea mermaid restaurant in the magic capital was officially opened. Located in the mermaid restaurant in the Volcano Shark Museum in Shanghai Haichang Ocean Park, the mermaid princess danced gracefully under the colorful ocean. Diners can enjoy the high-end French restaurant while sharing with the mermaid princesses. Go to a deep-sea appointment and start the magic city tide experience. Savor exquisite French cuisine and feel the magic of the sea. At the moment of entering the door, the light and shadow of the blue water curtain attracts everyone's attention. When a school of golden fish rushes towards you through the blue waves, it seems that you can embrace the sea with open arms. Panoramic floor-to-ceiling glass, nearly ten meters of water depth, fully wraps the dining table, interacts with the small fish swimming beside you, and makes friends with these leisurely underwater world residents. The fish swam over their heads in groups, and every frame and photo they took was sent to the circle of friends to the point where they received more than 100 likes! The specific open area of the park: Amusement equipment: Dolphin roller coaster, volcanic rafting, space-time cable car, deep sea voyage, fast penguin, happy little flying fish, flying boulder, ocean Trojan, pelican adventure; performing arts and venues: Orca Science Lecture Hall, Walrus Hee Travels, Sea Beast Detective Hall/Sea Beast Science Feeding Show, Dolphin Love Song, Ocean Dream Float Parade, Town Party, Tribal Carnival, Rainforest Style, Water Trapeze.

Reviews from Real Guests:

dirra: One of our last Shanghai parks was the brand new Shanghai Haichang Ocean Park! Home to many exhibits, killer whales, and the signature Steel Dolphin Intamin Blitz coaster, we were very much looking forward to visiting. Upon arrival we slowly started figuring out that this park is *just* shy of being a hit, but somehow charges prices comparable to Shanghai Disneyland. Let’s go explore.

Farz: it was wonderful experience. we went there on one Saturday. it was not that crowded. Every performance is worth watching. Weekend tickets are more expensive. Kids and parents can enjoy together. Rain coat is only needed if you sit in the first front rows of killer whale shark.

Day 4 | Evening

Looking for a bed nearby after finishing your journey at Shanghai Haichang Ocean Park? Artyzen Lingang Shanghai is one of your top choices.

Artyzen Lingang Shanghai

The Artyzen Lingang Shanghai was recently opened in 2022, making it a fantastic choice for those staying in Shanghai.

From the hotel, Shanghai Pudong International Airport is approximately 33km away. Traveling to and from the airport is easy with Shanghai Pudong International Airport located approximately 33km away. The closest major public transportation, Dishui Lake Metro Station, is only 600m away. Keeping busy is easy, with 星際大冒險, Shanghai Planetarium and China Maritime Museum all nearby.

After a long day of sightseeing, guests can retire to the comfort of the hotel. This Shanghai hotel provides parking on site.

If cleanliness is important to you, this hotel makes an excellent choice, as our guests consider this to be one of the cleanest hotels in the city.

Day 5

Shanghai Happy Valley

Opening Hours: Open from 11/15-12/23,9:30am-6:00pm

Ticket Price: 230 RMB

Recommended Length of Stay: 1-1 Days

Location: No.888, Linhu Road, Songshan Town, Songjiang District, Shanghai

Shanghai Happy Valley is a large-scale theme park located in the Songjiang district of Shanghai, about 40 km west of the city center. It includes seven themed areas: Sunshine Harbour, Happy Times, Hurricane Bay, Gold Mine, Happy Ocean, Shanghai Beach, and Shangri-La. Happy Valley features many thrilling rides, circus shows and parades, and even a Mayan Carnival. The park is great for kids and makes for an enjoyable outing. With plenty of thrilling rides, adults also have much to enjoy from a day spent at Happy Valley.

Reviews from Real Guests:

Trip.com User: Forget Disney! If you're actually looking for crazy, blood-blanching rollercoasters happy valley is the obvious choice. Rides are insane and really get your adrenaline going. it's a bit far out but makes for an awesome day trip. nice balance between the adult rides and more relaxed attractions. Food wasn't amazing but that's not the reason to go to a theme park haha. really enjoyed the day spent there - caught about 12 rides and stayed inside until 6pm.

Santiago Guitar: it’s far.... yes! but it’s awesome! if you go in summer be prepared! the heat will be hard! attractions are fun and more! food is not that great tho.... which they got better options to eat! If you’re in Shanghai and one day one to explore something different have a car there or get on subway! try to arrive early you will have ton of fun! only a few attraction where closed when we went!

Day 5 | Evening

Don’t forget to book The Yuluxe Sheshan, Shanghai, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel in advance, because all the tourists head to Shanghai Happy Valley love staying at it.

The Yuluxe Sheshan, Shanghai, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel

Hotel is surrounded by breathtaking natural lakes and forests, as well as tourist attractions such as the Shanghai Moon Lake Sculpture Park, Playa Maya Water Park and Happy Valley.
325 guest rooms and suites offers breathtaking views of Sheshan mount or the Moon Lake, subtly reflecting the independent spirit of Shanghai through dynamic design and thoughtful amenities.
The Yu Palace serves innovative and creative Cantonese, Hang and local cuisines with 11 private rooms where diners overlooking the Sheshan National Forest Park and the Moon Lake. Le Café offers a wide range of Continental and Asian fare, while the Skyline Lobby Lounge provides a more casual, relaxed atmosphere. The Shandy features a unique circular bar for guests seeking a lively nightcap.
Guests can enjoy a full suite of upgraded hotel facilities including a state-of-the-art gym; indoor and outdoor pools; a new 700-sqm kids’ playground, as well as a KTV room and a billiards room.

Day 6 | Morning

Shanghai Zoo

Opening Hours: Open from 03/01-10/31,8:00am-5:00pm;Open from 11/01-02/28,8:00am-4:30pm

Ticket Price: 40 RMB

Recommended Length of Stay: 3-5 Hours

Location: 2381 Hongqiao Road, Changning District

Located near Hongqiao Airport, Shanghai Zoo is a modern metropolitan zoological garden featuring more than 6,000 animals in additional to various plant life. Species native to China include giant pandas, golden snub-nosed monkeys, lions, South China tigers, hoopoe, black bulbuls, scimitar-horned oryx, great hornbills, and Bactrian camels. With its convenient location and visitor-friendly design, the Shanghai Zoo provides a fun outing for the entire family.

Reviews from Real Guests:

hannahbananah: We went there after lunch by Didi and it was only 50rmb but you can get there by Metro through Line 10 and get off at Shanghai Zoo station. We paid 40 rmb for 2 adults and our daught got it for free because she is less than 1.3 M tall. We went through the fish, reptile and amphibians area and they had most of the popular animals that would be great to extend learning for children and enjoy as adults too. After that we were led to a shuttle that costs 15/person and again free for children. The trip toom us to the Panda enclosure and basically all the other areas. The largest area is the primates area where we found hundreds of types of monkeys, lemur and apes. If you haven't visited Shanghai Zoo, you must! Btw, snacks are just everywhere so don't worry about getting hungry. #summervacation

Ben charaf: Shanghai zoo is home to animals, this zoo contains hundreds of species. It was my first time to see a Panda, which made me spend more time enjoying watching it. The Shanghai zoo is a site of natural history museum. It’s well organized. Inside, you can take a zoo golf car or just walk. For me, I walked because when you walk, you will be able to observe more. Anyway, it’s a great zoo, very pleasant moment. I highly recommend!

Day 6 | Afternoon

Having the chance to enjoy the charming Shanghai Zoo, Shanghai ObservatoryTop of Shanghai Observatory next to it is another great place that you will never want to miss!

Shanghai ObservatoryTop of Shanghai Observatory

Opening Hours: Open from 1/1-4/2,8:30am-9:00pm;Open from 4/3-12/31,8:30am-10:00pm

Ticket Price: 180 RMB

Recommended Length of Stay: 2-3 Hours

Location: No. 501, Yincheng Middle Road, Pudong New Area, Shanghai (near Dongtai Road)

The Top of Shanghai Observatory is the observation desk in the Shanghai Tower, the world's second tallest building. Located in the Lujiazui section of Pudong, the Top of Shanghai Observatory is currently the world's tallest observation desk. Visitors can rocket up the 118 floors in elevators that travel 74 km/h! You will then enjoy stunning views of Shanghai from the 360-degree observation deck. On clear days it's nothing short of breathtaking. Access to the observation desk includes entry to the Top of Shanghai Exhibition Hall featuring information about the planning and construction of Shanghai Tower. Shutter bugs won't want to miss the chance to snap some truly memorable photos.

Reviews from Real Guests:

Trip.com User: an astonishing view of shanghai in this point. dont miss it. its really worth the money paid. climb and know the beauty of shanghai city. we were running the whole floor here and there to get various angle of pictures. really worth visiting and spending so much of time in here. especially during the evening when the buildings get lightened up one after the other.

Ivan Yurpolskij: It's was really breathtaking experience. Beautiful view. You even can't understand how high is it before you go there. It's very important to go there in clear weather because in other ways the top of the tower will be hiding in clouds and you will see nothing.

* All reviews in the blog are machine-translated.