Stroll along Shanghai’s iconic waterfront to admire colonial-era buildings and futuristic skyscrapers across the Huangpu River. ​Time: 9:00–10:30 AM (avoid crowds).

A Ming-dynasty garden with pavilions, koi ponds, and zigzag bridges. Explore the bustling bazaar for souvenirs. Lunch here Time: 11:00 AM–1:00 PM.

Artsy labyrinth of galleries, indie boutiques, and cafés in renovated Shikumen houses. Time: 2:00–4:00 PM.

Tree-lined avenues, historic villas, and hip coffee shops. Don’t miss ​Sinan Mansions for a photo op. ​Time: 4:30–6:00 PM.

Sky-High Option: ​Shanghai Tower Observatory (world’s second-tallest building) for 360° views. ​Alternative: Cocktails at ​Flair Rooftop (The Ritz-Carlton, 58th floor).

Ancient Chinese art, including bronzes, ceramics, and calligraphy. Focus on the ​Minorities Gallery for unique cultural insights. ​Time: 9:30–11:30 AM.

Quick Walk: Glimpse Shanghai’s shopping heritage before heading to lunch.

China’s first state-run contemporary art museum in a former power plant. Rotating avant-garde exhibitions. ​Time: 1:30–3:30 PM.

Industrial art district with edgy galleries and street murals. Great for buying unique prints. ​Time: 4:00–5:30 PM.

Acrobatics show blending tech, dance, and gravity-defying stunts. Jaw-dropping for all ages! ​Time: 7:30–9:00 PM.

Wander this historic avenue lined with 1920s villas. Snap the iconic ​Wukang Mansion (former “I.S.S Norman Apartment”). ​Time: 9:00–10:30 AM.

Venice of the East! Boat ride through canals, visit Qing-dynestone bridges, and try sticky rice stuffed with pork (扎肉). ​Time: 2:00–5:00 PM. 1-hour taxi or 1.5 hours metro Line 17 to Zhujiajiao Station.

Vibe: Underground bars and speakeasies in converted bomb shelters. Sip cocktails at ​Sober Company or dance at ​Arkham.