5-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey through Shanghai and Nearby Water Towns Itinerary

Begin your day with a spiritual visit to the Jade Buddha Temple (Yufo Si), home to two jade Buddha statues brought from Burma. Afterward, enjoy a hearty breakfast at Shanghai Tavern, known for its fusion of local and international flavors.

Post breakfast, explore the Shanghai French Concession on foot, known for its tree-lined avenues and European architecture. For lunch, savor the contemporary cuisine at Constellation, a restaurant that offers panoramic views of the city.

Dive into Shanghai's nightlife with a unique experience on the Shanghai 4-Hour Nightlife Adventure & Tasting Bike Tour. Cycle through the vibrant streets and taste a variety of local snacks. Conclude the evening with a visit to The Fellas, a speakeasy-style bar with a wide selection of cocktails.

Escape the city for a while and head to the ancient Zhujiajiao, also known as the "Venice of Shanghai." Explore the narrow streets, stone bridges, and traditional buildings. Enjoy a local lunch at Calix, a restaurant that offers a blend of Chinese and Western cuisines.

After returning to Shanghai, spend your afternoon at the Shanghai Tower (Shanghai Zhongxin Dasha), the tallest skyscraper in China. Take in the breathtaking views of the city from the observation deck. For a cultural experience, visit the Shanghai Museum (Shanghai Bowuguan) to learn about the history and art of China.

Cap off the day with a memorable Shanghai Night River Cruise Tour with Xinjiang Style Dining. Glide along the Huangpu River while enjoying a sumptuous dinner with flavors from the Xinjiang region. Witness the illuminated skyline and the famous Bund on one side and the modern skyscrapers of Pudong on the other.

Take a day trip to the nearby city of Suzhou, known for its classical gardens and traditional silk industry. Begin with a visit to the Suzhou Half Day Private City Tour, where you'll explore the Master of the Nets Garden and the Suzhou Silk Museum. Enjoy a traditional Suzhou-style breakfast at a local eatery.

Continue your exploration with a visit to the Zhouzhuang Water Town, one of the most famous water towns in China. Immerse yourself in the ancient architecture and tranquil canals. For lunch, dine at Paulaner Brauhaus Shanghai At Binjiang Branch, which offers a taste of German cuisine in a unique setting.

Return to Shanghai and unwind at El Willy, a restaurant known for its innovative Spanish dishes and vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy a leisurely dinner as you reflect on the day's cultural experiences.

Conclude your trip with a visit to the Shanghai World Financial Center (SWFC), where you can enjoy the sweeping views of the city from the 100th floor. Afterward, have a delightful breakfast at The Nest, known for its elegant setting and international menu.

Spend your final afternoon at Xin Tian Di, a stylish and modern area with a mix of traditional Shikumen houses and contemporary architecture. Explore the boutiques and galleries, and then have lunch at New Heights, a restaurant with a terrace offering panoramic views of the city.

For your last evening in Shanghai, enjoy a sophisticated dining experience at Sir Elly's, located in The Peninsula Shanghai. After dinner, take a stroll along the Pudong waterfront to admire the city's skyline one last time, reflecting on the cultural and culinary journey you've experienced.