Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Arrive in Shanghai and check into your hotel. Start your exploration in the afternoon by visiting the Bund, a famous waterfront promenade lined with colonial buildings. Take in the views of the Pudong skyline across the Huangpu River. Explore the People's Square and the Shanghai Museum, which houses over 120,000 cultural relics. End the day with a stroll through Nanjing Road, one of Shanghai's busiest shopping streets.

Day 2: Historical Shanghai

Begin your day at the Yu Garden, built during the Ming dynasty, and admire the architecture and traditional Chinese garden design. Visit the nearby Old City and experience local life by haggling at the bazaar and trying street food. Head to the French Concession to see the historical European-style buildings on tree-lined streets. Finish the day at Tianzifang, a maze of narrow alleys filled with boutique shops and cafes.

Day 3: Water Town and Nightlife

Take a day trip to one of Shanghai's water towns, such as Zhujiajiao or Zhouzhuang, to experience traditional Chinese culture and architecture. In the evening, head to the Xintiandi area to see the Shikumen buildings, a fusion of Chinese and Western architecture. Enjoy the bustling nightlife with bars, restaurants, and clubs.

Day 4: Modern Shanghai

Visit the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower, which offers a panoramic view of the city. Go to the Shanghai World Financial Center and stand on the 100th-floor observation deck. Visit the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center to learn about the city's development and future plans. End the day at the Shanghai Circus World to see a mesmerizing acrobatic performance.

Day 5: Art and Culture

Explore the Moganshan Road Art District, a former industrial area transformed into a hub for contemporary art galleries and studios. Visit the Long Museum, which houses a collection of modern and contemporary Chinese art. Head to the Jing'an Temple, one of the oldest and most famous Buddhist temples in Shanghai. End the day at the Shanghai Grand Theatre to see a performance by the Shanghai Ballet.

Day 6: Day Trip to Hangzhou

Take a day trip to Hangzhou, a nearby city known for its picturesque West Lake and tea plantations. Visit the Lingyin Temple, one of China's largest and most famous Buddhist temples. Take a boat ride on the West Lake and admire the scenery. End the day with a visit to a tea plantation and a tea-tasting experience.

Day 7: Final Day

Spend your final day relaxing and indulging in some retail therapy. Visit the Lujiazui area and browse the luxury brands at the Shanghai IFC Mall. Head to the Yuyuan Bazaar to buy some souvenirs and snacks. End your trip with a massage and spa treatment at one of Shanghai's top-rated spas.

Overall, Shanghai offers a perfect blend of traditional Chinese culture and modern urban life. With its top attractions, historical landmarks, art districts, and water towns, there's something for everyone. Don't forget to try Shanghai's famous cuisine, such as xiaolongbao, shengjianbao, and hairy crab. Enjoy your trip and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this fascinating city.