Day 1: Discovering the Bund and Historic Shanghai

Shanghai is a city that harmoniously blends the old with the new. To start your first day in the city, visit the Bund, a historic waterfront walkway that offers breathtaking views of the modern Pudong district skyline across the Huangpu River. As you stroll along the riverbank, immerse yourself in the area's history by reading the numerous plaques and monuments dotting the path.

After exploring the Bund, head to Old Shanghai for a glimpse into the city's rich past. Take a trip to the Yu Garden, a classical garden featuring picturesque rock formations, pavilions, and ponds. Then meander through the adjoining Old Town bazaar where you can savor the local street food, purchase unique souvenirs, and admire the traditional Chinese architecture. Conclude the day with a visit to Tianzifang, a maze-like quarter of alleyways and narrow streets lined with cafes, galleries, and boutiques.

Day 2: Immerse Yourself in Local Culture and Shop to Your Heart's Content

Experience the vibrant culture of Shanghai on your second day in the city. Begin by visiting the Jade Buddha Temple, an awe-inspiring temple that houses two jade Buddha statues brought from Burma over a century ago. Next, head to the Shanghai Museum, where you can admire a stunning collection of Chinese art and artifacts, including porcelain, furniture, calligraphy, and paintings.

In the afternoon, engage in some retail therapy at Nanjing Road, one of the busiest shopping districts in the world. Here you can find luxury boutiques, department stores, and street vendors selling everything from designer clothes to cheap souvenirs. For a more local experience, journey to the Fabric Market, where you can have customized clothing made to fit you perfectly in just a few hours. Complete your day with an unforgettable sunset cruise along the Huangpu River, admiring the stunning nighttime skyline of Shanghai.

Day 3: Day Tripping and Savoring Local Cuisine

On your third and final day in Shanghai, venture beyond the city to visit nearby attractions. You might opt to visit the gorgeous water town of Zhujiajiao, which is renowned for its picturesque canals, stone bridges, and Ming and Qing dynasty-style architecture. Alternatively, you could explore the peaceful Qibao Ancient Town, which is just a short subway ride from the city center.

No matter what you choose, be sure to indulge in some local cuisine along the way. Yunnan Road is the perfect spot to indulge in street food, where street vendors set up in the evenings, selling a variety of affordable foods like fried dumplings and soup noodles. If you're looking for something more formal, head over to Fu 1039, which serves contemporary Shanghainese dishes in a beautifully renovated lane house.

These are just a few of the many exquisite experiences you can have in Shanghai, a city that embraces history, culture, and modern innovation. By spending three days exploring this metropolis, you can immerse yourself in its delights and start your lifelong love affair with Shanghai.