Sophia
August 31, 2025
Last weekend, I embarked on a relaxed yet lively Shanghai weekend trip that lasted 2 days and 1 night. The plan was simple: soak up the vibrant city atmosphere, enjoy authentic experiences, and still feel light and 轻松愉快 throughout. I settled on a convenient lodging near Nanjing Road Walk Street and the famous Bund (外滩), which turned out to be perfect for getting around this dynamic city.
Getting to Shanghai was smooth — options between high-speed rail stops like Shanghai Station, Shanghai South Station, and Shanghai Hongqiao Station or flights to Pudong International Airport gave me flexibility depending on schedule and budget. Here’s my detailed Shanghai travel guide for anyone looking to explore the best bits of the city within a brief but rewarding time frame.
Our day started with the buzz of Nanjing Road Walk Street, Shanghai’s iconic shopping avenue. Early morning felt surprisingly calm, with just enough people to create that pleasant urban vibe without crowds feeling overwhelming. Window shopping quickly turned into grabbing a few snacks from local vendors — the smell of freshly baked pastries and roasted chestnuts filled the air, tempting me to try everything.
Walking along this street, I couldn’t help but notice the architecture: the fusion of old colonial-style buildings with modern glass facades, a snapshot of Shanghai’s fascinating history and rapid modernization. It felt wonderful to be in the middle of it all without rushing, which made the experience more authentic and grounded.
After a satisfying morning, we headed towards The Bund (外滩), which is just a short walk from Nanjing Road. The skyline views from here never fail to impress — rows of historical buildings on one side and the futuristic skyscrapers of Pudong on the other. I felt the perfect mix of old and new watching the boats glide along the Huangpu River, their wakes ripple in the afternoon light.
For lunch, we chose a riverside café where I could admire the famous Shanghai skyline, savoring local dishes such as steamed soup dumplings (xiaolongbao) that were delicate yet packed with flavor. This location gave a calm yet immersive feeling of the city’s heartbeat.
As night fell, we booked a Huangpu River cruise — a classic choice recommended in many Shanghai travel articles (like the thorough Frommer’s Shanghai itinerary). Floating under illuminated bridges and beneath towering skyscrapers with their lights reflecting on the water felt magical. This moment was both relaxing and exciting, capturing Shanghai’s charm perfectly.
On our second morning, I decided to explore a quieter cultural gem, the Jade Buddha Temple. Walking here felt peaceful and contemplative after the energetic previous day. The gleaming jade statues inside the temple fascinated me, and the serene courtyards gave plenty of space for quiet reflection on this quick trip.
For lunch, we moved to Xintiandi, known for its blend of traditional Shikumen architecture and upscale modernity. There’s something special about savoring authentic Shanghai cuisine in these cobblestone streets lined with cafés and boutiques. We found a cozy spot where I enjoyed dumplings and a fragrant cup of tea, chatting with fellow travelers and locals alike. The vibe here was laid-back, perfectly matching the feeling of 轻松愉快 from the entire trip.
In the afternoon, we chose something a bit off the usual tourist path – 1933 Old Millfun. This former slaughterhouse-turned-creative hub felt like a step into another world, full of interesting shops, art spaces, and quirky cafés. Exploring its narrow corridors and viewing the unique industrial architecture was a highlight that brought a fresh angle to my Shanghai 2 days itinerary.
Choosing where to stay really influences your trip vibe. For my Shanghai accommodation, being close to Nanjing Road and the Bund was ideal — easy access to major sights and vibrant nightlife while staying in a calm neighborhood. Many hotels in this area offer comfortable rooms with great city views, and it made moving around simple on foot or via short rides.
Regarding Shanghai transportation, I relied on both the subway and taxis, which run efficiently throughout the city. The three major high-speed train stations—Shanghai Station, Shanghai South Station, and Shanghai Hongqiao Station—connected me seamlessly with nearby regions. For arrivals and departures by air, Pudong International Airport offers excellent transport links, including maglev trains and airport shuttles which speed up the commute into the city.
For a detailed guide on getting around and hotel recommendations, you can also check our comprehensive Shanghai travel tips article.
Looking back on this carefully paced Shanghai weekend travel guide, I felt how a city known for its fast pace can also offer pockets of tranquility and genuine moments to enjoy. It showed me that even with a brief stay, a Shanghai 2 days itinerary can yield a rich experience filled with iconic sights, cultural moments, and local flavors. Staying near Nanjing Road and the Bund made all the difference, facilitating easy access while keeping things relaxed and enjoyable.
Choosing the right Shanghai accommodation and knowing your Shanghai transportation options beforehand can truly elevate the quality of your trip. With that in mind, I can confidently say we managed a 90% pass on seeing and enjoying this mesmerizing city’s soul within our short adventure! If you’re planning your own getaway, I hope this guide inspires you to experience a similar joyful and effortless visit.
A weekend trip of 2 days and 1 night is enough to cover main attractions such as Nanjing Road, The Bund, Jade Buddha Temple, and Xintiandi with a relaxed pace.
Staying near Nanjing Road walking street and The Bund is highly recommended for its convenience to major sights, dining, and transportation options.
The subway system is fast and extensive. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are also convenient. High-speed train stations and Pudong Airport connect well to the city center.
Yes, an evening river cruise is a classic way to experience Shanghai’s stunning city lights and skyline from a unique perspective.
Absolutely! Places like 1933 Old Millfun offer a glimpse into Shanghai’s creative scene beyond the typical landmarks, perfect for a short visit.
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