Ethan
August 21, 2025
When I first planned my Shanghai travel, I knew I needed a clear plan that packed the city’s energy and highlights into just two days. Shanghai is a dazzling metropolis where ancient charm meets modern marvels, and there’s something about its vibrant streets and legendary landmarks that I simply couldn’t wait to discover. The famous Nanjing Road promised an immersion into a century-old commercial tradition, while the East Pearl Tower offered a breathtaking viewpoint to watch the city light up at night. With just 2 days to explore, I mapped out a 2-day Shanghai itinerary that balanced iconic spots with authentic experiences. Here’s the story of how it unfolded, including recommendations that helped me experience all the best Shanghai sightseeing has to offer.
I started my first day by wandering along Nanjing Road. This street has such a rich history — it’s often called “The 100-year-old Commercial Street,” and you can really feel that legacy in the architecture and bustling shops. Walking there felt like stepping through time, with a blend of old storefronts and flashing neon signs that light up as dusk falls. I took my time appreciating the vibrant window displays and local street snacks.
For more tips on exploring iconic streets in Shanghai, check out our related article on Best Streets to Explore in Shanghai.
In the evening, I made my way to the East Pearl Tower. Standing on the observation deck, I was literally standing at the edge of the clouds, looking down at the luminous flames of the city. It was honestly astonishing — the glittering lights of Shanghai stretched into the horizon in every direction. The excitement I felt was overwhelming, a real highlight of my Shanghai sightseeing experience.
The Oriental Pearl Tower’s official site explains how its design reflects Shanghai’s culture and futuristic ambition, adding meaning to my visit beyond the spectacular views they offer (source).
My second day was dedicated to exploring other less touristy but equally fascinating parts of the city. From quaint backstreets to cultural institutions, this day brought a different flavor of Shanghai that contrasted nicely with the first day’s bustle.
I wandered through Yuyuan Garden, basking in its peaceful courtyards and classical Chinese architecture. The surrounding Old City Market was full of life and offered souvenirs, crafts, and snacks that gave a taste of local life. This was a quiet, almost meditative counterpoint to the dazzling energy of the previous day’s sightseeing.
In the afternoon, I walked The Bund, a storied waterfront area with an impressive colonial skyline and views across the Huangpu River to Pudong’s skyscrapers. It’s one of the best spots to appreciate Shanghai’s evolution—from historic European architecture to ultra-modern towers.
To help plan multiple city stops efficiently, I followed a thorough route planner shared on Nick Kembel’s blog, which provided useful timing advice and highlighted must-see areas near The Bund.
The tranquility of Jing’an Temple offered a spiritual pause before the city’s nighttime spectacle. I admired its golden Buddha statues and delicate carvings, tapping into a side of Shanghai that feels both timeless and deeply cultural.
By stepping off the beaten path after my packed first day, I felt like I was uncovering some of the true heart of Shanghai sightseeing beyond its modern façade.
For a more detailed breakdown of Shanghai highlights, especially for beginners, the Shanghai Highlights Travel Guide on ChinaWink is a fantastic resource.
Reflecting on my Shanghai travel journey, this 2-day Shanghai itinerary delivered everything I hoped for. Walking along Nanjing Road, I could feel the city’s historic pulse, while the breathtaking views from the East Pearl Tower left me genuinely amazed — standing at the edge of the clouds, I looked down at the city’s dazzling lights and felt truly 惊艳 (amazed). Of course, mixing in some quieter moments at places like Yuyuan Garden and Jing’an Temple gave a satisfying balance to the bustling energy.
If you’re planning to get the most out of your visit, this guide blends the best Shanghai sightseeing spots with authentic local flavor. To continue preparing for your trip, consider checking out the full Shanghai 2-day travel guide on ChinaWink for additional tips and detailed maps.
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