Sophia
August 24, 2025
I’ve always been fascinated by the energy and charm of Shanghai, and I finally decided to plan a Shanghai 2 days travel guide that balances iconic sights with strolls by the water. This trip wasn’t just a whirlwind; it was a chance to soak in the city’s unique blend of history and modern life. One of the highlights that stuck with me was discovering how convenient it is to walk to the Nanjing Road beach, a peaceful escape near the bustling shopping street. In this article, I’ll share my experience navigating the Shanghai subway, choosing the best Shanghai accommodation, and fitting so much into my 2-day itinerary.
The day began with a smooth ride on the Shanghai subway, which I found extremely user-friendly and efficient. The metro network covers almost every corner and really makes moving around the city stress-free. I took Line 2 from the airport and made my way toward the heart of the city.
Once I reached the famous Nanjing Road, Shanghai’s renowned pedestrian shopping street, I was immediately drawn to the lively atmosphere: the dazzling storefronts, street performers, and the local crowd bustling by. But my favorite discovery was the Nanjing Road beach, a serene spot just a few steps away. I hadn’t expected there to be a beach setting nearby, and walking there to see the gentle waves and soft sand felt like a breath of fresh air amidst urban life.
For lunch, I stopped by a local spot well-loved by residents, where I sampled some Shanghai specialties like xiaolongbao (soup dumplings). The food scene here felt genuine, far from tourist traps. After the meal, I rented a bike to explore the nearby lanes—this was my introduction to combining Metro and riding as the best way to see the city in a limited time.
In the afternoon, I wandered along The Bund, the iconic waterfront promenade that overlooks the modern skyline of Pudong. With the Huangpu River flowing gently by, it was the perfect place to see the fascinating contrast between old colonial architecture and futuristic skyscrapers. The light was ideal for photos and just standing there, I felt the pulse of Shanghai’s past and future mingling.
If you want to dive deeper into exploring Shanghai’s neighborhoods and historical landmarks after your day around Nanjing Road and the Bund, you might enjoy our detailed Shanghai Historical Walk Guide.
After a cozy night in one of the pricier yet well-located hotels near the central metro stations — a reminder that Shanghai accommodation can be a bit expensive depending on the area — I was ready for a second day packed with more discovery.
My morning started with a visit to Yu Garden, a place that instantly felt like a peaceful retreat from the urban rush. The classical Chinese gardens, with their intricate rockeries, koi ponds, and traditional pavilions, were absolutely charming. I joined some early visitors snapping photos and enjoying tea in a nearby teahouse, soaking up the age-old atmosphere.
Heading back towards the part of the city I’d explored on Day 1, I stopped at a riverside cafe where I could rest my legs and enjoy views of the Huangpu River while savoring delicacies from the local Shanghai cuisine.
The afternoon was filled with a lovely bike ride through peaceful neighborhoods near Nanjing Road Beach. Because Shanghai’s transport options are so convenient, especially when combining the Shanghai subway and bike rentals, getting around was more relaxing than I imagined. I visited some smaller attractions, like the nearby mosque and quaint art galleries, that gave the trip a more personal feel.
For those considering more in-depth explorations, the 5-Day 4-Night Nanny-Level Guide offers a fantastic overview of Shanghai’s hidden gems and major sights, according to Trip.com’s expert itineraries.
If you want detailed advice on moving around Shanghai, check out our comprehensive post on Shanghai Subway Travel Guide.
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