The Ultimate 4-Day Shanghai Guide: City Highlights & Suzhou/Hangzhou Excursion

Ready for an unforgettable China travel experience? This comprehensive 4-Day Shanghai Guide is designed to immerse you in the best of the city—from historic landmarks to futuristic marvels—plus a stunning neighboring excursion.

To enjoy the most pleasant weather and beautiful scenery, we highly recommend planning your visit during the comfortable seasons of Spring or Autumn.

Travel Essential: Alipay

Seamless and hassle-free travel in the bustling, modern city of Shanghai requires using modern payment methods. Be sure to download and set up Alipay (or WeChat Pay) well before you arrive in the city—these apps are absolutely essential for a smooth experience. Whether you’re buying snacks from street vendors, paying for metro rides, or making purchases at countless shops and restaurants, these payment apps will make your life so much easier.

The 4-Day Shanghai Tourist Itinerary

Day 1: Shanghai’s Historic Heart and Night Views

This day focuses on the essential cultural and historical Shanghai tourist attractions.

Destination	Transportation	Estimated Cost (USD/RMB)
Shanghai Museum	Metro Line 1, 2, or 8 to People’s Square Station.	Free Entry (CNY 0) for the main exhibits.
Yu Garden (Yuyuan Garden)	Metro Line 10/14 to Yuyuan Garden Station.	Approx. $4–$6 (CNY 30–40), depending on the season.
Nanjing Road	Walkable from Yu Garden area or People’s Square.	Free
The Bund & Night Cruise	Metro Line 2/10 to East Nanjing Road Station (then walk).	Bund Walk: Free. Night Boat Cruise: Approx. $26–$35 (CNY 180–250).

Day 2: Culture, Modernity, and City Towers

Morning (Charm): Tian Zi Fang.
- Transportation: Metro Line 9 to Dapuqiao Station.
- Visit the artsy alleyways of Tian Zi Fang. This charming area, full of boutiques, studios, and cafés, offers a glimpse of old Shikumen architecture blended with contemporary life.
Afternoon (Skyline): Oriental Pearl Tower.
- Transportation: Metro Line 2 to Lujiazui Station.
- Estimated Cost: Approx. $30–$38 (CNY 200–260) for the two-sphere observation deck.
- Head across the river to Pudong. For panoramic views, visit the observation deck of the Oriental Pearl Tower or another skyscraper nearby for a stunning perspective on the city.
Evening: Enjoy dinner in the former French Concession or revisit a local market.

Day 3: Magic Day at Shanghai Disneyland

Full Day: Shanghai Disneyland.
- Transportation: Metro Line 11 to Disney Resort Station (The final stop).
- Estimated Cost (Weekday): Approx. $65–$80 (CNY 475–580), varies by date/tier.
- Dedicate a whole day to fun at the magical theme park. To minimize wait times, it is strongly recommended to plan your visit on a weekday to experience shorter queues and enjoy the rides and shows without the peak weekend crowds.

Day 4: Day Trip Excursion: Suzhou & Hangzhou

Full Day: Suzhou and Hangzhou Excursion. Conclude your 4-Day Shanghai Guide with a taste of the surrounding regions.
- Transportation: Take the High-Speed Rail (G or D trains) from Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station.
- Estimated Cost (Round Trip): Shanghai to Suzhou: Approx. $10–$20 (CNY 70–140) one way (Second Class).
- Suzhou: Known as the “Venice of the East” for its stunning classical gardens and canals.
- Hangzhou: Famous for the West Lake (Xihu) and its tranquil beauty.
This Suzhou and Hangzhou excursion is a perfect addition to any China travel tour package, showcasing the breathtaking landscapes and traditional beauty outside the main city.

General Shanghai Public Transport Tip: Shanghai’s Metro is efficient and affordable. Most single-trip rides within the central city cost between $0.40–$1.50 (CNY 3–10). Use the Alipay app’s transport feature to pay seamlessly.