Shanghai in a Day: The Citywalk That Won't Break the Bank
Who can resist the allure of Shanghai’s stunning sights? I mean, come on, I could wander these streets a gazillion times and still find myself giddy with excitement! And guess what? After a day packed with exploring and indulging, I barely spent 600 yuan. Talk about bang for your buck!
The Ultimate Citywalk Itinerary
Start at Xujiahui Cathedral (徐家汇天主大教堂), then meander through Xujiahui Academy (徐家汇书院), Shanghai Jiao Tong University (上海交通大学), Wukang Road (武康路), Wukang Mansion (武康大楼), the glamorous Sina Building (沙美大楼), and wrap it up with a sunset stroll along the Bund (外滩), a peek at the Oriental Pearl Tower (东方明珠), a dash through Duoyun Books Flagship Store (朵云书院·旗舰店), and finally, the Lujiazui Trio (陆家嘴三件套).
1. Xujiahui Cathedral (徐家汇天主大教堂)
(Free Reservation Required)
Hop off at Xujiahui Station, Exit 3, and you’re practically at the cathedral's doorstep. And hey, while you’re there, why not check out the Xujiahui Academy (徐家汇书院) too? No reservation needed.
Hours: Tues-Sat 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM / Last entry at 3:30 PM (or so they say)
2. Shanghai Jiao Tong University (上海交通大学)
Just a left turn and a short stroll from Xujiahui Cathedral, and bam, you're soaking in the vibes of academia with a side of deep historical essence right at the university's gates. They’re cool with visitors, so feel free to wander.
3. Wukang Mansion (武康大楼)
A mere 6-minute walk from Jiao Tong University and you’ll find yourself at Wukang Mansion. Trust me, it’s impossible to take a bad photo here. #InstaGold
4. Sina Building (沙美大楼)
From Jiao Tong University’s Exit 7 to East Nanjing Road’s Exit 6, a 500m walk will take you to the Sina Building. This classic European-style building has stood tall through a century of Shanghai’s twists and turns. A must-visit for those timeless snaps.
5. The Bund at Sunset (外滩)
Stroll down East Beijing Road and let the parade of European architectural marvels take your breath away. Every corner screams, "Snap a pic of me!"
6. Oriental Pearl Tower (东方明珠)
Keep heading forward to find yourself at the base of the Oriental Pearl Tower. The view from the tower's southwest corner is nothing short of spectacular, capturing the essence of Shanghai’s glitzy charm.
7. Duoyun Books Flagship Store (朵云书院·旗舰店)
(Reservation Needed)
A quick cab ride from the Oriental Pearl Tower, and you’ll land at the doorstep of Duoyun Books. If you’re anything like me, no new city visit is complete without a bookstore pilgrimage. Dive into the ocean of words and feel reborn!
Hours: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM, book your spot!
8. Lujiazui Trio (陆家嘴三件套)
Just across the street from Duoyun Books, you’ll get up close and personal with Shanghai’s CBD giants: the Global Financial Center (环球金融中心), Jin Mao Tower (金茂大厦), and Shanghai Tower (上海中心大厦). For that perfect shot, head to the flagpole outside the Grand Hyatt Shanghai – it’s a hotspot for a reason!
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