Do you want to experience the most authentic Shanghai vibe? If so, follow me!


🔥Have you ever dreamed of finding your own quiet corner in a bustling city? Or maybe you want to experience the most authentic Shanghai vibe on the most affordable budget? Today, I’ll take you on a practical and fun 3-day, 2-night Shanghai trip with a budget of only 5000 RMB! Let’s start this exciting urban adventure together! 🚀

Day 1: Check in at Shanghai’s “heart” — The Bund & Nanjing Road 🕌✨
Morning: The Bund’s “Golden Hour” 🌅
Why visit: The Bund is less crowded and more beautiful in the morning, perfect for photos! Stand by the Huangpu River, admire the magnificent Pudong skyscrapers, and feel your mood instantly lift with the morning light! 🌞
Tips: Free! Bring your camera or phone, and make sure it’s fully charged! There are many affordable cafes nearby where you can leisurely enjoy a cup of coffee to start your day ☕
Noon: Local Shanghai cuisine experience — “Lao Jishi” or “Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant” 🍜🥟
Why visit: Authentic Shanghai flavors, affordable prices, and a treat for your taste buds! Around 50-80 RMB per person, satisfying without breaking the bank.
Afternoon: Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street & People’s Square 🛍️
Shopping & sightseeing: Explore century-old shops and experience the blend of Shanghai’s prosperity and modernity. Remember to use WeChat Pay for discounts! 💸
Special recommendation: Don’t forget to visit “Shanghai Grand Cinema” department store for limited edition souvenirs! 🎁
Evening: The Bund night view + sparkling lights 🌃
Tips: Enjoy the Bund’s night view for free, the dazzling lights are absolutely stunning! Bring some snacks and enjoy a romantic time while watching the night scenery.

Day 2: The “secret base” of culture and art 🎨🎭
Morning: Shanghai Museum & People’s Park 🖼️
Highlights: The Shanghai Museum offers free admission and a rich collection to learn about Chinese cultural treasures! Don’t forget your ID card; the queue is worth it! 😉
Lunch recommendation: Nearby snack street with dumplings, soup buns, and Shanghai specialties, about 100 RMB for a full meal!
Afternoon: Tianzifang’s “artistic alley” 🎨
Why visit: An alley full of artistic vibes, with cafes, handicraft shops, and unique galleries! Take photos and feel Shanghai’s “artistic soul” ✨
Tips: Keep your budget between 50-100 RMB and buy some special handmade crafts to take home!
Evening: Riverside promenade & Huangpu River night cruise 🌉🚤
Night cruise recommendation: Choose an affordable river cruise, tickets around 80-150 RMB, to enjoy the brilliant night lights on both sides of the river — definitely worth it!

Day 3: Shanghai’s “oasis” and “future” 🌳🚀
Morning: Century Park or Shanghai Science and Technology Museum 🌿🧬
Century Park: 30 RMB entrance fee, a green oxygen bar to relax and take photos.
Shanghai Science and Technology Museum: 60 RMB entrance fee, great for kids or anyone wanting to experience future technology in a fun and educational way.
Noon: Affordable food in Pudong New Area 🌮
Recommendation: Fast food chains or local snacks in Pudong, budget 100 RMB for a filling meal!
Afternoon: Lujiazui Financial District & Shanghai Tower Observation Deck 🕶️
Highlights: Enjoy the skyscrapers for free at ground level. For a more breathtaking view, buy a ticket to the Shanghai Tower Observation Deck for about 180 RMB to overlook the entire city! Book in advance to save time and effort!

Budget summary 💰
Item Budget (RMB)
Transportation (subway/bus) 800
Food 1500
Tickets & experiences 1500
Shopping & souvenirs 700
Others (tips, snacks) 500
Total within 5000 RMB

Tips 📌
Transportation: Shanghai’s subway system is well-developed; it’s recommended to buy a “Shanghai Public Transportation Card” to save money and convenience!
Accommodation: Choose budget hotels or hostels, priced around 200-300 RMB per night for great value.
Clothing: Shanghai’s spring and autumn weather is changeable, bring a light jacket for comfortable travel.
Interaction: Like this guide? Leave a comment telling me your must-visit spots in Shanghai! Or share your travel stories and join me for a “virtual trip”! 📸

Conclusion: Shanghai is not only a symbol of prosperity but also full of warm little corners waiting for you to discover. Experience it with heart, travel on a budget, and collect abundant memories! 🌈✨
Save and share this guide so more friends can start a “low budget, high quality” Shanghai trip together! 🚀💖

Post by CQ. Becca 25 | Aug 12, 2025

Related Travel Moments

Most Popular Travel Moments