Get Your Travel Plan
July 25, 2025
7 viewsUltimate 5-Day Shanghai Family & Food Travel Guide on a Budget
Explore Shanghai's iconic landmarks, savor local delicacies, and enjoy family-friendly activities without breaking the bank.
Shanghai TravelFamily TravelFood TravelBudget Travel
Quick Overview
Chinese Name: 上海
Location: Eastern China
Famous For: The Bund,Oriental Pearl Tower,Shanghai Disneyland,Nanjing Road,Xiaolongbao
Daily Cost: $50-80 per person
Best Season: Spring (Mar-May), Autumn (Sep-Nov)
Introduction: Why visit Shanghai?
Shanghai seamlessly blends futuristic skyscrapers with historic neighborhoods, offering family-friendly attractions like Shanghai Disneyland, culinary adventures in Yu Garden markets, and cultural experiences along the The Bund. With efficient public transport and diverse budget-friendly options, it's perfect for families seeking both modern thrills and traditional charm.
Best time to visit Shanghai
Ideal Seasons: Spring (Mar-May) and Autumn (Sep-Nov) offer mild weather and minimal rainfall
🌱Spring: Perfect for outdoor exploration with cherry blossoms at Century Park (12°C-20°C)
☀️Summer: Hot and humid (28°C+), but ideal for indoor attractions like Shanghai Museum and discounted hotel rates
🍁Autumn: Crisp autumn air (18°C-25°C) for scenic river cruises and fall foliage at Jing'an Park
❄️Winter: Cold but festive atmosphere with Christmas markets (5°C-10°C), best for budget travelers
Arriving and leaving Shanghai
Extensive metro system (Line 1-19), bike-sharing (Mobike), and budget taxis. Get a Shanghai Public Transportation Card ($5 deposit, rechargeable).
Shanghai Pudong International Airport [Recommended]
40km east of city center with direct Maglev train to Longyang Road (7 min, $8). Taxi costs $15-20 (60 min)
Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station
Major high-speed rail hub connecting to Beijing (4.5 hours), Hangzhou (1 hour). Metro line 2 access.
Where to stay in Shanghai: Best Neighborhood
Xuhui District
Historic French Concession with boutique hotels near Xujiahui Park. Family-friendly with good international schools.
Jing'an District
Central location near People's Square and Nanjing Road shopping. Modern amenities and 24/7 convenience stores.
Top Things to do in Shanghai
The Bund
Iconic riverside promenade with Art Deco buildings and stunning skyline views. Night light shows start at 18:00.
Shanghai Disneyland
Asia's first Disney park with Enchanted Storybook Castle and exclusive Marvel attractions. Use FastPass system.
Yu Garden & Bazaar
600-year-old classical garden followed by souvenir shopping and street food in adjacent markets.
%3Amax_bytes(150000)%3Astrip_icc()%2Fnight-view-of-yu-garden-in-shanghai-584838896-5a991b3031283400374fe855.jpg&w=1920&q=75)
Tips
Purchase combo tickets for multiple attractions. Visit museums on weekdays for fewer crowds.
What to eat: Shanghai food Guide
Recommended Restaurants
1. Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant
Historic eatery in Yu Garden serving world-famous xiaolongbao ($1.5/piece) and sweet osmanthus糕
2. Yang's Fried Dumplings
Popular local chain with crispy pork dumplings ($0.8/pc) and spicy wontons. Multiple branches near metro stations.
Signature Dishes
1. Xiaolongbao
Juicy pork dumplings at Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant (founded 1900). Try crab roe version in autumn.
2. Crab Roe Noodles
Luxurious hand-pulled noodles at Le Shang Seafood Restaurant near Nanjing Road
Shanghai itinerary 5 Days
DAY 1
🍳Breakfast at Yang's Fried Dumplings:Try pork dumplings and soy milk
Visit Yu Garden:Explore classical gardens and pavilions
🥗Lunch at Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant:Signature xiaolongbao tasting
Explore The Bund:Walk along Huangpu River and view skyline
🍽️Dinner at Waitan 12:Modern Shanghainese cuisine with river views
Shanghai Travel FAQs
Welcome to China
Go2China
Your AI-powered China travel companion