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July 25, 2025
Romantic Shanghai: 5-Day Budget-Friendly Couples' City Exploration
Explore iconic landmarks, hidden alleys, and modern marvels in Shanghai without breaking the bank
Shanghai TravelCouples TravelBudget Travel5 Days Itinerary
Quick Overview
Chinese Name: 上海
Location: East China
Famous For: The Bund night views,Shanghai Disneyland,Yu Garden and City God Temple
Daily Cost: $80-120 per couple
Best Season: Spring (Mar-May) or Autumn (Sep-Nov)
Why Shanghai Makes the Perfect Romantic Escape
Shanghai seamlessly blends historical charm with futuristic skylines, offering couples both cultural depth and modern excitement. From the colonial-era architecture of The Bund to the whimsical magic of Shanghai Disneyland, this city provides endless opportunities for romantic strolls, skyline gazing, and culinary adventures.
Optimal Seasons for Couples' Travel
Ideal Seasons: Mild spring or crisp autumn weather
🌱Spring: Enjoy cherry blossoms at Fuxing Park and pleasant temperatures for outdoor exploration
☀️Summer: Experience vibrant nightlife and indoor attractions to escape humidity
🍁Autumn: Marvel at autumn foliage at Jing'an Sculpture Park with perfect weather
❄️Winter: Cozy up with hot xiao long bao at Nanxiang Bun Restaurant
Arriving and Navigating Shanghai
Metro system (¥3-15 per ride) covers 95% of attractions. Consider 48-hour unlimited pass (~$12)
Shanghai Pudong International Airport [Recommended]
35km from city center with express train connections (20-40 mins). Taxi: ¥300-400 (~$40-55)
Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station
20km from downtown with metro links (10-25 mins). Taxi: ¥100-150 (~$15-20)
Romantic Neighborhoods for Couples
The Bund
Historical charm with easy access to waterfront views and luxury hotels
Xuhui District
Arty vibe with cafes and boutique accommodations near Tianzifang
Must-Experience Activities for Couples
The Bund
Iconic riverside promenade with 1920s architecture and panoramic skyline views
Shanghai Disneyland
Enchanted castle and themed lands perfect for reliving childhood magic together
Yu Garden
Classic Chinese garden with koi ponds, rock formations, and traditional teahouse atmosphere
Tips
Book tickets online to skip queues. Sunset hours offer best photography at waterfront areas.
Shanghai's Must-Taste Dishes and Eateries
Recommended Restaurants
1. Nanxiang Bun Restaurant
Family-run establishment with consistently perfect Xiao Long Bao since 1900
2. Yi Cafe
Rooftop dining at Jing An Shangri-La with city views and affordable fusion cuisine
Signature Dishes
1. Xiao Long Bao
Delicate soup dumplings best eaten by biting the skin first then sipping broth
2. Red Braised Pork
Glossy, tender meat in sweet-savory sauce - authentic Shanghainese comfort food
Shanghai 5-Day Couples Itinerary
DAY 1
🍳Breakfast at Yong Kang Soy Milk Store:Try their signature soy milk with crullers
Visit Yu Garden:Stroll through this Ming Dynasty garden with koi ponds and rockeries
🥗Lunch at Nanxiang Bun Restaurant:Sample their world-famous Xiao Long Bao
Explore City God Temple Bazaar:Bargain for souvenirs and try street snacks
🍽️Dinner at M on the Bund:Contemporary Chinese cuisine with panoramic waterfront views
The Bund Night Walk:Admire illuminated skyscrapers across Huangpu River
DAY 2
🍳Breakfast at Commune by the Great Wall:Artisan coffee and fresh pastries in a designer space
Walk through Tianzifang:Wander through art studios, boutiques, and hidden courtyards
🥗Lunch at Salina Restaurant:Modern Shanghainese cuisine in a charming courtyard setting
Shanghai Art Museum:Rotating exhibitions in a historic bank building
Shanghai Tower Observation Deck:Asia's tallest building with 5D glass skywalk experience
🍽️Dinner at Jin Xuan Cantonese Restaurant:Michelin-starred dim sum with elegant river views
DAY 3
🍳Breakfast at The Nest café:Chic café with excellent flat whites and avocado toast
Huangpu River Cruise:Romantic boat ride past colonial buildings and modern skyline
🥗Lunch at Seaskin Restaurant:Creative seafood dishes in a stylish riverside setting
Explore Aurora Plaza:Contemporary complex with interactive art installations
Sunset at Peace Hotel:Classic jazz bar in historic Art Deco masterpiece
🍽️Dinner at Mr & Mrs Bund:French-inspired modern Chinese cuisine with stunning river views
DAY 4
🍳Breakfast at hotel:Early start for full day at park
Enter Shanghai Disneyland:Priority access to Enchanted Storybook Castle
🥗Lunch at Royal Banquet Hall:Dine with Disney princesses in castle setting
Experience Soaring Over the Horizon:Immersive flight simulation over global landmarks
🍽️Dinner at Lily's Kitchen:Casual American-style eats after fireworks show
Return to city:Relax after magical day with nightcap at hotel bar
DAY 5
🍳Breakfast at Heen Coffee:Try their signature cold brew with croissant
Walk through Fuxing Park:Watch locals practice tai chi and admire French gardens
🥗Lunch at Fu 1088:Heritage Shanghainese cuisine in restored mansion
Shop at Shanghai Propaganda Poster Art Centre:Unique communist era memorabilia
🍽️Final dinner at Ultraviolet by Paul Pairet:Multi-sensory dining experience with synchronized visuals
Shanghai Travel FAQs
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