Shanghai had always been on our travel wishlist, but nothing quite prepared us for how dynamic, charming, and endlessly surprising this city would be. Over seven days, we explored everything from futuristic skyscrapers to heritage streets, magical theme parks and calming city walks. Here’s a look back at our unforgettable 7D6N adventure.
We kicked things off bright and early on Day 1, starting before sunrise and heading to the airport with that familiar mix of excitement and sleepiness. After landing in Shanghai, our first mission was to grab lunch at the airport, comforting tonkatsu, followed by some freshly baked bread for the next day’s breakfast. A smooth Didi ride took us straight to the heart of magic: Shanghai Disneyland. Checking into the Disneyland Hotel felt like stepping into a storybook, and the evening was spent exploring the resort grounds and soaking in the atmosphere.
Day 2 was fully reserved for Disneyland, and the early start was absolutely worth it. From classic rides to parades, popcorn to photos, the park dazzled from morning to night. It was a day of pure fun and childhood wonder, and easily one of the highlights of the entire trip. Zootopia was the highlight of the trip!!
Day 3 marked a transition from fantasy to the city. After breakfast and checking out, we headed to the Bicester Village outlet mall via ferry for a relaxed lunch and light shopping. By late afternoon, we moved to our next base along Nanjing Road. As dusk arrived, we made our way to Lujiazui, where the Shanghai Tower’s observatory provided jaw-dropping views of the city bathed in sunset colours. Standing 118 floors above ground, the landscape looked like toys!
On Day 4, we shifted gears to explore the cultural side of Shanghai. Our first stop was the historic Jing’an Temple, a striking blend of ancient architecture and urban surroundings. From there, we wandered through Nanjing West Road, visiting places like Zhangyuan, Fengshengli, Wujiang Road Pedestrian Street and the Starbucks Reserve Roastery. After an early dinner, the evening crescendoed with the ERA Acrobatics Show—an hour of breathtaking stunts and incredible storytelling.
Day 5 brought us to the Sihang Warehouse, an important historical site filled with stories of bravery. Later in the afternoon, we explored the famed Yuyuan area—Yuyuan Garden, Chenghuangmiao and Shanghai Old Street—transforming into a magical landscape of lanterns and lights as night fell. The atmosphere was festive, lively and deeply atmospheric.
Day 6 was our city-walk day, tracing the picturesque streets of Wukang Road, Anfu Road and Wulumuqi Middle Road. Charming cafés, boutique shops and leafy streets gave us a glimpse of slow-paced, community-centred living in one of China’s busiest cities. We wrapped up the evening with a peaceful ferry ride offering stunning views of the Bund’s evening skyline for only 2 RMB—one of Shanghai’s best-kept secrets.
Before we knew it, Day 7 arrived. With our bags packed and hearts full, we bid farewell to Shanghai’s brilliant mix of heritage and modernity. In the quiet early hours past midnight, we boarded our flight and headed back to Australia—already reminiscing about our magical week and dreaming of our next adventure.
