Yu Garden – a classical Chinese garden from the Ming dynasty (16th century) with pavilions, artificial mountains and ponds. Nearby – Chenghuangmiao Temple and the Old Town Bazaar, where you can try famous soup dumplings (xiaolongbao).

• Be sure to visit the Huxinting teahouse on the water.
• After the garden, take a walk along Fangbang Road pedestrian street.

The Bund – a 1.5 km waterfront with 26 colonial buildings. It offers a panoramic view of the Pudong skyscrapers. The best time for a walk is a sunny day or sunset.

Move to Lujiazui area (metro Lujiazui, Line 2). Here are the three main towers: Shanghai Tower (632 m, observation deck on 118th floor), Shanghai World Financial Center SWFC (100th floor, “bottle opener”) and Jin Mao Tower. Choose one observation deck.

• After the observatory, walk along Pudong’s Binjiang Avenue.
• You can also visit the museum on the 1st floor of Shanghai Tower.

Return to the Bund to see the skyscrapers light up. Optionally – a cruise on the Huangpu River (50 minutes, from 120 yuan). Dinner at a restaurant overlooking the river or in the Xintiandi area.

Xintiandi – an area where old shikumen houses have been transformed into trendy restaurants and boutiques. Next to it is the French Concession with plane‑tree lined avenues, 1920s villas and cafes. Great place for breakfast and a stroll.

Tianzifang – a maze of lanes where restored shikumen houses host artists, designers, souvenir workshops and cosy cafes. Perfect for leisurely walks, buying unique items and tasting craft beer.

Shanghai Museum – one of the best in China: collection of ancient bronzes, ceramics, calligraphy and jade. Admission is free (passport required). The building is shaped like an ancient bronze vessel. Next to it – People's Square with fountains and green areas.

End the second day on the main shopping street Nanjing Road. The pedestrian East Nanjing Road shines with lights, a tourist tram runs along it. Here you can buy souvenirs, try fried dumplings (shengjian) or have dinner in one of the many restaurants.