Shanghai Solo Travel Guide: Unfiltered & Budget-Friendly! ❌❌
Dreaming of Shanghai in autumn? Let golden leaves fuel your wanderlust! 🌟
♥️ This guide is perfect for independent, budget-conscious travelers who love to explore!
Hanoi to Shanghai: My Adventure Begins
1. Flights & Immigration:
My journey to Shanghai involved two layovers in Hong Kong (without entering mainland China) and one in Shenzhen, where I completed immigration. Here's a tip: immigration at Shenzhen Airport felt much smoother than at Shanghai Pudong. If it's your first time and you want to avoid potential hold-ups, consider flights through Shenzhen!
2. Hotels: Finding Your Perfect Stay
I stayed in four hotels in Shanghai, including three in Pudong (around $30-$40 USD/night) and one 4-star hotel near The Bund (around $65-$85 USD/night). China takes lodging for foreigners seriously. To ensure a stress-free trip, I recommend booking through me. Alternatively, double-check with the hotel when booking online. I learned this the hard way when a hotel claimed to accept foreigners, then turned me away at midnight! 😭
Here are some hotels I've personally tested:
- 如家酒店 (Home Inn): ~400-450 RMB. Centrally located, 3km from The Bund. Simple, but with friendly staff. This chain is reliable and affordable throughout China. Great 3-4 star option.
- The Westin Bund Center Shanghai: ~650 RMB. Central location, 1.5km from Shanghai Old Street and the City God Temple, 2.5km from the Shanghai World Financial Center.
- Hyatt on the Bund: ~450-550 RMB. Central, 2km from Shanghai Old Street, 2.5km from the City God Temple. Stylish and convenient.
- Pullman Shanghai Jing An: ~500 RMB. Central, 3.5km from the Shanghai World Financial Center, 5km from Century Park, 6km from the Shanghai Museum.
3. Getting Around: Public Transportation is Key
Shanghai's public transport, especially the subway, is fantastic. Ditch the car and embrace the metro! Download 高德地图 (Gaode Map) – it's way better than 百度地图 (Baidu Map) now. Trust me, this app will be your best friend. If you need help using it, feel free to ask!
4. Food & Drink: A Culinary Adventure
I like to eat what I crave! Shanghai food can be salty, but there's a famous bubble tea shop that's a must-try – 上海小吃 (Shanghai Snacks). But be warned, it's pricey! I spent over 358 RMB (>$50 USD) on random snacks, which could have been a lavish Hai Di Lao hot pot feast! Also, my Shanghai friend raved about Hairy Crab – I'm now addicted! :))))
Shanghai Itinerary: My Top Picks
Day 1: Old Town Charm, Pudong Skyscrapers, and Moganshan Mountain
- Pudong: I stayed here for cheaper hotels and easy access to Hangzhou and Suzhou. Of course, I had to hit the supermarket and explore local food.
- Moganshan Mountain: Around 80km from Shanghai (15 RMB entry). This mountain has beautiful bamboo forests with a spooky vibe - perfect for eerie or Wuxia-style photos!
- Pudong Night Markets: Explore the vibrant and beautiful night markets in the Pudong area.
Day 2: Disneyland Shanghai – Pure Magic!
- Disneyland: Get there early! Tickets are around 450 RMB. Seriously, visiting Disneyland is a must-do in Shanghai. It's incredibly beautiful and the rides are amazing. From immersive 4-6D experiences to roller coasters that leave you screaming, it's a day you won't forget.
- Fireworks & Shows: Don't leave before the evening fireworks and shows! They're spectacular and worth staying for. If I had to pay even more than 500 RMB, it's worth it!
Days 3-8: Shanghai City Center – Sightseeing & Check-ins
- The Bund: Visit both day and night. Take a night cruise (around 105 RMB) for stunning views. Morning vibes are good too!
- Trung Nguyen Coffee: A Vietnamese cafe in the heart of Shanghai. It's warm to hear your native language.
- City God Temple & Yu Garden (30 RMB entry): Bustling area near The Bund, filled with street food and crafts. Eat everything from stinky tofu to grilled meats!
- Xintiandi: Historic Shikumen architecture.
- Oriental Pearl Tower: Heard it's expensive to go up (400 RMB), so I just admired it from afar.
- Other Spots: Tian'ai Road, Nanjing Road, 1192弄老上海风情街 (Old Shanghai Style Street), 上海外滩金融中心 (Bund Financial Center).
- Bike ride on the street: Biking in the autumn in Hangzhou is more fun.
- British Museum Shanghai: If you are into art, visit this place. Behind the museum, there is a bird and pigeon park.
- 微缩世界，魔豆四百年 (Miniature World) (80 RMB entry): Miniature Shanghai, history through the ages
- 豫梦世界 (Yu Dream World) (60 RMB entry): Photo and scenery areas.
Important Notes:
Shanghai is HUGE! Beyond visas, flights, and hotels, detailed plans are useless. Pick a few key destinations and wander! Don't rush to tick off every item on someone else's list. Enjoy the beauty of Shanghai!
Author: Thu Hang