My Beijing & Shanghai 10-Day Adventure (Part 2: Itinerary)
Our 10-day trip was split between Beijing (5 days, 4 nights) and Shanghai (6 days, 5 nights). We wanted a relaxing pace, so our itinerary was pretty chill. Here's where we went! If you'd like a detailed itinerary, feel free to message me and I can send you the file for easier planning.
I've also shared my pre-trip preparation tips in a group post, so you can check that out too.
I. Beijing
1. The Forbidden City (故宫)
- Book tickets online 7 days in advance. Your passport is your entry ticket.
- Rent an audio guide �C super helpful (20 RMB).
- Tripods aren't allowed. Snacks and drinks are okay!
2. Temple of Heaven (天坛)
Purchase tickets at the gate using your passport (28 RMB per person).
3. Great Wall of China �C Mutianyu Section
- We booked a day tour on Klook. It included a chairlift up and a toboggan ride down �C so fun!
- Purchase the round-trip cable car ticket to reach a higher point.
- The tour guide will contact you via email/WhatsApp before the trip to confirm the departure time.
4. Universal Studios Beijing (环球影城）
- Buy tickets on Klook. Your passport is your entry ticket.
- Snacks and drinks are allowed (no tripods/selfie sticks). There are free water refill stations, so bring a bottle!
- There's a cool parade at 4 PM on the main avenue.
- Download the Universal app for maps and ride wait times.
5. Wangfujing Pedestrian Street (王府井）
II. Shanghai
1. The Bund (外滩）
- Great for photos morning or evening.
- Don't miss the lights turning on around 6 PM.
2. Disneyland (上海迪士尼）
- Buy early bird tickets on Klook and early entry on the Disneyland app.
- Snacks and drinks are allowed (no tripods/selfie sticks). Free water refill stations are available, so bring a water bottle!
3. Wukang Building (武康大楼)
Wander along Wukang Road for cute shops, cafes, and photo spots.
4. Yu Garden (豫园）
- Visit at night for the stunning lights.
- Lots of restaurants and bubble tea shops in the area.
- There's a souvenir shop right at the entrance with cute and cheap magnets (10 RMB each).
5. Xintiandi (新天地）
Another great area for walking and taking pictures, mostly European restaurants.
6. North Bund Park (北外滩滨江路地-魔都巨蛋）
7. Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street (南京路）
8. Starbucks Reserve Roastery �C Largest Starbucks in China （星巴克臻选上海烘焙工坊）
9. Oriental Pearl Tower (东方明珠塔）
- There's a Disney Flagship Store (迪士尼(旗舰店) here. A good alternative if you don't visit Disneyland, or want to buy more souvenirs.
- Check out the buildings in Luijiazui.
III. Important Notes
- We arrived at PEK Airport. No need to scan fingerprints at the machines, just head to the designated area, fill out the form, and wait in line for immigration.
- Immigration officers may ask questions like who you're traveling with, how long you're staying, and which cities you're visiting. Just answer truthfully based on your travel plans.
- Always carry your passport, as it serves as your entry ticket to many attractions.
- Bring tissues and, if possible, use restrooms in shopping malls, as the restrooms at attractions aren't always the cleanest.
- For affordable souvenirs in Shanghai, find Exit 1 at Yu Garden station, turn left, and you'll see many souvenir shops.
These are the places we managed to visit. There are so many more places to explore, but due to time constraints and this being our first trip to China, we focused on the "must-see" spots. Feel free to ask if you have any questions!
