Day 1: Exploring the Bund and Nanjing Road

If you only have two and a half days in Shanghai, you can't miss a visit to the famous Bund. Start your day by taking a stroll along this beautiful waterfront promenade and admiring the stunning skyline of Pudong across the Huangpu River.

Afterwards, head to one of the oldest streets in Shanghai, Nanjing Road, which is a shopper's paradise. This bustling commercial street offers a wide range of retail shops, from big shopping malls to small boutiques selling a variety of goods, including fashion, cosmetics, souvenirs, and local delicacies.

While you're there, make sure to pop into the Shanghai flagship store of China's oldest department store, Yuyuan Shopping Mall. The mall offers everything from local handicrafts to high-end fashion and jewelry. Don't forget to stop by the famous Nanjing Pedestrian Street for some more shopping and dining options.

Day 2: Exploring the Yu Garden and French Concession

Start your day with a visit to the Yu Garden, one of the most famous classical gardens in China. This beautifully-designed garden boasts stunning rock formations, elaborate pavilions, and tranquil ponds, surrounded by lush greenery. You can easily spend a few hours here, wandering around and enjoying the peaceful scenery.

Afterwards, take a stroll through the charming French Concession, a residential area in Shanghai that is known for its beautiful tree-lined streets, traditional Chinese buildings, and European-style architecture. Stop by the trendy Tianzifang area for a taste of Shanghai's contemporary arts and culture scene.

For lunch, head to the nearby Xintiandi, a popular upmarket shopping and dining destination in the heart of Shanghai. The area features a mix of historic shikumen ("stone gate") houses and modern architecture, with high-end shops and restaurants scattered throughout.

Day 3: Exploring the Shanghai Museum and Oriental Pearl Tower

On your final day in Shanghai, start your morning by visiting the Shanghai Museum, which is dedicated to Chinese art and history. The museum holds a vast collection of over 120,000 pieces, including ancient bronze, ceramics, calligraphy, and jade.

Afterwards, head to the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower, one of the tallest buildings in Shanghai. The tower features a panoramic observation deck, offering spectacular views of the city skyline from 360 degrees. You can also visit the Shanghai History Museum, located at the tower's base, to learn more about the city's rich past and culture.

For dinner, head to the nearby Nanjing West Road, a popular commercial street with a wide range of dining options, from traditional local cuisine to international favorites. Or, if you're looking for something more upscale, check out the Bund area, which is home to some of the city's most exclusive restaurants and bars.

With just two and a half days in Shanghai, you can experience some of the city's most iconic attractions, from the Bund to the Oriental Pearl Tower, while also exploring its historic lanes and modern shopping districts. This itinerary will give you a taste of everything that Shanghai has to offer, leaving you with unforgettable memories of this vibrant cosmopolitan city.