Discover Shanghai: 16 curated tours for your May Day holiday adventure
For the upcoming May Day holiday that runs from May 1 to May 5, Shanghai unveils 16 specially curated travel routes across its vibrant districts.
Whether you're drawn to the city's modern skyline, historical sites, or cultural treasures, these itineraries offer a unique blend of experiences. Plan your perfect holiday getaway and uncover the city's hidden gems!
Pudong New Area
Day 1:
🌳Morning: Start your day at Shanghai Expo Culture Park, where you can enjoy panoramic views from the Twin Hills, explore the lush Greenhouse Garden and appreciate the classical beauty of the Shanghai Garden.
🎨Afternoon: Discover art and culture at the China Art Museum.
🌆Evening: Take in the stunning riverside night view at the Mercedes-Benz Arena, followed by a visit to the Qiantan area.
Day 2:
🛍️Morning: Indulge in some retail therapy and leisure activities at Taikoo Li Qiantan.
🌸Afternoon: Visit the New Bund Flower Show, a branch of the Shanghai International Flower Show, and experience the vibrant Intangible Cultural Heritage Life Festival Market at the Qianjiatan Road Temporary Pedestrian Street.
🎭Evening: Enjoy a performance at the Qiantan 31 Performing Arts Center or the Oriental Sports Center. Please check the performance schedule for details.
This itinerary offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, shopping, and entertainment, ensuring a memorable experience in Pudong New Area.
Huangpu district
Day 1:
🏛️Morning: Begin your exploration of Shanghai's modern charm by visiting the historic architecture of RockBund.
🚢Afternoon: Take a scenic cruise along Suzhou Creek for breathtaking skyline views, followed by shopping along the bustling Nanjing Road.
🌺Evening: Stroll through the serene Yuyuan Garden.
🎶Night: Immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife at Show Life, home to the densest concentration of theaters and live performances in the country. Experience a diverse range of art performances, including opera, dance dramas, traditional Chinese opera, musicals, and concerts.
Day 2:
🏘️Morning: Discover the cultural and historical sites of Xintiandi and Sinan Mansions.
🌳Afternoon: Relax in the picturesque Fuxing Park.
🛍️Evening: Head to the Huaihai Road business area for a mix of traditional and trendy shopping experiences.
This itinerary offers a dynamic blend of history, culture, shopping, and entertainment, providing a comprehensive experience in downtown Shanghai.
Jing'an district
🚶Itinerary: Zhangyuan- Jing'an Villa - West Nanjing Road - Mei Long Zhen Restaurant - North Shaanxi Road - Longfeng Attire Flagship Store
🎨Discover the historical and cultural charm of North Shaanxi Road, explore the refined culture and lifestyle at Zhangyuan, and enjoy the vibrant commercial and artistic atmosphere.
Xuhui district
🚶Itinerary: Shanghai Conservatory of Music - Shanghai Museum of Arts and Crafts - Blackstone Apartments - Nie Er Square - Dongping Road - ICCF GARDEN - JZ Club
🎵Hengfu Music Street is known for its music culture and performance venues. Visit the beautiful campus of the Shanghai Conservatory of Music, the Shanghai Museum of Arts and Crafts, and Blackstone Apartments. Also enjoy the vibrant nightlife at JZ Club.
Changning district
🚶Itinerary: Xinhua Road Historical and Cultural Block - Foreign Lane (Xinhua Villas) - Shanghai Film Art Center - Happiness Lane - Columbia Circle (Navy Club, Tsutaya Books, and Sun Ke Villa)
This itinerary connects the buildings designed by Slovakian-born architect Laszlo Hudec, blending history, architecture, cultural innovation, and nature. With short walking times between each stop (5-15 minutes), it's perfect for city walk enthusiasts seeking a rich cultural and leisure experience.
Putuo district
🚶Itinerary: Gaoling Market - Caoyang Xincun - Jade Buddha Temple - M50 Creative Park - Hong Shou Fang
This itinerary cleverly connects Shanghai's historical culture with modern urban life. It begins at the vibrant Gaoling Market, where visitors can experience the authentic flavors and bustling atmosphere of Shanghai.
Next, head to Caoyang Xincun, which preserves traces of mid-20th century life and serves as an ideal place to understand the modern historical changes of Shanghai.
Then, visit the Jade Buddha Temple, where exquisite architecture and a tranquil atmosphere provide an ideal sanctuary for the soul.
The next stop is M50 Creative Park, where you can experience Shanghai's cultural and creative vibe along with the charm of traditional crafts. Here, you'll find numerous artists' studios and exhibition spaces, and you can even engage with intangible cultural heritage items like bamboo weaving.
Finally, conclude your journey at Hong Shou Fang, which blends retro and modern elements, offering the joys of both shopping and dining.
Hongkou district
🎬Itinerary: The Stage observation deck - China Securities Museum - Victory Cinema - Victory Coffee - Zhapu Road - The Pearl livehouse - Shanghai Haipai Cultural Center (The Inlet) - Shanghai Literary Museum - Life Hub @ Bund Central
This itinerary links the skyline of the Bund, revitalized historical buildings, and film and television cultural scenes. It offers an immersive experience where you can explore architecture, touch historical artifacts, and taste local cuisine.
Yangpu district
🏞️Itinerary: Yangpu Riverside - WorldSkills Museum - Royal Workshop of Chinese Brush and Ink - Wujiaochang
As the Huangpu River's tides hit the old waterworks pier, the Yangpu Riverside, known as the "Corridor of Modern Chinese Industry", reveals its history. Each step echoes the industrial past. Here, a century of industrial heritage mixes with global craftsmanship, cultural traditions, and lively nightlife. Choose this itinerary to see the city's blend of history and modern life.
Baoshan district
This two-day itinerary combines the modern riverside scenery with the industrial heritage of Baoshan.
🚢Day 1: Wusong Paotaiwan National Wetland Park - Baoshan Riverside - Shanghai Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal - Yangtze River No 11 Theme Post Office
Start your journey at Wusong Paotaiwan National Wetland Park, where you will witness a breathtaking sunrise and enjoy the natural wetland scenery, experiencing the allure of nature.
Next, head to Baoshan Riverside (Sea World), where you can experience the unique blend of riverside charm and modern commerce. From the riverbank, admire the grandeur of the cruise ships at the Shanghai Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal.
You can also visit the Yangtze River No 11 Theme Post Office to learn about Yangtze River culture.
🏭 Day 2: Shanghai Baosteel Park - Peninsula 1919 Cultural and Creative Industry Park - China Industrial Design Museum
Visit the Shanghai Baosteel Park to explore the fascinating world of industrial production.
Then, tour the Peninsula 1919 Cultural and Creative Industry Park, where you can appreciate the fusion of creative culture and historical architecture.
Afterward, explore the Zhongcheng Zhigu Creative Hub to understand the development of the creative design industry.
Finally, a trip to the China Industrial Design Museum will help you gain insight into the history of industrial design in China.
Minhang district
🎨 Day 1: Minhang Museum - Shanghai Haipai Art Museum - Powerlong Art Museum
🎨 Day 2: Shanghai Jinchen Yfm Art Gallery - Shanghai Metro Museum - Pearl Art Museum
The museums, art galleries, and exhibition spaces in Minhang have put together a range of high-quality exhibitions. Don't wait!
Jiading district
🏞️ Day 1: Shanghai Huilongtan Park- Confucius Temple - Zhouqiao Old Street – Qiuxia Garden
🏞️ Day 2: Guyi Garden - Nanxiang Old Street & Tanyuan Garden - Gushu Park
This two-day, one-night trip includes everything from food and lodging to sightseeing and shopping, highlighting its ancient town and gardens. You'll visit key cultural spots like Zhouqiao Old Street, Guyi Garden, and Nanxiang Old Street, delivering to you a great feel for Jiading's rich history and culture.
Jinshan district
🏖️ Day 1: Jinshanzui Fishing Village - Jinshan City Beach
🌸 Day 2: Caojing Shuike Scenic Area - SH Blooming Garden
Start your journey at Shanghai's last remaining fishing village, Jinshanzui, where you can wander through the old cobblestone streets and explore the bustling seafood street, soaking in the charming fishing port atmosphere.
At Jinshan City Beach, enjoy walking along the beach and playing in the waves.
In the evening, be amazed by the 2025 International Music and Fireworks Show, where dazzling fireworks light up the night sky.
On the second day, head to the Caojing Shuike Scenic Area for the river fresh festival, where you can enjoy the rustic charm and sample fresh river delicacies.
Then, visit the SH Blooming Garden to admire the stunning poppy fields. Enjoy a picnic on the lawn, capture moments among the flowers, and dance to the music.
Songjiang district
🎥 Day 1: Guangfulin Cultural Relics Park - Shanghai Film Park
🌳 Day 2: Sheshan National Forest Park - Shanghai Chenshan Botanical Garden
Celebrate the May Day holiday with a unique tour of Songjiang's attractions in Shanghai. Begin your journey at the Guangfulin Cultural Relics Park, where you can explore local traditions and enjoy family-friendly activities.
Next, visit the Shanghai Film Park for an immersive experience that brings the magic of cinema to life.
On the second day, venture into the Sheshan National Forest Park, an ideal spot for a springtime outing amid lush greenery.
Conclude your tour at the Shanghai Chenshan Botanical Garden, which is hosting a spectacular rose exhibition across three major sections, complemented by a variety of engaging activities.
Qingpu district
🚣 Day 1: Shanghai Grand View Garden - Jinwu Peninsula Water Sports Base
Start your journey at the Shanghai Grand View Garden, where you can enjoy traditional hanfu attire and participate in ancient games.
Later, head to the Jinwu Peninsula Water Sports Base, where you can choose from a variety of activities such as flying disc, rugby, paddleboarding, and kayaking.
🏞️ Day 2: Yuandang Bridge - Jinze Ancient Town
Start your day at the Yuandang Bridge, a scenic spot marked as a dual-direction landmark at the provincial border.
Then, explore Jinze Ancient Town, where you can walk across its famous bridges, savor the must-try Zhao Family Tofu, and indulge in traditional snacks like shumai or siu mai, a type of traditional Chinese dumpling made of ground pork.
Jinze offers a glimpse into the refined and delicate lifestyle of Jiangnan, as well as the unique charm of its rural landscapes. As you stroll through this picturesque water town, enjoy the springtime atmosphere amidst lush greenery and blooming flowers, experience the leisurely pace of life and admire the scenic beauty that seems straight out of a Jiangnan painting.
Fengxian district
🐾Day 1: Shang Da Central Park - Nine Trees Future Art Centre
This is a pet-friendly travel itinerary on the outskirts of Shanghai. Start your day with a leisurely stroll through Shang Da Central Park and enjoy the tranquility of nature. It's a perfect place for your furry friends to roam freely.
In the afternoon, head to the Nine Trees Future Art Centre for the pet carnival from May 2 to May 4, where pets have exclusive seats for watching theatrical performances.
Enjoy outdoor shows and participate in activities like DIY crafts. As night falls, relax with an outdoor movie under the stars.
For accommodation, head to Qingcun town where you can stay at pet-friendly hotels or guesthouses.
🐾Day 2: Liyao village - Qingxi Old Street
The next day, visit Qingxi Old Street and take a traditional boat ride along the ancient river, soaking in the Jiangnan charm on the banks. During the May Day holiday, the old street offers a variety of cultural experiences.
Afterward, head to Liyao village, a key rural tourism spot in Shanghai. Here, you can savor traditional stove-cooked meals and explore popular tea rooms, coffee shops, pottery workshops, and creative cultural experiences like DIY in the rice fields, all making for a delightful and relaxing afternoon.
Chongming district
🌿Day 1: Xisha Mingzhu Lake Scenic Area - Manyu Water Camp
Begin your journey at the 5A-rated scenic area of Xisha Mingzhu Lake, where you can immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the wetlands and experience the tranquility of nature.
Afterward, head to the Manyu Water Camp located in Lyvhua town to enjoy the excitement of outdoor activities.
Nearby, savor seasonal lake delicacies and farmhouse-style dishes during a relaxing dinner.
In the evening, consider staying at the local hotel or homestay, where nature sounds help you relax and fall asleep .
🌅Day 2: Xilai Farm - Forest Villa - 515 Cultural and Creative Industry Park
Start your day at Xilai Farm and proceed to the Forest Villa. Here, you can escape the hustle and bustle of city life and get close to nature. Finally, visit the 515 Cultural and Creative Industry Park to discover artistic inspirations and cultural charm.
Grab some coffee by the Chongming River while watching the sunset — a perfect ending to your trip.
Sources: Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism, WeChat account of Shanghai Expo Culture Park, WeChat account of the publicity department of the CPC Huangpu district committee, WeChat account of Shanghai Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism, WeChat account of Jade Buddha Temple, "shanghaifabu" WeChat account, WeChat account of Minhang Museum, WeChat account of Guyi Garden, WeChat account of Nine Trees Future Art Centre, WeChat account of Xisha Mingzhu Lake Scenic Area, WeChat account of the publicity department of the CPC Chongming district committee, WeChat account of Forest Villa
