Essential Preparations Before Departure

If you're visiting the Magic City for the first time, it's recommended to download the international version of Alipay and link your overseas credit card. You can enjoy convenient payments for everything from breakfast youtiao (3-5 RMB) to the subway (3-8 RMB) by simply scanning a code. Traditional shops like Nanxiang Bun Shop and Taikang Food still accept cash.

In terms of transportation, the subway is the most efficient way to get around It's recommended to download the "Metro Shanghai Subway" app, which provides real-time train information and transfer guides. For taxis, using DiDi (with an optional English interface) is advisable to avoid language barriers. Additionally, the English version of Amap is very friendly for international tourists and supports offline map downloads.

Exploring The Bund and People's Square Area

At 6:30 AM, as the first rays of sunlight shine on The Bund, Tai Chi masters stretch their forms in front of century-old buildings, with ferries shuttling across the river in the distance—this is the most authentic Shanghai morning. After 5:00 PM, as the city lights up, the skyline gradually reveals the splendor of the Magic City. Photography enthusiasts are recommended to visit North Bund Riverside, where you can capture the best angles of the Lujiazui skyline.

When strolling from The Bund to Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, consider visiting before 9:30 AM or after 8 PM when it's less crowded, making it easier to experience the old Shanghai street life. Notably, the breakfast shops on both sides of the pedestrian street, such as Laodafang's fried buns and Dafu Gui's soup dumplings, are a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

Stroll Through the French Concession to Relive Old Shanghai Memories

Stroll down Wukang Road and encounter the elegance of Old Shanghai. Every building on this "most beautiful hundred meters" street tells a story: Dr. Sun Yat-sen once planned revolutions at No. 12, and Mao Dun wrote "Midnight" at No. 2. The corner cafés still waft the modern aroma of the 1930s.

Anfu Road is rich in coffee culture: Coffee Tree offers a hand-brew masterclass (198 RMB/person, reservations required), Alimentari provides an Italian coffee-making experience (168 RMB/person), and Old Mike Coffee offers an old house afternoon tea (128 RMB/two persons), all worth experiencing. These cafés are usually less crowded between 2-5 PM.

The Shikumen buildings hidden in the alleys are equally fascinating. It's recommended to explore the old houses at 147 Sinan Road, which preserve the complete architectural style of the 1920s. In the evening, enjoy dinner at the terrace restaurant in Wukang Courtyard, and feel the romantic ambiance of Old Shanghai.

Tour of Pudong's Modern Landmarks

It's recommended to visit the Shanghai Tower observatory on weekdays between 2-4 PM to avoid peak crowds. On a clear day, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Shanghai from the 100th-floor observation deck. Photography enthusiasts should bring a 24-70mm lens to handle both wide-angle cityscapes and architectural details.

The best time to visit Century Park is early morning, where you can watch locals exercising or rent a bike for a lakeside ride. The Innovation Harbor around the Science and Technology Museum is worth exploring, as it hosts numerous technology-themed exhibition halls and interactive facilities.

The skywalk between IFC Mall and Super Brand Mall is an excellent spot for photographing the Oriental Pearl Tower. It's recommended to visit during sunset to capture the city silhouette illuminated by golden sunlight.

Authentic Local Flavors

Tianzifang is best visited after 10 AM when shops open, but avoid weekends. Enter from the Sinan Road entrance to explore creative studios, handicraft shops, and specialty restaurants in sequence. The handmade fabric shops and vintage photo studios deep in the old alleys are highlights worth stopping for.

The best time to visit Yuyuan Old Street is before 9 AM on weekdays. Try Nanxiang's soup dumplings early, and taste authentic local cuisine at Shanghai Old Restaurant opposite the City God Temple. Avoid the heavily commercialized main street and instead explore the old brand shops in the backstreets and alleys.

The alleys of Changle Road around Jade Buddha Temple retain the most authentic Shanghai life: follow the masters to learn Tai Chi at 5:30 AM (20 RMB/session), practice Shanghainese with locals at the Yongkang Road soy milk stall at 7 AM (the owner is skilled at teaching foreign tourists), and listen to chanting at Jade Buddha Temple at 8 AM.

Qibao Ancient Town is less crowded in the evening, especially at sunset when the old street’s bluestone pavement glows with a warm hue. It's recommended to taste the famous crab shell cake and mugwort rice balls of Qibao Old Street.

Key Transportation Tips

The subway is the most efficient way to explore Shanghai, with lines 1, 2, and 10 forming the golden transport artery for major attractions. It's recommended to purchase a transportation card, which can be processed at any subway station service desk, saving time and offering discounts. Subway operating hours are usually 5:30 AM to 10:30 PM, and it's advisable to travel outside peak hours (7:30-9:30 AM, 5:00-7:00 PM).

Buses are suitable for short connections between attractions, such as Route 917 covering the essence from The Bund to Tianzifang. Use Amap to check real-time bus arrival information and avoid unnecessary waiting. For walking routes, it's recommended to plan The Bund-Nanjing Road-People's Square as one line, and Wukang Road-Anfu Road-Xintiandi as another.

When taking a taxi, it’s important to prepare a screenshot of your destination’s address in Chinese. You can use the simple Chinese phrase "请带我去…" (qǐng dài wǒ qù…) meaning "Please take me to…". It’s advisable to save your hotel card in advance for convenience on the return trip.

Practical Tips and Cultural Notes

Maintaining an appropriate distance when queuing at crowded attractions is basic etiquette. Dress modestly when entering temples to avoid exposure. Saying "Thank you" (xièxie) and "Please" (qǐng) during meals will make the service experience more pleasant.

Common Chinese phrases:

• 你好 (nǐ hǎo) - Hello
• 多少钱 (duōshao qián) - How much is it?
• 厕所在哪里 (cèsuǒ zài nǎli) - Where is the restroom?
• 太贵了 (tài guì le) - Too expensive

In terms of safety, tourist areas are very safe during the day, but it's recommended to carry your hotel card and emergency contact numbers. At night, choose the subway or a reliable taxi platform.

For weather adaptation, spring and autumn are the best seasons to visit. In summer (June-August), prepare sunscreen and rain gear, and visit outdoor attractions before 9 AM or after 4 PM. In winter (December-February), it's typically humid, so pack warm clothing