Shanghai 5-Day Foodie Itinerary
Five days in Shanghai gives you time to truly eat your way through China's most diverse food city. This foodie-focused itinerary takes you from predawn wet market tours to late-night dumpling stalls, from century-old tea houses to cutting-edge tasting menus. You'll compare xiaolongbao across five famous spots, explore regional cuisines from Sichuan to Cantonese, and even learn to cook Shanghainese classics yourself.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Century-Old Breakfast: Fresh Soy Milk & Legendary Cifantuan
Start at this century-old breakfast institution. Join the morning rush for fresh soy milk, crispy youtiao (fried dough sticks), and their legendary cifantuan — sticky rice rolls stuffed with pickles, pork floss, and a crispy cruller.
Shanghainese Market Life
Dive into this bustling market near the Old City. Watch vendors prepare fresh tofu, sample seasonal fruits, observe the river shrimp selection. This is where real Shanghainese shop for ingredients.
Xiaolongbao Tasting at a Local Favorite
Your first xiaolongbao comparison stop. This no-frills local favorite has thin, delicate skins and rich soup. Try both the pork and crab roe versions to start your dumpling journey.
Fine Dining in a 1930s Shanghai Villa
Experience refined Shanghainese cuisine in a stunning 1930s villa. The braised pork belly melts on your tongue, the drunken chicken is silky, and the smoked fish is perfectly balanced. Book ahead.
Artisan Bakeries and Street Food Stroll
Walk off lunch through the tree-lined streets. Stop at artisan bakeries for pastries, try a scallion pancake from a street cart, and sample craft coffee at one of the many specialty shops.
Shanghai's Legendary Late-Night Food Street
End day one at Shanghai's legendary late-night food street. Sit at plastic tables, order piles of garlic or spicy crayfish, cold beer, edamame, and grilled skewers. Loud, messy, absolutely authentic.