Back from Shanghai, I really don’t recommend going in September-October because autumn in the Magic City is so romantic it’s irresistible
Just finished a 5-day food and shopping trip in Shanghai, and now seeing the night view of the Bund and the plane tree leaves on Wukang Road still makes my heart flutter — In September-October, Shanghai bids farewell to the summer heat, with a pleasant breeze in the mornings and evenings. The scent of osmanthus fills the streets, making even a stroll along the road a delight! As a first-time deep traveler and “citywalk” enthusiast in Shanghai, this guide compiles all the hidden gems and must-try experiences, so you won’t go wrong following it~
Let’s start with the must-visit citywalk route, which covers Shanghai’s most romantic spots: Wukang Road → Anfu Road → Yuyuan Road → Jing’an Temple → West Nanjing Road → The Bund. In September-October, the plane tree leaves on Wukang Road just start to turn yellow, and sunlight filters through the leaves onto the old Western-style houses, making every photo look like a French film scene 📸; Anfu Road is full of niche cafes and creative shops—pick one, sit by the window, sip coffee, and watch passersby, so cozy you won’t want to leave; at night, the Bund is a must-visit, with the lights of Lujiazui shining across the river and a refreshing breeze from the river. You can also take the ferry (2 RMB per person) across the Huangpu River, which is much cheaper than a cruise.
Recommended spots & must-try activities: ① Shanghai Disneyland, less crowded in September-October than summer, so shorter lines. Recommended rides: “TRON Lightcycle Power Run” and “Seven Dwarfs Mine Train.” The nighttime fireworks show is super romantic. Remember to book tickets in advance on the official app, about 435 RMB per person; ② Yuyuan Garden, a classical garden with a traditional atmosphere. There might be Mid-Autumn or National Day themed events in September-October. After touring the garden, try the Nanxiang soup dumplings. Admission is 40 RMB, and 2-3 hours is just right; ③ Lujiazui, climb the Oriental Pearl Tower or Shanghai Tower for panoramic views of Shanghai. It’s best to go at dusk to see the transition from day to night. Tickets: Oriental Pearl Tower 199 RMB, Shanghai Tower “Shanghai Top” 180 RMB; ④ Tianzifang, an artsy neighborhood hidden in old alleys, full of handicraft shops and food stalls. When tired, have a bowl of crab roe soup dumplings—super satisfying. Free entry.
Transportation & independent travel tips: Shanghai’s transport is very convenient, with the subway reaching most attractions. It’s recommended to download the “Metro Metropolis” app to scan QR codes for entry. Subway fares range from 3 to 10 RMB; for exploring small city streets, shared bikes are perfect, costing 1.5 RMB per 30 minutes, and you can park right in front of your favorite shops; to get to Disneyland, take Line 11 directly, about 1 hour from downtown. Go early in the morning to enjoy more rides.
Food recommendations are a must! ① Crab roe soup dumplings, thin skin and full filling, bursting with juice in every bite. Recommended: “Nanxiang Mantou Dian” (Yuyuan branch), about 50 RMB per person, eat while hot; ② Shengjian buns, crispy outside with fresh meat inside. Recommended: “Xiaoyang Shengjian,” about 20 RMB per person, perfect with a bowl of beef soup; ③ Local Shanghai cuisine, braised pork belly is rich but not greasy, sweet and sour ribs are tasty. Recommended: “Lvbolang” or “Lao Jishi Restaurant,” about 100 RMB per person, great for groups; ④ Cifan Tuan (sticky rice roll), a Shanghai breakfast specialty with glutinous rice wrapped around fried dough and pickled vegetables, 10 RMB each, available at street breakfast stalls; ⑤ Osmanthus sweet porridge, a seasonal snack in September-October, sweet with a fragrant osmanthus aroma, 15 RMB per bowl, available in Tianzifang.
Accommodation suggestions by scenario! ① For convenience in the city center, stay near East Nanjing Road. The hotel I stayed at was a 10-minute walk to the Bund, and you can stroll the Nanjing Road night market in the evening, about 300 RMB per night per person; ② For an artsy vibe, stay near Wukang Road. The guesthouses have old Western-style architecture, and many niche shops are within walking distance, about 250 RMB per night per person; ③ For cost-effectiveness, stay near Metro Line 2, which connects to Hongqiao and Pudong airports. Chain hotels cost about 200 RMB per night per person, with very convenient transport.
Avoidance tips & practical advice: ① Book Disneyland’s fast pass in advance on the app, don’t buy from scalpers to avoid scams; ② Souvenirs at Yuyuan and Tianzifang are a bit pricey, remember to bargain; ③ It may rain occasionally in Shanghai in September-October, bring an umbrella; ④ Don’t buy specialties at tourist spots, supermarkets in the city are cheaper. Recommended gifts: White Rabbit candy, pear syrup candy, and Xinghualou mooncakes; ⑤ Avoid visiting the Bund on holidays due to crowds, evenings on regular days are more comfortable.
Finally, photo-worthy spots: Wukang Road’s Wukang Mansion, side shots have a strong French vibe; The Bund’s Peace Hotel, with its vintage architecture, makes for textured photos; Disneyland’s castle, especially at night with fireworks, is super romantic; Yuyuan Road’s old Western-style houses, with greenery and doorplates at the entrance, are perfect for artsy photos. September-October in Shanghai is romantic and comfortable, truly perfect for a trip—you’ll definitely fall in love~