Budget travel in Shanghai: How to visit popular attractions and save a fortune?

A 3-day, 2-night Shanghai travel guide for under $150, a must-read for university students! Enjoy a fantastic 3-day, 2-night trip to Shanghai for under $150, including delicious food, fun activities, and comfortable accommodation. Students and budget travelers, take note! 🚗 Transportation Main Transportation: Choose train travel and book tickets 1–15 days in advance on 12306. For high-speed rail second-class or regular train hard seats from surrounding cities to Shanghai, a round trip generally costs around CNY 300–400. For example, a round trip from Nanjing to Shanghai by high-speed rail second-class is approximately CNY 250. Local Transportation: Download the "Metro Metropolis" app and purchase a 3-day subway pass for CNY 45. Most attractions in Shanghai are easily accessible by subway, which is fast, convenient, and saves on taxi fares. 🏠 Accommodation Youth Hostels: We recommend youth hostels near Nanjing Road and People's Square for convenient travel and opportunities to meet fellow travelers. Prices range from CNY 50–80 per person per night. For instance, a quadruple room with a private bathroom at a youth hostel near Nanjing Road costs just over CNY 200 per night. Budget Hotels: Compare prices on various platforms in advance and book affordable hotels for around CNY 150–200 per night. Choose hotels near subway stations for convenient travel. For example, there are many hotels under CNY 200 near People's Square, within a 5-minute walk from the subway. 🍱 Food Shengjian (Pan-fried Buns): Try Xiao Yang Shengjian, where each bite is filled with flavorful soup. A serving costs CNY 15–20. Pair it with a cup of soy milk for a satisfying and delicious meal. Spare Ribs with Rice Cakes: Xian De Lai is known for its spare ribs with rice cakes. The ribs are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, while the rice cakes are soft and chewy. Topped with a special sauce, a serving costs around CNY 15. Snack Streets: Visit Yunnan Road Food Street to sample various Shanghai snacks, such as *youdunzi* (fried dough balls) and *haitang gao* (crabapple-shaped cakes). Each snack costs under CNY 10, allowing you to enjoy a wide variety without breaking the bank. 📸 Itinerary Day 1: Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street (free; admire century-old buildings, explore unique shops, and enjoy Shen Da Cheng pastries for around CNY 20 per person) → The Bund (free; admire the international architecture and stunning night view, best viewed at 7pm when the lights turn on) → Bund Sightseeing Tunnel (CNY 20 for a single trip; experience a futuristic journey with views of both sides of the Huangpu River) Day 2: Wukang Road (free; visit the Wukang Building, stroll along the artistic streets, and experience the French atmosphere) → Anfu Road (free; explore trendy shops, enjoy a cup of coffee, and relax for around CNY 30 per person) → Yu Garden (CNY 30 entrance fee; experience the beauty of classical Jiangnan gardens and the Zigzag Bridge) → City God Temple (free; enjoy the night view and sample snacks, but avoid purchasing overpriced snacks here due to low value) Day 3: Shanghai Museum (free; requires advance booking; admire historical artifacts and experience the charm of Chinese culture) → People's Park (free; observe the marriage market, stroll through the green spaces and lakes, and relax) → Huaihai Middle Road (free; experience street fashion, explore trendy shops, and enjoy a cup of milk tea while strolling for around CNY 20 per person) 💡 Important Notes 1. Book attractions in advance through official WeChat accounts or mini-programs to avoid long queues and potentially higher ticket prices. 2. Bring your own water bottle. There are many drinking water fountains on the streets of Shanghai, saving you money on bottled water. 3. Look out for free activities at scenic spots and shopping malls, such as free art exhibitions. 4. Download the "Metro Metropolis" app for subway travel. Consider purchasing a 3-day subway pass if you plan to travel frequently. When taking the bus, listen carefully to the announcements to avoid missing your stop. 5. Shanghai's weather can be unpredictable, so bring an umbrella and a jacket. 6. Carry a portable charger to keep your phone charged for navigation and photography. 7. Be mindful of prices and quality when shopping to avoid impulse purchases. Compare prices at different shops, especially in commercial areas.