Shanghai or Hangzhou for a weekend trip?
Last updated:
Recommendation
Day-trip to Hangzhou if you've seen the main Shanghai sights; stay put if this is your first Shanghai visit.
You're in Shanghai with 2 days free and deciding whether to stay or day-trip to Hangzhou.
The options
| Option | Best for | Tradeoff |
|---|---|---|
| Hangzhou | Nature + tea culture; West Lake + Lingyin Temple + Longjing tea fields. | +1.5 hr HSR each way; the city is less walkable than central Shanghai. |
| Stay in Shanghai | More museums, French Concession cafes, the Bund at night, Nanjing Road. | You've already seen the headline sights. |
The verdict
Day-trip to Hangzhou if you've seen the main Shanghai sights; stay put if this is your first Shanghai visit.
Read next
Other Destinations decisions
Should I visit Beijing or Shanghai first?
Pick Beijing for a first trip with ≤7 days; pick Shanghai for repeat visits or food-focused trips.
Is Chengdu worth visiting?
Yes if you have 3+ extra days and care about food or animals; skip only if you're under time pressure.
Is Xi'an worth visiting on a 7-day trip?
Include Xi'an for 2 days if it's your first China trip — the Warriors and the city wall are unmatched.
Is Hong Kong worth adding to a mainland China trip?
Yes if you have 2+ days and want a decompression zone; Hong Kong counts as a "third country" for 240-hour transit re-entry.
Is Guilin worth the trip from Shanghai?
Yes if you have 4+ extra days and want scenery; skip on a 7-day first trip.