Ultimate 3-Day Shenzhen Itinerary: Best Things to Do & See

A futuristic metropolis blending vibrant Cantonese culture, lush parks, and incredible cuisine, Shenzhen is where innovation and tradition meet on China’s southern coast.

Main view of Shenzhen

Day 1: Modern Landmarks & City Views

Morning

Start your Shenzhen adventure at the iconic Ping An Finance Centre. Ascend to the 116th floor for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and beyond from the Free Sky Observation Deck.

Ping An Finance Centre

Ping An Finance Centre

Grab a local breakfast at Ming Tian Coffee Language, a Shenzhen classic known for its Cantonese dim sum and lively morning buzz.

Ming Tian Coffee Language

Ming Tian Coffee Language

Afternoon

Explore the fascinating Shenzhen Museum, where interactive exhibits trace the city’s transformation from fishing village to global tech hub.

Shenzhen Museum

Shenzhen Museum

Stroll through Lianhuashan Park, a green oasis offering city skyline views, peaceful lakes, and the famous Deng Xiaoping statue.

Lianhuashan Park

Lianhuashan Park

Evening

Wander the buzzing Huaqiangbei Electronics Market, the world’s largest electronics marketplace, for a glimpse into Shenzhen’s maker culture and neon-lit nightlife.

Huaqiangbei Electronics Market

Huaqiangbei Electronics Market

For dinner, try Hai Di Lao Hot Pot, famed for its attentive service and fresh ingredients—perfect for your first taste of authentic Sichuan-style hot pot in Shenzhen.

Hai Di Lao Hot Pot

Hai Di Lao Hot Pot

📍 Directions for Day 1

Day 2: Culture, Art & Historic Villages

Morning

Begin at Dafen Oil Painting Village, a unique artist enclave where you can watch painters at work, browse eclectic galleries, and even commission your own masterpiece.

Dafen Oil Painting Village

Dafen Oil Painting Village

Enjoy a classic Cantonese breakfast at Laurel Restaurant, beloved for its delicate dim sum and fresh congee.

Laurel Restaurant

Laurel Restaurant

Afternoon

Head to OCT Loft Creative Culture Park, a former factory district now home to trendy art spaces, indie coffee shops, and design boutiques—a true creative heart of Shenzhen.

OCT Loft Creative Culture Park

OCT Loft Creative Culture Park

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Idutang Cafe, a hidden gem inside OCT Loft serving artisan coffee and creative fusion cuisine in a tranquil setting.

Idutang Cafe

Idutang Cafe

Evening

Step back in time at Gankeng Hakka Town, a charming old village with cobblestone streets, traditional Hakka architecture, and folk performances at dusk.

Gankeng Hakka Town

Gankeng Hakka Town

Try rural Hakka specialties at Hakka Folk Restaurant in Gankeng for an authentic taste of local tradition in a rustic setting.

Hakka Folk Restaurant

Hakka Folk Restaurant

📍 Directions for Day 2

Day 3: Coastal Escapes & Local Delights

Morning

Escape to nature at Xichong Beach, a pristine stretch of sand on Shenzhen’s Dapeng Peninsula, perfect for a morning swim or coastal hike.

Xichong Beach

Xichong Beach

Have a seaside breakfast at Xi Chong Seafood Restaurant, where you can savor fresh local catches with ocean views.

Xi Chong Seafood Restaurant

Xi Chong Seafood Restaurant

Afternoon

Discover the ancient Dapeng Ancient City, a Ming Dynasty fortress with charming alleys, historic buildings, and artisan shops.

Dapeng Ancient City

Dapeng Ancient City

Stop for lunch at Old Street Cafe, a cozy spot within the ancient city offering local snacks and aromatic coffee.

Old Street Cafe

Old Street Cafe

Evening

Return to the city center and explore Sea World Shekou, a vibrant waterside plaza with an international flair, illuminated fountains, and the iconic Minghua ship.

Sea World Shekou

Sea World Shekou

Dine at Baia Burger Concept, a favorite among locals for gourmet burgers and cocktails with a relaxed, multicultural vibe on the Sea World promenade.

Baia Burger Concept

Baia Burger Concept

📍 Directions for Day 3

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