TL;DR
Shanghai is China's most international city — a dazzling mix of colonial-era architecture, futuristic skyscrapers, world-class dining, and vibrant nightlife. It is the easiest city for first-time Western visitors. Plan 2-4 days.
Top Attractions
The Bund (外滩)
Shanghai's iconic waterfront promenade. Colonial-era buildings on one side, the futuristic Pudong skyline on the other.
- Best time: Sunset to evening for the light show across the river
- Walk: Stroll from the Peace Hotel to the Bund Sightseeing Tunnel (~2 km)
- Tip: Cross to Lujiazui and go up the Shanghai Tower or Oriental Pearl for panoramic views
Oriental Pearl Tower / Shanghai Tower
The Shanghai Tower (上海中心大厦) is the world's second-tallest building. The observation deck on the 118th floor offers breathtaking views.
- Ticket: Required for the observation deck; book online to skip the line
- Best time: Just before sunset to see day, sunset, and night views
- Tip: Book tickets online to skip the line
Yu Garden (豫园) & Old City
A classical Chinese garden surrounded by traditional architecture and souvenir shops.
- Yu Garden: Entry ticket required. Beautiful but crowded. Go early (8:30 AM opening).
- Chenghuang Temple: Bustling area with street food and traditional snacks
- Nanjing Road: Walking distance — China's busiest shopping street
French Concession (法租界)
Tree-lined streets, historic villas, boutique cafes, and art galleries. The most charming area of Shanghai.
- Tianzifang: Artsy alleyways with cafes, boutiques, and galleries
- Xintiandi: Upscale shopping and dining in restored shikumen houses
- Fuxing Park: Watch locals dance, practice tai chi, and walk their birds
Zhujiajiao Water Town (朱家角)
A historic canal town 1 hour from downtown. Less touristy than Suzhou but equally charming.
Pro Tip
The best way to experience Shanghai is on foot. Walk the Bund at night, explore the French Concession's back streets, and wander Tianzifang's alleyways. The city's charm is in the details.
Getting Around
- Metro: Extensive, modern, and easy to navigate. English signs everywhere. ¥3-6 per ride.
- Maglev Train: World's fastest commercial train (431 km/h). Connects Pudong Airport to Longyang Road Station in 8 minutes. Ticket required.
- DiDi: Very affordable. ¥15-30 for most trips within the city center.
- Bike: Excellent bike lanes. Shared bikes are everywhere.
- Airport: Maglev or Metro Line 2 connects Pudong Airport. Hongqiao Airport is closer to the city center.
Where to Eat
Shanghai has one of China's best food scenes, from street snacks to Michelin stars.
- Xiaolongbao (小笼包): Din Tai Fung, Jia Jia Tang Bao (佳家汤包), or Lin Long Fang
- Shengjianbao (生煎包): Fried soup dumplings at Yang's Fry Dumpling (小杨生煎)
- Local Shanghainese: Jesse Restaurant (老吉士) for authentic home-style cooking
- Fine dining: Ultraviolet by Paul Pairet (3 Michelin stars, immersive dining)
- Street food: Wujiang Road, Huanghe Road, and the Old City for snacks
Where to Stay
| Area | Vibe | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| The Bund | Iconic, historic | First-time visitors, views |
| French Concession | Charming, boutique | Foodies, walkers, romance |
| Jing'an | Modern, convenient | Business, shopping, transport |
| Lujiazui (Pudong) | Skyscrapers, modern | Views, business travelers |
| People's Square | Central, busy | Budget travelers, transport hub |
Day Trips
- Suzhou (苏州): "Venice of the East" — canals, gardens, silk factories (30 min by high-speed rail)
- Hangzhou (杭州): West Lake, tea plantations, stunning scenery (1 hour by high-speed rail)
- Zhujiajiao: Historic water town, canal boat rides (1 hour by metro/bus)
Practical Tips
- English: Widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. Easiest city for non-Chinese speakers.
- Air quality: Generally better than Beijing, but check AQI on high-pollution days.
- Nightlife: The Bund, Found 158, and the French Concession have the best bars and clubs.
- Shopping: Nanjing Road, Huaihai Road, and Taikoo Hui for luxury. Tianzifang and Moganshan Road for local design.
TL;DR
Shanghai is the most foreigner-friendly city in mainland China. English is common, Western food is everywhere, and the metro is idiot-proof. It is the perfect city to ease into China before heading to more challenging destinations.