Shanghai

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Shanghai

Shanghai is the shiniest gem in modern China’s jewel box. It’s a hip, contemporary city charging into the future with all the energy of its famous Maglev train. Yet, if you veer away from the sleek highways and glitzy shopping streets you can still stumble upon a more traditional Shanghai, with all its character and flavour. In the tiny back streets, wet-market vendors peddle their wares — buckets of bright green vegetables, fish flapping in shallow plastic bowls, and heaps of crayfish crawling over each other.

The City

Shanghai’s most famous attraction is the Bund. This was where the colonial merchants of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries built the headquarters for their trading firms and banks. Still today, these vast, august edifices boom of power — but now the roofs are topped with the red and yellow flags of the People’s Republic and the buildings below house designer clothing shops as well as banking headquarters. Across the Huangpu River, there’s a greater transformation still. 30 years ago, this was sleepy farmland — now, Pudong is a booming financial and economic district. Just back from the waterfront lays the old city, a tangle of tiny lanes where the locals still live as they have for decades. Even in these traditional lanes, though, the wrecking ball is wreaking its havoc: walk around them now before it’s too late. Further west lays the French Concession, where large colonial houses are being rapidly converted into high-end bars and restaurants. For shoppers, Shanghai is still a kind of heaven. Markets are regularly being uprooted and rehoused as part of the urban planners’ mission to make the city better and brighter than ever before. There are still fabulous deals to be had at the fabric market, wonderful trinkets and antiques in Dongtai Road and good-value custom-made furniture for those with a shipping crate to spare.

Do & See Dining Cafés Bars & Nightlife Shopping Tourist Information

Do & See

Shanghai really is a delightful city to explore. See skyscrapers alongside surviving colonial buildings and visit the Shanghai Museum to get an insight into the city's past and just how rapidly it has changed within the last decade. Early birds must visit one of Shanghai’s many parks, where thousands gather daily for morning exercise.

The Bund

Shanghai’s best-known attraction is impressive any time of the day. Still, it’s at its most glam in the evening when floodlighting illuminates the colonial piles and the neon across the river, where Pudong gaudily glitters. Take a stroll along the waterfront walkway and watch the world go …

Tian'ai Lu

This is the most romantic road in Shanghai. Allegedly, if you walk down the 600-metre-long road holding the hand of your beloved one, you will be blessed and all but guaranteed to stay together. Each 20 metres is marked by a framed world-famous love poem (there are 28 in total). There is also a …

People's Square

People's Square is a Shanghai landmark. In its vicinity lie People's Park, Shanghai Museum, Municipal Building, Shanghai Grand Theatre, and other important buildings. It is not only the political, economic, cultural, and tourism centre and transportation hub of Shanghai but also a large shopping …

Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street

The main shopping street of Shanghai embodies the eclectic nature of the city. Being one of the busiest streets in the world, it features outlets of both well-known traditional Chinese and global brands, as well as souvenir shops, street vendors, buskers and plenty of eateries. It is certainly the place to be to feel …

Yu Garden

Yu Garden embodies the quintessence of classical ancient Chinese gardens south of the Yangtze River – a creation of maximum out of minimum. While it takes a familiar person only five minutes to walk from the entrance to the exit, most first-time visitors find themselves lost in this little paradise with fish ponds, rockeries, …

Xintiandi

Xintiandi, an upscale car-free district in Shanghai, emerged in the late 1990s as a vibrant shopping, dining, and entertainment hub. Originally a neighbourhood of traditional Shikumen houses, many were replaced with modern apartments to improve living conditions, sparking concerns about the potential loss of cultural heritage. In response, the government preserved some Shikumen structures, …

Tianzifang

Tianzifang is where the new and old Shanghai meet. In the traditional stone-paved alley lies, perhaps, the artsiest neighbourhood in the city. Cafés, crafts shops, art galleries, and boutiques dot the street. Take a walk along Tianzifang, and you will surely discover another side of this international …

Jin Mao Tower

It’s the view you’re going for: on a clear day, Jin Mao Tower offers incredible 360-degree panoramas across the city. It’s 88 storeys high and located at number 88 — have you guessed that eight is a lucky number for the Chinese? There are offices up to the 50th floor, then the Grand Hyatt …

Jade Buddha Temple

Founded in 1882, this Buddhist temple is known for its large, ornate jade Buddha sculptures: a sitting Buddha, and a smaller reclining Buddha representing the Buddha's death. Today, there is plenty to see on the premises, including multiple beautiful Buddha …

Shanghai Disneyland Park

Opened in 2016, Shanghai Disneyland is the 6th Disneyland in the world. In line with the company's promise, this Disneyland is 'authentically Disney and distinctly Chinese'. The park has seven themed areas: Mickey Avenue, Gardens of Imagination, Fantasyland, Treasure Cove, Adventure Isle, Tomorrowland, and Toy Story Land. This is also the only Disneyland where …

Shanghai Circus World

If you are looking for a great evening activity, then this might be something for you; in fact, this is one of the most popular forms of evening entertainment in the city. Here you can experience stunning acrobatic performances accompanied by live music. Go and check it …

Oriental Pearl TV Tower

As one of the tallest towers in Asia, Oriental Pearl TV Tower is a distinct landmark of Shanghai. Located opposite The Bund, it is one of the hottest city attractions, as well as an entertainment venue containing dining and shopping spots. There is an observation deck at the 263-metre mark, which offers amazing views …

Shanghai Ocean Aquarium

Shanghai Ocean Aquarium is the largest sea aquarium in Asia, divided into nine thematic zones including China, South America, Australia, Africa, Polar, Deep Ocean, and more. This is where you can discover more than 15,000 marine creatures and almost all sea species found in Asia. Do not miss the underwater …

Shanghai Science & Technology Museum

This interactive museum turns scientific theories into an exciting, interactive experience for guests of all ages. Learn about the structure of the Earth's surface by travelling hundreds of metres down to its core, explore animal diversity by taking a stroll through rainforests and deserts, and understand the theory of gravity by riding a bicycle …

Shanghai World Financial Center

For sweeping views over Shanghai, visit this 492-metre skyscraper. Also known as SWFC, this second-tallest building in Shanghai features an indoor observatory from the 94th to 100th floors. Walk across the impressive Sky Bridge on the 97th floor and experience the tallest observatory in the world on the 100th …

Bund Tourist Tunnel

Run down there quick, before the lights are extinguished: there’s the talk of turning the Bund Tourist Tunnel into a tediously ordinary commuter line. In the meantime, it’s the most entertaining way to cross between the Bund and Pudong. Pumping music, psychedelic neon and nebulous commentaries accompany your journey - it’s showy, it’s tacky, …

Shanghai Museum

Situated on People's Square, the Shanghai Museum is home to one of the finest collections of art in China. The museum focuses on ancient Chinese art such as Bronze and Ceramic objects, calligraphies, and paintings. Outstanding displays of 120,000 pieces fill this five-storey …

Dining

The Chinese like to eat, and Shanghai is a city where this characteristic national trait finds its ultimate reflection. From chic and elegant international restaurants to local dumpling joints, Shanghai is where you can easily eat your way around the globe. Whether you like your portions exquisitely presented or prefer a tangled mountain of noodles, you will find it all here. A note on tipping: it’s officially prohibited in China. While it has become usual to tip tour guides on organised outings, it is not common to tip taxi drivers or the staff of bars and restaurants.

Crystal Jade

With its menu featuring scrumptious dumplings, pork belly and roast meat, this place serves some of the best Shanghainese and Cantonese cuisine. This (originally Singaporean) chain restaurant offers a unique dining experience with exceptional food quality and good …

M On The Bund

Created by Australian restaurateur Michelle Garnaut, M on the Bund is an award-winning restaurant serving high-end Asian and Western food in classy surroundings. With its terrace overlooking the Bund, it boasts one of the best locations in …

South Beauty

South Beauty, Shanghai's most popular Szechuan restaurant chain, is renowned for its hot and spicy cuisine, a favourite among Chinese food lovers. Diners flock to its multiple locations to savor authentic Szechuan dishes in stylish surroundings, making it a top destination for both locals and tourists seeking a fiery culinary …

CHAR Bar

This excellent restaurant is located on the top floor of Hotel Indigo, and, thanks to being perched so high, offers great views and an even better menu selection. Their speciality is meat, but if a juicy steak isn't what you're feeling, seafood and delicious desserts are available as …

El Willy

For an authentic Spanish dining experience, visit this acclaimed restaurant located in a charming 1928 colonial house. Specialising in modern tapas, the restaurant prides itself on using the finest ingredients to prepare its dishes. Its exceptional cuisine has earned recognition through multiple culinary awards, making it a must-visit for Spanish food …

Franck

Located in the French Concession of Shanghai, Franck Bistrot is a beloved destination for food and wine enthusiasts. This French street-style bistro offers fine French cuisine, featuring dishes like foie gras, poulet rôti, and tartare de bœuf, all served in a romantic setting. The restaurant also has its own wine cellar with 300 …

Paradise Dynasty

Paradise Dynasty is an innovative Zhejiang cuisine restaurant renowned for its high-quality dishes with delightful twists. Its most famous offering, the '8-colour Xiao Long Bao', has gone viral on Chinese social media, captivating food lovers with its vibrant presentation and unique concept. The '8-colour Xiao Long Bao' features eight steamed dumplings in different colors and …

Ultraviolet

Founded by chef Paul Pairet, Ultraviolet serves what is described as 'Psycho-Tasting'. Guests are welcomed into a room with a 10-seater table, where audio and visual equipment accompany the 20-course meal on offer so that all the five senses are stimulated at …

Maya

Maya serves Mexican food with an Asian touch, using exclusively fresh ingredients and experimenting with bold flavours. The extensive brunch menu is what originally earned Maya its fame. The food is healthy and hearty, with dishes like casserole, roast chicken enchiladas and roast duck …

Cafés

Coffee culture is not deep-rooted in Shanghai, however, dozens of coffee shops have sprung up all across the city in recent years. While locals tend to go for Western coffee chains and bubble tea sold at hole-in-the-wall takeaway shops, foreign visitors may rather gravitate towards a traditional tea house and experience the Chinese tea culture.

Antique Garden

Antique Garden is an excellent find in the French Concession, only steps away from the green Fuxing Park. Relaxing jazz music often plays in the background, and they serve coffee, beer, wine and champagne, along with a few dishes to choose from. Most of the antiques and vintage items inside are up for …

Abbey Road

Abbey Road, a cosy bar and restaurant in Shanghai's French Concession, is a popular spot among the expat crowd. Helmed by a Swiss chef, the menu features primarily Swiss cuisine with some American dishes, including soups, salads, burgers, and the essential cheese fondue. Adding to its charm, Abbey Road boasts a lovely bamboo garden …

Yang's Fried Dumpling

For the perfect pan-seared Shanghai dumplings filled with a thick, flavorful broth that's molten off the pork filling (shrimp and squid varieties on offer as well), stop by one of the famous local Yang's Dumpling …

Baker & Spice

Baker & Spice is a café and artisanal bakery with several locations across China. It serves healthy, appetising café classics, such as salads and sandwiches, along with a vast variety of baked goods and desserts. Hand made sourdoughs, Danish rye bread, and their signature carrot cake are just a few of the bakery treats …

Bars & Nightlife

Some cities simply never sleep, and Shanghai is certainly one of those. In Shanghai, the party lasts till daylight - and then starts over. Like everything in Shanghai, the bar scene is developing fast with new venues opening every month. Gone are the grey days when fun was frowned upon as a bourgeois pursuit. Contemporary Shanghai is making up for lost time with everything from pulsating house music to sultry jazz.

Cottons

The eponymous drinking hole of Cotton Ding has recently moved to a new home in a French Concession villa. The most intriguing element is its circular bed with white voile drapes. But anyone not needing a snooze can enjoy the torch-lit courtyard and the enticing sofas …

The Glamour Bar

It bills itself a 'bar for grown-ups' - its décor features hand-painted Chinese screens and an oval chrome bar - and, of course, the amazing view over the Bund and the river for which the Glamour Bar is famous. It hosts an array of interesting events from live jazz to literary readings. It is …

House of Blues and Jazz

House of Blues and Jazz is a relaxed venue which often hosts international live acts. There is no cover charge, and the drink menu is extensive, although mixed drinks are best skipped in favour of beer or wine. Opens in the afternoon; some dining options are …

Barbarossa Lounge

Barbarossa holds three floors of Arabic opulence beside the lake in People’s Park. With its delicious cocktails and serene atmosphere, it attracts a glamorous crowd and is one of the city's finest for a relaxed drink …

M1NT

M1NT is Shanghai's definition of lavish opulence - with indoor shark tanks, exuberant decor style, pricey drinks, first-class views over the night city from its 24th-floor location and the notoriously strict dress code, the club is a sought-after nightlife spot for those looking to party in …

Boxing Cat Brewery

Boxing Cat Brewery is an award-winning small brewery with several locations across Shanghai. Here you can enjoy every type of beer from malt to ale and many European favourites. They serve good pub grub, and the indoor screens are large enough to enjoy a sporting game …

Paramount

This Art Deco dance hall was the place to be seen in 1930s Shanghai (Charlie Chaplin once danced here), and it has now reopened for the twenty-first-century crowd. The clientele is mostly older, and the dancing done is old-style. This place is a real throwback to the glamour of old Shanghai, so strap on …

Dr Wine

The wine selection leans towards French but extends its scope to include international labels. The dimly lit bar occupies two storeys that look nothing like the doctor's office, but a cure for (nearly) all ailments is served both by the glass and bottled. Delectable wine accompaniments and platters are highly …

Shopping

Shanghai's shopping scene is a vibrant mix of luxury boutiques, modern malls, and bustling street markets. High-end destinations like Nanjing Road, Huaihai Road, and the IFC Mall in Pudong feature flagship stores of international luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton and Gucci. Modern shopping malls, including Plaza 66, Grand Gateway 66, and IAPM Mall, provide a blend of luxury, mid-range, and high-street brands, along with diverse dining and entertainment options. For a more local experience, street markets like Tianzifang, Yuyuan Bazaar, and AP Plaza offer everything from traditional crafts and souvenirs to trendy fashion and accessories. Time-honoured department stores like Shanghai No. 1 Department Store and Jiuguang Department Store showcase a wide range of products, including clothing, cosmetics, and home goods. Specialty areas such as the French Concession and Xintiandi feature boutique shops and unique designer stores, blending upscale retail with historic charm. Additionally, tech enthusiasts can explore Xujiahui and Cybermart for the latest gadgets.