China’s biggest city and financial center, Shanghai is a study in modernity: skyscrapers galore, as well as a healthy portion of old colonial architecture and traditional cobbled alleyways.
Whether you come for the shopping, the history, or the food, you’ll find everything here.
From tips and tricks to the best things to do and tastiest dishes to all the FAQs, this travel guide has you covered.
Top Attractions in Shanghai
1. The Bund (Waitan)
Walking the Bund, you get incredible views of the Shanghai skyline, Oriental Pearl Tower, and the soaring skyscrapers of Lujiazui to the east, as well as the old European-style buildings to your west.
It’s even more impressive at night when the city twinkles with lights.
Travel Tip:
Go early in the morning to stroll the pedestrian path in peace, or late at night on weekdays for the best night views.
You can also take a Huangpu River cruise to see it all lit up from the water at night.
2. Shanghai Tower & Lujiazui Skyline
The Shanghai Tower is the China’s highest building but you can visit its observation deck to experience breathtaking views of the city.
The surrounding Lujiazui neighborhood is also where you can see the Jin Mao Tower and Shanghai World Financial Center.
Prebook your ticket to the observation deck so you skip that line.
If you want a fancier time, go to a nearby rooftop bar.
3. Yu Garden & City God Temple
This traditional Chinese garden offers a respite from the bustle of the city. You can enjoy the gorgeous pavilions, ponds, and artificial rockeries.
The surrounding City God Temple area is a great place to find traditional Chinese culture and local snacks.
Travel Tip: Go first thing in the morning to avoid the crowds and take a tea break at the Huxinting Teahouse, one of Shanghai’s oldest teahouses.
4. Nanjing Road
Nanjing Road is one of the most visited shopping streets in the world and the place is filled to the brim with expensive shops, department stores, and old stores of commerce.
It’s a fun place to experience the buzz of the city.
Walk the stretch from People’s Square to the Bund, where you can shop while seeing more of the city.
5. Tianzifang
This warren of narrow lanes is home to lots of funky little shops, art galleries, and cafés. It’s a slice not to be missed if you enjoy creative and cultural areas.
Travel Tip: Come in the afternoon to see it while the place is busy and buy the locally handmade items.
6. Zhujiajiao Water Town
If you’re looking to day trip to an ancient water town and don’t want to venture too far from the city, Zhujiajiao is your best bet.
Visit water town for the experience. Boats, stone bridges, and ancient teahouses.
Use the public bus or take a tour and avoid the hassle of renting a car.
What to Eat in Shanghai and Where to Find It
1. Xiao Long Bao (Soup Dumplings)
Be sure, too, to try Shanghai’s renowned soup dumplings. You’ll find them filled with rich, warm broth and pork, and the best way to eat them is dipped in vinegar and ginger!
Where to Eat: Eat at either Din Tai Fung for a more refined experience or Jia Jia Tang Bao fora local favorite.
2. Sheng Jian Bao (Pan-Fried Buns)
These buns are a popular local, breakfast dish. They have a soft top, a crispy bottom, and a flavorful pork filling.
Yang’s Fried Dumplings is a famous place to get the tasty treats.
3. Hairy Crab (Seasonal)
If you’re here in the fallake sure you try some of Shanghai’s famous hairy crabs, which are filled with sweet, creamy roe.
Where to Eat: Chenghuang Temple food street or top restaurants such as Old Jesse.
4. Scallion Oil Noodles
A simple and tasty dish, these noodles are stir-fried in olive oil and soy sauce with chives.
Head to A Niang Mian for scallion oil noodles, a local favorite.
5. Shanghai-Style Braised Pork (Hong Shao Rou)
This sweet and savory dish is slow-cooked pork belly in a soy-based glaze.
Where to Eat: Jesse Restaurant serves an excellent version of this classic dish.
Essential Travel Tips for Shanghai
1. Best Time to Visit
Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are mild and less crowded.
2. Public Transport
The metro is the easiest way to navigate the city. It’s cheap, fast, and extensive.
3. Using Mobile Payment
Alipay and WeChat Pay, two mobile payment apps, are very popular, so make sure to bring a UnionPay card and some money as a backup.
4. Language
English is not spoken widely, so bring a translation app or learn a little Mandarin before you go.
5. Tipping
Tipping is not a traditional Chinese custom. You are not expected to tip unless you receive truly exceptional service.
FAQ
1. Does Shanghai require a visa?
Most people require a visa, though Shanghai has a 144-hour visa-free transit policy for select nationalities.
2. What’s the best neighborhood to stay in Shanghai?
The Bund, the French Concession, and Jing’an are touristy areas with convenient access to sights, eateries, and shopping.
3. Is Shanghai safe for tourists?
Yeah, Shanghai is one of the safest cities in China. Use normal precautions and keep an eye on your valuables in busy places.
4. What’s the best way to get from Pudong Airport to downtown?
Options include the Maglev train (the quickest choice), the metro, the airport shuttle bus, and taxis.
Conclusion
Shanghai is a city of contrasts and a place that has something for everyone.
Regardless of whether you’re looking for history, shopping, food, or even visiting record-breaking architectural wonders, you’ll find it here.
Armed with this guide, you will be able to see Shanghai and all its best offerings on your own terms!