Top Attractions
Iconic Landmarks
- The Bund — Features colonial-era Western architecture including "Gothic, Romanesque, or Baroque" styles that "exist harmoniously"
- Oriental Pearl Tower — An emblematic tower and one of Shanghai's most recognizable structures
- Shanghai Tower — A "soaring modern art-deco" skyscraper dominating the skyline
- World Financial Centre — A 101-floor skyscraper representing Shanghai's financial ambitions
Cultural & Historical Districts
- Former French Concession — Area with distinctive Western-style buildings from the colonial era
- Xintiandi — Known for "distinctive buildings" housing themed restaurants, art galleries, fashion shops, cafés, and bars
- Tianzifang — A popular shopping district with artsy lane houses
- Yu Garden — A historic garden accessible by metro
Water Towns Near Shanghai
- Zhujiajiao, Qibao — Located in Shanghai itself
- Zhouzhuang, Tongli, Luzhi — Nearby towns in Jiangsu province
- Wuzhen, Xitang, Nanxun — Nearby towns in Zhejiang province
- These towns feature "burbling brooks, arched bridges, slab-stone paved alleys, waterside teahouses"
Getting There
- By Air: Shanghai Pudong (PVG) or Hongqiao (SHA) Airport
- By Train: High-speed rail from Beijing (4.5h), Hangzhou (1h)
- Local Transport: Metro covers the city well with 20 lines. Use Alipay for payment.
- Visa-free entry: Citizens of 38+ countries can visit visa-free for up to 30 days
Must-Try Food
- Xiaolongbao — Soup dumplings, the Shanghai specialty
- Shengjianbao — Pan-fried pork buns
- Hairy Crab — Seasonal delicacy (autumn)
- Shanghai Cuisine — Leans sweet, "sugar is a core ingredient" in dishes like Pineapple Sweet and Sour Pork
Culture & Tips
- Shanghai means "Upon the Sea" in Chinese
- The city was a major trading port since the 19th century
- English is more widely spoken here than other cities
- Nightlife: Huangpu River cruises offer stunning nighttime views; Nanjing Road and Xintiandi are top evening destinations
- Shopping: Options range from high-end international brands to affordable local goods across districts like North Sichuan Road and Xujiahui Shopping City
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May) and Autumn (October–mid November) are ideal. Shanghai has a subtropical maritime monsoon climate, and these seasons are "warm and pleasant, making it comfortable to go outside."