The city of Shanghai is an international metropolis and a great travel destination that many people don’t really consider. It is a financial, trade, economic and culture center in Eastern China, situated on the estuary of Yangtze River with a population of around 25 million people. It is a destination to see, with all its ancient sites, colonial past, modern architecture, unique culture and plenty to do.
What to see in Shanghai
- Skyscrapers
Skyscrapers have popped up over Shanghai, building up in a city that is home to such a high population as well as number of visitors every year. A popular skyscraper and district landmark of Shanghai is the Oriental Pearl Tower, a TV and radio tower, located at Lujiazui, opposite The Bund. It is the world’s sixth tallest TV and radio tower that you can appreciate the view of from afar or from the glass-bottomed skywalk of the tower.
- Modern architecture in general
There are numerous examples of modern architecture around Shanghai worth seeing. For example, there is the Danyang-Kunshan Grand Bridge, which is the longest bridge in the world.
- Yuyuan (‘Happiness Garden’)
Yuyuan is an oasis in the bustling city, with traditional Chinese buildings and a classical garden.
- Jade Buddha Temple
Jade Buddha Temple is a Buddhist temple, with a beautiful garden and jade statues that are both striking and peaceful.
- The Bund
The Bund is a colonial-era waterfront promenade where you can take a stroll and take in the city. Take the time to visit West Bund as well, the newest creative district where you can visit the Shanghai Centre of Photography and Yuz Museum.
- Nanjing Road
Nanjing Road is a bustling road and main shopping street in Shanghai. It is worth seeing and experiencing, even if you don’t love to shop!
What to do in Shanghai
Dining
While going for a stroll at the Bund, head over to M on the Bund for a delicious lunch and Pudong skyline view. Ultraviolet and Yunnan Road Food Street in the Bund & People’s Square are other popular spots to eat at here.
In French Concession, head to Di Shui Dong (56 Maoming S Rd) for casual Hunan-style restaurant, Sichuan Citizen ( 30号-4 Donghu Rd) for a Sichanese restaurant/cocktail bar/tea house, and Sproutworks (185 Madang Rd) for a quick-serve sandwich, soup and salad shop.
To experience a contemporary twist on Chinese vegetarian food, head to Fu He Hui (1037 Yuyuan Rd) in downtown Shanghai.
Shopping
There is plenty of shopping to do in Shanghai, with international fashion and local brands.
The two most popular streets for shopping are Nanjing Road and Huaihai Road.
Nightlife
As a bustling city and international hub, the nightlife in Shanghai is vibrant.
One of the most popular areas for nightlife in Shanghai is the Bund, as you can bar-hop your way down the Bund starting your evening off with an aperitif, dinner then moving into the nightlife scene.
M Glam (20 Guangdong Road) for a fancy aperitif and Bund views.
Bar Rouge (7/F, 18 The Bund), a rooftop hot spot along the Bund.
Another popular spot to go is Xintiandi, a bar cluster that draws a number of foreign visitors. The decoration style here is a European twist with open-air bars, lights, and lively music.
Shanghai is a city to see and experience at least once in your lifetime. Have you ever been to Shanghai?
