Shanghai
上海
China's global metropolis — a dazzling fusion of East and West.
Fast, stylish, and polished — Shanghai feels cinematic, with heritage architecture, skyline views, design-led cafés, and a strong urban rhythm.
Why this city
A richer way to experience Shanghai
Shanghai is China's most cosmopolitan city and one of the world's great financial hubs. The iconic Bund waterfront showcases a stunning row of colonial-era architecture facing the futuristic Pudong skyline across the Huangpu River — a visual metaphor for the city's dual identity. Shanghai pulses with energy around the clock, offering exceptional dining, luxury shopping, buzzing nightlife, and cultural institutions that rank among Asia's finest.
Best for
- ✓City lovers
- ✓Foodies
- ✓Design-conscious travelers
- ✓Short luxury getaways
Essential highlights
What makes Shanghai worth the trip
Admire the historic Bund at sunrise and the Pudong skyline at night
Explore the traditional Yu Garden and Old Town bazaar
Ride to the top of the Shanghai Tower for panoramic views
Discover art and culture in the former French Concession
Indulge in world-class dining from xiaolongbao to Michelin-starred restaurants
Must-see places
Start with these standout experiences in Shanghai
The Bund
The Bund is Shanghai’s most famous waterfront promenade, where historic European-era buildings face the futuristic skyline of Pudong across the Huangpu River.
View Attraction →Yu Garden
Yu Garden is a classical Chinese garden in Shanghai, featuring elegant pavilions, rockeries, koi ponds, and traditional landscaping from the Ming dynasty.
View Attraction →Eat, stay, move
The practical side of enjoying Shanghai
What to eat
Soup dumplings are a Shanghai essential — delicate wrappers, rich broth, and endless local variations.
Pan-fried buns with juicy filling and crispy bottoms, perfect for breakfast or a quick snack.
The city excels at rooftop bars, contemporary Chinese tasting menus, and stylish international restaurants.
Where to stay
A classic base for skyline views, heritage hotels, and easy first-time sightseeing.
Best for: First-time visitors and iconic city views
Leafy, elegant, and packed with cafés, boutiques, and low-rise streets full of character.
Best for: Lifestyle travelers, food, and neighborhood charm
An excellent all-round location with shopping, transport links, and polished mid-range to luxury stays.
Best for: Balanced convenience and comfort
Getting around
- Shanghai's metro is clean, efficient, and very easy to use for most visitors.
- Walking works well in neighborhoods like the French Concession, but plan metro or taxi rides between districts.
- The Bund, Lujiazui, and French Concession are easier to enjoy if grouped by area on the same day.
Budget snapshot
Plan your spend with confidence
Budget
USD 55–90
Use the metro, stay slightly outside core luxury zones, and focus on casual eateries.
Mid-range
USD 120–220
A comfortable city-hotel stay, mixed transport, and a few cocktail bars or better-known restaurants.
Comfort / Premium
USD 260+
Best for heritage hotels on the Bund, rooftop dining, and a more design-led city experience.
Practical tips
Small things that make the trip smoother
- •The skyline is most dramatic around sunset and after dark, so plan a Bund visit twice if possible.
- •Reservations are helpful for popular fine-dining, rooftop bars, and trend-led brunch spots.
- •Shanghai is large, so avoid overloading one day with sights from opposite sides of the city.
Suggested itinerary
2 Days in Shanghai
Travelers combining Shanghai with other cities on a wider China trip
Day 1 — Skyline and heritage
Morning
Walk the Bund early, then explore nearby historic buildings and riverfront streets.
Afternoon
Visit Yu Garden and the Old Town area, then cross to Lujiazui for tower views.
Evening
Return for Bund night views and enjoy dinner with skyline-facing cocktails.
Day 2 — Neighborhood Shanghai
Morning
Start in the Former French Concession with coffee, tree-lined streets, and boutiques.
Afternoon
Visit a museum, design district, or Jing'an Temple area depending on your interests.
Evening
End with xiaolongbao, a speakeasy, or modern Shanghai dining.
More itinerary ideas
Choose the pace that fits your trip
2 Days in Shanghai
Travelers combining Shanghai with other cities on a wider China trip
2 day plan
4 Days in Shanghai
Visitors who want both landmark views and deeper neighborhood exploration
4 day plan