French
Arabic
Bulgarian
Czech
Danish
German
Greek
Spanish
Finnish
Hungarian
Indonesian
Italian
Hebrew
Japanese
Korean
Dutch
Polish
Portuguese, International
Romanian
Russian
Slovak
Swedish
Thai
Turkish
Ukrainian
Shanghai. The name alone conjures up electrifying energy, a futuristic skyline that defies the laws of physics, and a mesmerizing blend of East and West. More than just a metropolis, Shanghai is a complete sensory experience—a city that dances to the frenetic pace of its own progress while cherishing the treasures of its past. Welcome to the beating heart of contemporary China.
A Skyline That Defies Imagination: Clash of Titans
Your first rendezvous with Shanghai must be the Bund (外滩). Stroll along this famous promenade beside the 黄浦江 river, and the view before you is unforgettable. On one side, a majestic parade of colonial buildings from the 1920s-30s, witnesses to the era of foreign concessions, showcase neoclassical, Gothic, Art Deco, and Baroque styles. It’s like an open-air architectural museum. On the other side of the river stands 浦东 , the ultra-modern business district, where glass and steel giants climb into the clouds. The Oriental Pearl Tower (东方明珠 ) with its iconic spheres, the Shanghai World Financial Center (the "bottle opener"), and the dizzying Shanghai Tower (上海中心大厦 ) (the second tallest building in the world) make up a futuristic architectural symphony, especially hypnotic when the lights come on at nightfall. Take a night cruise on the 黄浦江 to really capture the magic of this striking contrast.
A Dive into the Past: Gardens, Temples, and Enchanting Alleys
Behind the modern bustle, Shanghai hides havens of serenity and history:
- The Yu Garden (豫园 ): A Ming-era gem, this classical Chinese garden is a labyrinth of elegant pavilions, koi-filled ponds, strangely shaped limestone rocks (including the famous “Jade Rock”), and winding corridors. An oasis of peace in the vibrant Old Town. Then explore the adjacent bazaar, a maze of crowded alleys offering everything from kitschy souvenirs to delicious local specialties like the famous "小笼包 " (soup dumplings).
- The Jade Buddha Temple (玉佛寺 ): Home to two exceptional white jade Buddha statues brought from Burma, this active temple is a peaceful place for contemplation. The scent of incense wafts in the air, and the traditional architecture contrasts sharply with the city outside.
- 田子坊 & The 石库门 Alleys (新天地 ): Lose yourself in the artistic lanes of 田子坊 , set among former workers’ 石库门 houses (distinguished by their stone entrances). Art galleries, designer boutiques, bohemian cafés, and small restaurants hide in this lively and colorful maze. For a more stylish, refurbished version of the 石库门 , head to 新天地 . This trendy area combines preserved historic architecture with upscale boutiques, international restaurants, and chic bars. It's the perfect spot for a terrace drink.
- Shanghai Museum: Located on People’s Square (人民广场 ), this world-class museum is a must for art and history lovers. Its collections of bronzes, ceramics, calligraphy, paintings, and antique furniture are simply stunning and offer a journey through millennia of Chinese civilization.
A Feast for the Taste Buds: Gourmet Paradise
Shanghai is a culinary capital! Its local cuisine, Hu cuisine (沪菜 ), features mild and rich flavors, often enhanced with soy sauce and sugar. Don’t leave without trying:
- 小笼包 (and 生煎包 too!): Steamed dumplings filled with meat and broth are an institution. Watch out for the hot broth inside—delicious, but handle with care! The 生煎包 , their pan-fried, crispy-bottomed version, are just as addictive.
- Pork in “红烧肉 ” sauce: Melting pork belly slowly braised in soy sauce, rice wine, and sugar, caramelized to perfection. The ultimate comfort food.
- Walnut Shrimp: A refined classic, with large crispy shrimp topped with a sweet-and-sour sauce and served with walnuts.
- “葱油拌面 ” Noodles: Simple yet delicious noodles, tossed with scallions and soy sauce.
- Shanghainese Breakfasts: Start your day like a local with a “煎饼 ” (crispy savory crepe), “油条 ” (fried dough sticks) to dip in soy milk, or sticky rice balls (“糍饭团 ”).
Where to eat? From authentic, very affordable street stalls (look for the lines!) to Michelin-starred restaurants and neighborhood “弄堂 ” eateries, options are endless. The areas around 豫园 , East and West Nanjing Road, and 田子坊 abound with great spots.
Electric Nightlife and Frenzied Shopping
When the sun sets, Shanghai lights up in another way:
- Nightlife: From sophisticated bars with panoramic views atop the 浦东 skyscrapers (like Flair at the Ritz-Carlton or Bar Rouge) to electro clubs on 永福路 , through hidden speakeasies and trendy breweries in the French Concession, there’s something for everyone. 新天地 and the Bund also come alive at night.
- Shopping: Shanghai is a shopping paradise, from absolute luxury to unique finds. Nanjing East Road shopping street (南京东路 ) is a bustling, brightly lit pedestrian thoroughfare, perfect for the atmosphere and the big chains. For upscale, head to Nanjing West Road (南京西路 ) and 新天地 . The huge malls like Plaza 66 or IAPM are awe-inspiring in their scale. For souvenirs and crafts, the bazaars around 豫园 and the shops in 田子坊 are a must-see. Concept stores and emerging designers are often hidden in the alleyways of the French Concession.
Practical Tips for a Successful Trip to Shanghai
- Best time: Spring (April–May) and Autumn (September–November) for pleasant temperatures. Summer is very hot and humid, winter can be cold and grey.
- Getting around: The Shanghai metro is huge, modern, efficient, and very affordable. By far the best mode of transport. Taxis are plentiful and inexpensive (make sure the meter is running). Ride-hailing apps such as Didi (the equivalent of Uber) are very convenient. The Shanghai Public Transportation Card (交通卡 ) is handy for metro, buses, and taxis.
- Language: English is understood in hotels, major attractions, and tourist areas, but less so elsewhere. Having a translation app (like Pleco or Google Translate) is very useful. Learning a few basic Mandarin words (thank you = 谢谢 , Hello = 你好 ) is always appreciated.
- Money: Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are king. Still, carry some cash (RMB – 元 ) for small shops or markets. International credit cards are accepted at major hotels and stores.
- Visa: Most foreign visitors need a visa to enter China. Make sure to check with the Chinese embassy or consulate well in advance.
- Internet connection: A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is essential for accessing Google, Facebook, Instagram, Gmail, and many Western sites, since they are blocked in China. Arrange one before you leave.
Shanghai: More Than a Destination, an Experience
Shanghai isn’t just a place to visit—it’s something you experience. It’s a city that takes you by the hand and sweeps you up in its whirlwind. A city where every street corner hides a surprise, and where the past is constantly in dialogue with a bold future. It’s the architectural daring of 浦东 , the millennial serenity of 豫园 Garden, the burst of flavors at a street stall, the creative frenzy of 田子坊 , and the timeless elegance of the Bund.
Prepare to be dazzled, amazed, and thoroughly captivated. Shanghai, the "Pearl of the Orient," awaits you for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of modern China's dragon. So, ready to feel on top of the world? Shanghai welcomes you with open arms.
