Shanghai, a city in which innovation and tradition coexist, is a wonder of a place with great depth. The town has both dynamic cultural and economic significance to China, unlocking new travel experiences for people around the world. Whether it’s towering skyscrapers or tranquil, ancient classical gardens, Shanghai is a vibrant city that preserves the past and embraces the future. If you’re looking for food with cultural gems or are a curious adventurer, get ready to be guided through treasures that showcase Shanghai’s identity. Schlaflāwgu promises indelible experiences like no other.
What Are the Top Attractions in Shanghai?
Explore The Bund: A Must-See Tourist Destination
Also known as The Bund, it is undoubtedly one of Shanghai’s most iconic landmarks, with a rich history. The Bund is located on the western side of the Huangpu River and features a stunning promenade with ancient buildings that showcase Gothic, Renaissance, and Art Deco styles. These structures, reflecting Shanghai’s colonial past, offer a spectacular view for many visitors from around the world.
When you visit the Bund, you can see the billowing Oriental Pearl Tower and the Shanghai Tower, which are located in Pudong. The Bund, in contrast with Pudong, serves as an example of Shanghai’s uniqueness and its fusion of traditions with modern times. It’s a must to visit at night to see the brightly illuminated skyscrapers and the colorful city lights, which are a feast for the eyes.
To enhance your experience, take a look at Huangpu River cruises. From the waterfront, you can enjoy stunning views. Moreover, tourists can appreciate the many art galleries, boutiques, and cafes that line the waterfront, where they can enjoy modern pleasures without disconnecting from the Bund’s history. The Bund is much more than a tourist hotspot—it encapsulates Shanghai’s development. It simultaneously represents a city that exists in a different timeline and is at the center of the world’s attention.
Visiting the Shanghai Tower for Stunning City Views
Shanghai Tower is an example of architectural achievement and the scope of modern technology innovation. Built at a height of 632 meters (2,073 feet), the building is the tallest in China and the second tallest in the world. From an environmental and aesthetic perspective, the structure’s energy efficiency measures are noteworthy. Visitors can access the observation area on the 118th floor, where they can marvel at the unparalleled views of Shanghai’s skyline, the Huangpu River, and the rest of the city.
The tower also houses one of the world’s fastest elevators, reaching a breathtaking speed of 20.5 meters per second. This makes for both seamless and thrilling transport. Shanghai Tower is also home to commercial venues, hotels, and cultural spaces, making it a multifunctional zone of interest. From stunning architecture to unique views, the Shanghai Tower is sure to offer something for all its visitors, capturing the spirit of the city.
Discover the Historical Significance of Yuyuan Garden
Yuyuan Garden is located in the old part of the city. It’s a profoundly important place that tells the stories of Chinese culture. Pan Yunduan, a contemporary government officer, commissioned the garden for his parents in 1559. Yuyuan Garden spans over two hectares and features tranquil ponds, intricate rock formations, and elegantly designed halls, all of which are tailored to embody traditional Chinese aesthetics. The garden was created as a peaceful retreat for his aging parents.
The struggling craftsmanship from the period is visible in every corner of the garden, which offers a thoughtful layout. The iconic Grand Rockery, made from 12-meter-high rocks and intricately shaped stones, remains a central highlight symbolizing durability and strength. While showcasing traditional engineering, Mid Lake Pavilion and Zigzag Bridge add a sense of interconnected harmony. This breathtaking cultural and architectural treasure offers visitors serene beauty enveloped in a rich historical legacy.
Where to Stay: Best Hotels in Shanghai
Best-Rated Hotels Around The Bund
The Peninsula Shanghai: Set against the Peninsula, the Shanghai sky view is as beautiful as the Peninsula itself. The Peninsula hosts a spa and indoor swimming pool, with a rooftop restaurant. It also provides its guests with amazing views from their generously sized rooms and is furnished with modern infrastructure.
Waldorf Astoria Shanghai On The Bund: An unmatched combination of modern luxury and rich history, this hotel is situated in a rehabilitated heritage building constructed in 1911. With lavishly decorated guest rooms, the exotic food offerings, and the peacefully located pool, it offers unimaginable relaxation. Its location features easy access to The Bund for travelers.
Banyan Tree Shanghai On The Bund: This premier hotel showcases sleek contemporary style along with its unrivaled hospitality. Guests relax in the rooftop bar, soak in hot tubs in spacious suites, have a wide choice of dining options, and enjoy the city views all from the sprawling Baiyian Tree hotel. The hotel’s signature hospitality makes it ideal for tranquil sophistication.
Fairmont Peace Hotel: This historic landmark, the Fairmont Peace Hotel, offers lavish accommodations blended with old-world charm architecture. Guests indulge in internationally acclaimed Jazz Bar cuisine, fine dining, and relax in the historically furnished rooms filled with modern comforts.
Hyatt on the Bund: This is an upscale hotel that sits on the northern side of the Bund. It has unrivaled views of both Pudong and The Bund. It has a contemporary style, a myriad of dining options, and wellness facilities such as a spa and a fitness center, which makes it a preferred choice for travelers seeking relaxation.
Both leisure and business classes can enjoy an unforgettable experience courtesy of these hotels, thanks to their strategically located, exquisite services that complement the luxurious amenities provided, making a stay in Shanghai a memorable one.
Family-Friendly Hotels in Shanghai
Traveling with family, especially with kids can be exaughsting, and having the right accommodation makes it so much easier which is why stores offer their clients with family centered solutions, Thus shanghai is prepared with a variety od family centered hotels that suites every traveler’s needs.
A prime example is The Ritz-Carlton, located at the Shanghai Tower in Pudong. The hotel is not only famous for its luxury, but The Ritz also offers well-thought-out menus for kids and organizes activities with children in mind. Kids aren’t bored while their parents are having fun exploring the Oriental Pearl Tower, so the proximity to the tower is ideal for sightseeing.
The Green Court Residence City Center is well recognized by families for its convenience and modern-style rooms that come with fully equipped kitchens and washing machines. This arrangement is beneficial for families staying for an extended period, as it makes it easier to visit various shopping, cultural, and landmark locations.
On the other hand, families who want to explore the Shanghai Disney Resort would love the Toy Story Hotel. The resort is designed in a unique, bright, and cheery style to make it more attractive to kids and provide easier access to Disney parks.
To put it differently, these hotels in Shanghai were designed with children in mind, making them convenient, comfortable, and entertaining. This guarantees that families can explore the various attractions the dynamic city has to offer and ensures that children can create unforgettable memories.
Luxury Hotels with Views of the Huangpu River
The iconic Huangpu River is home to numerous luxury hotels, and for good reason. The breathtaking views from the elegantly designed windows, along with the top-tier services, are bound to catch the attention of many travelers. All the hotels offer an outstanding view of Shanghai’s skyline and provide top-notch services, including rooms with gourmet meals prepared by award-winning chefs and spa facilities.
To showcase Shanghai’s unique blend of history and culture, major businesses along the Huangpu River integrate both modern and traditional Chinese styles into their designs. From savoring the most delicate afternoon tea served aloft in a sitting area on a roof, or watching the sparkling lights of The Bund from your private room, these hotels transform moments into an unparalleled getaway that combines coziness, opulence, and stunning vistas.
How to Navigate Shanghai’s Transportation System?
Conveniently Traveling Around Attractions With Metro
Anyone traveling to Shanghai should use the city’s metro line to visit its popular attractions. The metro remains one of the most popular ways to travel in Shanghai, as it connects all the major sites. It has over 19 lines with more than 500 stations throughout the city. Trains start from 5:30 am to 11 pm, every 3 to 4 minutes during peak times.
Obtaining a Shanghai Public Transport Card is essential for easy access while traveling. It allows contactless payments to be used on buses, taxis, and the metro. All signs are well labeled in both English and Chinese so that tourists can navigate without any issues. There are designated apps that help with route planning in advance, so you are fully prepared before you start your journey. The crafted modern beauty of metro cars ensures that you travel in comfort and cool places even during hot months.
Getting From Pudong Airport to The City Center
Accessing the City center of Shanghai from the airport is simple. There are several options for getting from one location to the next, and each offers a different price point and caters to a distinct demographic. For example, the Shanghai Maglev Train is quite popular among tourists as it provides an enjoyable and speedy travel experience. The Maglev connects the Pudong International Airport to the Longyang Road Station, which is by far the closest train station. The distance is around 8 kilometers, which means the train covers this distance in around 8 minutes, traveling around 431 km/h (268 mph). Once you arrive at Longyang, you can use the transfer to Metro Line 2, which goes straight to the city center.
If you don’t wish to change from one mode of transport to another, you can use one of the many airport shuttle buses that go to the city and almost every major hotel. Most taxis also operate directly from the airport and have a flat fee for tourists. These tend to be more convenient for people with heavy luggage or those arriving at night. The ride takes between 45 and 60 minutes to get to the central districts, depending on the traffic. These options, along with those provided by rideshare apps, enhance the travel experience and have a low barrier to entry, ensuring ease of travel to the city. In essence, all means of transportation save you time when starting your stay in Shanghai.
The Advantages of Riding the Maglev Train
The Maglev train in Shanghai boasts an unparalleled integration of technology and travel efficiency. It is known as one of the fastest trains in the world, accelerating to speeds of 431 km/h (268 mph). This reduces the time taken to travel from Shanghai Pudong International Airport to Longyang Road station to just 7-8 minutes. Compare this to traditional road travel, which takes over an hour during peak traffic, and you start to see the difference.
The Maglev train is an epitome of innovation and sustainability. It is operated using magnetic levitation technology, which eliminates the noise and vibrations associated with traditional trains. This serves to enhance comfort for passengers and ensures they have a quiet ride. Along with the seamless and punctual service offered, the train also has an inexpensive ticket price of ¥50 ($7) for a one-way trip, making the Maglev extremely captivating to both frequent travelers and first-time visitors to Shanghai.
While flying into or out of Shanghai, the Maglev serves as an exceptional experience that showcases a traveler’s need to keep in touch with modern marvels. The train also boasts some commendable environmental benefits while still retaining futuristic design and unmatched efficiency.
What Is the Best Time to Visit Shanghai?
Attractions and Events in Shanghai for Each Season
As a tourist, Shanghai has something to offer you all year round:
Spring (March to May): This includes the period when the weather warms up, making outdoor excursions a must. Mark your calendar for the cherry blossoms at Gucun Park and don’t skip the Shanghai International Flower Festival.
Summer (June to August): Despite being muggy, summer is great for night and waterfront promenades at The Bund. During summer, you can also enjoy the Shanghai International Film Festival.
Autumn (September to November): This is usually considered the best time to visit, thanks to its mild temperatures and clear blue skies. Most popular attractions, such as Yu Garden and Century Park, are a sight to behold during this period.
Winter (December to February): It’s a bit chilly, but the city becomes a hub of festivity during the Chinese New Year, and there are seasonal activities such as visiting the Yuyuan Lantern Festival.
No matter what time you choose to visit, each season has its unique appeal, making it enjoyable at any time.
For an Enjoyable Stay, Weather Conditions Must be Taken into Account
Preparation for a trip is simplified when you understand the weather conditions and patterns for Shanghai. The city has a humid subtropical climate, characterized by distinct seasons. Mild temperatures, ranging from 10 to 25 degrees Celsius, are experienced during spring and autumn, making them the most comfortable seasons. The clear skies in these seasons add to the enjoyment of outdoor activities.
Clothing that is lightweight and easy to breathe in, coupled with plenty of water, is recommended for use during the summer months of June to September. The period’s Typhoons are known to happen in late summer, so keeping snow weather updates during this period is prudent.
Throughout the winter temperatures range from and 3 °C to 10 °C and 37°F to 50°F. Snowfalls are rare during these months, which calls for some warm clothing during exploration. Shanghai guarantees charm throughout these months due to winter festivals and other seasonal festivities. Understanding and accommodating these seasonal changes will make a trip to the city worthwhile for anyone at any time.
Organizing Travel Plans Around Major Festivals
Major festivals in Shanghai are key to the travel plan because of their unparalleled cultural immersion. The celebrations of Chinese New Year, also known as Spring Festival, are one of the most important holidays, celebrated from late January to mid-February. The city is filled with decorations, awe-inspiring fireworks, lion dances, and temple fairs. Also, it’s a great time to enjoy local traditions and festive foods like dumplings and sweet rice balls.
One more highlight is that the Mid-Autumn Festival is celebrated in September or October. It is mainly centered around the family coming together to watch the moon and eat mooncakes, which are the ultimate delicacy. Lantern shows and other cultural performances fill the city, especially in older parts like Yuyuan Garden.
The Shanghai International Arts Festival and the World Music Asia festival feature many performances by both famous and local musicians, a delight for art and music lovers. These are significant events to experience the city’s culture.
When planning your itinerary, it’s important to sync your visit with these cultural events to experience Shanghai’s culture and energy. Remember to consider heightened pedestrian traffic and make bookings for accommodations and tickets well in advance to optimize your experience.
What Are the Must-Try Restaurants and Cuisine in Shanghai?
Local Treats to Try in the French Concession
While sightseeing in the French Concession, I was particularly captivated by its food scene, which features a range of restaurants serving both traditional and modern Shanghai dishes. One delicacy, for instance, is xiao long bao or soup dumplings, which have become a hallmark of the city’s culinary offerings. These delicate parcels filled with savory broth and tender meat burst in your mouth. For first-timers, I would recommend local chains like Din Tai Fung or smaller family-owned places. Something is charming about the different ways these types of restaurants prepare the dish.
If I had to pick another dish, it would be scallion oil noodles, which exemplify the effortless yet appealing character of Shanghai’s comfort food. Each bite of the silky noodles enveloped in scallion oil is simply a party in your mouth. As for the dessert, it would be red bean pastries, youtiao bathed in sugar, and served with soy milk. This perfectly showcases the city’s rich culinary tradition.
The French Concession is also remarkable for its unique integration of international features with cafes and bistros serving mouthwatering fusion cuisine. From spicy Sichuan cuisine to modern sweet treats in the form of wrought European-style pastries, the region struck me as a bustling center for culinary exploration. My recommendation? Stroll around freely because if you let your senses take charge, there’s something tasty waiting for you on almost every street in the French Concession!
Best Restaurants Near Oriental Pearl Tower
While visiting the Oriental Pearl Tower, one of the highlights is the exceptional food places located around it. A good example is Din Tai Fung, the world-famous restaurant best known for its xiaolongbao, or soup dumplings. The soft, delicate skins of the dumplings burst with rich fillings, making every bite an unforgettable experience, especially for those who appreciate authentic Chinese cuisine. Aside from the famous xiaolongbao, the restaurant features an extensive selection of Taiwanese dishes that are sure to delight.
On the Bund is second to none in terms of its views and high-end dining. It may be a few steps away from the Oriental Pearl Tower, but it does not disappoint when it comes to fine dining, along with exquisite views of the Huangpu River. The restaurant’s menu includes contemporary European cuisine, garnished with exceptional service. Whether it’s a lavish dinner or a serene brunch, it is an excellent place for an unforgettable, relishable meal.
If you’re looking to have a memorable yet relaxed dining experience, Wujie is perfect for you. They specialize in vegetarian meals, transforming traditional Chinese cuisine with unique flavor concepts and fantastic presentation. Wujie is situated not far from the tower, making it perfect for anyone who doesn’t want to miss out on flavor and creativity just because they are vegetarian. From fancy dining to quick grabs, the surroundings of the Oriental Pearl Tower have it all.
Exploring Street Food in Zhujiajiao
The street food in Zhujiajiao was nothing short of fantastic. While walking through this ancient water town, the fragrant aromas wafting through the air drew me to countless stalls selling a variety of local delicacies. The warmly served osmanthus tea, paired with the zongzi, a traditional dish of spring rolls and rice marinated with red bean paste or pork, was comforting and distinct. Each mouthful of the zongzi was a taste party that blended sweet and savory – zongzi was one of my favorites!
Fried stinky tofu is undoubtedly on the more unique side of the spectrum. Stinky tofu is better when it is fried! Stinky tofu’s pungent aroma does scare off some people, but the crispy fried edges and soft interior satiated my craving quite literally! Moving forward, the hand-pulled noodles caught my attention, and the sizzling bowls of broth sure were enticing. Witnessing how they prepared the mouthwatering noodles was as delightful as actually relishing the dish. Aside from all the food, my favorite thing about Zhujiajiao was its lively atmosphere with ni vendors who were genuinely passionate about what they do.
The street food adventures in Zhujiajiao broadened my understanding of the region’s culinary history. Every single meal was a burst of flavor, revealing the culture and heritage of this ancient town. If you’re a foodie, I recommend walking through the streets of Zhujiajiao, as the cuisine and culture are genuinely remarkable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What are the places of interest in Shanghai that people have reviewed on TripAdvisor?
A: Based on impressions and reviews made on TripAdvisor, some of the places of interest in Shanghai are Disneyland, Lujiazui, Shanghai Modern Skyscraper, and the Chinese Gardens alongside the Chinese Museum. They are freely available in the attractions section of the Shanghai discussion forum on TripAdvisor.
Q: How can I easily find conveniently located Shanghai hotels on TripAdvisor?
A: For conveniently located hotels, you can go to tripadvisor.com, where you can find the best deals on hotels available in Shanghai. They also provide options for user ratings, along with the region’s best places, which include the Renaissance Shanghai Yu Garden Hotel and the Hilton.
Q: What is the most convenient method of moving from place to place in Shanghai?
A: Most discussion boards recommend using the subway system for moving between locations within Shanghai. It connects the online Puxi and Pudong regions, which tourists mainly visit due to the attractions mentioned in Shanghai travel forums, both underground and above ground.
Q: Where can I find dining options in Shanghai?
A: Users provide reviews of a multitude of restaurants in Shanghai at TripAdvisor.com. The Shanghai forum usually discusses the best restaurants located around Xintiandi and West Nanjing, offering a wide selection of both Chinese and International dishes.
Q: What should I know about traveling to Shanghai from Pudong Airport?
A: If you are travelling to Shanghai from Pudong Airport (PVG), you may as well use the Maglev train. It is known as the world’s fastest train. From the Airport to the city center, the train is well-connected, which is a plus for the passengers.
Q: Are there family-friendly attractions in Shanghai?
A: Of course they are! Shanghai Disneyland and the Shanghai Museum are some of the well-known family attractions. Travel forums are filled with recommendations for places where families share their experiences and tips when visiting with children.
Q: How do I navigate the Shanghai subway system?
A: As with any major metropolis, there is a divider involving a mobile app or a printed map, and each of them offers a subway map. The subway system is quite easy and all the signs are in Chinese and English which is very helpful for out of town travelers.
Q: What are the most visited areas in Shanghai?
A: The most visited areas in Shanghai include the Lujiazui region, which is popular for its skyline and modern skyscrapers. The other region is the historical Xintiandi, which has shopping and fine restaurants and is often mentioned in Shanghai’s forum boards
Q: How can I receive travel advice for Shanghai?
A: Travel advice for Shanghai can be found by joining travel discussion boards on TripAdvisor.com. These discussion boards provide a platform for everyone to share their suggestions regarding places of interest, accommodations, and restaurants.