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Shanghai Travel Guide: Where the Future Meets the Past

Shanghai, China’s most dynamic metropolis, is a city of dramatic contrasts — where sky-piercing skyscrapers rise beside century-old colonial relics, and modern luxury mingles with everyday tradition in narrow lilongs and bustling wet markets.


The Skyline of the Future: Pudong & the Bund

Pudong’s iconic skyline, dominated by the Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai Tower, and Jin Mao Tower, glows with colorful LED animations after dark, creating one of Asia’s most recognizable cityscapes. Across the Huangpu River, the Bund promenade is a heritage lover’s dream, home to 22 historic buildings in neoclassical and Art Deco styles.


Yuyuan Garden: A Slice of Ming-Era Serenity

Just south of the Bund lies Yuyuan Garden, a tranquil 16th-century retreat surrounded by lotus ponds, moon gates, and ancient wisteria trees. The nearby bazaar is vibrant and crowded — great for souvenirs and street snacks — but step inside the garden and you’re in a different world.


Old Shanghai: The French Concession & Traditional Lilongs

Discover the city’s quieter, more nostalgic side by exploring the French Concession, with its tree-lined avenues, shikumen stonegate homes, and cozy lilongs. On a guided cycling tour, you can witness Shanghai’s daily rhythms — from mahjong games and knitting neighbors to open-air markets and vintage wet stalls.

These lane neighborhoods reflect a vanishing lifestyle, with shared lanehouses, intricate stone carvings, and communal courtyards still lingering despite urban expansion.


Modern Shanghai: Art, Shopping, and Innovation

Back in the modern world, Nanjing Road buzzes with global brands and neon lights. For boutique shopping and nightlife, head to Xintiandi and Tianzifang, where repurposed alleys house chic galleries, craft shops, and trendy restaurants.

Art lovers should explore M50, a former industrial zone turned creative hub, where young designers and contemporary artists exhibit edgy works in once-abandoned factory spaces.


Cultural Highlights and Local Life

  • Maoist Propaganda Poster Museum: A hidden gem for history buffs.

  • Buddhist temples and local parks host morning tai chi, folk dance, and water calligraphy.

  • The Art Deco heritage is unparalleled — Shanghai boasts more Art Deco buildings than any other city in the world.


Best Time to Visit Shanghai

The ideal times to explore Shanghai are:

  • Late March to May (spring)

  • Late September to October (autumn)

Avoid the first week of May and October, when public holidays make attractions crowded and accommodation scarce.

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Suggested itineraries featuring Shanghai

Our itineraries will give you suggestions for what is possible when you travel in Shanghai, and they showcase routes we know work particularly well. Treat them as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.

MAP VIEW
LIST VIEW
Place on the map

China ⟩ Zhaoxing

China ⟩ Zhangjiajie

China ⟩ Yuanyang

China ⟩ Yangshuo

China ⟩ Xian

China ⟩ Xiamen

China ⟩ Xiahe

China ⟩ Tiger Leaping Gorge

China ⟩ Suzhou

China ⟩ Shaxi

China ⟩ Shangri-La

China ⟩ Shanghai

Zhaoxing

Our expert guides to exploring Shanghai

Written by our specialists from their own experiences of visiting Shanghai, these guides will help you make the most of your time there. We share both our practical recommendations and the best ways to appreciate Shanghai at its best.


Our team of travel experts is ready to help you plan your custom trip. Contact us today!

Tailor-made design

Create cherished memories that will last a lifetime through our exceptional and inspiring travel experiences.

True experiences

Embark on an enriching journey to explore the world, where every sight, sound, and encounter offers valuable insights and learning opportunities.

Connect people

Reconnect with nature, engage with diverse cultures, and rejuvenate your senses through immersive travel experiences.

Connect with a certified specialist to begin planning your trip.

Feel free to call one of our experts or schedule a video appointment for personalized ideas and advice.

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    • Emily
    • Asia Specialist
    • John
    • Thailand and Asia Specialist
    • Juan
    • Indochina Specialist

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