Shanghai: East Meets West

Shanghai is a city of contrasts. 1920s Art Deco architecture lines the Bund while futuristic skyscrapers pierce the clouds across the river in Pudong. It is China's most cosmopolitan city and a must-visit on any China itinerary.

The Bund (Waitan)

Shanghai's iconic waterfront promenade features 52 buildings in various architectural styles - Gothic, Baroque, Romanesque, and Art Deco - a testament to the city's colonial-era global connections. Walk the Bund at dusk when the Pudong skyline lights up across the Huangpu River.

Pudong Skyline

Cross the river (the Bund Sightseeing Tunnel is a kitschy but fun way) to explore China's financial heart. The Shanghai Tower (632m, China's tallest building), Oriental Pearl TV Tower, and Shanghai World Financial Center offer observation decks with staggering views.

French Concession

The most charming neighborhood in Shanghai, with tree-lined boulevards, colonial-era villas, boutique shops, and excellent cafes and restaurants. Wander along Wukang Road, visit the Propaganda Poster Art Centre, and dine at one of the many acclaimed restaurants.

Yu Garden & Old City

This 400-year-old garden is a masterpiece of classical Chinese landscape design with rockeries, pavilions, and koi ponds. The surrounding bazaar is touristy but atmospheric, especially the famous Huxinting Teahouse on the zigzag bridge.

More Shanghai Highlights

• Nanjing Road: China's most famous shopping street, especially dazzling at night
• Zhujiajiao Water Town: Ancient canal town 45 minutes from downtown Shanghai
• Shanghai Museum: World-class collection of Chinese art and artifacts (free entry)
• Tianzifang: Labyrinth of artsy lanes with galleries, studios, and street food in a former residential area
• Jing'an Temple: A golden Buddhist temple surrounded by skyscrapers - quintessentially Shanghai

Shanghai Food Scene

Shanghai's food scene is world-class. Must-try dishes include xiaolongbao (soup dumplings - try Din Tai Fung or Jia Jia Tang Bao), red-braised pork, hairy crab (in autumn), and scallion oil noodles. The city also has a thriving cocktail bar scene on the Bund and in the French Concession.