Shanghai Travel Guide

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Shanghai is an intense city on all levels.

The sights, the sounds, the smells, the stories, Shanghai rewards the curious traveller around every corner. We spent 5 days exploring this incredible city and we can’t wait to get back.

What are the top dishes to try in Shanghai?

Shanghai Travel Guide

Shanghai, the largest city in China and one of the world’s most populous cities, attracts millions of visitors every year. Known for its breathtaking skyline, rich history, and cultural heritage, Shanghai is a must-visit destination for travelers who want to experience the essence of China. In this Shanghai travel guide, we’ll explore what makes the city so unique, where to go, what to do, and how to make the most of your trip.

Getting to Shanghai

Shanghai Pudong International Airport is the main gateway to the city, located approximately 30km from the central business district. Depending on where you are coming from, there are several airlines that fly direct to Shanghai, including China Eastern, Air China, and Cathay Pacific. If you’re already in China, there are daily high-speed trains connecting Shanghai to other major cities like Beijing, Guangzhou, and Nanjing.

Where to Stay in Shanghai

Shanghai offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, from luxury hotels to budget hostels. The most popular areas to stay in Shanghai are the Bund, Jing’an, and Xintiandi. The Bund is the city’s iconic waterfont promenade, where you can find the grandest buildings from Shanghai’s colonial past. Jing’an is an upscale district with a mix of modern and traditional architecture, while Xintiandi is a pedestrian-friendly area with traditional Shikumen houses that have been converted into trendy shops and restaurants.

What to Do in Shanghai

Shanghai has a wealth of attractions and activities to keep visitors entertained for days. Here are some of the top things to do:

1. The Bund – Take a stroll along the Huangpu River and marvel at some of the grandest colonial architecture in Asia.

2. Yu Garden – Explore the classical Chinese gardens and historic buildings dating back to the Ming Dynasty.

3. Shanghai Tower – Take a ride up to the observation deck of the world’s second-tallest building for breathtaking panoramic views of the city.

4. Shanghai Museum – Discover the cultural history of China through a vast collection of ancient artifacts and art.

5. Xintiandi – Wander the charming pedestrian streets lined with trendy shops, restaurants, and cafes.

6. French Concession – Take a walk through the tree-lined streets of one of the city’s most picturesque neighborhoods, filled with Colonial-era villas, trendy art galleries, and fashion boutiques.

7. Nanjing Road – Shop ’til you drop on one of China’s most famous shopping streets, with everything from luxury brands to street vendors selling souvenirs.

8. Shanghai Disneyland – Experience the magic of Disney in China’s first-ever theme park.

What to Eat in Shanghai

Food is an essential part of the Shanghai experience, and the city has a reputation as one of the world’s most exciting culinary destinations. Some of the must-try dishes in Shanghai include:

1. Xiao Long Bao – also known as soup dumplings, these steamed buns filled with meat and broth are a Shanghai specialty.

2. Shanghai-style fried pork buns – these fluffy buns are filled with juicy pork and fried to crispy perfection.

3. Shanghai stir-fried noodles – thick and chewy noodles are stir-fried with meat, vegetables, and a savory brown sauce.

4. Sticky rice cakes – a popular street snack made from glutinous rice, stuffed with various fillings like red bean paste or meat.

5. Shanghai hairy crab – a seasonal delicacy from the Yangtze River, known for its sweet, delicate meat.

Conclusion

Shanghai is a city that’s ever-changing, always vibrant, and never dull; it’s a place where you can see the future of China while exploring its past. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, there’s always something new to discover in Shanghai. With its incredible sights, delicious food, and welcoming locals, it’s no wonder that Shanghai has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your Shanghai adventure today.

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