Shanghai, China’s most populous city, is a captivating tapestry where ancient history seamlessly intertwines with ultra-modern skyscrapers. From the gleaming grandeur of The Bund, where historic European architecture reflects in the Huangpu River, to the leafy, intimate lanes of the French Concession, every corner tells a unique story. Whether you’re seeking cutting-edge contemporary art, serene green escapes, or unparalleled shopping experiences, Shanghai delivers. This guide will navigate you through the top attractions recommended by experts, offering invaluable advice to maximize your visit to this magnificent and vibrant metropolis.
Architectural Grandeur and Urban Green Spaces
Shanghai proudly showcases a unique blend of architectural masterpieces and tranquil green havens amidst its bustling urban landscape. The Bund remains Shanghai’s most iconic and revered landmark. As Sharon Owyang, author of Frommer’s Shanghai, aptly puts it: “No matter how many impressive skyscrapers are built around it, the Bund will always be Shanghai’s grandest and most venerable landmark.” This riverside promenade on the west bank of the Huangpu River defines Shanghai’s distinctive skyline, with its European-style neoclassical buildings exuding an unmistakable sense of glamour, further heightened by upscale shops, restaurants, and nightclubs.
In stark contrast to The Bund’s glitz, the serene expanse of People’s Square (Renmin Square) offers a peaceful retreat. This verdant park in the heart of Shanghai serves as an informal activity hub for locals and is ground zero for some of the city’s most prominent museums, including the Shanghai Museum, Shanghai Art Museum, Shanghai Urban Planning Centre, and Shanghai MoCA. Don’t miss the picturesque lotus pond near the MoCA, a tranquil spot amidst the bustling square. It’s an ideal place to witness the daily rhythms of Shanghai life and explore significant cultural institutions.
Historic Charms and Avant-Garde Art
Beyond its towering modern structures, Shanghai lovingly preserves districts steeped in history and vibrant artistic expression. The Former French Concession (FFC) is arguably the most captivating of Shanghai’s colonial districts. Sharon Owyang describes it as “worth a day or three of exploring,” with its tree-lined streets, historic mansions, and Art Deco apartments. Rows of plane trees create an illusion of leafy tunnels over the narrower streets, offering a shaded, charming atmosphere. While Huaihai Road serves as the busy commercial thoroughfare, a leisurely walk along Fuxing Xi (West) Road or any of its quaint side streets often reveals tasteful boutiques and cozy cafes.
Meanwhile, M50 has emerged as Shanghai’s thriving contemporary art district. Matt Gross, the New York Times’ “Frugal Traveler” columnist, notes how this complex “squeezes China’s art world into a handful of charmingly decrepit warehouses.” It’s a fantastic place to spend an afternoon immersing yourself in the arts. While acquiring pieces from leading galleries like ShangART, Aura, and Eastlink might prove challenging due to rising prices, numerous creative and crafty boutiques within the complex offer plenty of reasonably priced art and unique items at 50 Moganshan Road.
Futuristic Skylines and Unique Shopping Experiences
Shanghai is a city relentlessly pushing towards the future, with its spectacular skyline serving as the clearest testament to its rapid development. Pudong’s sci-fi-esque spires are responsible for Shanghai’s famously futuristic skyline, offering a “jaw-dropping” spectacle day or night, as described by Damian Harper, author of Lonely Planet Shanghai. The hotel scene in Pudong is particularly superb; you can enjoy a drink at the 36th-floor lounge of the Shangri-La Pudong or ascend to the very top of the 88-story Jinmao Tower for breathtaking panoramic views. For a distinct experience, consider asking your driver to take you through the Bund Sightseeing Tunnel, an illuminated underwater journey.
Beyond its awe-inspiring views, Shanghai is also a haven for unique shopping and custom fashion. The South Bund Soft-Spinning Material Market is a dream come true for anyone with a flair for custom design. This multi-story building houses dozens of vendors offering an astonishing array of fabrics. You can select from existing patterns or bring your own clothing, photos, or magazine tear-outs for new creations. The affordability is remarkable: shirts can be made for as little as $5, a pair of pants for $6, and a custom-made suit or wool coat for $50 or less, located at 399 Lujiabang Road.
Vibrant Lanes and Historical Legacies
Shanghai is a city where you can uncover vibrant, living alleys alongside significant historical legacies. Taikang Road offers a charming, pedestrian-friendly district that has developed organically and somewhat chaotically. Richard Baimbridge, a Shanghai-based journalist, notes that “as voracious wrecking balls devour Shanghai’s traditional nongs (small lanes) and shikumen (stone houses), the old lanes of Taikang Lu (road) are defiantly thriving.” Here, boutiques often double as seamstress studios, such as L’Atelier Mandarine, and you’ll find stores with a high creative element, including the T-shirt shop Shirtflag. This area provides an authentic glimpse into Shanghai’s evolving urban fabric while retaining the soul of its historic lanes.
Another unmissable historical gem is the Yuyuan Gardens. Described by Damian Harper as “one of China’s finest looking classical gardens,” despite the “unremitting tourist-flow.” This classic Ming Dynasty garden is adorned with pagoda-style pavilions, tranquil carp pools, and clusters of bamboo, creating a picturesque and serene atmosphere. The adjacent bazaar is an excellent spot for souvenirs, but be prepared to bargain hard and navigate through crowds of fellow tourists to find your perfect memento. The gardens are located on Anren Road, conveniently near The Bund.
Essential Insights for an Immersive Urban Experience
To fully appreciate your trip to Shanghai, there are a few practicalities worth noting. The Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall provides a fascinating overview of the city’s past, present, and future. Damian Harper calls it “Back to the future Shanghai-style: exultant visions of the Shanghai to come.” The museum features a large-scale miniature replica of present-day Shanghai on the ground floor and an impressive scale model of the city’s future on the entire third floor, alongside exhibits chronicling Shanghai’s rich history. Located at 100 Renmin Dadao, it offers a comprehensive perspective on this dynamic metropolis.
Shanghai is a sprawling, bustling, and vibrant urban landscape, promising a whirlwind of experiences. To truly immerse yourself, embrace the city’s chaotic energy and diverse street life. While its extensive and efficient Metro network makes getting around simple, consider exploring on foot or by bicycle through its charming neighborhoods to soak in the unique atmosphere. Shanghai promises a journey full of surprises and lasting memories, where every turn reveals a new story of harmonious contrasts between tradition and modernity.
