Welcome to Shanghai
Shanghai, the bustling metropolis of China, is a city that has always fascinated me with its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture. As one of the world’s largest cities, Shanghai is a unique and fascinating melting pot of cultures where old and new intersect intriguingly. As a traveller, I was drawn to Shanghai for its incredible food scene, stunning landmarks, and bustling atmosphere of its streets.
The city’s impressive skyline highlights a towering skyscrapers such as the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower and the Shanghai Tower. But Shanghai is more than just a modern metropolis; it is also home to numerous historical landmarks such as the ancient Yu Garden and the beautiful French Concession.
How To Get There
Shanghai is a major international transportation hub, so there are several options for getting there, depending on where you travel.
By Air: Shanghai has two airports: Pudong International Airport and Hongqiao International Airport. Pudong Airport is the leading international airport with most international flights arriving there. Hongqiao Airport mainly serves domestic flights but also has a few international flights.
By Train: Shanghai has a well-developed railway network, and there are several high-speed trains connecting Shanghai to other major cities in China. The Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station is the main train station for high-speed trains, while the Shanghai Railway Station mainly serves regular trains.
By Bus: For long-distance travel, Shanghai has bus stations with connections to nearby cities and provinces. The main bus station is the Shanghai South Bus Station.
By Car: If you travel from nearby cities or provinces, you can also consider driving to Shanghai. However, be aware that traffic in the city can be heavy, and parking can be challenging to find.
Places Of Interest
A famous waterfront area in Shanghai is located along the Huangpu River, famous for its stunning views of Shanghai skyline, including the Oriental Pearl Tower and the Shanghai Tower. The area is known for its colonial architecture, with buildings that reflect the city’s history as an international trading hub in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Book tickets here.
Also known as the Garden of Happiness, this famous traditional Chinese garden was built during the Ming Dynasty, covering an area of over 20,000 square meters. It’s renowned for its beautiful rock formations, winding paths, and tranquil ponds, designed to represent scenes from Chinese literature and mythology. The garden also features several iconic landmarks, including the Grand Rockery, the Nine-Turn Bridge, and the Huxinting Teahouse. Book tickets here.
A skyscraper in the Pudong district of Shanghai is one of the tallest buildings worldwide, with a height of 632 meters and 128 floors. The tower is famous for its unique design, which features a twisting shape that reduces wind resistance and allows for more efficient energy use. The Shanghai Tower is a popular destination for tourists to experience breathtaking views of Shanghai’s skyline and learn about modern architecture and engineering. Book tickets here.
Nanjing Road is a famous shopping district in the heart of Shanghai, China. It’s one of the world’s busiest shopping streets and features a wide range of shops, department stores, boutiques, restaurants, cafes, and entertainment venues. The road is famous for its neon lights, which create a colourful and lively atmosphere in the evening. Nanjing Road is a popular destination for tourists to shop for souvenirs, enjoy local cuisine, and experience the bustling energy of modern-day Shanghai. Book tickets here.
This famous TV tower is located in the Pudong district of Shanghai, with a unique design featuring 11 spheres of different sizes connected by three columns. The tower stands at the height of 468 meters and has several observation decks that offer breathtaking views of Shanghai skyline. The tower is also home to several attractions, including a museum, a restaurant, and a glass-bottomed walkway. Book tickets here.
A world-renowned museum in the People’s Square of Shanghai is a comprehensive museum with over 120,000 cultural artefacts from China’s ancient past, including ceramics, calligraphy, jade, bronze, and furniture. The museum is famous for its unique architecture, which combines traditional Chinese elements with modern design. The galleries are circular, with each floor representing a different era of Chinese history. Book tours here.
A world-famous amusement park located in Pudong, Shanghai, is the first Disney theme park in mainland China, featuring a wide range of attractions and entertainment for all ages. The park is famous for its unique blend of traditional Chinese culture and Disney magic, with attractions such as the Enchanted Storybook Castle, which is the largest and most complex Disney castle in the world, and the Garden of the Twelve Friends, which features Disney characters reimagined as the Chinese zodiac animals. Book tickets here.
Where To Stay
Luxury Hotels
This beautiful hotel offers stunning panoramic views of the city skyline and is located near the Oriental Pearl Tower in Pudong, close to the famous shopping destination of Nanjing Road.
Mid-Range Hotels
Radisson Blu Hotel Shanghai New World:
This excellent hotel offers scenic views of the city from its luxurious rooms in the heart of the Nanjing Road shopping district and features an award-winning Chinese restaurant.
Budget Hotels
This hotel offers simple yet comfortable rooms and a central location, steps away from the bustling shopping district of Nanjing Road and People’s Square.
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Where To Eat
Da Hu Chun:Â It is a local Shanghai restaurant chain specializing in traditional breakfast foods, including fried dough sticks, soy milk, and steamed buns.
Jia Jia Tang Bao:Â It is a popular Shanghai restaurant specializing in soup dumplings with various flavours and fillings. It is located on Huanghe Road.
Lost Heaven Bar:Â This popular restaurant serves Yunnan-style cuisine, which combines flavours and ingredients from Southeast Asia and China’s southwestern provinces, in a stylish and modern setting.
Jesse Restaurant:Â It is a popular Shanghai restaurant specializing in traditional Shanghainese cuisine, including braised pork, soup dumplings, and other local favourites. It is located on Tianping Road.
Final Thoughts
Overall, Shanghai is a vibrant and exciting city with plenty to offer visitors. From the historic Bund to the modern skyscrapers of Pudong, there are countless sights and experiences to enjoy. Shanghai has something to offer whether you’re interested in art, culture, history, or cuisine. Be sure to try out some of the city’s amazing food, explore the local neighbourhoods, and soak up the energy and excitement of this dynamic metropolis. A trip to Shanghai is sure to be an unforgettable experience!
Recommended Tours
Explore Trips From Shanghai
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