In the world’s fastest developing country Shanghai stands out above the rest as the most liveable and instantly likeable city, a self-motivated metropolis that loves to reinvent itself and push the boundaries of expansion. Whereas Beijing may be the outright winner in terms of enchantment and historical attractions, Shanghai is the cutting-edge destination and the one looking farthest into the future. Formerly the playground for foreign adventurers and hedonists, what awaits travelers today is a heady mix of sparkling skyscrapers, avant-garde shopping, leafy residential neighborhoods, contemporary galleries and an energetic nightlife alongside a pinch of the old Orient.
Shanghai may not possess the ancient palaces and temples of other Chinese towns, however it is still one of the most gratifying places to visit. With the main attractions condensed into a handful of districts this is a city that rewards lazy meandering. Enjoy admiring the legacy of colonial architecture peppered throughout The Bund and then spin 180° to gaze up at the towering skyscrapers of Pudong across the HuangpuRiver, a skyline to rival anything Kuala Lumpur and Tokyo have to offer. Shop until the heart is content along Nanjiang Lu and party all night long at the European-esque bars and nightclubs and it is easy to understand why this action packed city is so popular.
Yet, behind this flashy facade Shanghai still manages to cling to its roots and those looking for the traditional side of China are in luck. Southeast from People’s Square, a brisk walk or short metro ride, the OldCity sit’s a few blocks in from the HuangpuRiver. Here it is possible to weave in and out of ancient alleyways, explore local street markets and kick back in archetypal Chinese gardens and teahouses. Shanghai is a hefty train ride from Beijing and Hong Kong and welcomes flights from across Asia, Australia, Europe and the USA and Canada. One thing to remember is that even though summers can be unbearably hot and winters bitterly cold this is a city that rests for nobody. The Bund - Sat on the west bank of the HuangpuRiver, The Bund looks across the water to the glistening skyscrapers of Pudong and is generally the first point of call for visitors to Shanghai. Formerly the heart of old-Shanghai, The Bund is a great place to stroll along the riverfront admiring the legacy of Colonial, Greek, Renaissance and Baroque influenced architecture. Be sure to check out the magnificent Peace Hotel, Customs House and Hong Kong and Shanghai Bank.
Pudong - Prior to 1949 this area, on the opposite side of the river from The Bund, was inhabited by job-seeking immigrants, prostitution and general low-life, however today paints a completely different story. With a skyline to rival Hong Kong and Manhattan, the area now sparkles in the bundles of soaring skyscrapers. Catch the metro from People’s Square and head to either the Lujiazui or Century Avenue areas. There is plenty to see here, especially in Lujiazui, starting with the views from the top of the Oriental Pearl TV Tower and Jimao Tower. Back on ground level check out the Museum of History and interesting China Sex Culture Exhibition. From here head over to Century Avenue to find the Shanghai Science & Technology Museum, Oriental Art Center and Zendai Museum of Modern Art, all spread around the vast Century Park.
People’s Square Shanghai - The former site of the Shanghai Racecourse, built by the English in 1862, is today an unavoidable central landmark of the city, playing host to a fine array of tourist attractions, counting museums, theatres and historic buildings. Set aside some time to explore the Shanghai Museum, Shanghai Art Museum, Museum of Contemporary Art and Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall, all within a few steps of each other. Whilst in the area also stop by Shanghai City Hall and, if here during the evening, try and catch a show at the Shanghai Grand Theatre.
The Old City - For a taste of traditional Shanghai life head south from People’s Square and towards the river to be greeted by the OldCity and feel like stepping into another dimension. Here bustling food and handicraft markets prevail and customary teahouses are bursting with character. Shoppers will have a field day at the daily Antiques Market and vibrant Sunday Market. For more OldCity life go no further than the Yu Gardens and Bazaar, a few blocks of street stalls and eateries crammed in amongst a network of medieval alleyways.
French Concession - One of the most charming districts of Shanghai, the French Concession is a wonderful place to stroll around peacefully and admire the old mansions and residencies, explore the quaint boutiques and galleries and sample the selection of cafés and restaurants. Particular sights worth checking out are Propaganda Poster Art Centre and Xintiandi, the latter being a new development of renovated Shikumen houses turned into a residential and entertainment zone.
Huangpu River Tour - One of the best ways to see the city is along the HuangpuRiver which cuts through the middle of The Bund and Pudong. Hour-long trips provide both great viewing of the varied architecture of the city and an insight into Shanghai’s maritime history. Cruises run daily from the jetty at Nanjing Dong Lu with prices ranging from CNY45-150 (although this can be bargained). Nightly dinner cruises are also available offering the chance to see the sparkling lights of the cityscape.
Shopping in Shanghai - Shanghai is a city of gleaming shopping malls, the latest in technology and local markets offering traditional goods and handicrafts. For tourist memorabilia head to the Old City and the Yu Gardens and Bazaar, open daily and offering all imaginable items. The French Concession is a good spot for stylish boutique stores and upmarket labels, yet the real action is to found on Nanjing Lu (Nanjing Road). This brightly lit 3-mile strip is a hotbed for ultra-modern shopping malls mixed in with traditional jewellery, silk and porcelain shops. And, the best part is, if it all becomes too hectic then just take a seat in one of the many bars and cafés and enjoy the barrage of street performers.
Shanghai Nightlife - Shanghai is a fun-loving city and definitely a good place for a party with the scene ranging from locally influenced bars to international-styled locations. Hang around The Bund for swanky lounges and jazz clubs or hit the Xintiandi for nightclubs hosting big name DJs. For something more relaxed and classy, make a move for the cocktail bars of the French Concession.
Bars in Shanghai
Cloud 9 Bar - The piano bar of the JinmaoTower is the highest bar in the world.
Glamour Bar - Slighty pretentious but this cocktail bar is worth a drink for the views over The Bund.
KABB Bistro Bar - Popular Xintiandi bar with a great terrace for people watching.
Mesa & Manifesto - Elegant bar and restaurant and the hippest spot in the French Concession.
Clubs in Shanghai
Attica - Raucous late-night club that gets going at around 1am until the early hours. Dance the night away or chill on the terrace looking out to Pudong.
Club Bonbon - Rammed every night of the week, this club is part of the world renowned Godskitchen group.
Cotton Club - One of Shanghai’s favoured jazz and blues venues on Huaihai Road.
Mint Club - Slick nightclub packed with expats and a well-heeled 20s crowd getting their groove on.