Currency
Chinese Yuan (CNY) ¥
Best Time
March to May, Sept to Nov
“Shanghai is a city that pulsates with energy and ambition; where futuristic skyscrapers coexist with charming alleys steeped in history. From the culinary delights of the Old Town to the stunning views along the Bund, Shanghai is a feast for the senses, inviting you to explore its rich tapestry of culture and innovation.”
Off the beaten path places in
Shanghai
“Shanghai portrays a unique blend of old history and futurism; with its skyline and immense architectural landmarks lining the Bund to the rickety charm of the Old Town and the leafy backstreets of the former French Concession. Its truly a city that just begs for gastronomic wandering.”
Urban Shanghai
Skyscrapers, shopping, and diverse cuisine.
The Shanghai Tower is the tallest building in China and the second tallest in the world, standing at 632 meters.
Shanghai is a bustling, modern metropolis that combines futuristic architecture with traditional Chinese culture. The city is known for its striking skyline, which includes the iconic Shanghai Tower. On the Huangpu River’s banks, you can find colonial-era buildings alongside contemporary skyscrapers. Shanghai's vibrant markets and historical gardens add a distinct cultural touch. The city is also a global leader in business, finance, and innovation.
Shanghai is often called the "Paris of the East," and for a good reason—its global influence in fashion, finance, and cuisine is evident. The city also has one of the world’s busiest ports, and its rapid growth makes it a key player on the world stage.
Airport
Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG)
Places to See
Taikang Rd, Dapuqiao, Huangpu, Shanghai, China
4.6
200
10AM to 6PM
Unique blend of cultures
Vibe:
French cuisine, artisan shops
Get To:
Metro Line 1 to South Huangpi Road
Historic area with tree-lined avenues & Tudor houses
1686 Nanjing W Rd, Jing An Si, Jing'an District, Shanghai, China
4.3
20
7:30AM to 5PM
Ancient Buddhist architecture
Vibe:
Incense offerings, traditional tea
Get To:
Metro Line 2 to Jing'an Temple
Buddhist place of workship offering a peaceful atmosphere
279 Yuyuan Old St, Huangpu, Shanghai, China, 200000
4.4
40
10AM to 9PM
Beautiful traditional landscapes
Vibe:
Chinese tea, local handicrafts
Get To:
Metro Line 10 to Yuyuan Garden
Tip:
Peaceful, Traditional
Garden and marketplace originally constructed by the Ming dynasty
Jing'an District, China
4.5
40
10AM to 6PM
Interactive displays and life-size replicas
Vibe:
Dinosaur skeletons, mineral exhibits
Get To:
Metro Line 13 to Natural History Museum
Tip:
Educational, Family-Friendly
Scientific exhibits, technology and dinosaur fossils!
500 Beijing W Rd, Jing'an District, China
4.3
50
10AM to 9PM
Open-air art exhibits
Vibe:
Contemporary sculptures, walking trails
Get To:
Metro Line 9 to Zhangjiang Hi-Tech Park
Scenic area with a beach on a lake surrounded by hills
Taikang Rd, Dapuqiao, Huangpu, Shanghai, China
4.6
200
10AM to 6PM
Unique blend of cultures
Vibe:
French cuisine, artisan shops
Get To:
Metro Line 1 to South Huangpi Road
Historic area with tree-lined avenues & Tudor houses
Must Visit:
The Bund, Yu Garden
Places to Eat
30号-4 Donghu Rd, Xuhui District, Shanghai, China
4.4
100
2 to 10:30PM
Authentic Sichuan culinary experience
Vibe:
Mapo tofu, spicy hot pot
Get To:
Metro Line 2 to Xujiahui
Busy Chinese restaurant serving spicy chilli dishes and cocktails
6/F, Three on the Bund, No.3 Zhong Shan Dong Yi Road, Shanghai
4.3
200
12 to 10:30PM
Open kitchen, emphasis on family-style dining
Vibe:
Wood-fired pizza, homemade pasta
Get To:
MTR Station nearby
Italian restaurant serving pizzas with a view
568 Julu Rd, Jing'an District, Shanghai, China
4.3
150
2 to 10:30PM
Blend of Indian and Asian cuisines
Vibe:
Tandoori chicken, biryani
Get To:
Metro Line 1 to Xujiahui
Mexican restaurant serving tasty food in an enjoyable atmosphere
No.918 Dongfang Road, Shanghai China
4.2
150
12 to 10:30PM
Traditional decor, live cooking stations
Vibe:
Grilled lamb skewers, hand-pulled noodles
Get To:
MTR Station nearby
Halal restaurant serving Chinese North-Western cuisine
17 Yan'an E Rd, Wai Tan, Huangpu, Shanghai, China, 200002
4.7
200
12 to 10:30PM
Beautifully designed interior, cultural decor
Vibe:
Yunnan-style mushrooms, spicy fish
Get To:
MTR Station nearby
Elegant restaurant serving Burmese and Chinese Yunan cuisine
http://www.lostheaven.com.cn/Waitan, Huangpu, Shanghai, China
4.9
3,500
12 to 10:30PM
Innovative culinary concepts
Vibe:
Tasting menu, wine pairings
Get To:
Private reservations required
Restaurant with a sense-enhancing dining experience
http://uvbypp.cc/Must Try:
Xiaolongbao, Peking Duck, Shengjianbao, Hotpot
Places to Drink
98 Wuyuan Rd, Xuhui District, Shanghai, China, 200003
4.4
15-25
12 to 10:30PM
Outdoor seating, live sports broadcasts
Vibe:
BBQ platter, craft beers
Get To:
MTR Station nearby
Prohibition themed speakeasy bar serving quality whiskeys
China, Shanghai, Changning District, 定西路685号
4.7
20-45
12 to 10:30PM
Elegant decor, creative cocktail presentations
Vibe:
Signature cocktails, bar snacks
Get To:
MTR Station nearby
Dive bar offering cheap booze and wild interiors with great service
Music / Dance:
Chinese Pop, Traditional Dance, Cantonese Opera
Places to Network
We'll be updating more places soon!
Key Industries:
Finance, Trade, Tech
Places to Shop
Offers personalized styling consultations.
Vibe:
Clothing and accessories
Get To:
Metro Line 10, Lujiazui Station
Luxury collection of stilletos, leather and pashminas
129 Maoming S Rd, Huaihai Road Middle Section, Huangpu, Shanghai, China
4.2
40-70
10AM to 6PM
Known for its unique blend of Eastern and Western styles.
Vibe:
Silk dresses and accessories
Get To:
Metro Line 2, West Nanjing Rd Station
Tip:
Elegant and Cultural
Boutique luxury fashion store with a modern touch
Shanghai, China
4.4
15-30
10AM to 6PM
Features art installations and cultural events.
Vibe:
Fashion items and artisanal goods
Get To:
Metro Line 1, Huaihai Rd Station
Upmarket shopping street featuring international and local brand stores
Nanjing Road, Huangpu, Shanghai, China
4.6
10-20
10AM to 6PM
Famous for its neon lights and street performances.
Vibe:
Local snacks and souvenirs
Get To:
Metro Line 2 & 10, Nanjing East Rd Station
Tip:
Bustling and Energetic
Famous shopping road known for its fashion stores and fake markets
Qipu Rd, 闸北区 Shanghai, China
4
5-15
10AM to 6PM
A labyrinth of stalls and vibrant colors.
Vibe:
Clothing and trinkets
Get To:
Metro Line 1, People’s Square Station
Wholesale and bargain market for clothes
300 Huaihai Road, Huai Hai Lu Dong Duan, Xuhui District, Shanghai, China
4.5
10-30
10AM to 6PM
A blend of shopping and artistic displays.
Vibe:
Art prints and unique gifts
Get To:
Metro Line 2, East Nanjing Rd Station
Shopping mall featuring high-end western brands
Luxury
27 Zhongshan East 1st Rd, Waitan, Huangpu, Shanghai, China, 200002
4.5
50-100
5 to 10:30PM
Luxurious setting, attention to detail
Vibe:
Dim sum, gourmet dishes
Get To:
MTR Station nearby
Tip:
Sophisticated and Elegant
Restaurant offering a great view over the Shanghai skyline
Xiejin Building, Yuanmingyuan Rd, Waitan, Huangpu, Shanghai, China
4.8
100-150
5:30PM to 1AM
Known for its Michelin-starred chef and extensive wine list.
Vibe:
Truffle pasta and wine selection
Get To:
Metro Line 2, Jing'an Temple Station
Upscale Italian restaurant with a view
199 Huangpu Rd, Hongkou District, Shanghai, China, 200080
4.7
30-50
5:30PM to 1AM
Beautifully designed with a mix of modern and traditional styles.
Vibe:
Champagne and bar snacks
Get To:
Metro Line 12, Hongkou Football Stadium
Rooftop bar with a hot tub and views over Shanghai
China, Shanghai Shi, 黄浦区 Nan Jing Dong Lu, 中山东一路18号
4.5
20-40
5 to 10:30PM
Renowned for its panoramic views of the Bund.
Vibe:
Signature cocktails and tapas
Get To:
Metro Line 2, Nanjing East Rd Station
Rooftop club with a terrace offering VIP tables and views over the bund
Waitan, Huangpu, China
4.7
40-70
5 to 10:30PM
Artistic plating, seasonal specials
Vibe:
Duck confit, macarons
Get To:
Close to bus stops
Speakeasy upside-down themed cocktail lounge
Watch Out
Watch out for Crowded Areas
Skip
Skip Super Touristic Places
Transportation
Metro, high-speed trains
City Overview
Shanghai is a bustling metropolis known for its skyline, historical landmarks, and vibrant culture. The city blends Eastern and Western influences, offering a unique urban experience.
3 Day City Itinerary Guide
- Day 1: Morning: Visit The Bund and Huangpu River cruise. Afternoon: Explore Yu Garden and the City God Temple. Evening: Dinner in the French Concession. - Day 2: Morning: Visit Shanghai Tower for panoramic views. Afternoon: Explore the Shanghai Museum. Evening: Night markets for local street food. - Day 3: Morning: Visit Zhujiajiao Water Town. Afternoon: Return to Shanghai and explore Nanjing Road. Evening: Enjoy the nightlife in Xintiandi.
Current Trends
- Culinary scene: Shanghai’s dining scene is diversifying, with influences from around the world. - Art district: The city’s contemporary art scene is thriving, with areas like M50 and 798 Art District attracting attention. - Tech innovation: Shanghai is at the forefront of technological advancements, with startups and tech hubs emerging throughout the city.
Local Events Guide
- Shanghai International Film Festival (June): Celebrating global cinema with screenings and events. - Shanghai Fashion Week (April): Showcasing local and international fashion designers. - Chinese New Year (January): Celebrated with parades, fireworks, and cultural performances.
Local Insider Tips
- Tianzifang for artsy shops and cafes in an old neighborhood. - The Bund for stunning views of colonial architecture and modern skyscrapers. - Xintiandi for trendy shopping and dining.
Sustainable Travel
- Public transportation: The extensive metro system is efficient and covers most areas of the city. - Eco-friendly initiatives: Increasing number of green buildings and parks. - Sustainable restaurants: A growing trend for restaurants focusing on organic and locally sourced ingredients.
Explore the Best Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences:
Ready to see through a local’s eyes? Our curated guide unveils top hidden gems, secret spots, and local favorites that you won’t find in typical travel guides. Whether it’s a cozy café tucked away in a historic neighborhood, a scenic trail only known to insiders, or unique cultural sites, has so much more to offer beyond the tourist hotspots. Dive into our off-the-beaten-path guide and discover the true heart —perfect for adventurous travellers, culture enthusiasts, and anyone looking for an authentic journey
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Unlock the Hidden Side:
Each spot in our City guide is handpicked to help you experience the city like a local, avoiding the crowds and discovering the best-kept secrets. From charming local eateries and breathtaking viewpoints to tucked-away art galleries and vibrant local markets, this guide lets you explore beyond the surface. Follow our recommendations for an unforgettable adventure and see why these places stand out as favorites among locals. For more unique experiences like these, explore our full collection of off-the-beaten-path city guides and make every trip a journey of discovery.
