China's largest city, Shanghai is home to both ultra-modern districts and historic alleyways. Its mythical skyline is recognizable by its many skyscrapers and famous pink-sphere TV tower. From the futuristic buildings of the Pudong district to the banks of the Bund and the temples dotted around the city, Shanghai surprises and never sleeps. For your stay in the Chinese city, discover the must-sees in Shanghai.
1- Stroll along the Bund
A stroll along the Bund is the starting point for any visit to Shanghai. Don't hesitate to stroll along this mythical promenade, your eyes riveted on one side on the towers of Pudong, on the other on the more historic buildings, of Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque or Art Deco architecture. Don't miss the Peace Hotel, a 1929 Art Deco masterpiece by Palm and Turner. Whether they're former palaces, the headquarters of major banks or other legendary landmarks, these buildings are the pride of the city.
The activity to book this guided tour of Shanghai is highly recommended by travelers.
Good to know for your trip to Shanghai, you'll need a visa to enter China. You can apply apply on this website.
2- Visit the Jade Buddha Temple
This is the city's most famous temple. The Jade Buddha Temple was built in 1882 to house two white jade statues brought from Myanmar. The monastery is still active today, with over sixty monks still practicing Zen Buddhism. The architecture is representative of the Song dynasty, and the monastery is very peaceful. In the courtyards, you'll find trees adorned by visitors with red ribbons, said to bring good luck.
Good to know don't forget to wear appropriate clothing when entering the temple. All visitors must have their arms and legs covered.
3- Climb to the top of Jin Mao Tower
On a clear-weather day in Shanghai, be sure to climb to the top of one of its towers to enjoy a clear panorama of the city. At 428m, the Jin Mao Tower is one of the world's tallest skyscrapers . Its appearance evokes a pagoda and respects Chinese numerology. It has 88 floors, each 1/8th smaller than the floor below. For your visit, you'll also find a bar-lounge on the top floor.
Activities to book enjoy a breathtaking view of Shanghai from the 88th floor of the Jin Mao Tower. Book your tickets here.
4- What to visit in Shanghai People's Square
This is the center of Shanghai. Once a racetrack for the International Concession, People's Square is the city's true cultural center. Nothing remains of the racecourse, but a 12-hectare park was built after liberation in 1949. Numerous buildings line the square, including the Park Hotel built in 1934, at the time the first skyscraper in China and Asia.
The article to read if you want to take public transport in Shanghai, don't miss the Bund Sightseeing Tunnel. It's a veritable underground museum!
5- Visit the Yu Garden
Considered the most beautiful garden in the region, the Yu Botanical Garden dates back to the 16th century. Today, it boasts two hectares of calm, harmonious landscape, divided into six by large dragon-shaped walls. Rockeries, ponds, small bridges and pavilions give it a unique charm. The highlight of the visit is the yellow rockery created by Zhang Nanyang, a specialist in Ming garden design.
Good to know the site is very popular with tourists, so plan your visit well in advance!
6- Stroll through the Tianzifang district
The charming Tianzifang district is a former residential area located in the former French Concession zone. Today, it's a lively district that attracts many visitors. While the atmosphere is well worth the detour, the main attraction is the handicraft stores, art galleries and numerous cafés and restaurants.
The article to read discover China's " must-see" places with our article on the " must-visit" places in China.
7- Climb to the top of the Shanghai Tower
The construction of the Shanghai Tower has completely transformed the landscape of the Pudong district, the city's "modern district". Its 128 storeys rise to a height of 632m, making it the third-tallest tower in the world, and therefore the tallest in the city. Its spiral architecture gives the impression that it is touching the sky. You can climb to the 118th floor, where an observation deck offers an impressive panorama of the city.
The article to read discover our tips for visiting the world's three tallest towers.
8- What to visit in Shanghai Confucius Temple
Originally located at the city's eastern gate, the Temple of Confucius was destroyed in 1856 during the imperial army's attack on the Little Knives secret society. Rebuilt on its present site, the temple is both a place of worship and a center of learning. It's a peaceful, harmonious place where you'll often find exhibitions. At the entrance, a pool overlooked by a three-storey pagoda offers a beautiful space in which to relax.
9- La Perle de l'Orient
It's easily recognized by its round sphere, which sets it apart from the Shanghai skyline . The Oriental Pearl is the city's television tower. At 468 meters high, it stands in the heart of the business district. Its elevators will take you up into the spheres at the ultra-fast speed of 7 meters per second. From here, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Bund and the West Bank.
10- Visit the Jing'an Temple
Established in 247, Jing'an Temple is the oldest Buddhist place of worship in Shanghai and the surrounding region. Built at the time of China's Three Kingdoms, it was originally erected on the banks of the Suzhou River, but moved in 1216. The site was even transformed into a plastic factory during the Cultural Revolution. Very popular with Chinese and international tourists, this peaceful temple contrasts with the skyscrapers that surround it.
11- Visit the Shanghai Museum
Located right in the middle of People's Square, the Shanghai Museum is the city's cultural center. It may look like a bunker at first glance, but inside you'll find one of the finest collections of traditional Chinese art in the country. In all, the museum houses over 120,000 pieces. To visit it, allow at least a full day.
12- Taste local specialties
When visiting Shanghai, it's impossible not to fall in love with the region's culinary specialties. Influenced by its history and neighboring provinces, the city is brimming with must-taste dishes. Be sure to try xiaolongbao, small dumplings filled with soup and meat. Don't forget to pierce them and suck out the broth before eating them, otherwise you're guaranteed to get burnt. Other local specialties include steamed crab (shànghai maoxiè) and begging chicken (jiàohua ji).
13- Visit the China Museum of Art
Built for the 2010Shanghai World Expo, the China Museum of Art is first and foremost an impressive architectural masterpiece. This 63-metre-high upturned pagoda blends traditional heritage with modernity. If you don't wish to visit the museum, the building is well worth the detour. Inside, you'll find a collection of 14,000 works, mainly of modern Chinese art.
Where to stay in Shanghai?
For your stay in Shanghai, you'll be spoilt for choice when it comes to accommodation. To help you in your search, we've made a selection of the best-rated accommodations:
- Novotel Atlantis Shanghai. This 4-star hotel in the center of Pudong is convenient for exploring the city center. Its panoramic restaurant rotates 360° and offers a beautiful view of the Bund. Information and booking via this link.
- Renaissance Shanghai Yu Garden Hotel. This 4-star hotel in Shanghai's lively city center is close to the Bund and a metro station, ideal for getting around the city. Book your stay here.
- Seventh Heaven Hotel Qichongtian Binguan. This centrally located hotel offers small, comfortable rooms in a strategic area for sightseeing. Information and booking here.
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