Discover the best places in Shanghai

Located on the east coast at the mouth of the Yangtze River, Shanghai is China’s leading economic and cosmopolitan city. Though renowned for its futuristic skyline, Shanghai began as a modest fishing settlement, and grew rapidly from the 19th century into one of Asia’s most important commercial ports. Today it continues to serve as a gateway between China and the wider world while maintaining its historic roots.

An eclectic mix of Chinese and Western culture can be observed throughout the city, from the Ming-style gardens and goldfish ponds to the grand colonial buildings of the Bund and the former French Concession. Zen, Buddhist, Daoist and Confucian temples scattered among the urban landscape demonstrate Shanghai’s diverse spiritual history. Look out for the shikumen houses, which combine traditional Chinese courtyards with Western row-house design, creating a style that is quintessentially Shanghainese.

The Huangpu River divides the city into the historic ‘downtown’ district of Puxi and the modern financial centre of Pudong. Extensive parks and botanical gardens provide green spaces, while the islands of Chongming and Changxing boast huge forested areas with cycling routes and opportunities for fruit picking, boating and camping. Along the coastline, wetlands and nature reserves provide an important habitat for the endangered Yangtze finless porpoise, as well as birds migrating from Australia to Siberia. River cruises, waterfront promenades and coastal walks further allow visitors to appreciate the vital role that Shanghai’s waterways have played in its development.

Seafood is unsurprisingly popular in this seafaring city, with braised, steamed and stir-fried fish to be found in the street markets and restaurants. Shanghai hairy crab is a beloved delicacy, and its meat and roe is made into meatballs with pork or served with noodles or tofu. Most famously, xiaolongbao (small steamed buns) are a must-try dish, filled with tasty broth and minced pork. Reflecting its international influences, Shanghai has developed its own distinctive style of Western-inspired food, including Shanghai-style borscht, fried pork chops and baked clams.

Shanghai offers travellers a unique perspective on China’s rich history and future potential, with its vibrant cultural scene and cosmopolitan atmosphere appealing to visitors from around the world.