Guide: what to do, see, and eat in Shanghai
The best dumplings, stunning parks, and living history.
Restaurants
Dumplings worth waiting for
Jia Jia Tang Bao
You simply cannot visit Shanghai without trying the dumplings, or xiaolongbao as they are known locally. Many say the best ones are found at Jia Jia Tang Bao, a small hole-in-the-wall near the People’s Park. You’ll probably have to wait in line for a while—but the wait is definitely worth it.
High-tech dining experience
Ultraviolet by Paul Pairet
Ultraviolet by Paul Pairet is a three-star concept restaurant combining avant-garde cuisine with the latest technology. Sat around a single ten-seat table, you’ll enjoy a 20-course menu with your fellow diners. You can expect a multisensory experience—the flavors are enhanced by sound, light, and aromas. The address is only given out at the time of booking.
Street food from across China
East Nanjing road
East Nanjing Road is a nearly four-mile-long pedestrian street where you can explore the city’s street food with flavors from all over China at very affordable prices at the many stalls. Are you an early bird? Don’t miss out on Shanghai’s favorite breakfast—baozies, also known as bao buns, accompanied by hot, fresh soy milk.
Take Metro Line 2 to East Nanjing Road station.
Sights
Shanghai’s best View
The Bund
Shanghai’s best vantage point is undoubtedly the Bund, located on the west side of the Huangpu River. From here, you’ll be treated to a view of the city’s skyline that’s simply out of this world. Experience a mix of old Western buildings and more modern Chinese architecture, such as the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower.
Take Metro Line 2 to East Nanjing Road station and walk for five minutes.
Imperial gardens
Yu Garden
Yu Garden near the City God Temple has its roots in the Ming dynasty of the 16th century. The five-acre park features everything from picturesque pavilions, Chinese gardens, artificial rock formations, and lush vegetation to tea houses and souvenir shops. Grandiose bridges cross the artificial ponds while koi fish swim in the water.
Take Metro Line 10 to get here.
Creative artist district
M50 Creative Park
Hidden within an old industrial area is the M50 Creative Park, a center for artistic creativity crammed full of galleries and studios. The artists’ quarter is home to over 100 local creatives, so there really is something for everyone.
Activities
Unique collection of propaganda
Propaganda Poster Art Centre
On the seventh floor of a nondescript office building in the Changning District lies the hidden gem that is the Propaganda Poster Art Centre. The collection focuses on Chinese propaganda culture from the 20th century. Here, you can explore an impressive array of historical posters that provide unique insight into China’s political and cultural history, with a focus on Mao and the Cultural Revolution.
Old Shanghai
Qibao Ancient Town
About 18 kilometers outside of central Shanghai lies Qibao Ancient Town, which dates back to the 10th century and was built on and by the water. Here, in addition to soaking up the historic environment, you can visit museums and the ancient Qibao Temple that gives the town its name. Of course, you can also fill up on street food.
Take Metro Line 9 to get here, getting off at Qibao station.
Little Paris
Former French Concession
The French Concession area in the Xuhui District, established by French colonists in the 19th century, is now filled with trendy shops, microbreweries, and hip cafés. A good way to explore this area is to take Metro Line 1 to S. Huangpi Road and then browse the offerings along the tree-lined streets. Take a break from shopping at Dragonfly Spa and treat yourself to a soothing massage.
Removal of COVID-19 restrictions
Since 1 November 2023, tourists no longer need to complete an electronic health declaration when travelling to and from China.
This means that all restrictions such as testing, vaccination or quarantine requirements that were introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic are now removed.
Text by Scandinavian Traveler