Shanghai is where tradition meets modernity — China's most cosmopolitan city, with gleaming skyscrapers along the Huangpu River and tree-lined colonial streets. For first-time travellers, Shanghai feels more approachable than many Chinese cities thanks to its open, international pace. Here is the practical lowdown.
What to see in Shanghai
Prioritise these on your itinerary:
- The Bund: a row of grand European-style buildings facing the Pudong skyline — best at night when the towers light up.
- Pudong: home to the Oriental Pearl Tower and the city's iconic skyscrapers.
- Yu Garden: a refined classical garden in the heart of the old town.
- The French Concession: leafy streets, cafés, and European architecture.
- Zhujiajiao: an ancient canal town with stone bridges, about an hour from the centre.
Culture and shopping
- Stroll Nanjing Road, the city's busiest pedestrian shopping street.
- Browse Tianzifang for crafts and souvenirs.
- Have a qipao (cheongsam) tailored the Shanghai way.
- Catch the dazzling "Era" acrobatics show.
What to eat in Shanghai
Shanghai cuisine leans gently sweet and refined:
- Xiaolongbao: delicate soup dumplings with hot broth sealed inside — a must.
- Shengjianbao: pan-fried pork buns with a crisp base and juicy filling.
- Hairy crab: an autumn delicacy prized for its rich roe.
- Hongshao rou: pork belly braised in a deep brown sauce.
- Scallion oil noodles: a fragrant everyday favourite.
Getting around Shanghai
Shanghai's metro is modern, extensive, and signposted in English, linking nearly every sight. From Pudong Airport, the maglev train whisks you into town in minutes. Within the centre, combining the metro with walking is plenty; for Zhujiajiao, a private car is the easy option.
Because of the language barrier and reliance on local payment apps, Vietnamese visitors often find it far less stressful to travel with a French- or Vietnamese-speaking guide handling tickets and scheduling.
When to visit Shanghai
The best times are spring (March–May) and autumn (October–November), when the weather is mild. Summer is hot and humid; winter is cool but still comfortable for sightseeing.
How many days do you need?
About 3–4 days works well: one for the Bund and Pudong, one for the old town and Yu Garden, and the rest for the French Concession plus a trip to a water town.
A few practical tips
- See the Bund twice, by day and by night — the two faces are completely different.
- Take an evening river cruise on the Huangpu to see both banks ablaze with light.
Easy to navigate and rich in experiences, Shanghai is a great choice for a first trip to China.