The decadent and energetic city of Shanghai is the perfect place to lose yourself in as you find many new adventures. This global financial centre of the Yangtze River delta has the largest population of any Chinese city and boasts numerous important historic landmarks. Many people call Shanghai the birthplace of modern China because of the role it has played in the country’s development. Throw yourself into this exciting city and you’re sure to have the experience of a lifetime.
Areas & Neighbourhoods in Shanghai
The Bund - This famous waterside walkway was originally a towpath for dragging barges and is now the home of the powerhouses of Shanghai’s financial sector. The best restaurants in town can be found in this area.
Old Town - The rickety charms of the city’s old town are sure to delight. Seek out the cobblestone alleyways, shaded alcoves and pools of glittering goldfish for a glimpse of how things were.
Xintiandi - Head to Xintiandi for shopping malls and nightlife. Xintiandi knows how to party and you are invited to join the fun.
Qibao - The tiny town of Qibao, a short distance from Shanghai, is an ancient settlement. Escape Shanghai for a day and sit back in a traditional teahouse to contemplate the incredible history of this region as you watch the world go by.
Things to See in Shanghai
Shanghai is known for its strident skyscrapers, but this city is also brimming with architectural eye candy of all forms. Cathedrals, synagogues, Buddhist temples and Art Deco buildings line the streets and create a captivating urban fabric woven from many styles. The futuristic Shanghai Tower, China’s tallest building, spirals into the sky as an iconic symbol of the city’s wealth and power. At the Ohel Moishe Synagogue you can learn about the city’s refugees whilst you can relax in the Zhang Garden nearby. To take in Shanghai from another perspective climb to the top of the magnificent Oriental Pearl Tower and look down at the sheer scale and scope of this wondrous city.
Things to Do in Shanghai
If you like to party, there are rooftop bars serving cocktails and plenty of vibrant clubs in Xintiandi. Take in an exhilarating show such as awe-inspiring acrobatics or sensational opera. Those interested in history should visit Shanghai Museum to see Ming furniture, paintings and ethnic costumes among other ancient artefacts. If you want to shop then Shanghai boasts lots of malls, or more traditional bazaars such as Yuyuan Bazaar where cashmere coats can be tailor-made for a very reasonable price. After a busy day in Shanghai, the best way to rejuvenate is to enjoy the city’s varied and mouth-watering dining scene. Any international food can be found here but make the most of your location by tucking into a bowl of hand-pulled noodles.
You can also book top Shanghai hotels and great Shanghai holidays right here on Expedia.co.uk.
