A First Timer's Guide to ShanghaiShanghai, China is home to tradition and modernity all in one city, with its small mom-and-pop style restaurants, rooftop bars, waterfront views, plus all sorts of museums. A first-time trip here will be jam-packed, to say the least. AuthorsSteller
DestinationsShanghaiItinerary

Things to See & Do

Small-Group Shanghai's Old City Walking Exploration
Take a guided tour of some of the most iconic spots in the city, such as Shikumen houses, the Confucius Temple, and more, with a local.
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The Bund
Walk "the Bund," a waterfront walking path, to enjoy sweeping views of the Shanghai skyline and modernity of the Pudong New Area. This is an absolute must during your first visit for iconic photos! For a more unique experience, you can head down the Huangpu River on a nighttime cruise, ogleing at the skyscrapers lit up!
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50 Moganshan Road
Known as the M50 Art District, this area of Shanghai is a hub for creativity! Explore all the different mediums, from ceramics to paintings and street art.
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Chekiang Road Bridge
This iconic bridge offers amazing views during the day as well as in the evening with its blend of modern, European, and traditional architecture.
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Jing'an Temple
A Tangmi Buddhist temple covered in gold and dotted amidst modern high-rises, creating a perfect contrast. Get here in the morning to explore with less people around and the golden hue of the temple on full display.
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Shanghai Disneyland Park
Get out of the city for a day and have fun at Disneyland...? YES, there is a Disneyland in Shanghai! Ride on favorite coasters and greet your favorite characters.
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Shanghai Museum
Showcasing the rich heritage of China, this museum has exhibits of art, history, and artifacts that all explore the past and present of the country, as well as Shanghai as a city. Note that admission is free!
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Oriental Pearl TV Tower
You can pick out this TV Tower from the Shanghai skyline in an instant! Take a smooth elevator up to the top floor to overlook the city of millions of people below you... You can even step out onto the glass floor up there for a thrilling experience! You can also book a table at their rotating restaurant in the sky, but make sure to do so in advance.
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Yu Garden
A Chinese style garden, complete with traditional style buildings, pavilions, halls, rockeries, ponds, and lies in the heart of downtown.
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Qibao Ancient Town
Get a taste of the ancient, Chinese, history-filled town of Shanghai. It is reminiscent of Shanghai before the towering skyscrapers and modernity.
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Rockbund Art Museum
Hosting unique, modern art shows, this museum hosts conceptual, rotating shows. The sixth floor is home to a bar with a riverfront view! Grab a drink, admire some art, and enjooooy!
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Shanghai Brush & Ink Museum
Explore different mediums of Chinese calligraphy and traditional art, starting with brushes on the first floor and art viewing on the second. Note that admission is free!
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People's Square
Visit this major transport hub near Nanjing West Road for shopping, food markets and street vendors, as well as, famous landmarks like the Shanghai museum or the Shanghai Grand Theatre.
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Where to Eat & Drink

Taotaoju
A fancier dim sum place that is great for larger groups or parties and celebrations. This Michelin-starred spot is a favorite for steamed shrimp dumplings, fried pigeon, and the buns. Getting here early, around 10:00 a.m., will beat the long wait.
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Xibo
A high quality spot to try Xinjiang food such as spicy lamb kebabs and yogurt-based dishes!
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Maki House
A favorite for huge, well-priced sushi rolls... Note that there is usually a wait time here.
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Azabu Jyuban Sabo
A popular ice cream spot near the city center. Try the green tea flavor here!
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Bianjie Cake Nanyang Rd Branch
A total hole in the wall spot with cheap, delicious, Chinese breakfasts. Most people try the Jianbing, a savory Chinese breakfast food, that is basically a Chinese crepe, here.
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The Glamour Bar
Admire the city lights at this upscale, industrial rooftop bar along the winding river. Head up for sunset and watch as the city lights come on in the dark.
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Yang's Fried-Dumpling
A classic to try fried, soup dumplings in Shanghai. A street cart in 1994, this spot is now a smaller chain throughout the city.
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Jia Jia Tang Bao
Pair your dumplings from Yang's with noodles from this spot right across the street. It is a favorite! The lines here move quickly.
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Lanxin Restaurant
A one-room, hole-in-the-wall restaurant that serves up classic Chinese dishes. Try xiefendan, egg with crab, and the xiangyou shansi, fried eel strips here.
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Lotus Eatery
Taste the flavors of Yunnan at this local favorite. The prices are still reasonable here! The thin strips of grilled goat cheese are a standout!
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The Press
This café is housed in one of the early office building of Shen Bao, Shanghai's long-running newspaper. The theme is all things news! P.S. Shanghai is known for all of its crazy themed cafés, really anything you can think of!
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Jz Club
Grab a drink and enjoy a mix of local and international musical talents at this jazz club!
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Where to Stay

Donghu Guest House
This historic area is home to popular restaurants and clubs, as well as this favorite hotel. The streets are lined with old mansions built in the 1930s-40s, as well as greenery.
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The Sukhothai Shanghai
Right in Jing'an, this hotel blends upscale luxury with the rush of the city. Come back to this oasis each day after exploring! Enjoy the spa here for a taste of city relaxation.
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Upper House Shanghai
Located downtown in Jing'an on the Nanjing Road West, this hotel is trendy, luxurious, and stylish in its design.
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Artyzen NEW BUND 31 Shanghai
Farther from downtown in the Salinzhen district, this hotel is an artistic and futuristic experience. Home to a theater and performing arts center, decorated rooms, and spots on the property for socials, it is a great hotel for groups!
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URBN Hotel Shanghai
Located in Jing'an, near Huangpu, this boutique hotel has convenient access to popular restaurants nearby, as well as a metro stop just three blocks away.
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Alila Shanghai
Located in the Jing'an district, home to the famous temple, this boutique hotel has clean, modern rooms, access to a pool, onsite breakfasts, and more during your stay.
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Blue Mountain Bund Youth Hostel
Right in the heart of the city, with a great rooftop area and common areas to meet new people, this hostel is a favorite for travelers who come here often.
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