[Latest 2025 Travel Guide] Shanghai

🏙 Shanghai Travel Guide

📍 Must-visit tourist hotspots (selected)

  1. The Bund

    • One of Shanghai's landmarks, it offers charming views on both sides of the Huangpu River, with international architectural complexes on one side and modern skyscrapers on the other.
    • Editor’s tip: Going at night is the most romantic, and we recommend combining it with a night cruise on the Huangpu River for stunning photos.
  2. Nanjing East Road Pedestrian Street

    • One of Shanghai's busiest shopping streets, stretching from the Bund all the way to People's Square.
    • Editor's Tip: Be aware of the crowds during holidays; it's recommended to go on weekdays for a more relaxed atmosphere.
  3. Yu Garden & Yu Garden Shopping Mall

    • A representative of Jiangnan classical gardens, there are many snacks in the mall.
    • Editor's tip: There are a lot of people on holidays, so it's best to go in the morning when it opens.
  4. Shanghai Disneyland

    • A fantasy park loved by both adults and children, home to the world's largest Disney castle.
    • Editor's Tip: Download the official app in advance to check real-time queue times and make good use of your Fast Pass.
  5. Tianzifang

    • The cultural and creative area, transformed from an old alley, is full of artistic atmosphere and specialty coffee shops.
    • Editor’s tip: The light in the afternoon is good, which is suitable for taking literary photos.
  6. Shanghai Tower

    • The tallest building in China, you can go up to the observation deck to overlook the whole of Shanghai.
    • Editor’s tip: Go at dusk so you can capture both daytime and nighttime views.

🍜 Must-try Shanghai delicacies

  1. Xiaolongbao (Nanxiang Xiaolongbao, Jiajia Soup Dumplings)

    • The skin is thin and juicy, and the juice overflows when you bite it.
    • Editor’s recommendation: The Nanxiang Xiaolongbao in Nanxiang Ancient Town is the most authentic.
  2. Pan-fried buns

    • The crust is golden and crispy, and the filling is juicy. I recommend the Xiao Yang Pan-Fried Dough.
  3. Crab Roe Lion Head

    • Delicate and fragrant, with rich crab meat, it is even better in winter.
  4. Scallion Oil Noodles

    • Simple yet full of fragrance, the aroma of oil and green onion are perfectly blended.
  5. Braised Pork

    • The Shanghai flavor is sweet and melts in your mouth.

🚇 Shanghai Traffic Tips

  • Subway : Covering the entire city, with fares starting from 3 yuan, it is the most convenient mode of transportation for tourists.
  • Public transportation : Cheap but crowded during peak hours, suitable for short distances.
  • Taxis & ride-hailing services : More expensive than the subway, but convenient at night or when traveling with a lot of luggage.
  • Ferry : A means of transportation between the two banks of the Huangpu River, with low fares and great views.
  • Transportation Card : Apply for the "Shanghai Public Transportation Card" which can be used for subways, buses, and ferries, and you can also enjoy transfer discounts.

📅 Editor's personal itinerary suggestion (3 days)

  • Day 1 : The Bund → Nanjing East Road → Yuyuan Shopping Mall → City God Temple Snacks
  • Day 2 : Shanghai Disneyland (full day)
  • Day 3 : Tianzifang → Xintiandi → Shanghai Tower → Huangpu River Night Cruise
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