Shanghai — a modern metropolis with a rich history

Shanghai is a dynamic and exciting metropolis where ancient history harmoniously blends with ultra-modern architecture and innovative technologies. Located at the mouth of the Yangtze River, the city is not only one of China’s largest economic centers but also a popular tourist destination attracting millions of visitors from around the world.

Shanghai offers an incredible variety of experiences: from strolls along historic waterfronts to visits to futuristic skyscrapers, from exploring traditional Chinese culture to immersing yourself in bustling business districts. It’s no surprise that many choose Shanghai for business trips to China, as the city is a key center for international trade and commerce.

Top Attractions in Shanghai

Shanghai is a vibrant city combining ancient traditions and cutting-edge technology. The city abounds with iconic sights that are a must-see. So, what should you visit in Shanghai?

• Start with the famous Bund — the city’s signature waterfront promenade. Here, you’ll enjoy a stunning panorama where colonial architecture stands side by side with modern skyscrapers. In the evening, the Bund transforms with bright illumination, creating a unique atmosphere.
• One of the most impressive structures is the Shanghai Tower — one of the tallest skyscrapers in the world. Taking the elevator up to its observation deck is an unforgettable experience that lets you appreciate the city’s vast scale from dizzying heights.
• Equally iconic is the Oriental Pearl Tower, attracting visitors with its futuristic design and spherical structures. It features several observation decks offering breathtaking views of the Huangpu River and cityscape.
• For those interested in spiritual culture, be sure to visit the Jade Buddha Temple. This active Buddhist temple is famous for two Buddha statues carved from white jade.
• Art and history lovers will appreciate the Shanghai Museum — one of China’s top museums, showcasing a rich collection of artifacts spanning various eras and dynasties.

• If you want to soak up the urban atmosphere, head to Nanjing Road — Shanghai’s main shopping street. Here you’ll find global brand stores, restaurants, souvenirs, and bright lights.
• For family fun, Shanghai Disneyland is perfect — a theme park filled with thrilling rides, shows, and meet-and-greets with beloved characters.
• Also worth visiting is the Jin Mao Tower — an elegant skyscraper with excellent views of the city and river.
• The historic French Concession neighborhood will charm you with its picturesque streets, elegant buildings, and cozy cafes. It’s a place to feel the spirit of old Shanghai.
• If you want to see a classic Chinese garden, visit the Garden of the Humble Administrator (Zhuozheng Yuan) — one of China’s four most famous gardens, located in Suzhou near Shanghai.
• Curious travelers will find the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum fascinating — an interactive space dedicated to science and technology.
• For outdoor relaxation, check out Century Park — the largest city park featuring lakes, forests, and areas for active recreation.

Now you know what’s interesting in Shanghai. The city is constantly evolving, offering new experiences, cultural discoveries, and architectural masterpieces. If you’re planning group tours to China, be sure to include Shanghai in your itinerary — it will give you unforgettable emotions and vivid memories.

Culture and Traditions of Shanghai

Shanghai is a city where tradition and modernity blend seamlessly. One of the most distinctive features of Shanghai’s culture is its cuisine. Shanghai cuisine is characterized by a blend of sweet and salty flavors, use of fresh ingredients, and elegant presentation. Be sure to try local delicacies such as xiao long bao (steamed soup dumplings), Shanghai noodles, and crabs in ginger sauce.

An equally important part of Chinese culture is the tea ceremony. In Shanghai, you can visit tea houses where you’ll learn about various tea types and how to properly brew and drink this beverage. Local holidays, such as Chinese New Year and the Mid-Autumn Festival, are celebrated with great fanfare, featuring colorful performances and traditional treats. If you’re planning business tours to China, don’t miss the chance to get acquainted with the local culture — it will help you better understand your partners.

Modern Shanghai

Shanghai is not only a historic city but also a modern business hub bustling with life and developing cutting-edge technologies. Business districts like Pudong amaze with their skyscrapers and innovative architectural solutions. Shanghai is a leader in technological achievements, actively advancing fields such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and biotechnology.

Shanghai’s nightlife is just as vibrant and lively. The city offers numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants with entertainment for every taste. Wondering where to go in Shanghai at night? The options are vast — from cozy bars with live music to trendy nightclubs featuring world-class DJs.

Getting To and Around Shanghai

How to get to Shanghai? The city has two major international airports: Pudong (PVG) and Hongqiao (SHA). Both airports offer a wide range of flights from various countries worldwide.

Getting around the city is convenient and fast thanks to the developed public transportation system. Shanghai’s metro is one of the most modern and extensive in the world. Taxis are also widely available. Another popular way to explore the city is by renting bicycles — a great way to enjoy the city’s atmosphere.

If you’re planning a group trip to China, make sure to plan your logistics and transportation options in advance.

Tourist Tips

The best time to visit Shanghai is spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October), when the weather is most comfortable for walking and sightseeing. During these months, the city is especially beautiful: blooming parks, gentle sunshine, and pleasant temperatures create ideal travel conditions. If you need trip organization in China, turn to professionals who will help you plan the perfect journey.

Make sure to apply for a Chinese visa well in advance before your trip, and take care of travel medical insurance. Since access to many Western internet services is restricted in China, it’s advisable to install a VPN before arrival. It’s also helpful to download several apps: WeChat for communication and payments, Didi — the Chinese equivalent of Uber, Metro Shanghai for subway navigation, and Pleco — a handy Chinese language dictionary.

The easiest way to get around the city is by metro — it’s clean, fast, and covers all key areas. Purchase a Shanghai Public Transportation Card to avoid ticket queues. Taxis are also available, but it’s better to use the Didi app. Mobile payments via WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used, so set up these services beforehand. Cash is accepted but increasingly less common.

Don’t miss trying local delicacies: juicy xiao long bao dumplings, fried sheng jian bao buns, Shanghai noodles, and sweet tofu. Street food in Shanghai is tasty and varied, but be sure to carry hand sanitizer and wet wipes, as soap isn’t always available. It’s not recommended to drink tap water; bottled water or boiled water is better.

If you love shopping, head to Nanjing Road — the city’s main shopping artery. At markets like Yuyuan Bazaar, bargaining is customary, and souvenirs include tea, silk, jade carvings, and traditional Chinese jewelry. Be cautious when buying electronics — counterfeits are common.

Stay vigilant with your belongings and take precautions, especially in crowded areas. Avoid engaging with strangers inviting you “for tea” — this is a common tourist scam. On days with high air pollution levels, wear a mask and check the forecast in advance.

Shanghai is a city that will leave no one indifferent. It combines rich history, modern architecture, vibrant culture, and dynamic energy. Everyone can find something to their liking here: from historic landmarks to modern entertainment, from traditional Chinese cuisine to world culinary masterpieces. Why visit Shanghai? Because it’s a unique experience you’ll remember for a lifetime. And don’t forget to book the best hotels in Shanghai in advance to make your stay as comfortable as possible.