The first time for foreigners to visit Shanghai
First, prepare for the trip
Visa and entry
Citizens of some countries can enjoy the 144-hour visa-free transit policy in Shanghai. For more information, please refer to the local Chinese Embassy or official website.
Make sure your passport is valid for a long enough period of time, and get your visa in advance (if necessary).
Transportation reservation
Air tickets: Book a round trip ticket to Shanghai, you can choose Shanghai Pudong International Airport or Hongqiao International Airport as the arrival point.
Hotels: Based on personal preference and budget, book in advance for hotels located in the city center or easily accessible areas. It is recommended to stay near People’s Square on Nanjing Road, which is close to all the major attractions.
Know the weather
Shanghai has a subtropical monsoon climate with four distinct seasons. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best times to visit Shanghai, with pleasant weather and comfortable temperatures.
Second, must visit attractions
The Bund
Highlights: About 1.5 kilometers long, the Bund is one of the iconic attractions in Shanghai, China, known for its diverse classical buildings and modern skyscrapers.
Advice: Visit both day and night to admire the exterior of the building during the day and the charming light show at night. The best viewing time is from 18pm to 21pm.
Access: Metro Line 2, Line 10 Nanjing East Road Station.
Oriental Pearl Tower
Highlights: One of Shanghai’s iconic buildings, climb the top of the tower sightseeing floor, you can overlook the entire Shanghai city scenery.
Tip: Buy tickets in advance to avoid queues.
Access: Lujiazui Station, Metro Line 2.
Yu Garden
Highlights: The representative of Jiangnan classical gardens, pavilions and pavilions in the garden, full of classical charm.
Suggestion: After visiting Yu Garden, try authentic Shanghai snacks at nearby Chenghuang Temple Food Street.
Access: Yuyuan Station on Metro Line 10.
Shanghai Disneyland
Highlights: China’s first Disneyland, with plenty of rides and great shows, is suitable for families.
Advice: Buy tickets in advance, plan your route, and it is recommended to spend a whole day playing.
Access: Metro Line 11 Disney Station.
Tianzifang
Highlights: An artsy neighborhood with creative shops, galleries, cafes and restaurants.
Suggestion: Suitable for taking photos and tasting local specialties.
Access: Dapuqiao Station, Metro Line 9.
Nanjing Road pedestrian Street
Highlights: One of the busiest commercial streets in Shanghai, complete with shopping, dining and entertainment facilities.
Suggestion: Walk the streets and feel the bustling and vibrant Shanghai.
Access: Metro Line 2, Line 10 Nanjing East Road Station.
Third, local experience
Taste Shanghai cuisine
Recommended restaurant:
Fuchun Xiaolongbao: Shanghai classic snack, Xiaolongbao taste delicious, rich soup.
Old Jishi Restaurant: The dishes are time-honored, braised meat fat but not greasy, authentic taste.
Nanxiang steamed Bun shop: Famous for crab meal Xiaolongbao, the meat is tender and the soup is rich.
Snacks recommended: fried dumplings, crab shell yellow, scallion oil noodles, sliced chicken, etc.
Experience Shanghai nightlife
Bar Recommendation:
Flair Rooftop: Located on the 58th floor of the Ritz-Carlton Hotel, the highest landscaped bar in Mordor offers stunning night views.
Speak Low: The first speakeasy bar in Shanghai to be listed in Asia’s Best 50 Bars, the environment is mysterious and the bartenders are highly skilled.
Night tour recommendation: Take the Huangpu River cruise, visit the Bund night view, feel the prosperity and beauty of Shanghai.
Fourth, itinerary planning
Three day Tour Recommended Itinerary:
Day 1:
Morning: Walk on the Bund, enjoy the scenery on both sides of the Huangpu River.
Noon: Try Shanghai snacks at Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street.
Afternoon: Visit Yu Garden and City God Temple.
Evening: Experience Shanghai nightlife at bars near the Bund.
Day two:
Morning: Head to Shanghai Disneyland for a full day of fun.
Evening: Return to the city, rest and adjust.
Day 3:
Morning: Visit Tianzifang, feel the literary atmosphere.
Noon: Try local cuisine at a restaurant in Tianzifang.
Afternoon: Head to the Oriental Pearl Tower for a panoramic view of Shanghai.
Evening: Take a cruise on the Huangpu River and visit the Bund night view.
Fifth. Practical tips
Transportation: Shanghai Metro network is developed, it is recommended to use the “Metro Metropolis” APP to scan the code. Buses can also use Alipay or wechat ride codes.
Ticket booking: Popular attractions such as the Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai Disneyland are recommended to buy tickets in advance to avoid on-site queues.
Language communication: Shanghai is an international city and most attractions and restaurants are available in English. You can also enlist the help of local people if you need it.
Safety tip: Take care of your belongings, especially in crowded places. Comply with local laws and regulations and scenic area regulations.
Through the above guideline, I believe you can better plan your first visit to Shanghai and feel the unique charm of this international metropolis. Wish you a pleasant trip!
