Shanghai Hotels

China’s economy has grown over the years and a testament to this would be the booming city of Shanghai. It’s the largest and most progressive city in China that sits on the banks of the Yangtze River.

The city’s name evokes a different kind of mystique to it with images of an amazing skyline, the wildest grandeur, and the most exotic of experiences. It pulsates with a different kind of energy that only Shanghai can generate.

How to Go

There are two airports around the vicinity of Shanghai — Shanghai Pudong Airport and Shanghai Hongqiao Airport. Pudong is used to service most international flights. It’s a bit farther from the city, around 40 minutes by car. If you’re coming from another part of China, chances are you’ll be landing in Hongqiao. This is nearer to the center, around 30 minutes by car.

After landing, there will be a lot of ways to get to downtown Shanghai. The airport shuttle bus is what greets you as soon as you exit the airport. There are nine lines that take you to different parts of the city. The Maglev (SMT) train is the best choice for people because it drops you right off at Longyang Road with the metro line a short walk away.

Taxis are also around, but this might take you a longer trip. Hongqiao Airport is also set with viable transport lines through its shuttle bus. Taxis are also available to get to the city.

Getting Around

The public transport system in the city is made up of one of the most extensive lines for trains and buses. Fair warning though that the city gets congested during peak hours when everyone is heading to work. If anything, the subway system and buses will take you to every nook and cranny of Shanghai.

Walking and cycling are also viable options to get around despite its size. There are a lot of cycling routes for people to take around the city and strolling through different walks by the banks of the river offers the most amazing green sights.

If you’re after sightseeing around the city, it has an amazing hop-on/hop-off bus tour that circles key destinations. It also has a ferry route along the Huangpu River that takes you to the other side of the city to avoid the roads.

Top Things to Do

A trip to Shanghai can be divided into two different ways, the modern part of it and its traditional. First off, the thing that will greet you upon entering the city is its unbeatable skyline. It has a panoramic view of unique buildings that make Shanghai a little more unique. Shanghai Tower is unmissable because it’s the tallest building in the city standing at 632m. It has 127 floors and the observatory is at the very top.

Meanwhile, The Bund or Waitan is a waterfront area in Shanghai and it’s the pride of the city. It has its unique charm that recalls the city’s past. You’ll find a series of colonial buildings here that is a great contrast against the tall towers of Shanghai.

For a glimpse of the daily leisurely life of the locals, People’s Square is the place to go to. You’ll find people going on strolls, walking their pets, and even drinking tea. You’ll see people playing mahjong and tai chi too. Nearby is the Shanghai Museum and Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center, which are both packed with tourists at certain hours. The museum boasts 120,000 pieces of artifacts made of bronze, ceramics, and sculptures. This dates back to the Ming dynasty. There is also a costume gallery that displays the clothing of ethnic minority groups. In the exhibition center, you’ll find the history of Shanghai. Through the miniature models, the development of the city is shown.

Crowned as the most fashionable city in China, shopping in Shanghai is crazy. In the French Concession, you’ll find a crazy line up of high-end designer brands with items often released earlier than other places. Vintage shops are also everywhere in the city and you’ll find the most unique pieces here.

Culture and hints of its past are everywhere in Shanghai. The Old City used to be the center of Shanghai’s commerce. Protected by a fortified wall, you’ll find traditional shikuenstone home that has been dwindling fast so these are a cultural highlight. You’ll notice that the roads here are smaller and winding so locals go around on foot or via scooter.

The Yu Garden is nearby and it’s one of the few classical gardens in the city. The garden has been around since 1559, made out of carp-filled ponds and impressive rock gardens. The Jade Buddha Temple is pretty new by Chinese standards because it’s a little less than 100 years old. The temple is beautiful with its amazing courtyards with the most intricate greenery. The highlight of this temple is the two-meter Buddha made out of white jade with a robe of precious gems.

What to Eat

Chinese street food is at the top of the list in Shanghai. Huanghe Road is the place to get this because of all the shops lined up here. From buns, jianbing (savory crepe), and noodles, you’ll find it here. Delicacies to watch out for when you’re here are pork buns in the renowned Xiao Yang Shen Jian (pan-fried pork buns), steamed crab, and Peking duck. Locals always recommend Da Dong for this. Most of the restaurants can be found in the streets or on those skyscrapers that offer a different kind of dining.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Shanghai is as glitzy and glamorous as the city. You’ll find beautiful jazz clubs to rooftop bars that offer a drinking experience like no other. There are a lot of choices here from underground partying and the most opulent clubs. The best view is arguably in TOPS at the Banyan Tree. You’ll be able to enjoy the sprawling city alongside the river. This place is quite relaxed, ideal for conversations. For a crazier night, RIINK is a roller-skating themed bar that has several rum-based mixes.

Where to Stay

Shanghai is huge so finding a great place to stay in is best. If it’s your first time then staying in the neighborhood of The Bund and People’s Square situated you near the main attractions. Lujiazui is a business district lined with 5-star hotels. You’ll be in the middle of luxury here. Xujiahui is where you’ll find most of the old Shanghai. Hostels are everywhere in this area so if you’re on a budget, this is your best bet.

Travel Tips