Attractions / Places Of Interest
Oriental Pearl Tower
One of Shanghai's most iconic buildings, the tower was completed in 1994 and at 468 metres tall (by comparison, the Eiffel Tower in Paris stands at 330 metres), it was at the time, the tallest building in China. It has since been overtaken many times but it is still a major tourist attraction due to its unusual futurist design with its three large spherical platforms connected by pillars.
Address:
1 Century Avenue, Pudong District
东方明珠广播电视塔, 世纪大道1号, 近陆家嘴环路
Yu Gardens
Old city of Shanghai and usually on most vistors’ list of must-see places. Famous for Xiaolongbao dumplings.
Address:
249 Fangbang Middle Road, Huangpu District
黄浦区方浜中路249号
Fotografiska Shanghai
Fotografiska Shanghai is the 5th location for Fotografiska after Stockholm, Tallinn, New York and Berlin. Taking up 4600 square meters of space, it is a photography museum with a shop, rooftop lounge, café bar and restaurant (called Mona) in the same building on the north bank of Suzhou Creek. Exhibits are constantly rotating, showcasing both local and foreign artists. It's a great place to spend a few hours looking at the exhibits and then grabbing a bite to eat or a coffee or a glass of wine.
Incidentally, Fotografiska is right next to the Sihang Warehouse, the site where, in 1937, Chinese soldiers famously resisted multiple waves of Japanese attacks to allow Chinese troops to retreat to the west. You can see the side of the warehouse riddled with over 400 bullet holes, a permanent reminder of some of the darker days in Shanghai's history. If you do visit Fotografiska, it's well worth taking a quick peek next door, even if you just view the building from the outside. It's a fascinating story and if you'd like to know more about it, there's a lot that's easily found on Google, but here's a series of videos which is as good a place to start as any.
Address:
127 Guangfu Road, Jing'an District, Shanghai
上海市静安区光复路 127号
Tianzifang 田子坊
This is a nice little area to wonder around and explore, with lots of small shops and cafes. There are also souvenir shops along with places to buy various local snacks. If you're in the mood for some British style food and drinks, The Guinness Social by Butler & Whites is a great place to visit. They have various English dishes like fish and chips, a full English breakfast (served all day) and a lovely Sunday roast available every Sunday.
Address:
Taikang Road, Lane 200 (near Sinan Road)
泰康路200-1号
Xintiandi
When I first moved to Shanghai in 1999, Xintiandi was still under construction. Since then, it has grown into one of the city’s most popular destinations, attracting both tourists and locals alike. Its success has inspired countless similar retail and entertainment complexes, not just across Shanghai but in cities throughout China. Yet, despite being widely imitated, none of these copies have quite matched the original’s appeal.
As a long-term resident, Xintiandi isn’t my go-to spot—it’s pricey and a little too touristy for my taste. But for those who haven’t been, it’s definitely worth a visit to experience its unique atmosphere and see what all the buzz is about.
Address:
Lane 181 Taicang Lu, near Madang Lu, Huangpu District
新天地太仓路181弄, 近马当路
Pompidou Center West Bund Museum
The Pompidou Centre West Bund Museum is located in a newly developed section of the Bund, making it a great spot to explore, especially on a sunny day. The area has been completely redeveloped, offering a pleasant waterfront walk that pairs perfectly with a visit to the museum. There's also a dog park, rock climbing, basketball nets and a skateboard park. Nearby, Gate M is also worth checking out if you're in the neighborhood, adding to the vibrant mix of art and culture in this part of the city.
Address:
2600 Longing Avenue, Xuhui District
徐汇区龙腾大道2600号
Shanghai Disneyland
Needs no introduction. You can combine Disneyland with a shopping trip to Bicester Village, which is right next door. There is even a boat that takes you between Disney and Bicester Village at certain times of the year. Don't leave too early, there is a fireworks display every night before the park closes. Exact times depend on the season.
Address:
No. 310 Huangzhao Road, Chuansha Town, Pudong New Area, Shanghai
上海市浦东新区川沙镇黄赵路310号