Scratch Shanghais shiny, modern surface and you’ll find plenty that makes it unique; historic, tree-lined avenues, fabulous street food, quirky art deco architecture, character-filled restaurants, iconic hotels, parks and temples. Where to start in this mega-metropolis?
You won’t come close to seeing all that it has to offer; not even. So relax, sharpen that sense of adventure, put on your best “ni hao” and let Shanghai Local guide you through 60 undisputed highlights. Yup, we’ve chosen 5 dozen must-do things, from chic bars, great retail, in-the-know retail haunts, low-key foodie favourites, hidden historical gems and essential tourist stalwarts.
Take tea at chilled out Song Fang....glam it up at the Waldorf Astoria...send your luggage allowance into free fall at Pottery Workshop....snack yourself stupid at Qibao....shop for cute wares at Brut Cake....discover Shaoxing fare....disappear into the labyrinth of Shanghais old city streets....get your vintage specs on at Shanghai Code....and your lamb fix at the Friday Muslim market.
Each post includes the address in Chinese, plus Google mapping for your navigating ease. All you need do is master the Metro, or nab a cab, and go!