What to Do During a Layover in Shanghai

Exploring the Bund: If you only have a few hours, the Bund should be at the top of your list. This iconic waterfront area offers stunning views of Shanghai’s skyline, with its blend of historic buildings and modern skyscrapers. Take a leisurely walk along the promenade, snap some photos of the Oriental Pearl Tower, and maybe even enjoy a coffee at one of the many nearby cafés. The Bund is also an excellent spot for people-watching and getting a feel for the city’s unique blend of old and new.

Visit Yuyuan Garden: Just a short drive from the Bund is Yuyuan Garden, a beautiful classical Chinese garden dating back to the Ming Dynasty. The garden is a peaceful retreat from the bustling city, with its intricate pavilions, rockeries, and koi ponds. It’s a perfect spot to relax and soak in some traditional Chinese culture. Nearby, the Yuyuan Bazaar offers a variety of local snacks, souvenirs, and traditional crafts.

Explore Nanjing Road: For those who love shopping, Nanjing Road is a must-visit. This bustling shopping street is one of the most famous in China, lined with everything from luxury brands to local boutiques. Even if shopping isn’t on your agenda, a walk down Nanjing Road offers a glimpse into modern Shanghai, with its neon lights and endless stream of people. If you have time, visit one of the many restaurants or food stalls to try some authentic Shanghainese cuisine.

Experience the French Concession: The French Concession is a charming area known for its tree-lined streets, colonial architecture, and trendy boutiques and cafés. It’s a great place to wander around, especially if you’re interested in Shanghai’s history. You can visit the Shanghai Propaganda Poster Art Centre, a museum that showcases propaganda posters from the Mao era, or simply enjoy the atmosphere at one of the many outdoor cafés. The area is also home to some beautiful parks, such as Fuxing Park, where you can relax and watch locals practicing tai chi.

Take a Huangpu River Cruise: For a different perspective of the city, consider taking a cruise along the Huangpu River. These cruises offer stunning views of both the historic Bund and the modern Pudong skyline. Many cruises also include dinner, making it a perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing. Evening cruises are particularly popular, as the city lights up in a dazzling display of colors.

Visit Shanghai Tower: If you have a bit more time, head over to the Pudong district and visit Shanghai Tower, the tallest building in China. The observation deck on the 118th floor offers breathtaking views of the city. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the outskirts of Shanghai. The tower also has a museum and several restaurants, so you can easily spend a few hours here.

Relax in a Traditional Tea House: Shanghai has a rich tea culture, and there’s no better way to experience it than by visiting a traditional tea house. Huxinting Tea House, located near Yuyuan Garden, is one of the most famous in the city. Here, you can enjoy a variety of teas while taking in views of the surrounding garden and lake. It’s a relaxing way to spend an hour or two, especially if you’ve been on your feet all day.

Take a Stroll in People’s Square: Located in the heart of Shanghai, People’s Square is a large public space surrounded by some of the city’s most important buildings, including the Shanghai Museum, the Grand Theatre, and the Urban Planning Exhibition Center. It’s a great place to take a leisurely walk, visit a museum, or simply sit and watch the world go by. If you’re interested in art, the Shanghai Museum is a must-visit, with its impressive collection of ancient Chinese art and artifacts.

Try Local Cuisine: No visit to Shanghai would be complete without trying some of the local cuisine. If you’re short on time, head to a food court or street market where you can sample a variety of dishes. Some must-try foods include xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), Shengjianbao (pan-fried dumplings), and Hong Shao Rou (braised pork belly). For a more formal dining experience, consider booking a table at one of Shanghai’s renowned restaurants, such as Fu He Hui, which offers innovative vegetarian dishes, or Ultraviolet, known for its multi-sensory dining experience.

Final Tips:

• Transportation: Shanghai’s metro system is efficient and covers most of the city’s major attractions, making it easy to get around during your layover. Taxis are also readily available, but be sure to have your destination written in Chinese if you don’t speak the language.
• Currency: The local currency is the Chinese Yuan (CNY), and it’s a good idea to have some cash on hand for small purchases, although credit cards are widely accepted in larger establishments.
• Language: While English is spoken in many tourist areas, it’s helpful to know a few basic phrases in Mandarin, especially if you plan to explore off the beaten path.
• Safety: Shanghai is generally a safe city for tourists, but like any major city, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.

Whether you’re interested in history, culture, shopping, or simply relaxing, Shanghai has something to offer every traveler. With careful planning, even a short layover can turn into an unforgettable experience.