How to Spend 24 Hours in Shanghai

Shanghai is a cosmopolitan city filled with the wonder of centuries past and a glimpse into the future. The city is often your gateway into exploring other Chinese cities with international flights landing regularly in Shanghai Pudong Aiport (PVG). Whether you are beginning your adventure in Shanghai before travelling to other nearby cities like Nanjing or Suzhou, or the city is your destination, here’s how to spend your first 24 hours in Shanghai.

Dine in the French Concession in Shanghai

Feeling more like you’ve stumbled across a promenade in Europe than in Asia, the French Concession is an elegant neighbourhood where cobblestones and leafy boulevards transport you to another time. The area is filled with cozy live-music venues and boutique wine bars and small fashion boutiques. If you have time, the Shanghai Arts and Crafts Museum is worth the visit.

While there are a number of noodle shops, French bistros and restaurants to choose from in the French Concession, head on over to Tianzifang to pick up a few souvenirs along with some delicious street food.

Tianzifang Shanghai French Concession — Tianzifang

Explore The Bund

For the best view in Shanghai, visit The Bund

The Bund is a waterfront area in the central area of the city. This area is best known for upscale restaurants, modern boutiques and where some of the chicest hotels in the city are located. The area centers on a section of Zhongshan Road within the former Shanghai International Settlement, which runs along the western bank of the Huangpu River in the eastern part of Huangpu District. For one of the best views of the city skyline, walk along the Bund to see the grandeur of Shanghai, illuminated nightly for a light show.

Shanghai - The Bund — Photo by Edward He on Unsplash

Where to Stay in Shanghai

Yangtze Boutique Hotel, the newest addition to Historic Hotels Worldwide, is centrally located in Shanghai’s historic district. The Yangtze Boutique Hotel dates back to 1933 and to this day the art deco elements in the hotel are preserved throughout the property. Today, the hotel has 93 guestrooms and 10 suites, all designed with luxurious touches to provide guests with a relaxing environment to unwind after your long flight.