5 Things to do in Shanghai and Avoid This 1 Mistake!

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Shanghai is a city of striking contrasts — a place where centuries-old temples stand in the shadow of futuristic skyscrapers, and where street-side dumpling stalls share corners with designer boutiques. As China’s largest and most cosmopolitan city, Shanghai blends tradition and innovation with effortless style. Whether you’re wandering through the colonial charm of the Bund, diving into the neon-lit frenzy of Nanjing Road, or having a steaming bowl of noodles at 2 a.m, Shanghai offers something for every kind of traveller. We spent 2 nights in Shanghai, here are the best things to do to make the most of your trip.

Before we dive in to the best things we recommend you do in Shanghai, we also have some top tips for you to have the best time while you are there:

• Install and link your bank cards to Alipay before arriving. Though be ware there is a 3% service fee for transactions made using international credit cards.
• Install Didi app on your phone before you arrive so that you can order taxis from this ride hailing app.
• Apple Maps works better in Shanghai so use that instead of Google Maps.
• Get an eSIM – we used Nomad which was amazing! Since we were travelling around Asia at the time we got the Asia package but pick the one that suits you most.
• Activate your eSIM before arriving in Shanghai. If you rely on Google services such as Gmail those will not work. Having eSIM connection acts as a VPN that allows you to stay connected using Googles services and social media apps.
• Tipping isn’t expected. Tipping is not part of Chinese culture in taxis, restaurants, or even hotels. Just a thank-you or review goes a long way for exceptional service.
• Learn a few basic Mandarin phrases. Even just “hello” (你好 – nǐ hǎo), “thank you” (谢谢 – xièxiè), and “I don’t understand” (我不懂 – wǒ bù dǒng) can go a long way.
• Watch out for common tourist scams. Be cautious of overly friendly strangers inviting you to tea ceremonies or art galleries—they may be part of common scams targeting tourists.

Tucked away in the heart of Shanghai’s bustling Bund district, Canton Table offers an experience that defies expectations — a Michelin-starred meal at prices that barely dent the wallet. Often dubbed the cheapest Michelin-starred restaurant in the world, this elegant spot proves that world-class Cantonese cuisine doesn’t have to come with a sky-high bill. Housed in a beautifully restored heritage building, the atmosphere strikes a balance between upscale refinement and warm hospitality.

We ordered the suckling pigeon and flame roasted chicken — both cooked to perfection, with crisp, golden skin and deeply layered flavours. To finish, a refreshing sago and mango dessert brought the meal to a light, satisfying close. Sherry and I agreed it was the best Chinese food we’ve ever had, and the bill came out to £70. Every dish struck the right note, making Canton Table a must-visit for food lovers wanting to savour Michelin-level cuisine without the hefty price tag.

A walk along The Bund is one of Shanghai’s most timeless experiences — where old-world charm meets futuristic flair. Stretching along the Huangpu River, this iconic promenade offers sweeping views of the glittering Pudong skyline on one side and colonial-era architecture on the other. As day fades into night, the skyline lights up in neon brilliance, making it one of the most romantic spots in the city.

Even better, The Bund is just a short stroll from Canton Table — the ideal place to walk off a delicious meal. While the promenade can get crowded, it’s worth taking your time to find that perfect photo spot and stay a little longer to soak in the dazzling light show dancing across the river.

As the sun begins to dip behind the skyline, there’s no better place to take it all in than from the rooftop bar at The Shanghai EDITION. Perched high above the city, this sleek and sophisticated spot offers front-row views of both The Bund’s historic architecture and Lujiazui’s futuristic skyscrapers, all bathed in the golden hues of dusk. With a craft cocktail in hand and the warm evening breeze rolling in, it’s the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring. As the lights flicker on across the river, the skyline transforms into a living painting — and this rooftop becomes the best seat in Shanghai.

You don’t need to be a hotel guest to enjoy a drink at the rooftop bar — it’s open to the public. While the balcony lounges are reserved for those purchasing a bottle (that of course comes with a price tag 🥹), the bar area still offers a stunning vantage point of the skyline. Be aware that drinks here come at a premium, but the views more than make up for it.

Nanjing Road is Shanghai’s most famous shopping strip, and with good reason — it’s a lively blend of historic charm and modern sparkle. Stretching from the Bund to People’s Square, this pedestrian-friendly boulevard is lined with global fashion brands, traditional Chinese stores, glitzy malls, and glowing neon signs. Whether you’re in the mood to shop, snack on street food, or simply people-watch, Nanjing Road offers a sensory feast from morning to night. As evening falls, the street truly comes alive — a dazzling showcase of Shanghai’s energy and elegance, making it an essential stop for anyone exploring the city.

If you’re in search of the most authentic xiaolongbao in Shanghai, skip the polished dining rooms and head straight to Jia Jia Tang Bao — a local favourite that’s earned a cult following for good reason. This unassuming spot near People’s Square serves up handmade soup dumplings that rival any Michelin-starred version, with delicate wrappers, rich broth, and perfectly seasoned pork (or crab roe) filling. The lines can be long and the seating minimal, but that’s all part of the charm — and the payoff is huge. Each bite bursts with savoury flavour, proof that Shanghai’s culinary heart still beats strongest in its small, steamy kitchens.

If you’re building your Shanghai itinerary, you might want to think twice before adding Shanghai Tower to your must-see list. While it boasts the title of China’s tallest building and is home to the world’s fastest elevator, zipping you to the observation deck at a jaw-dropping 18 meters per second, the experience doesn’t quite live up to expectations once you’re at the top. A major letdown is the film coating on the glass, designed to reduce glare and heat — great for energy efficiency, but not so great for photography or panoramic views. The result? A noticeably duller, slightly hazy view that undercuts the thrill of being 118 stories above the city. With other nearby towers offering clearer vistas and more atmospheric viewing experiences, Shanghai Tower, despite its superlatives, can feel more like a box to tick than a moment to savour.

Shanghai is a city that pulses with contrast — where centuries-old temples stand quietly beneath neon-lit skyscrapers, and Michelin-starred meals do not have to come with a hefty price tag. Whether you’re wandering the colonial charm of The Bund, diving into the crowds on Nanjing Road, or sipping rooftop cocktails above the skyline, Shanghai offers an excellent mix of tradition and innovation. It’s a city that doesn’t just move fast — it moves with style. And after a few unforgettable days exploring its streets, you’ll leave with more than just photos — you’ll carry the rhythm of Shanghai with you, long after you’ve gone.