Shanghai’s diverse neighborhoods are a blend of architecture, cultures, and interests. Given its vast size, it’s impossible to explore the entire city in just two weeks. However, several neighborhoods offer a great taste of Shanghai, including fantastic food, walking paths, and one of the world’s tallest buildings.

Former French Concession

The FCC features tree-lined streets, former elite Chinese residences, cafes, classic shikumen, and charming shops. Rent a bike to explore neoclassical, baroque, and art deco buildings. Visit the Wukang Mansion for its history or wander through Tianzifang for unique clothes, jewelry, and coffee. Enjoy cocktails at the Union Trading Company.

The Bund

This waterfront promenade offers iconic Shanghai activities: Huangpu River cruises, early morning tai chi, designer shopping, and vibrant nightlife. Ride the Bund Sightseeing Tunnel or listen to jazz at the Peace Hotel. Strolling along the river allows you to admire neoclassical buildings on one side and futuristic skyscrapers on the other.

People’s Square

This central area is known for street food, museums, and nightlife. Try lamb skewers and Shanghainese noodles at Yunnan Road Food Street. Visit the Shanghai Museum for Chinese history, and the Urban Planning Exhibition Hall for a miniature Shanghai. At night, dance at M1NT, a club with a giant disco ball and shark tanks.

Jing’an

Home to several Buddhist temples, including the active Jade Buddha Temple and Jing’an Temple. Shop on Nanjing Road or explore local art at the M50 Art District. Enjoy the outdoors at Jing’an Sculpture Park and visit the nearby Shanghai Natural History Museum. Try durian liquid nitrogen ice cream at “Just Like It” in the Kerry Centre.

Pudong

Known for its skyscrapers and futuristic skyline, Pudong features the Shanghai Tower and AP Plaza’s extensive fake markets. Visit the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium, ride roller coasters at Shanghai Disneyland, or have a drink at Flair, China’s highest rooftop bar.

Hongkou

Hongkou has a historic feel with old buildings and nods to its Jewish refugee community. See traditional longtangs and shikumen houses, and visit the Ohel Moishe Synagogue at the Shanghai Jewish Refugees Museum. The 1933 Slaughterhouse is now a performance space with a theater and dog cafe. Duolun Street offers historic charm and classic Chinese movies at the Old Film Café.

Xujiahui 

A commercial hub known for shopping and former Catholic ties. Watch soccer at Shanghai Stadium, jog at Xujiahui Park, and shop at malls like Gateway 66. The Shanghai Xujiahui Library holds old newspapers, and the neo-gothic St. Ignatius Cathedral is nearby.

Nanshi 

Separated by a Ming Dynasty-era wall, Nanshi is known for temples, food, and nature. Visit the Old City God Temple, Yuyuan Garden, and Yuyuan Bazaar for street food. The Confucian Temple offers a giant teapot collection and tea ceremonies.

Xintiandi

Though part of the FCC, Xintiandi has a unique, upscale vibe. Shop at the high fashion Xintiandi Style mall, visit the K11 Art Mall, and learn about Chinese communism at the Memorial House for the First National Congress of the CPC. Try xiaolongbao at Din Tai Fung for delicious soup dumplings.

Gubei 

Famous for its Korean and Japanese communities, Gubei offers authentic ramen, sushi, and KTV. In Koreatown, sample bibimbap and Korean barbecue. Chez Shibata offers French-Japanese pastries. Experience a bathhouse at New Star and enjoy live music at Yuyingtang Livehouse.

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