Shanghai‘s iconic Bund is more than just a skyline panorama. It is a living tapestry of history, luxury, and local rhythm. When you visit the Bund, it’s not just about ticking off a landmark; it’s about immersing yourself in the soul of old and new Shanghai.  You can discover the whispers of historic architecture lining the waterfront promenade, savor exquisite meals at authentic restaurants in the Bund, and indulge in special activities that go beyond the ordinary.

After an all-day tour, unwind at the exclusive Banyan Tree Shanghai or enjoy the modern luxury of the Hyatt On The Bund. This guide unlocks the secrets to transforming your Bund visit from a standard tourist stop into an unforgettable Shanghai bucket list experience. Get ready to see the city’s grand dame through the eyes of those who know her best.

1. Discover the Historic Architecture on Foot

The Bund is often known as Shanghai’s “Museum of Historic Architecture”. Stretching approximately 1.5 kilometers along Zhongshan East 1st Road, this riverside promenade is home to one of the most diverse and well-preserved collections of early 20th-century architecture. Walking along The Bund is like flipping through the pages of Shanghai’s colonial history, with each building offering a glimpse into a different era of international influence.

As you stroll along the walkway, you’ll encounter a remarkable blend of styles such as Gothic, Baroque and Neoclassical. These styles reflect the city’s past as a treaty port where banks, consulates, and trading houses from Britain, France, Russia, the U.S., and other countries established grand headquarters. Here are a few standout buildings you won’t want to miss.

• The Fairmont Peace Hotel: A jewel of Art Deco elegance, opened in 1929. It has hosted dignitaries, celebrities, and musicians; it still features nightly live jazz today. The copper pyramid roof, vintage elevator cages, and the original terrazzo floors in the lobby are a must-see.
• The Customs House: This grand structure is famous for its eight-story clock tower, completed in 1927. The clock still chimes every quarter hour, a familiar soundscape to locals who’ve grown up along the Bund.
• The Former HSBC Building: Once dubbed “the most luxurious bank building in the Far East,” the HSBC Building was completed in 1923. It features a grand dome, towering Ionic columns, and a rotunda ceiling painted with zodiac murals.

Hidden Details from Local People

• You can start your stroll at Yan’an Road East and walk north toward Waibaidu Bridge.
• Go early in the morning or just before sunset for the best light and fewer crowds.
• Bring a small guidebook or use an audio tour app for deeper context on each building.
• Grab a coffee at a side-street café to enjoy people-watching like a local.
• Remember to admire architectural details when you are walking along the Bund. You will find stone lions guarding entryways or original brass plaques in English and Chinese. Some of the carved emblems and trade symbols hint at each building’s past function. Architect signatures etched discreetly into stone corners.

2. Top Dining Spots in The Bund

While the Bund is known for its skyline views and historic buildings, it’s also home to some of Shanghai’s best dining experiences. You can find authentic Shanghainese food, international fine dining, or a hidden gem off the tourist trail. Here are the top restaurants in the Bund area that locals actually recommend.

Lost Heaven (Bund)

Housed in a beautifully restored colonial building. Lost Heaven offers a warm, moody atmosphere with flavors inspired by China’s ethnic minorities. The menu features spicy, herb-rich dishes like Dai-style chicken and wild mushroom salad. Great for a cozy, upscale dinner with local flair.

• Cuisine: Yunnan / Southwest Chinese
• Location: 17 Yan’an East Road
• Local tip: Request a table on the upper floor for the best ambiance.

Goodfellas

Tucked just a few steps from the riverside, Goodfellas is a favorite among expats and locals. The warm hospitality, homemade pasta, and excellent wine list make it feel like a small piece of Europe in the heart of Shanghai.

• Cuisine: Italian
• Location: 7 Yan’an East Road
• Local tip: Try the Truffle risotto and tiramisu.

Xiao Yang Sheng Jian

Famous for its sheng jian bao (pan-fried soup dumplings), this spot is no-frills but legendary. Crispy on the bottom, juicy inside, and perfect for a quick bite that tastes like Shanghai in one mouthful.

• Cuisine: Shanghainese Street Food
• Location: 97 Huanghe Road (a short walk from The Bund)
• Local tip: Go early or off-peak, otherwise there’s usually a queue.

Cheng Long Hang Crab Palace

This is the restaurant for serious crab lovers. Cheng Long Hang offers multi-course crab feasts, including steamed hairy crab, crab roe tofu, crab meat soup, and even crab roe xiaolongbao. It’s elegant, but still authentically Shanghainese.

• Cuisine: Shanghainese Food
• Location: 216 Jiujiang Road (a short walk from The Bund)
• Local tip: Ask your server to help with cracking and extracting the crab meat. They do it with impressive precision.

Jia Jia Tang Bao

For something more casual but just as flavorful. Try their crab roe xiaolongbao, steamed dumplings filled with hot broth and rich crab roe. This humble shop is legendary among locals.

• Cuisine: Shanghainese Street Food
• Location: 90 Huanghe Road (near People’s Square, not far from The Bund)
• Local tip: Go early if you can. It often sells out before noon, especially the premium crab versions.

The Captain Bar

The bar offers affordable drinks with a panoramic view. One of the best budget-friendly rooftop experiences in The Bund. It’s laid-back with craft cocktails and simple bar food. Arrive early for a front-row seat at sunset.

• Location: 37 Fuzhou Road (Captain Hostel rooftop)
• Vibe: Casual rooftop with unbeatable skyline views.

Flair Rooftop Bar – Ritz-Carlton Pudong

Though technically in Pudong, it directly faces The Bund and offers a cinematic view of both skylines. Known for high-end Asian tapas and expertly crafted cocktails.

• Location: 58th floor, Ritz-Carlton Pudong (across the river)
• Vibe: Luxe lounge with jaw-dropping city views.

Jazz Bar at Fairmont Peace Hotel

This historic venue features one of the oldest jazz bands in the world. Some of the musicians have been playing since the 1980s. The ambiance is elegant and nostalgic, making it one of the most unique bars in the city.

• Location: Ground floor, Peace Hotel
• Vibe: Vintage Shanghai glam.

3. Special Activities at The Bund

Visiting The Bund is more than a photo op. This legendary riverside offers other unique activities for you, from sunrise tai chi to secret art galleries and night cruises. Here’s how to make your Bund visit unforgettable.

Join Locals for Morning Tai Chi

As the mist rises over the Huangpu River, local people gather on the waterfront to practice tai chi. Sometimes with swords or fans. It’s peaceful, meditative, and free to join or observe. A great way to reset your body clock if you’ve just landed.

• When: Weekday from 6:30–8:00 AM
• Location: Huangpu Riverside Promenade

Take a Huangpu River Night Cruise

Seeing the Bund’s sparkling buildings lit up on one side and Pudong’s LED-lit skyscrapers on the other is magical. Cruises range from budget ferries to luxury glass-roof boats with dinner service. Try a cruise departure from Shiliupu Wharf for fewer crowds and English guiding.

• When: Evening departures (6:30 PM–9:30 PM)
• Duration: 45–60 minutes

Experience a Traditional Tea Ceremony

Several luxury hotels on The Bund, including Banyan Tree and Hyatt on the Bund, offer private tea tastings or traditional tea ceremonies in tranquil settings. You can enjoy a deep tie to Chinese hospitality culture with panoramic views of the river.

4. Where to Stay on The Bund

Staying on The Bund is more than just booking a room. This is the best place to immerse yourself in Shanghai’s most historic and glamorous neighborhood. Here are the nice hotels in The Bund area that combine luxury, local culture, and unbeatable skyline views.

Banyan Tree Shanghai on the Bund

Known for its tranquil spa vibes and private river views. Banyan Tree feels like a peaceful retreat within the city. Rooms feature panoramic bathtubs with skyline views, ideal for romantic getaways or relaxation after a day of sightseeing.

• Location: 19 Gongping Road, North Bund
• Highlight: The Bund Retreat room is with floor-to-ceiling windows. The hotel owns an award-winning spa offering traditional Chinese treatments.

Hyatt on the Bund

What makes Hyatt special is its dual skyline views. You can choose between facing The Bund’s historic side or the ultra-modern Pudong skyline. Its location on the north tip of the Bund also makes it quieter, with easier access to garden parks and walking paths.

• Location: 199 Huangpu Road, North Bund
• Highlight: The VUE Bar is a glass-enclosed rooftop lounge with an open-air jacuzzi. Ask for a corner suite for unobstructed river views in both directions.

Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund

This hotel used to be housed in the former Shanghai Club, a British gentlemen’s club built in 191. Rooms and suites in the Heritage Building feature vintage details like marble fireplaces and crown molding. Request a river-facing suite for magical views of the Lujiazui skyline by night.

• Location: 2 Zhongshan East 1st Road, The Bund
• Highlight: The Long Bar is a must-visit for craft cocktails and oysters.

Fairmont Peace Hotel

Originally opened in 1929 as the Cathay Hotel. The Peace Hotel is an Art Deco masterpiece once known as “The Sassoon House.” It was a hot spot for celebrities and old-money elites. Lavish interiors with original stained glass, brass accents, and vintage elevators.

• Location: 20 Nanjing East Road, at the north end of The Bund
• Hightligh: Afternoon tea in The Jasmine Lounge is a popular tradition, especially on weekends.

The Bund isn’t just a place to visit; it’s the beating heart of Shanghai. You can admire historic architecture, sip cocktails at a rooftop bar, or savor crab delicacies. The Bund offers a travel experience that’s as rich as the skyline itself. To make the most of your time here, go deeper with a customized itinerary. Our local travel consultants can help you book: Historic walking tours, Bund hotels and restaurants, Huangpu River cruises and more. Reach out to our travel team today. Your consultation is free, and we’ll help tailor your Shanghai adventure to fit your interests!