Shanghai

The Bund is Shanghai's iconic 1.5-kilometer waterfront promenade along the Huangpu River, renowned for its stunning contrast between historic colonial-era architecture and the futuristic Pudong skyline. This protected historical district features 52 buildings in various Western architectural styles including Gothic, Baroque, Neoclassical, and Art Deco, earning it the nickname 'Gallery of World Architecture.' The area comes alive at night when both sides of the river illuminate with spectacular light displays, creating breathtaking photo opportunities. While extremely popular and often crowded, especially during evening hours, The Bund offers an unforgettable experience that captures Shanghai's transformation from colonial concession to global financial hub. Visitors can stroll the wide promenade, take river cruises, or explore nearby shopping and dining options.

Shanghai Disneyland is a vast, modern Disney theme park in Pudong combining classic Disney lands with China‑exclusive experiences like Zootopia and the Enchanted Storybook Castle. Visitors praise the high-quality shows, themed design and standout rides such as TRON and Pirates, but warn about long queues and pricey Premier Access if you want to avoid waits.

Set within the tranquil French Concession, Capella Shanghai offers an unmatched heritage experience with its beautifully restored 1930s Shikumen villas. Each multi-level townhouse combines historic Shanghainese charm with exquisite French design. Legendary service, complimentary daily treats, and a Michelin-starred culinary program make this an ultimate urban sanctuary.

An elegant design hotel created by the renowned Neri&Hu studio, offering a tranquil sanctuary connected directly to the upscale HKRI Taikoo Hui mall. Known for its hyper-personalized service, tech-forward rooms, and a massive curated gin bar, it stands out as one of Shanghai's finest boutique-style retreats.

A fixture on the city's dining scene since 2016, this brainchild of chef Stefan Stiller is familiar to all local foodies. With counter seats enclosing an island where the chefs cook, all guests get to feel the vibrant vibe up close. The 10- or 12-course set menu changes every few weeks. Deftly crafted original creations showcase layers of tastes and textures, melding German traditions with uniquely Asian flavours such as kimchi and curry.

Housed in a striking ding-shaped building on Peoples Square, the Shanghai Museum offers an encyclopedic collection of bronzes, ceramics, jade, paintings and calligraphy. Entry is generally free and visitors praise the breadth of the holdings, though several reviews warn that some halls or special exhibitions can be closed or require separate booking.

Yu Garden offers a tranquil escape into classical Chinese garden artistry amidst Shanghai's urban bustle. Visitors consistently praise its exquisite Ming and Qing dynasty architecture, intricate rockeries, and serene ponds, especially noting the vibrant atmosphere during the annual Lantern Festival.

Shanghai Pudong International Airport, the main global gateway.