Downtown Shanghai Travel Guide
Shanghai
Visit Downtown Shanghai
Popular places to visit
The Bund
Despite years of war and revolution, the soul and skyline of one of the world’s great waterfront boulevards has risen to even greater heights.
Nanjing Road Shopping District
Experience the bustling energy of Shanghai’s most famous commercial street, with a pedestrian mall surrounded by traditional and luxury shopping opportunities.
Yu Garden
Step through the gate of Shanghai’s premier classical gardens and into a tranquil world of bamboo groves, koi-filled ponds and Ming Dynasty pavilions.
People's Square
To see the modern heart of Shanghai, visit this square, a vast green space surrounded by museums and a grand theater.
Oriental Pearl Tower
This towering symbol of Shanghai’s modern renaissance offers history lessons, fine dining and stunning city views.
Xintiandi Style Shopping Centre
One of the city’s first urban renewal projects preserves a historic neighborhood, while serving up some of Shanghai's best dinning, entertainment and shopping.
Things to do
Chinese Acrobatics and Shanghai Evening Tour
Shanghai: Roaming China Internet with eSIM Mobile Data Plan
Shanghai Natural History Museum Ticket Booking
Evening Huangpu River Cruise & Bund City Lights Tour
Top hotels in Downtown Shanghai
Conrad Shanghai
"I just wrapped up a 10 visit to Shanghai, and spent my entire time at the Conrad Hilton property. I was pleased with the very central location in the city of the hotel, and from my 39th floor room I was more than happy with the sweeping city views, looking directly down on the green oasis of the ..."
Reviewed on 19 May 2026
Mandarin Oriental Pudong, Shanghai
"Mandarin Oriental was amazing, beautiful room so clean, wonderful staff. Cannot fault this property, view from room wonderful. Highly recommend."
Reviewed on 18 May 2026
Grand Central Hotel Shanghai
"We stayed 8 nights. Room was spacious and very clean. Breakfast was very good. Plenty of options to eat. Very convenient neighbourhood. Staff were very friendly and efficient."
Reviewed on 15 May 2026
Renaissance Shanghai Yu Garden Hotel on the Bund by Nanjing Road
"Long past its prime, this hotel is in need of renovation and updating. The lack of in-room climate control was especially bothersome. Some of the staff were incredibly professional and helpful, others seemed absolutely bothered. We left after our first night and had bites to our exposed skin for ..."
Reviewed on 18 May 2026
Shanghai Marriott Marquis City Centre
"Good location being near to the main shopping belt of Nanjing East. Convenient to take various train services at the People’s Park station nearby. Hotel services and cleanliness are of the Marriott standards."
Reviewed on 9 May 2026
Pudong Shangri-La, Shanghai
"Very beautiful room with views"
Reviewed on 12 May 2026
Check Downtown Shanghai hotel availability
Other neighbourhoods around Downtown Shanghai
Huangpu
Known for its beautiful gardens and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Huangpu. Check out top attractions like The Bund and Yuyuan Bazaar, and jump on the metro at Yuyuan Garden Station or East Nanjing Road Station to see more of the city.
Lujiazui
Consider exploring the abundant dining options in Lujiazui. If sightseeing is on the list, Shanghai Tower is a top attraction. Hop on the metro at Shangcheng Road Station or Dongchang Road Station to see more of the area.
Xintiandi
While Xintiandi isn't home to many top sights, The Bund and Xintiandi Style Shopping Centre are some notable places to visit nearby.
Huaihai Road Commercial Area
Historical sites, art galleries and shopping highlight some notable features of Huaihai Road Commercial Area. Make a stop by Huai Hai Road Shopping District or Fuxing Park while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at South Shaanxi Road Station or Dapuqiao Road Station to get around town.
Hongkou District
Consider a visit to Qipu Lu Clothing Market and take some time to enjoy the abundant dining options during your time in Hongkou District. If you want to see more of the city, jump on the metro at Linping Road Station or Dalian Road Station.
Jing'an
Travellers choose Jing'an for its ample dining options. Hop aboard the metro at Yanchang Road Station or Circus World Station and check out top sights like Daning Lingshi Park.
