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.
People's Square
To see the modern heart of Shanghai, visit this square, a vast green space surrounded by museums and a grand theater.
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.
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.
Oriental Pearl Tower
This towering symbol of Shanghai’s modern renaissance offers history lessons, fine dining and stunning city views.
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.
Things to do
Shanghai: Hop-on Hop-off Bus Ticket and Optional Attractions
Shanghai: Roaming China Internet with eSIM Mobile Data Plan
Shanghai Natural History Museum Ticket Booking
Suzhou & Zhouzhuang Water Village One Day Tour with Lunch
Shanghai City Tour|Oriental Pearl+Huangpu River Cruise+Yu Garden
Group Tour: VIP Shanghai Oriental Pearl Tower and Retro Double-Decker Bus
Top hotels in Downtown Shanghai
Conrad Shanghai
Had an excellent stay there,
Reviewed on 18 Mar 2026
Pudong Shangri-La, Shanghai
Small and relatively old building! Staff are frendly
Reviewed on 14 Mar 2026
Central Hotel Shanghai
Great location
Reviewed on 16 Mar 2026
Grand Central Hotel Shanghai
We enjoy the sauna and steam room in the female's spa room. Would've been better if they have jacuzzi too, but only available in the men's.
Reviewed on 12 Mar 2026
Shanghai Marriott Marquis City Centre
The hotel and rooms are great! Lounge is amazing if you need time to relax and have quiet time with amazing food and drinks and nice city views. Isabel or Elizabeth at front desk was extremely kind. Overall nice stay for the price and good accessibility.
Reviewed on 18 Mar 2026
Renaissance Shanghai Yu Garden Hotel on the Bund by Nanjing Road
Great location, clean room, pleasant staff, great breakfast. Family of 5 fit well in one room. Appreciated the mini fridge and bottled water.
Reviewed on 21 Mar 2026
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 Old Chinese City, 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.
The North Bund
While you're in The North Bund, take in top sights like Shanghai International Cruise Ship Terminal or Shanghai Jewish Refugees Museum, and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Tilanqiao Station or International Cruise Terminal Station.
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 1933 Old Millfun 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.
