Shanghai

Once a small fishing village on the coast, today Shanghai is one of China's largest industrial centers and a multicultural metropolis with over 24 million inhabitants, situated at the confluence of the Yangtze and Huangpu rivers. Just 30 years ago, Shanghai was nowhere near as developed, modern, or organized as it is today. In just a few decades, it has evolved into a vital seaport and the largest commercial, industrial, financial, and cultural hub of China.

Fantastically organized and rich in tourist attractions, this city blends the best of modern and traditional China. Shanghai can be visited year-round, though the peak season is summer. To avoid the crowds and the heavy influx of tourists, it is best to visit in late spring or early autumn. The city boasts one of the longest metro networks in the world, which is constantly expanding and connecting every part of the metropolis.

The most famous part of the city is the Bund, a promenade along the Huangpu River that was once home to British, French, American, Russian, and Japanese banks and trading houses. Here, you can see locals gathering at dawn on the waterfront to practice ancient martial arts or dance, while the rest of the day is left to tourists for sightseeing and enjoying the riverside. The river separates this area from the Pudong business district.

Pudong is a modern district on the east bank, famous for its impressive skyscrapers. You can reach Pudong from the Bund by metro, ferry, or through the Bund Sightseeing Tunnel, which is an attraction in itself due to its unique light and sound effects. Located here is the world's second-tallest building at the time of its completion, the Shanghai World Financial Center, standing at 492 meters. If you wish to see the world from a bird's-eye view, visit the 100th-floor observatory with its glass floor. The tallest building in the city (and all of China) is the Shanghai Tower, reaching 632 meters, which is now open to visitors and offers an incredible view of all of Shanghai.

The city also offers a variety of culinary specialties, with a focus on traditional cuisine. Restaurants here are among the best in China, offering top-tier international specialties alongside local dishes. Must-see attractions include performances by the Shanghai Acrobatic Troupe, the Shanghai Museum, and the Yu Garden.

The museum houses about 120,000 exhibits tracing China's development throughout history.

Yu Garden stands in complete contrast to the rest of the city and its modern core. While the city buzzes with crowds and noise, here you will find peace in the gardens, hedge-lined pathways, beautiful flowers, and decorative ponds. "Yu" translates to peace and health.

For shopping enthusiasts, Shanghai offers a vast number of shopping malls featuring world-renowned brands – just make sure you have a healthy balance on your card, as the variety ensures there is something for everyone.