If you’re planning your first trip to China, Shanghai is a great place to start.
We went there recently and really enjoyed it. Even though it’s the biggest city in China, and a global center of business and technology, it’s also very tourist-friendly and easy to get around.
Shanghai is loaded with great food and things to do. It has historic markets and temples, fancy malls, a world class aquarium, and one of the world’s most recognizable skylines.
In this article, I’ll share some of the best things for first-timers to see and do in Shanghai!

Shanghai has one of the most impressive skylines in the world, with almost 200 skyscrapers, including the famous Oriental Pearl Tower.
There’s no better place to see the skyline than at the Bund waterfront area, which has a panoramic view of all the buildings from across the Huangpu River.
Actually, there are two separate viewing areas: the Bund and North Bund. Most people go to the Bund, but I prefer the North Bund because it’s less crowded and the views are at least as good.
Don’t forget to come back at night to see all the buildings lit up!




