Located in East China along the Yangtze River and bordered on the east by the East China Sea, Shanghai is one of the most populated cities in the world and a booming cruise destination. This global city is a major financial center and influencer of culture, media, fashion, technology, and transportation.
Shanghai experiences four distant seasons, while still maintaining a humid subtropical climate. With some of the fastest economic expansions in the world, Shanghai is quickly becoming a modern-day metropolis complete with skyscrapers, shopping malls, and luxury hotels. However, Shanghai has not lost its unique history. As you walk the streets you will still find the old temples, customs, and Chinese traditions that make Shanghai such a wonderful cruise port.
Welcome to Shanghai! As China’s most populous city and a global financial hub, Shanghai is a fascinating blend of old and new, with futuristic skyscrapers standing alongside ancient temples. A cruise stop in this vibrant metropolis offers a chance to experience its incredible energy, rich culture, and fascinating history in just one day. Whether you're drawn to the city's dazzling skyline or its ancient heritage, Shanghai has something to offer every traveler. Here’s your ultimate guide to making the most of your one-day stop in Shanghai.
-
Start Your Day at The Bund
Begin your exploration at The Bund, Shanghai’s iconic waterfront promenade. The Bund stretches along the Huangpu River, offering stunning views of both colonial-era architecture and the modern skyscrapers of the Lujiazui district across the river. You’ll see the contrast between the historic European-style buildings and the towering glass structures like the Shanghai Tower and Oriental Pearl Tower. It’s a fantastic place for photos and to take in the city’s history and modernity.
Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds and get a peaceful morning view of the skyline before it gets busy.
-
Stroll Along Nanjing Road
From The Bund, head to Nanjing Road, one of the world’s busiest shopping streets. Stretching for over 5 kilometers, this vibrant thoroughfare is lined with department stores, luxury shops, and historic buildings. Whether you're window shopping or picking up a souvenir, Nanjing Road offers an exciting look into Shanghai’s modern retail culture. You can also check out the Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, which is completely car-free and perfect for a leisurely walk.
Tip: If you’re a fan of Chinese tea, stop by one of the traditional tea shops along Nanjing Road to sample a variety of local teas.
-
Visit the Shanghai Museum
Next, immerse yourself in Chinese history and culture by visiting the Shanghai Museum, located in People’s Square. This world-class museum houses an impressive collection of Chinese art, from ancient jade and bronze artifacts to traditional paintings, calligraphy, and ceramics. The museum’s design is also worth noting – its circular shape symbolizes heaven, while the square base represents earth.
Tip: The museum is free to enter, but it can get crowded, so plan to arrive early or later in the afternoon for a more relaxed experience.
-
Explore Yu Garden (Yuyuan Garden)
For a taste of old Shanghai, head to Yu Garden, a classical Chinese garden located in the heart of the city’s historic Yuyuan Bazaar. Built during the Ming Dynasty, the garden is a tranquil escape from the bustling city, featuring pavilions, rockeries, koi ponds, and beautiful bonsai. Take a leisurely stroll through the garden and explore the maze of alleys filled with traditional shops selling tea, silk, and local crafts.
Tip: Visit the Yuyuan Bazaar nearby for some traditional souvenirs, but beware of the tourist traps – bargain where you can!
-
Admire the View from the Oriental Pearl Tower
No visit to Shanghai is complete without seeing the city from above, and The Oriental Pearl Tower offers one of the best views in town. Standing 468 meters tall, the tower features multiple observation decks, including one with a glass floor. The views from the top are spectacular, giving you a bird's-eye view of the city’s skyline, the Huangpu River, and the surrounding districts.
Tip: If you're short on time, the Skywalk or the Glass Floor experience provides a thrilling and quick way to enjoy the views without spending too much time at the tower.
-
Visit the Jade Buddha Temple
For a peaceful break from the city’s hustle, head to the Jade Buddha Temple, one of Shanghai’s most famous Buddhist temples. The temple is home to two magnificent jade Buddha statues, one of which is seated in meditation and the other reclining. The temple also houses a serene courtyard, incense offerings, and a lovely atmosphere for reflection and tranquility.
Tip: While visiting the temple, be mindful of the peaceful surroundings and try to remain quiet and respectful.
-
Wander Through Tianzifang
After visiting the temple, explore the vibrant neighborhood of Tianzifang, a maze of narrow lanes filled with art galleries, boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants. This area has retained its old Shanghai charm, with traditional shikumen (stone gate houses) now housing modern art, handicrafts, and street food vendors. It's a great place to wander, grab a bite, and soak in the creative atmosphere.
Tip: Tianzifang is a fantastic spot for lunch or a snack, with plenty of cozy cafes offering Chinese and Western-style food.
-
Take a Huangpu River Cruise
To see Shanghai from a different perspective, take a Huangpu River Cruise. These cruises offer a relaxing way to experience the city’s skyline from the water. You'll get great views of both the historic buildings along The Bund and the futuristic skyscrapers in Lujiazui. Many cruises also include commentary on the history and architecture of the city, making it a wonderful way to understand Shanghai’s development over the years.
Tip: A 45-minute to 1-hour cruise is ideal if you’re on a tight schedule. Evening cruises are particularly spectacular as the skyline lights up after dark.
-
Check Out the French Concession
The French Concession is a charming neighborhood that once housed French expats and remains one of Shanghai's most picturesque districts. Known for its tree-lined streets, colonial-era buildings, and cozy cafes, this area offers a nice change of pace from the bustling city center. Take a stroll through the Xintiandi area, which is filled with upscale shops and trendy restaurants, or visit Fuxing Park for a peaceful walk through traditional Chinese landscaping.
Tip: If you’re in the mood for shopping or dining, Xintiandi is the place to go, offering a mix of upscale boutiques and international restaurants.
-
End Your Day at a Rooftop Bar
Cap off your day in Shanghai by visiting one of the city’s stylish rooftop bars. With its impressive skyline, Shanghai offers many places to enjoy a drink while taking in the breathtaking views. Head to a bar in the Lujiazui area for the best panoramic views of the city’s futuristic skyline. The Moon Bar at the Andaz Xintiandi or The Vue Bar at the Hyatt on the Bund are popular choices for a great view and a refreshing cocktail.
Tip: Arrive early to grab a good spot and enjoy the sunset over the city.
Shanghai offers an exciting blend of ancient tradition and modern innovation, making it an unforgettable stop on your cruise vacation. From its historic temples and gardens to its cutting-edge skyline and vibrant neighborhoods, the city offers something for every type of traveler. In just one day, you can experience the best of Shanghai and leave with lasting memories of this fascinating metropolis.