Shanghai and the Bund

Shanghai is China's dazzling, cosmopolitan global city, where the country's imperial past, colonial history and hurtling future collide. Its most famous sight is the Bund, a sweeping riverside promenade lined with grand European colonial banks and hotels, which gazes across the Huangpu River to the futuristic, neon-lit skyscrapers of Pudong, a spectacular skyline that captures the city's soaring ambition, alongside classical gardens and buzzing modern life.

What you actually see

• The Bund - the grand colonial waterfront promenade.
• The Pudong skyline - the futuristic skyscrapers across the river, lit at night.
• Yu Garden - the classical Ming-dynasty garden and old bazaar.
• The French Concession - the leafy streets, cafes and boutiques.

When to go

Spring and autumn for the mildest weather; the Bund and Pudong skyline are most spectacular after dark, when the towers blaze with light. A river cruise gives a fine view of both sides. Summer is hot and humid, winter grey and chilly.

Honest expectations

It is a huge, fast-paced modern city, so its appeal is the energy, skyline and contrasts rather than ancient monuments, most of which are in Beijing and beyond. The Bund and Yu Garden get very crowded. It is one of China's easier cities for first-time visitors, with good metro and some English, though a China visa and payment apps take planning.

Nearby

The water towns of Zhujiajiao and Suzhou's classical gardens are within reach.