How to plan your first trip to Shanghai

Understanding the City Layout

Shanghai is bisected by the Huangpu River, which creates two distinct urban identities. To navigate the city, think of it in these three primary zones:

• Puxi (West Bank): The historic heart. This area contains the colonial-era Bund, traditional gardens, and the narrow lanes (longtang) of the old city.
• Pudong (East Bank): The futuristic financial hub. This is where you will find the iconic skyline and skyscrapers.
• Former French Concession: A leafy, residential district in Puxi known for European-style architecture, boutiques, and cafes.

Arrival and Transportation

Most international travelers arrive via Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG). To reach the city center, you have three main options: the Maglev train for high-speed transit to the metro network, the airport metro line, or licensed taxis.

Once inside the city, the Shanghai Metro is the most efficient way to travel. It is extensive, English-signed, and reaches all major tourist sites. For short distances, ride-hailing apps are widely used, though they require a local phone number or a compatible international payment method.

Common First-Timer Mistakes

• Over-reliance on cash: Shanghai is nearly cashless. Set up a mobile payment app (Alipay or WeChat Pay) linked to your international card before arrival.
• Ignoring the 'Old' for the 'New': Many visitors spend too much time in Pudong's skyscrapers. The true character of the city is found in the street-level exploration of Puxi.
• Underestimating walking: While the metro is great, the best parts of the French Concession are only discoverable on foot.

A Sensible First-Trip Itinerary

For a first visit, prioritize these experiences to get a balanced view of the city:

• The Essentials: Walk the Bund at night to see the skyline, explore Yu Garden for traditional architecture, and wander the Former French Concession.
• The Moderns: Visit one of the observation decks in Pudong for a bird's-eye view of the Yangtze delta.
• What can wait: Distant satellite towns or niche museums can be saved for a second trip once you have mastered the city's central core.