Nicknamed the ‘Oriental Paris’, Shanghai, along with its striking skyscrapers, energy and globally renowned shopping scene, has become one of the most prosperous cities in China. In what is known as the ‘birthplace of everything considered modern’, it is unsurprising that this city is in such high demand, but there is a place for you in this vibrant cityscape when you reserve an apartment rental via Likibu to secure your sanctuary in this fashionably fast-paced environment.
Find and book the perfect apartment or holiday home in Shangai
The coastal city of Shanghai offers a flavourful blend of the finest ingredients from the east and the west, and when it is mixed together, you are left with the rare and incredibly successful taste of Shanghai, the city which thrives from the indulgence of two cultures in one place. This fusion of traditional orientalism and prosperous western ideas are similarly reflected in the accommodation options across Shanghai. With holiday apartments, guesthouses and bed and breakfasts all offering the chance to live like a local, you can enjoy a slight western influence, in a luxury apartment rental with a jacuzzi, to a renovated townhouse, these holiday rentals reflect the shaping of the wider city.
When to visit Shanghai
Shanghai is at its most pleasant during October to November, when the autumn climate is warm enough to appreciate the city's landmarks and viewpoints, without the hustle and bustle of the summer crowds. Over these months, the attractions are less likely to be overly populated, which includes shorter waiting times for the favourite Disneyland rides and peak time skyscraper tickets. Remember that whenever you are planning on visiting Shanghai, remember to book your dream holiday letting in advance and you will soon be waking up in the greatest city in China.
How to get to Shanghai
This coastal Chinese city can be reached most effectively by air, onboard the one direct route from the UK, taking off from London Heathrow Airport and landing in Shanghai Pudong International Airport around eleven hours later. Shanghai Pudong is located 20km east of the city centre; however, the reliable and super speedy connection on the Metro train means you can go from the terminal to experiencing the streets of this city is less than an hour.
Where to stay in Shanghai
The Old Town
Nothing presents the perfect mixture of eastern and western influences working together in harmony quite like the Old Town neighbourhood. In a quarter where nineteenth-century Chinese architecture and authentic temples share the street with a futuristic high-rise development, a contrast of the times is just waiting to be e explored. Why not continue to embrace this modern adaption of traditional life by renting a holiday home in one of these dated structures, to wake up in a room with a view of the city's prosperous future, seen through Shanghai's Financial Centre.
The Bund/The People's Square
Known as the beating heart of Shanghai, this downtown area is where you will come across some of the city's most recognised attractions, from the Shanghai Museum to the vibrantly enticing Nanjing East Road which sets the staple as the ultimate shopping haven across China. Sleeping in this sought-after district does not have to come with a painfully high price tag, as you can rent a luxury apartment or a cost-effective holiday letting, and spend your savings overfilling your luggage allowance with spontaneous purchases from the independent boutiques of this area.
Tianzifang/Former French Concession
Simple reinforcing the label of ‘Oriental Paris' even further, this stylish neighbourhood is the most artistic in the city, with its espresso bars which flood out into the European styled streets and architectural marvels have been preserved and transformed interiorly into yet more retail utopia's. Choose a studio apartment or a room in a guesthouse to enjoy the quaint vibe, even when the sun goes down, and you can no longer work out the pastel colours in which you are surrounded by.
Pudong
Until as recently as the 90s, this neighbourhood was still farmland, though in the space of just over two decades, it has developed into the setting of Shanghai's most recognised skyscrapers, including the Oriental Pearl Tower and the Jin Mao Tower. It is not all business and no pleasure in Pudong, however, as this riverside district is home to Disneyland, making it the ideal place to choose a self-catered holiday apartment or a spacious guesthouse which will act as a home away from home for the whole family in-between your Disney filled days.
Xujiahui
This southern region of Shanghai is home to the majority of the city's student population, making this a unique neighbourhood which, despite being quieter than the central square, is still bustling with people who are enjoying the city's restaurants, bars and clubs. Stay awake in China's answer to the city that never sleeps and only return to your homestay when the sun comes up above the impressive campus.
Jing ‘An
Shanghai is undeniably a hive of activity and a city driven by professional and intellectual ambition, making it the successful metropolis we see today. There are still some neighbourhoods which have clung to an air of serenity, however, and Jing ‘An stands out as the most peaceful. Leave your bed and breakfast and wander these streets, temples and sculpture park, among other historical sites which you can admire at your own pace.
What activities to do?
Wander along The Bund
This promenade is the epitome of Shanghai's success, as you can spend an entire morning walking the 1.6 kilometres along this redeveloped stretch which showcases the splendour of the city's financial district from the water's edge. If you time your day in advance, you could catch a sunset over the cityscape, so be sure to remember your camera!
Go shopping on Nanjing Road
Shanghai's equivalent to Oxford Street is recognised globally as one of the busiest shopping streets, but don't let the crowds put you off from this world-class shopping experience. Nanjing Road has a shop for every desire, and whether you want to explore a Chinese Department Store or give in to the temptation a designer label, there is something on Nanjing Road for everybody.
Visit Shanghai's Disney Resort
Everybody has a little love for Disney somewhere inside, and there is no better way to allow the youth inside all of us to come out then at Disneyland. At just two years old, this Disney resort is the most recent Disney park to open, so whether you are travelling with your family or not, it is an unmissable experience in Shanghai.
Get lost in Tianzifang
The beauty of the Former French Concession neighbourhood of Tianzifang has the ability to transport you thousands of miles away from the dynamic skyscraper studded streets of this city. This European maze has been sculptured into a set of art studios, French bistros and craft shops, meaning there is no better place to allow yourself to become completely lost in this city.
Take in the views from the Jin Mao Tower
Though there are many observatories to choose from in Shanghai, the Jin Mao Tower has a reputation as the very best. With its panoramic views over the city, with its ‘skywalk' feature and dining opportunities, the views from the Jin Mao Tower experience is one which cannot be missed, especially if you get the chance to witness the city's lights at night.
Rejuvenate in the Yu Garden
Nestled alongside the City God Temple, this extensive botanical garden has had a place upon Shanghai's landscape since the 16th century. Now a refined into a collection of traditional Chinese halls, intricate dragon walls and a tea house, the floral kingdom of Yu Garden is the perfect escape from city life for every local and visitor alike.
Explore a Spectrum of Urban Adventures and Cultural Heritage Across Asia
Shanghai captivates travellers with its vibrant blend of modernity and tradition, offering urban adventurers a feast of sights and experiences. As you meander through the bustling streets, you'll find the seamless fusion of past and present enchanting. For those who crave more urban exploration, consider expanding your adventure with accommodation in Hong Kong, where the iconic skyline offers a stunning backdrop. Experience the vibrant night markets while staying in an airbnb in Bangkok, a city that never sleeps. Broaden your journey with diverse experiences by booking an airbnb across China, each city revealing its own unique flair. Alternatively, delve into the cultural richness of the capital with Beijing holiday rentals, where historical treasures like the Forbidden City and the Great Wall await your discovery.
The cultural tapestry of this dynamic city beckons with its captivating history and rich heritage, seen vividly in landmarks such as The Bund and Yu Garden. Deepen your cultural appreciation by venturing further afield to unique locations. Enjoy a taste of the Southern Hemisphere by choosing to stay in Auckland, where Maori culture and vibrant arts scenes flourish. In airbnb in Singapore city, an eclectic blend of traditions awaits, bound together by the city's remarkable modernity. Meanwhile, in the Land of the Rising Sun, the fusion of cutting-edge design and age-old customs offers an unforgettable journey—discover it all with the best places to stay in Japan, where every region offers a distinct flavour of Japanese culture.
