Having visited Shanghai almost 8 years ago, I was excited to see how the city has developed. The major tourist attractions are omitted since they are pretty well known. I have comprised here some interesting areas and restaurants for your reference.
Transport
City Get Around: Please refer to local Taxi Apps
Accommodation
As I was here to mainly visit Design Shanghai at the Exhibition Center, I have decided to stay near XiTiangDi area. XTD is one of the first modernised traditional area in Shanghai with a strong design focus. The Langham is one of the more established one in the area. However, although the service was top notch, I do feel the place is a bit dated.
Attractions
The Rock Bund and the North
My friend recommended this walking route which I thought was a great and more relaxed alternative then your usual hectic Nanjing Walking Street and Bund tour. I took a taxi and started off the walk from the Shanghai Postal Museum north of the bund. I suggest you start the walk around 7:00pm as that's when the lights are switched on along the river. Walk along the river and you will reach an area called the Rock Bund behind the Peninsula Hotel. The Rock Bund is a newly revitalised area much like XTD. All these historic renovated buildings from the 20s now host an array of luxury shops. Further along the other end of the river you can also find the Fotografiska Shanghai hosting interesting exhibitions through out the year. You will eventually end up near the Walking Street and the Bund after.
Wukang Road-Anfu Road Cultural District
The Wukang Road-Anfu Roadblock, known as the "World Residential Architecture Expo Block", showcases Shanghai's modern lifestyle and urban culture. It features historical and cultural landmarks, such as Wukang Mansion, the former residence of Soong Ching Ling, and Ba Jin's Former Residence. It is now full of cool cafe and hipster shops.
Restaurant and Nightlife
Food is at the heart of most Asian cultures and Shanghai is no different. Here are some of my proudest finds in this trip.
元古雲境（五原路店）
This is a cute place I stumbled upon near the Wukang Road-Anfu Road Cultural District. It has this rustic interior and a modernised version of classic asian dishes. The service and atmosphere was great but I can't help but to feel let down by the food especially after waited for about 45 mins. I would say avoid the fancy stuff because the classic are definitely better.
蟹黃魚 (XiTianDi Branch)
Literally translated as Crab Yellow Fish, this place has a few branches and this particular one opens till 2am which is a bonus.I came to this place in particular to tried their Lard Tossed Noodle Topped with Crab Roe and Meat. Add a bit of red vinegar and it was divine!
Cejerdary (The Bund) (蟹家大院)
The smallest menu here ensures the quality of each dish is well executed. I had the noodle the night before so I have opted for the Wine Marinated Whole Crab and the Crab Roe Rice. They are both very enjoyable.
成隆行. 蟹王府
Being a Michelin Star restaurant this is definitely one of the best meal I had in Shanghai for the quality and attention to details they provided. The great thing about this place is that it has a lot of a la carte options for single diners. Specialised again in Crab, this restaurant finished my Trilogy of Crab exploration in Shnaghai. If you gonna have one Crab meal I would recommend this place as it has the most to offer in terms of menu and space. BOOK IN ADVANCE!
Dong Tai Xiang Shanghai Dim Sum
This is a super local restaurant which is ideal for breakfast as it was only 15min walk from the hotel. They are one of the highest rated Pan Fried Buns in the area and it bun was so thin and delicous. It was definitely worth the trip. Note that they sell their wonton by the Catty (605g) on the menu but you can order half Catty and mix them.
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