Shanghai is very well known for a city skyline that's nothing short of iconic, to say the least. Visitors from China and abroad flock to the city in large numbers each year, and one of the first things they do is go to the Bund or a famous hotel rooftop to get first-hand view of the beautiful skyline across the River Huangpu.
However, there are many other spots where you can go to look at Shanghai from high above and get lost in the view. Shanghai's backstory of fast and dynamic growth has made this city a treasure of great views. We at China Highlights have taken a wander around the city and listed down the best vantage points, in addition to the most obvious ones, where you can take in grand views of the city and also click some great photos!
Jin Mao Tower
This is an iconic structure, and offers a great view from the 88th floor. There is a skywalk as well as an inner atrium for some great shots. The Jin Mao Tower is one of the most elegant, and houses Grand Hyatt Hotel, offices and residential spaces.
- Where: 88 Century Avenue, Pudong
The Oriental Pearl TV Tower
The Oriental Pear Tower is standing among the skyscrapers in Shanghai.This The Pearl TV Tower is a trademark of the city's skyline. There is a revolving restaurant (in the second sphere of the tower) at the top along with a observatory deck — making this ideal for getting some great shots of the city.
- Where: 1 Century Avenue, near Lujiazui Huan Lu
Shanghai World Financial Centre
This was the tallest tower in Shanghai until very recently, having been overtaken by The Shanghai Tower (yet to be open to public). The Financial Center is popularly known as the Bottle Opener, given its shape and futuristic design. We recommend a glass of wine at the bar on the 98th floor at Park Hyatt Hotel — it goes very well with the stunning views of the river and the adjacent skyscrapers.
- Where: 100 Century Avenue, Pudong
The Bund
The night view of the BundFor the most classic shot of Shanghai, head to The Bund, stand by or take a walk along the river, and take in the gorgeous sight. All the crown jewels of the city are right in front of you. If you choose to go at night, even better! The bling is worth it.
Rooftop Bars with a view
We recommend a few open-space bars that have an advantage in that they offer patrons with some fantastic views of the river, the skyline and the city streets.
A few of the better views can be sought from Bar Rouge [7/F, 18 Zhongshan Dong Yi Lu, near Nanjing Dong Lu], Char Bar in Hotel Indigo [585 Zhongshan Dong Er Lu, near Dongmen Lu], and Kartel in the Former French Concession, offering the best sunset views of the city center [5/F, 1 Xiangyang Bei Lu, near Julu Ku].
Three on the Bund [3 Zhongshan East Rd, Huangpu] is very well known for its roof top and the Pudong skyline view. Go there for some afternoon tea and the view, of course!
If you are looking for a not so fancy spot that's up close to the Bund skyline, we have just the place for you. This is Captain's Bar, [37 Fuzhou Lu, near Sichuan Zhong Lu] that's atop a hostel, bang in the center of all kinds of fancy bars, hotels, clubs and government buildings. Perfect place for a beer in the summer evenings, and a really close view of the Huangpu and the Pudong skyline. A pleasant surprise.
Also see Best Places for a Sundowner in Shanghai.
A few unexpected spots for a great Shanghai view
Renaissance Yu Garden Hotel
Yuyuan GardenIf you want to take a different look at the famous Yu Garden of Shanghai, head to the restaurant in this hotel. You will be pleasantly taken aback by the clear view of the entire Yu Garden architecture, and if you are here for dinner, then that view is priceless with the lights outlining the pagoda rooftops. Very pretty.
- Where: 159 Henan South Lu, Huangpu district
The Peninsula Hotel
With one of the best locations along the Bund, this hotel is a go-to if you are looking for a fabulous view of Shanghai. Go up to their U-shaped rooftop Bar called Sir Elly's Terrace (you may need to book a table in advance, especially in the summer) which is probably the most luxurious view of the Huangpu and the skyline, over a nice cocktail.
- Where: 32 Zhongshan Dong Yi Lu, near Beijing Dong Lu
The Cool Docks
Cool Docks is at one end of the Bund and offers a super angular riverfront view of the Pudong skyline, and what's best, these views are clear, away from the crowds. Lots of opportunities to click some really good photos.
- Where: 653 Waima Lu, Huangpu
Nanjing West Road
Nanjing RoadIf you want to get views of a bustling Shanghai shopping street, full of lights and life, there is no better spot than the Nanjing Pedestrian street at night. The neon lights all over and the buildings around make for a very lively view and clicks.
- Where: Nanjing West Pedestrian street, Huangpu
Waibaidu Bridge
For a totally different angle to view the Financial Tower, Pearl Tower, Bottle Opener, etc. come to this bridge. You may also catch a glimpse of a wedding shoot on any given day. This is a very pretty and picturesque bridge, in a not so crowded part of town, surrounded by art deco buildings. Very cool sport for some great shots and views for sure across the Suzhou Creek. Do go for a walk along Suzhou Creek itself, as it offers gardens, parks, running pathways and of course a beautiful view along the riverside.
- Where: Waitan Tunnel, Huangpu
Choose China Highlights — See Shanghai Your Way
We hope you liked reading this piece and are better informed about the best spots in the city to go to and see spectacular views of the city, and get great photos too!
We'd love for you to ask more questions of our expert city guides who are great with tips and will guide you in the right direction. Your travel is our priority so you see the best of China. Contact Us!
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