ultimate guide to shanghai
your guide to shanghai: the apps you actually need 📱
before you go, sort out your apps - trust me it makes such a difference.
also in this guide: where to eat, what drinks to get (very important 🧋), places to visit around shanghai as a first-timer✨
save this if you’re planning a shanghai trip!
.
.
.
shanghai travel guide | shanghai china | what to eat in shanghai | what to drink in shanghai | shanghai food guide | shanghai cafe guide | shanghai recommendations | shanghai itinerary | shanghai travel tips | shanghai apps | china travel guide | first time in shanghai | shanghai foodie guide | shanghai cafes | shanghai attractions | things to do in shanghai | shanghai city guide | china travel tips | shanghai travel recommendations | shanghai hidden gems | shanghai restaurants | shanghai coffee guide | travel shanghai | visit shanghai | shanghai trip
When planning a trip to Shanghai, having the right apps on your phone really transforms your experience. I found WeChat and Alipay indispensable—not just for payments, but also for scanning QR codes on menus and tickets. Using Dian Ping helped me discover the best local eateries, complete with menus and honest reviews, making dining decisions easier and more authentic. Navigation in Shanghai can be a bit daunting without a reliable map app. I recommend downloading Amap, which supports English and provides accurate directions to everywhere from bustling shopping streets like Nanjing Road to quiet cultural gems like Wukang Mansion. Planning day trips? Don’t miss places like Shanghai Disneyland or a short ride to Suzhou for a taste of ancient water towns. Food and drink are highlights of any Shanghai visit. Be sure to try 小杨生煎 (sheng jian bao), which are pan-fried pork buns—arguably the best way to sample local street food. For drinks, milk cap (奶盖) teas from places like 茶颜悦色 and taro mochi drinks from 阿嬤手作 offer a unique twist that you won’t find elsewhere. Visiting local cafes like Apoli Itabakery and Butterful & Creamorous provides a lovely pause for blueberry yoghurt tarts or gelato with TCM Cola. Besides the obvious tourist spots, try exploring hidden gems such as 田子坊 (Tianzifang) with its artsy shops and cozy cafes. The Bund (外滩) offers incredible skyline views, especially at sunset. For history lovers, the imperial dining experience 宫宴 gives a deep dive into Chinese culinary heritage. By downloading the right apps and knowing where to go for food and sights, your first trip to Shanghai can be smooth, exciting, and filled with unforgettable experiences. Planning ahead truly paid off in making my journey effortless and fun—hope this guide helps you do the same!