Quick facts
- Chinese name: 外滩 / 陆家嘴
- City: Shanghai
- Time needed: 2-4 hours
- Best time: Late afternoon into evening
- Good for: Skyline, river walks, easy first-day orientation.
Shanghai attraction guide
The Bund + Pudong Skyline
The easiest first Shanghai route pairs historic riverfront views with the Pudong skyline.
2-4 hours Observation deck only if you plan to go up a tower Shanghai
What to book before arrival
- Book tower tickets only if the weather is clear.
- Check light-up timing before going.
- Save both Bund and Lujiazui names in Chinese.
How to get there
Metro to East Nanjing Road, Lujiazui, or nearby riverfront stations
Taxi / map phrase: 请前往上海外滩或陆家嘴
Should you go?
- You want Shanghai's clearest first impression.
- You prefer low-friction public transit and walking.
Skip or delay if...
- Heavy rain or poor visibility will make skyline views weak.
- You need a quiet day away from crowds.
Pair this with
Arrive before sunset.
Keep this as a simple flow. The complete city pack connects this stop with the rest of the day.
Walk the Bund promenade.
Keep this as a simple flow. The complete city pack connects this stop with the rest of the day.
Photograph skyline after lights come on.
Keep this as a simple flow. The complete city pack connects this stop with the rest of the day.
Add Pudong viewpoint or a simple dinner nearby.
Keep this as a simple flow. The complete city pack connects this stop with the rest of the day.
Getting there notes
- Start from the Bund or East Nanjing Road.
- Walk the riverfront.
- Cross to Pudong by metro, ferry, or taxi if time allows.
Common mistakes
- Arriving too late for a relaxed walk.
- Booking an observation deck on a low-visibility day.
- Trying to add too many distant neighborhoods.
Backup plan
If visibility is poor, switch to Yu Garden, Xintiandi, or a food-focused neighborhood route.
Full city route
Turn this attraction into a complete Shanghai day.
Attraction pages stay free and practical. The full pack adds the complete 2-day and 3-day city route, printable PDFs, booking reminders, and backup timing.
Do I need a ticket for the Bund?
No. The riverfront walk is free; paid tickets apply only to specific towers or cruises.
When is the best time?
Late afternoon through evening gives daylight, sunset, and skyline lights in one route.