Travelling can be described to be one of the major tests to a relationship. Since you are practically stuck with your travelling partner 24/7, you will have to overcome obstacles together. These challenges can bring out sides of your partner that you may not have known before! To put it bluntly, they can either make or break a relationship. But we aren’t here to talk about these grim topics, instead, we intend to help you with your relationships! If you will be going to Shanghai for an upcoming vacation with your significant other, here’s a list of romantic destinations you should go!
The Bund
Having a nice stroll along a river with a significant other is always a great window to unwind and relax. With that said, The Bund is the perfect spot for a romantic stroll while appreciating Shanghai’s unique architecture.
The Bund is a popular location to both tourists and locals alike. There’s almost a common consensus that the best time to visit The Bund would be during the evening. Visitors will be captivated by the dazzling city lights that illuminate the Huangpu river. It’s as if you are being presented with a free light show. But there’s a catch - the whole city is the light show! The gentle breeze, crashing waves and lovely city lights provide such a romantic atmosphere that you just fall in love all over again.
Even though The Bund is the main highlight, be sure to hop into the Bund’s Sightseeing Tunnel. Connecting Pudong to the Bund, the Sightseeing Tunnel is a 647m tunnel that goes under the Huangpu River. However, this isn’t your normal transport system. Claimed by the sales director of the Sightseeing Tunnel, Zhang Bin: “We couldn’t show the dirty Huangpu, which has no fish, so we went for something bigger and better. It’s the only tunnel like it in the world”. Recognizing that fact, the government planners innovated and created a unique psychedelic attraction that uses state of the art technology to give passengers a wholly immersive experience! Special effects and background music are used to create a ‘Journey through the earth’ theme. Even though the ride is only an estimate of 3-5mins, the whole experience will make you think as if you’ve transported into another dimension!
Address: Zhongshan East 1st Rd, Wai Tan, Huangpu, Shanghai, China
Huangpu River Cruise
Ever watched a romance film that has a luxurious cruise ride and thought to yourself, “damn… I want that too”? Well, if you are travelling to Shanghai for your next trip overseas, you might as well fulfil that dream with your significant other! Shanghai’s Huangpu River Cruise provides a romantic riverside cruise where couples can bask in the sparkling neon lights from the high rise buildings of Shanghai. The River sits in between Pudong and Puxi which provides guests of the cruise with a unique sight of the city. Guests will be immersed in the historical architecture of The Bund and the modern skyscrapers of Pudong!
Amazingly, you are able to choose among the various types of cruise ships offered according to your preference. Isn’t that just awesome? The cruise ships come in varying sizes, capacity, amenities and even themes! Some are modern and trendy while others have a traditional Chinese theme. In addition, the cruises are wheelchair friendly.
Since the cruise can be quite long with some going up to 3 hours, by just paying a little extra, food and drinks will be provided onboard. Depending on the ship you’ve chosen, there can be bars, restaurants that serve Chinese or Western cuisine and even be a buffet!
There are two routes to choose from (Regular and Shanghai Expo) and the 50 minutes classic cruise route is the most popular among visitors! Another useful information would be that the boats depart every 15-30 minutes.
Address: 153 or 291Zhongshan Dong Er Lu (Zhongshan East2nd Rd), Shanghai, China
Ancient Water Towns
There’s something about water towns that makes it extra alluring. The ancient traditional Chinese infrastructure, gentle old willow trees and calm rivers create a tranquil atmosphere which attracts visitors from around the world. One such water town near Shanghai would be the Zhujiajiao Water Town.
Nicknamed as the “Venice of Shanghai”, this graceful water town dates back to the Ming and Qing dynasty and is one of the best-preserved in Shanghai. You might not be able to guess it but Zhujiajiao is over 1700 years old! Located only 50km away from The Bund, it’s the second nearest ancient water town around Shanghai.
Just like Venice, instead of walking around to explore the ancient town, couples can explore Zhujiajiao on a romantic boat ride. Because of its otherworldly landscape, many couples come here to take their wedding photos before the big day. There are many notable structures such as the Huimin bridge, Fangsheng bridge and the Kezhi Yuan that are worth visiting.
Hengshan Road Bar Street
There’s no better way to end the day during a trip than experiencing the nightlife of the country. Hengshan Road Bar Street is the perfect place to satisfy your needs. This famous bar street is surrounded by elegant European styled villas and mansions. In fact, it will make you wonder if you are still in Shanghai.
Previously known as Avenue Petain, the street was a residential zone during the former French Concession of Shanghai. But now, the buildings have been converted into bars, nightclubs and restaurants! The unique regal atmosphere from the elegant buildings creates a noble vibe, making Hengshan Road a popular spot for the wealthy,
Since Hengshan Road is considered to be popular among tourists, many locals frequently speak English here. With that said, you won’t have to worry too much about the language barrier! A unique bar in Hengshan Road would be “Abbey Road”. Sound familiar? That’s because it’s named after the popular band, The Beatles and their iconic photo on Abbey Road! This bar is perfect for Beatles fans with its consistent Beatles theming. They even have a live performance from Shanghai’s very own Beatles! It’s an excellent location for a 1960s date night.
Some other popular bars in Hengshan Road are Sasha’s Bar and O’Malley’s. There are also popular eateries such as La Villa Rouge and Bar and Restaurant of Tibet!
Address: Hengshan Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai 200031, China
Jean Georges
Opened in 2004, Jean Georges is an elegant and lavish fine dining restaurant that is perfect for a romantic afternoon tea or a night out. Housed in the fourth floor of Three on The Bund, the elegant and prestigious French building attracts those seeking the high life. Overlooking The Bund, the restaurant provides great views of Pudong’s skyline.
If the ambiance doesn’t move you, the quality of the food might. Founded by a world renowned chef, Phil Suarez, Jean Georges serves French cuisine with a touch of Asian tastes. The usage of Asian inspired spices and seasonings enhances the flavour and complexity of the dish, taking them to a whole nother level. To provide the best experience for their customers, Jean Georges only uses top quality ingredients in all of their dishes. And there’s more. In addition to their delectable dishes, Jean Georges holds an impressive wine collection of over 500 bottles from America or France!
With a clean, modern and extravagant contemporary French interior, Jean Georges also has spectacular service. You won’t be disappointed.
Moller Villa
How about treating your significant other like royalty? Or maybe live like kings or queens for a night? The Moller Villa is exactly the accommodation that can fulfil that wish! The fantasy-like European castle is something straight out of a fairytale. Its majestic scandenavian architecture with hints of Chinese elements around the villa spells royalty.
But the most unique element of the building will definately be its marine influences. As the founder of Moller Villa was involved in the shipbuilding and shipping industry, he brought his knowledge over to the construction of the villa. This resulted in an infrastructural masterpiece of interesting and unconventional details!
If you think only the exterior is going to be impressive, you are wrong. The rooms of Moller Villa exudes elegance and grandeur. Adorned with hanging chandeliers, wooden flooring and golden brown curtains, it’s sure to induce a dream-like state where you will never want to leave. To find out more about the Moller Villa, read our article here!
Address: 30 Shaanxi S Rd, Jing'an District, Shanghai, China
