Best View of the Skyline: Take in one of Asia’s most stunning cityscapes from the Bund Promenade, a raised pedestrian walkway.

Best Local Color: Immerse yourself in alley life down Lane 1025, off West Nanjing Road, with its small cafés and shops.

Best People-Watching: Watch hipsters, artists, and tourists wander the alleys of Tianzifang, a district built around a former candy factory, while relaxing at one of the area’s many cafés.

Best Historic Sight: See the ancient side of Shanghai at the Ming-era City God Temple with its Daoist deities.

Best Vantage Point: At nearly 500 meters tall, the Oriental Pearl Tower provides incredible views of the city from each of its giant pink spheres.

Best Activity for the Kids: Kids will love the vast array of animals at the Shanghai Natural Wild Insect Kingdom that, despite its name, has goats, owls, turtles, and much more.

Best Introduction to the Old French Concession: Kick off your OFC explorations at the charming Ferguson Lane Complex with its cafés, galleries, and restaurants.

Most Unusual Architecture: At one time Asia’s largest slaughterhouse, the eerily gorgeous 1933 is now a lifestyle complex featuring upscale shops, restaurants, and cafés.

Most Adrenaline-Pumping: Get a different view of the city from the top of the Lupu Bridge with Shanghai Climb. Don’t worry: the staircase isn’t as strenuous or vertigo-inducing as it seems.