Stroll the Bund in Shanghai

The Bund — in Chinese, wai tan (pronounced why tan) — is the area along the Huangpu River near the center of Shanghai. It was part of the old international settlement area, occupied by foreign residents in the 1800s and early 1900s.

The mile-long stretch along the riverfront is one of the more interesting architectural sights in the world. On the Bund side of the river are the stately old European bank buildings; across the river is the ultra-futuristic landscape of the city of Pudong.

The Bund is best viewed after dark, when the historic buildings on the Bund are basked in lights from Pudong. After strolling the Bund, consider having dinner or drinks there — it offers many excellent options. For dining, try Laris, Jean-Georges, New Heights, and M on the Bund; for drinks, check out Glamour Bar, Vault (in Laris), and Attica (which is an enormous club). The Pudong side of the Bund also offers some great views. Our favorite bar/restaurant for views in Pudong is Jade on 36 in the Shangri-La Hotel.