French Concession Shanghai
Wander through Shanghai's charming former French Concession, a leafy district blending European architecture with trendy boutiques and cafes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Quiet streets, beautiful light
French Concession Shanghai
Best Time
Quiet streets, beautiful light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Wander through Shanghai's charming former French Concession, a leafy district blending European architecture with trendy boutiques and cafes.
"A gorgeous area to explore with beautiful architecture, delicious food, and lovely parks."
☕ Cozy Cafe Hopping
Explore European-feeling cafes on Anfu Road; you might spend more than you planned!
🚶♀️ Wander & Discover
Get lost in the labyrinthine alleys for unique shops and hidden gems.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Anfu Road Boutiques
Anfu Road
Discover Shanghai's 'most dangerous street' for shoppers, filled with trendy boutiques and unique finds.
Nanchang Road Charm
Nanchang Road
Experience one of the coziest streets, perfect for a leisurely stroll amidst beautiful architecture.
Xintiandi's Blend
Xintiandi
Explore this area where historic Shikumen architecture meets modern lifestyle, dining, and shopping.
Colonial Mansions
Various streets
Admire the leafy streets lined with stunning colonial-era mansions, offering a glimpse into Shanghai's past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the European Charm
Navigating the Streets
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☕ Cozy Cafe Hopping
Explore European-feeling cafes on Anfu Road; you might spend more than you planned!
🚶♀️ Wander & Discover
Get lost in the labyrinthine alleys for unique shops and hidden gems.
🛍️ Vintage Treasures
Hunt for unique vintage clothing, including Levi's and Chrome Hearts, in tucked-away stores.
🏛️ Architectural Beauty
Admire the blend of traditional Chinese and European architecture on tree-lined streets.
Tips
from all over the internet
☕ Cozy Cafe Hopping
Explore European-feeling cafes on Anfu Road; you might spend more than you planned!
🚶♀️ Wander & Discover
Get lost in the labyrinthine alleys for unique shops and hidden gems.
🛍️ Vintage Treasures
Hunt for unique vintage clothing, including Levi's and Chrome Hearts, in tucked-away stores.
🏛️ Architectural Beauty
Admire the blend of traditional Chinese and European architecture on tree-lined streets.
🍽️ Culinary Delights
Enjoy modern Chinese bistros with a cosmopolitan edge and delicious food.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the French Concession for its beautiful European-inspired architecture, charming tree-lined streets, and vibrant atmosphere. It's a delightful area for leisurely strolls, boutique shopping, and enjoying a diverse culinary scene. Some note that the 'French Concession' term might not be widely recognized by locals, but the area's unique character is undeniable.
"An interesting array of small stores down a labyrinth of narrow alleyways. Some stores have high quality and very beautiful wares, like leather goods and silk scarves and superb teas that can be freely sampled. Our favorite store was not in the alleyways but on the main Street, the Luili glass museum which has a coffee shop and store on the ground level. The museum upstairs has a cost but the ground level does not."
Sheila Flood
"It's a beautiful luxary suburb in shanghai, every corner is set up beautifully and has a lot to offer."
Maisie Badami
"The French concession is a nice district full of renovated old buildings and with plenty of shops, restaurants, bars and cafes. There is a large shopping mall near-by as well. It is a nice place for a stroll. However, I feel the buildings feel a bit too European (I guess hence the name French), and I prefer other parts of Shanghai."
Enrico Anderlini
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The French Concession is easily accessible via Shanghai's extensive metro system. Several stations serve the area, including South Shaanxi Road (Lines 1, 10, 12), Dapuqiao (Line 9), and Xintiandi (Line 10). Taxis and ride-sharing apps are also readily available.
Yes, walking is the best way to explore the French Concession and discover its charming streets and hidden alleys. The area is relatively flat and pedestrian-friendly.
While taxis and ride-sharing are convenient for reaching the area, navigating within the narrower streets of the French Concession can be challenging for vehicles. Walking is highly recommended for exploring the heart of the district.
Using map applications on your phone is highly recommended. Many street names are also displayed in English. For specific locations, having the address written in Chinese characters can be helpful when using taxis.
Areas like Xintiandi and Tianzifang are well-known and have clear access points. For more residential and charming streets like Nanchang Road or Anfu Road, using a map app to guide you from the nearest metro station is best.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the French Concession is a public area and does not require an entrance ticket. You can freely wander its streets and explore its shops and cafes.
While the streets are free to explore, some individual attractions like museums (e.g., Luili Glass Museum upstairs) or specific exhibitions may have admission fees.
Most shops and cafes operate from around 10 AM to 10 PM, with some staying open later, especially restaurants and bars. It's always a good idea to check specific venue hours if you have a particular place in mind.
Yes, various tour operators offer guided walking tours of the French Concession, which can provide historical context and insights. You can find these online or through local tourist information centers.
Absolutely! The main attraction is the area itself – its architecture, tree-lined streets, and vibrant atmosphere are free to enjoy. The ground floor of the Luili Glass Museum is also accessible without a fee.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
You'll find a diverse range of shopping, from high-end boutiques and trendy fashion stores on Anfu Road to unique vintage shops and artisanal craft stores.
The area is renowned for its excellent dining and cafe scene, offering everything from modern Chinese bistros to cozy European-style cafes and international cuisine.
Anfu Road is famous for its trendy boutiques and cafes, while Nanchang Road offers a more relaxed, cozy atmosphere. Xintiandi is a hub for upscale dining and shopping.
Yes, you can find shops selling superb teas, some offering free sampling. These are often found in smaller alleyways, offering a more traditional experience.
It can be, especially on streets like Anfu Road, which is known for its tempting boutiques. However, there are also more budget-friendly cafes and eateries, and exploring the smaller alleys can reveal hidden gems.
📸 📸 Photography
The tree-lined streets with colonial mansions, charming cafes, and unique shop fronts offer endless photo opportunities. Nanchang Road and the streets around Fuxing Park are particularly picturesque.
Early mornings are ideal for capturing the quiet beauty of the streets with soft, beautiful light and fewer crowds.
Look for the blend of traditional Chinese Shikumen architecture with European colonial styles, including Art Deco influences.
Generally, it's polite to ask permission before taking extensive photos inside private establishments. Quick snaps are usually fine, but be mindful of other patrons and staff.
Street photography, architectural shots, and lifestyle photos capturing the European ambiance are very popular.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Many cafes offer a relaxed setting for a break, and the open spaces provide room for kids to move around. Consider visiting areas like Xintiandi, which has a more modern feel and might appeal to older children with its shops and restaurants.
For a unique experience, the ground floor of the Luili Glass Museum is accessible and can be an interesting, low-key stop. 💰 Budget Travelers
Look for smaller, local eateries and cafes away from the main tourist hubs for more affordable meals and drinks. 💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Discover charming, intimate cafes for coffee or afternoon tea, or indulge in a delightful dinner at one of the area's many excellent restaurants. +1 The European ambiance and beautiful architecture create a perfect backdrop for memorable moments.🚶♀️ Day-Trippers
Grab a quick and delicious lunch at a local eatery and soak in the unique atmosphere before heading to your next Shanghai destination. It's an easily accessible and rewarding part of the city to explore in a limited time.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
+1Today, the former French Concession is a vibrant district that has retained much of its charm while integrating modern life. It's characterized by its beautiful colonial mansions, Art Deco buildings, and a sophisticated urban landscape. The area is a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking a more tranquil and aesthetically pleasing environment.
While many locals might not use the specific term 'French Concession' in daily conversation, the area's distinct character and historical significance are undeniable. It's a place where history meets contemporary Shanghai, offering a rich tapestry of experiences from charming cafes to high-end boutiques.
Exploring the Streets: Anfu Road & Beyond
Beyond Anfu Road, streets like Nanchang Road offer a different, yet equally captivating, vibe. It's described as one of the coziest streets, perfect for a leisurely stroll, with beautiful architecture and a more laid-back atmosphere.
This contrast between the bustling Anfu Road and the serene Nanchang Road highlights the diverse character within the French Concession.Other notable streets include Sinan Road and Maoming South Road, which contribute to the overall charm of the area. Exploring these streets allows you to discover hidden courtyards, artisanal shops, and delightful eateries, making each turn a potential discovery.
Shopping and Dining Experiences
When it comes to dining, the former French Concession offers a sophisticated culinary scene. Modern Chinese bistros with a cosmopolitan edge serve familiar flavors with a sharp twist, often in chic, wine-bar-like settings.
Beyond this, you'll find a plethora of cafes, from cozy European-style spots perfect for a relaxed afternoon to more upscale establishments. The variety ensures there's something to satisfy every palate and occasion.For those interested in traditional Chinese culture, you can also find shops selling superb teas, where sampling is often encouraged. These can be a delightful discovery amidst the more contemporary offerings, adding another layer to the diverse experiences available.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit