French Concession
Tree-lined streets, Art Deco villas, and the best cafés in China — Shanghai's most liveable neighbourhood
- Time needed
- 3-5 hours
- Rating
- AAA
Overview
The French Concession is Shanghai's most beautiful and atmospheric neighbourhood. Established in 1849 as the French Concession territory, it retains a distinctive character shaped by decades of European, Chinese, and international influence — wide streets canopied by plane trees, Art Deco apartment buildings, lane houses (lilong), independent boutiques, and some of the finest restaurants and cafés in Asia.
Plan your visit
Best time to visit
Year-round. Spring (April-May) when the plane trees are green and autumn (October-November) when they turn golden are the most beautiful seasons.
Getting there
Metro Lines 1, 10, or 12 to various stations throughout the French Concession. Changshu Road (Line 7) and Xintiandi (Line 10) are the most useful.
Nearby
Discover
Shanghai
Browse all activities and private tours in Shanghai — bookable with licensed local guides.
- Licensed local guides
- Free cancellation up to 8 days
- No charge until your guide confirms