Xintiandi, an upscale car-free district in Shanghai, emerged in the late 1990s as a vibrant shopping, dining, and entertainment hub. Originally a neighbourhood of traditional Shikumen houses, many were replaced with modern apartments to improve living conditions, sparking concerns about the potential loss of cultural heritage. In response, the government preserved some Shikumen structures, blending history with contemporary flair. Today, Xintiandi stands as a dazzling landmark, boasting fine restaurants, chic clubs, and luxury boutiques, seamlessly integrating Shanghai's past with its cosmopolitan present.

Yu Garden embodies the quintessence of classical ancient Chinese gardens south of the Yangtze River – a creation of maximum out of minimum. While it takes a familiar person only five minutes to walk from the entrance to the exit, most first-time visitors find themselves lost in this little paradise with fish ponds, rockeries, plants, bridges, and buildings of various types arranged along zigzagging paths. The ingenious use of Chinese gardening art in combination with the garden’s 400-plus years of history makes Yu Garden one of the most popular tourist attractions in Shanghai.

Take a cable car over the Rhein and experience Cologne from above. Rides start from Cologne Zoo or from the Rhein Park, so you can visit both in one afternoon.

Torre dell'Elefante (the Elephant Tower) and Torre di San Pancrazio (St Pancras Tower) date back to the early 1300. They are unique stone constructions, with their internal side completely open toward the courtyard enclosed in the ramparts. The view from the top of these towers is a sight to behold.