How to spend 24 hours in Shenzhen

Forget the long flight to places like Thailand or Indonesia, Bay Breeze brings luxurious island vibes to Shenzhen. Just minutes from the city centre, escape to your own private pool villa where you can up the sun, enjoy a good book and leave the hustle and bustle behind.

When you think of minimalist, wood-centric design, the brand that immediately springs to mind is Muji—and hose who have an affinity for the Muji aesthetic will be glad to know they can book a stay at Muji Hotel in Shenzhen. Close to the heart of the city in the new UpperHills multi-use complex, it's ideal for sightseeing. The hotel also features a well-stocked library and a dining area that is open from early morning until late at night. 

Oct-Loft is Shenzhen’s cultural district, home to art studios, galleries, cafes and concept stores. Wander around the area and you’ll find street art and hidden spots to kick back and relax. If you’re lucky, you might stumble upon markets selling unique and creative items. Oct-Loft is a great place for art lovers, coffee connoisseurs and anyone looking for a taste of Shenzhen’s artistic spirit.

After a stroll through the local galleries, a break is in order. Among the many cafés in Oct-Loft, Saanci山池咖啡 stands out for its inviting atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for a relaxing break or a cosy lunch. Step inside or enjoy the sunshine on the outdoor terrace—either way, you’re in for a treat. If you're a fan of burrata, you must try their burrata and ham dutch muffins, a truly divine combination.

Shenzhen is a shopper’s paradise, and while the city is overflowing with malls, UpperHills takes it to another level. Inside you’ll find everything from high-end labels to cool lifestyle brands, but the real treat is the rooftop. Here, you'll find a curated collection of products by independent designers, charming cafés and cuisine from all over the world. It’s like a mini-city up there, and the best part? A bridge connects it directly to Lianhuashan Park, where you can enjoy a lovely sunset stroll.

Before you head out for dinner in the city, there’s one essential stop you simply have to make—The Haploid. This secret bar is one of the “50 Best” discoveries, and for good reason. As you approach, you may be a little surprised—but in a good way! You may think you’ve found the wrong place, as the unassuming facade is that of an average grocery store.

But the magic happens when you discover the secret—behind one of its fridges is the entrance to an underground bar serving a menu of delightfully eccentric cocktails.

We’re back on top for dinner with a view at Ensue. This Chinese-Californian restaurant was the first gourmet establishment to open its doors in Shenzhen, situated on the 40th floor of the Shangri-La Futian. The menu is a perfect blend of California farm-to-table expertise and Cantonese flavours, with nearly 100% locally sourced ingredients.

Zhongshuge Bookstore is a masterpiece of design, and a testament to the dynamic spirit of Shenzhen featuring stunning architecture that pays tribute to the city’s transformation. A dramatic, book-lined spiral staircase winds through the store, inviting you to explore its literary treasures. The space unfolds into zones, each with its own unique character, including a concept area, a forum space, and a dedicated children’s section. 

Alimentari Grande brings a taste of Italy to Shenzhen. Head to their terrace for an al fresco lunch—we loved the pepperoni pizza  and the spaghetti bolognese. Don’t forget to check out their Italian retail store, which offers a wide selection of imported foods in a charming atmosphere.

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