Shanghai, China’s largest city, is a bustling metropolis known for its impressive skyline, rich history, and vibrant culture. For those considering things to do in Shanghai, exploring the Bund, a waterfront area with colonial-era buildings, and visiting the Shanghai Tower, one of the world’s tallest skyscrapers, are top activities.
The city’s bustling Nanjing Road offers a premier shopping experience, with numerous stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. Nearby, the Yuyuan Garden, a classical Chinese garden, provides a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Beyond its urban attractions, Shanghai is also known for its culinary scene, with numerous restaurants serving Shanghai cuisine, known for its delicate flavors and emphasis on freshness. For those seeking the best places to visit in China, Shanghai’s blend of historical significance, architectural marvels, and gastronomic adventures makes it a captivating destination.
Attractions & Things to Do in Shanghai, China
1. The Bund
The Bund is a famed waterfront area in central Shanghai, known for its impressive skyline that encapsulates the blend of historic colonial buildings and modern skyscrapers. A walk along the promenade offers a view of the contrasting architectures that tell the story of Shanghai’s past and present.
Location: Huangpu District, Shanghai. Easily accessible via East Nanjing Road Station.
Scenic Spot: A historic waterfront with panoramic views of colonial-era buildings on one side and modern skyscrapers on the other.
Best Time to Visit: Evening for the best view of the illuminated skyline.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but it can get very crowded, making it difficult for strollers and elderly visitors.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: For the best views, visit at night when the buildings are illuminated and the city truly comes to life.
2. Yu Garden
Yu Garden is a stunning example of Ming Dynasty landscape design. With its classical Chinese architecture, tranquil ponds, and lush greenery, this garden is a peaceful sanctuary in the heart of Old Shanghai.
Location: Huangpu District, Shanghai. Near Yuyuan Garden Station.
Scenic Spot: A classical Chinese garden with pavilions, bridges, and scenic ponds.
Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings to avoid crowds.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, though some pathways may be uneven for elderly visitors.
Price: €5-€7 depending on the season.
Travel Tip: Visit during a weekday morning to avoid the crowds and experience the garden’s tranquility.
3. Shanghai Tower
China’s tallest building and the second-tallest in the world, Shanghai Tower offers an observation deck with unparalleled views of the city. Its twisting form is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional, designed to withstand Shanghai’s typhoon-force winds.
Location: Pudong District, Shanghai. Near Lujiazui Station.
Scenic Spot: China’s tallest building with a 360-degree observation deck.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon to catch the sunset and the city lights at night.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but those afraid of heights may feel uncomfortable.
Price: €24 for observation deck entry.
Travel Tip: On a clear day, opt for the late afternoon to watch the sunset and stay to see the city lights come up.
4. Shanghai Museum
Located in People’s Square, the Shanghai Museum is known for its extensive collection of Chinese art and artifacts. The museum’s architecture, resembling an ancient bronze cooking vessel called a ding, is both a nod to history and a landmark of modern Shanghai.
Location: People’s Square, Huangpu District, Shanghai. Near People’s Square Station.
Scenic Spot: A vast collection of Chinese art, calligraphy, ceramics, and historical artifacts.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning to avoid queues.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, great for history and culture enthusiasts.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: Admission is free, but lines can be long; plan to arrive early, especially if you’re visiting on weekends.
5. Nanjing Road
Nanjing Road is Shanghai’s premier shopping street, a bustling thoroughfare that stretches from The Bund to People’s Park. It’s lined with all manner of shops, from historic brands to modern boutiques and everything in between.
Location: Huangpu District, Shanghai. Runs from The Bund to People’s Park.
Scenic Spot: A lively shopping street filled with high-end stores, street food vendors, and entertainment.
Best Time to Visit: Evening for the neon-lit atmosphere.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but can be crowded, making it less ideal for small children.
Price: Free to visit; shopping costs vary.
Travel Tip: Even if shopping isn’t your intention, the street’s lively atmosphere and street performers offer a great cultural experience.
6. Jing’an Temple
A beautiful and active Buddhist temple located in the Jing’an District, Jing’an Temple’s rich golden hues and traditional architecture stand out amidst the modern surroundings.
Location: Jing’an District, Shanghai. Near Jing’an Temple Station.
Scenic Spot: A golden-roofed Buddhist temple with a tranquil atmosphere in the middle of a busy district.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning for a peaceful experience.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, though respectful behavior is expected.
Price: €4.40 for entry.
Travel Tip: Check the schedule for cultural events or religious ceremonies that might coincide with your visit for a deeper experience.
7. Xintiandi
Xintiandi is a stylish pedestrian street composed of Shikumen and modern architecture, offering a unique blend of restaurants, boutiques, and entertainment. It’s a prime example of how Shanghai marries its historical aspects with a new, chic lifestyle.
Location: Huangpu District, Shanghai. Near South Huangpi Road Station.
Scenic Spot: A mix of historic Shikumen architecture and modern bars, cafes, and boutiques.
Best Time to Visit: Evening for the best nightlife experience.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but more enjoyable for adults due to bars and restaurants.
Price: Free to explore; dining and shopping costs vary.
Travel Tip: Visit Xintiandi at night to enjoy the vibrant nightlife and alfresco dining options.
8. Tianzifang
Tianzifang is an artsy area nestled within the former French Concession. Its narrow alleys are filled with craft shops, cafes, and art galleries housed in restored traditional Shikumen houses.
Location: French Concession, Shanghai. Near Dapuqiao Station.
Scenic Spot: A maze of narrow alleyways filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and street food stalls.
Best Time to Visit: Afternoon for shopping and local cuisine.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but the tight spaces may not be ideal for strollers.
Price: Free to explore; shopping costs vary.
Travel Tip: Be ready to navigate through small and often crowded lanes, and you’ll find some of Shanghai’s most charming hidden treasures.
9. The French Concession
This historic area offers tree-lined avenues, European-style villas, trendy boutiques, and quaint cafes, reflecting the time when Shanghai was divided into foreign concessions.
Location: Xuhui & Huangpu Districts, Shanghai. Best explored on foot or by bike.
Scenic Spot: Tree-lined streets, European-style buildings, trendy cafes, and local markets.
Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon for a relaxed stroll.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, great for leisurely exploration.
Price: Free to explore.
Travel Tip: Rent a bicycle to explore this area at a leisurely pace, allowing for spontaneous stops at any shop or cafe that catches your eye.
10. Shanghai Disney Resort
This is the newest addition to Disney’s global theme park empire and offers a distinctly Chinese twist to the Disney magic. Attractions include the largest Disney castle, the first-ever Pirates-themed land, and many exclusive rides.
Location: Pudong, Shanghai. Near Disneyland Resort Station.
Scenic Spot: The largest Disney castle, unique attractions, and themed lands.
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays to avoid large crowds.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, perfect for families.
Price: €50-€85 depending on the season and ticket type.
Travel Tip: Download the Shanghai Disney Resort app to check ride times and secure FastPass selections to make the most of your visit.
11. Zhujiajiao Water Town
With a history that stretches back over 1,700 years, Zhujiajiao is an ancient water town crisscrossed by canals and home to well-preserved buildings from the Ming and Qing Dynasties. It’s often referred to as “Shanghai’s Venice.”
Location: Qingpu District, about 50 km from Shanghai. Accessible by bus or taxi.
Scenic Spot: A historic canal town with ancient bridges and traditional tea houses.
Best Time to Visit: Morning for a quiet, peaceful experience.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but some streets have uneven paths.
Price: €4-€8 for entry, boat rides cost extra.
Travel Tip: Take a boat tour to appreciate the charm of the waterways and traditional homes from a unique perspective.
12. Longhua Temple
The oldest and largest temple in Shanghai, Longhua Temple, is a serene site steeped in history, with the temple bell tower being a prominent feature. The temple complex is filled with ancient artifacts and intricate carvings.
Location: Xuhui District, Shanghai. Near Longhua Temple Station.
Scenic Spot: The oldest and largest temple in Shanghai, with a towering pagoda.
Best Time to Visit: Morning to experience temple rituals.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but visitors should be respectful of religious practices.
Price: €3.80 for entry.
Travel Tip: Time your visit to catch the striking of the ancient bell, which is said to bring good luck and peace.
13. Shanghai World Financial Center
Known for its trapezoid aperture at the top, the Shanghai World Financial Center offers another opportunity for breathtaking city views. It’s one of the tallest buildings in the world and houses offices, hotels, and observation decks.
Location: Pudong District, Shanghai. Near Lujiazui Station.
Scenic Spot: A skyscraper with a glass-floor observation deck at 474m.
Best Time to Visit: Sunset for breathtaking city views.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but may be unsettling for those with a fear of heights.
Price: €21 for the observation deck.
Travel Tip: Head to the 100th-floor observation deck for the ‘Sky Walk,’ which features a glass floor providing a vertigo-inducing view straight down.
14. Power Station of Art
As Shanghai’s first state-run contemporary art museum, housed in a former power station, this venue has played host to the Shanghai Biennale and other high-profile exhibitions in the art world.
Location: Huangpu District, Shanghai. Near Xizang South Road Station.
Scenic Spot: A contemporary art museum housed in a former power plant.
Best Time to Visit: Weekday afternoons for a quiet experience.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but younger children may find exhibits less engaging.
Price: €5-€8, some exhibitions are free.
Travel Tip: Visit on a Tuesday when the entrance is free, and remember to check out the rooftop for a panoramic view of the Huangpu River.
15. Shanghai Science and Technology Museum
This museum is an interactive wonderland for science enthusiasts of all ages, with exhibits ranging from space technology to biodiversity.
Location: Pudong, Shanghai. Near Science and Technology Museum Station.
Scenic Spot: Interactive exhibits on space, robotics, and biodiversity.
Best Time to Visit: Weekday afternoons to avoid school groups.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, ideal for families with children.
Price: €6.30 for adults, €3.80 for children.
Travel Tip: It’s a popular spot for school trips, so visiting in the afternoon might help you avoid the big groups of students.
16. Qibao Ancient Town
Another historical water town near Shanghai, Qibao offers a slice of traditional Chinese life in the bustling metropolis. The town is also known for its street food and delicate snacks.
Location: Minhang District, Shanghai. Accessible via Qibao Station.
Scenic Spot: A preserved water town famous for its street food and historic alleys.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for a lively atmosphere.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, though some paths may be narrow for strollers.
Price: Free to enter; food and boat ride costs vary.
Travel Tip: Don’t miss the Qibao snacks like roasted sweet potatoes, crab-shell pies, and cotton candy as big as your head.
17. M50 Art District
M50 is Shanghai’s main contemporary art district, with a cluster of galleries housed in former factories. It’s a great place to see works by up-and-coming Chinese artists.
Location: Putuo District, Shanghai. Near Jiangning Road Station.
Scenic Spot: A hub for contemporary art with galleries in repurposed factories.
Best Time to Visit: Afternoon to explore exhibitions at a relaxed pace.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but more enjoyable for art lovers.
Price: Free to explore; some exhibitions may have fees.
Travel Tip: Some galleries can be a little hidden, so don’t be afraid to explore the area thoroughly—you never know what artistic gems you might find.
18. Fuxing Park
Designed in the French style, Fuxing Park is a popular local hangout and offers a peaceful respite from the city. It’s also a prime spot to observe locals engaging in daily activities like tai chi, dancing, and playing mahjong.
Location: French Concession, Shanghai. Near South Shaanxi Road Station.
Scenic Spot: A European-style park with locals practicing tai chi and dancing.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning to see daily activities.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, great for picnics and leisure.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: Visit early in the morning to see the park come alive with locals and partake in the communal atmosphere.
19. Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center
This museum showcases Shanghai’s urban planning and development with detailed models of the city, including a massive scale model of Shanghai as it will look in 2020.
Location: People’s Square, Shanghai. Near People’s Square Station.
Scenic Spot: A massive model of Shanghai showcasing its development.
Best Time to Visit: Morning to avoid crowds.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, especially interesting for those fascinated by architecture.
Price: €4.40 for entry.
Travel Tip: It’s a great starting point for your visit to understand how the city has evolved and where it’s headed.
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Shanghai, China: Ratings
Kid-Friendly Activities in Shanghai: 9/10 – Shanghai offers numerous family-friendly attractions, including Shanghai Disneyland, the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium, and the Shanghai Natural History Museum. Parks like Century Park and the Shanghai Zoo provide ample space for children to play and explore, ensuring a great experience for families.
Nightlife in Shanghai: 9/10 – Shanghai has a vibrant and diverse nightlife scene with a variety of options including bars, nightclubs, and live music venues. Areas like The Bund, Xintiandi, and the French Concession are known for their bustling nightlife. The city also offers cultural performances and night cruises on the Huangpu River.
Sport in Shanghai: 8/10 – Shanghai provides numerous opportunities for sports enthusiasts, with facilities for popular sports like basketball, football, and badminton. The city hosts international sporting events such as the Shanghai Grand Prix and the Shanghai Masters tennis tournament. Outdoor activities include jogging along the Bund and exploring the city’s parks.
Culture and Attractions in Shanghai: 9/10 – Shanghai is rich in cultural and historical attractions, including the Bund, Yu Garden, and the Shanghai Museum. The city is home to various temples, art galleries, and theaters. Cultural festivals and events, such as the Shanghai International Film Festival, add to the city’s vibrant cultural scene.
Gastronomy in Shanghai: 9/10 – The culinary scene in Shanghai is diverse, featuring traditional Shanghainese cuisine like xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) and red-braised pork, as well as a wide range of regional Chinese and international dishes. The city’s street food and night markets offer an authentic and flavorful dining experience.
Shopping in Shanghai: 10/10 – Shanghai is a shopper’s paradise with a mix of high-end malls like IFC Mall and Plaza 66, traditional markets such as Yuyuan Bazaar and Tianzifang, and shopping streets like Nanjing Road. The city offers a wide range of products, from luxury brands to unique local crafts and souvenirs.
Prices in Shanghai: 7/10 – Shanghai is moderately priced, with options for different budgets. While luxury accommodations and high-end dining can be expensive, there are plenty of affordable choices for accommodation, dining, and shopping.
Average price for a hotel night: 115-210 $
Cost of a lunch at a local restaurant: 9-17 $
Price of a beer: 4.5-6.5 $
Price of a coffee: 3.5-5.5 $
Beyond the City: Exploring Surroundings and Stays in Shanghai, China
For those looking to explore beyond Shanghai’s futuristic skyline, top day trips near Shanghai present a world of contrasts, from the ancient water towns like Zhujiajiao to the serene landscapes of the Huangshan mountains, each offering an escape from the city’s frenetic pace into China’s rich cultural and natural heritage.
When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay, Shanghai accommodations range from sleek, high-rise hotels in the bustling city center to tranquil boutique guesthouses in the historic lanes, ensuring every visitor finds a comfortable and stylish base to experience this dynamic metropolis.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shanghai
https://www.getyourguide.com/shanghai-l178/
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