shanghai most popular tourist attractions

15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Shanghai

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Mar 23, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Shanghai, China's largest city, offers many exciting sightseeing opportunities for travelers. Despite having a population of more than 24 million, this always busy city offers a number of quieter historic districts and places to visit alongside its many newer tourist sites. One of the world's busiest container ports thanks to its position at the mouth of the Yangtze River, the city also provides opportunities for exploration by water along the Chinese coast and its inland waterways.

Things to do here include visiting the city's world-class museums and art galleries, such as the Shanghai Museum and the China Art Museum; wandering through lovely gardens and parks; or getting in some shopping, especially in the "New World" pedestrian area with its luxury boutiques and galleries. Also fun is exploring the city's many fine old temples and traditional pagodas.

To help you plan your visit to China's most exciting city, be sure to read through our list of the top attractions and things to do in Shanghai.

See also: Where to Stay in Shanghai

1. Take a Stroll along Shanghai's Promenade: The Bund

2. visit shanghai's oldest green space: yu garden, 3. see the priceless statues of the jade buddha temple, 4. learn about chinese culture at the shanghai museum, 5. visit historic longhua temple and pagoda, 6. see the views from the oriental pearl tower, 7. shop 'til you drop on nanjing road, 8. gather at the people's square, 9. the french connection: tianzifang, 10. xujiahui cathedral and the sheshan basilica, 11. visit the shanghai science and technology museum, 12. the china art museum, 13. visit shanghai disney resort, 14. jin mao tower and skywalk, 15. shanghai natural history museum, where to stay in shanghai for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions & things to do in shanghai, shanghai, china - climate chart.

Best known by its Anglo-Indian name of Bund (Wàitan), the Zhongshan Lu is a lovely broad promenade running along the west bank of the Huangpujiang River. It's particularly popular among tourists - the area has retained a European feel, as it was once the location of the city's International Settlement. This influence is particularly noticeable in the many old English and French buildings now serving as restaurants, boutique stores, galleries, and offices.

Always bustling, it's a splendid place for a stroll day or night as you take in the Bund's 52 unique buildings, constructed in a variety of styles including Gothic, Romanesque, Baroque, Neoclassical, and Renaissance influences. The Bund is also home to what amounts to one of the world's most impressive collections of Art Deco architecture.

Moving from south to north, the dominant buildings are the former headquarters of the Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation with its splendid cupola, the harbor customs office with its bell tower, the old Peace Hotel, and the Bank of China.

Huangpu Park , located at the north end of The Bund, opened in 1886 and is famous as the country's oldest public park. It's a pleasant place to visit, and has an interesting museum dedicated to The Bund's history. The Bund is also a great place from which to embark upon a sightseeing tour aboard a boat around the port and the confluence of the Huangpujiang and Yangtze rivers.

Address: Zhongshan East 1st Road, Huangpu, Shanghai

To the northeast of the old town and laid out in 1559 is the splendid Yu Garden (Yù Yuán). Also known as the Garden of Happiness, this vast green space covers an area of more than 20,000 square meters and consists of an outer and an inner garden.

The oldest section is the Outer Garden , with further changes being made in the 18th century when Sansui Tang, the park's main hall, was added. This impressive building is notable for its lovely roof ornaments, figurative representations in bas-reliefs, and window openings, as well as its dragon-adorned walls.

The best-known building is the Hall of Spring , where the Company of the Little Swords (Xiaodao Hui) had its headquarters between 1853 and 1855 when it ruled Shanghai. Of great historical importance are the artificial rocks in this part of the garden, the only work of the master garden designer Zhang Nanyang that has been preserved.

The newer and much smaller Inner Garden is also worth seeing. Dating from 1709, it includes features typical of a classical Chinese writer's garden: attractive little pavilions, decorative stones, and miniature mountain ranges, dividing walls and small ponds, and even a richly decorated theatrical stage.

Address: 279 Yuyuan Old Street, Huangpu, Shanghai

Located in the Anyuan Lu district of Shanghai, the beautiful Jade Buddha Temple houses two Shakyamuni statues, which the monk Huigen brought with him from Burma. The present building, erected in 1928 to replace the original temple built in 1882, is divided into three halls and two courtyards.

The most impressive structure is the splendid Hall of the Kings of Heaven (Tian Wang Dian), notable for its statues of the four heavenly kings and two Shakyamuni sculptures. Carved from white jade, one of these impressive statues stands nearly two meters high in the Wentang Main hall, where a collection of Buddhist manuscripts is also kept (the smaller statue is in the west courtyard).

Also of interest is the charming Hall of the Great Hero (Daxiong Baodian) with its Buddhas of the Three Ages, along with 18 Luohan figures. Another of Shanghai's many important Buddhist sites is the stunning Jing'an Temple on Nanjing West Road.

Address: 170 Anyuan Road, Jing'an, Shanghai

Official site: www.yufotemple.com/en/

Founded in 1952, the Shanghai Museum remains China's most important museum of classical Chinese art. Set in a modern building that's something of a work of art itself - its unique round top and square base encompasses traditional Chinese concepts of the Earth - the museum's four floors include impressive displays of bronzes and ceramics from prehistoric cultures to the 19th century.

Other highlights of the collection include ink drawings, calligraphy and seals, as well as large collections of art from ethnic minorities. It's also home to large collections of jade, coins, furnishings from the Ming and Qing periods (1368-1912), and a well-stocked gift shop.

Address: 201 Renmin Avenue, Ren Min Guang Chang, Huangpu, Shanghai

Official site: www.shanghaimuseum.net/mu/frontend/pg/en/index

Located in a pleasant park in the southwest area of Shanghai, the splendid Longhua Temple remains one of the oldest religious sites in China. Built along with the nearby 40-meter-tall wood and brick pagoda around AD 242, this important place of worship was destroyed and rebuilt many times through the years, with the present structure dating back to the 10th century.

The site is still used for regular Buddhist ceremonies and consists of five large halls, including the Maitreya Hall (Mile Dian), with its large Buddha statue; the Heavenly King Hall (Tian Wang Dian), dedicated to the Four Heavenly Kings; and the Grand Hall of the Great Sage (Daxiong Baodian), with its fine statues and a 16th-century bell.

Other highlights include the Bell Tower with an even older, two-meter-tall, five-ton bell from 1382, which is still used on special occasions; the Library with its old manuscripts and ceremonial instruments; and the impressive sight of some 500 gold-painted Luohan Buddhas.

Address: 2853 Longhua Rd, Xuhui, Shanghai

A must-visit while in Shanghai is the 468-meter-tall Oriental Pearl Radio and TV Tower (Dongfang Míngzhuta). It's located in Pudong-Park on the east bank of the Huangpu River. In addition to its excellent views over the busy river and the new city, you'll be rewarded with superb views over the historic Bund promenade.

Built in 1991, the tower takes its name from its 11 linked spheres of various sizes, the highest of which - the Space Module - contains an observation level at the 350 meter mark with a glass-floored outside deck. All told, the tower boasts 15 viewing areas, including the Sightseeing Floor and Space City, as well as a revolving restaurant with great views.

Other highlights include a lower level shopping mall, the Space Hotel offering rooms with spectacular views, and a fun virtual reality rollercoaster ride. Even if you can't make it up the tower, you'll enjoy viewing it at night when the whole structure is lit up as part of a fascinating light show.

Address: 1 Century Ave, Lu Jia Zui, Pudong, Shanghai

Nanjing Road (Nánjing Lù) is Shanghai's principal shopping street. Constructed in the second half of the 19th century, it runs from the Zhongshan Lu for several miles towards the west. Along this largely pedestrian-friendly street, you'll find every conceivable type of consumer goods, from street vendors selling Chinese-themed souvenirs to expensive boutiques selling traditional arts and crafts. There are also a number of large shopping malls and department stores such as the iconic Yibai and Jiubai.

It's also a busy entertainment district, home to many restaurants and cinemas, as well as a hub for street performances. It's especially fun to visit during major holidays such as Chinese New Year when the street becomes a focal point for festivities and fireworks.

Another dedicated shopping area to explore is Xintiandi , an affluent pedestrian zone that retains some of the ambience of the old city.

Built on what was once the city's racecourse, the People's Square (Rénmín Guangchang) has been transformed over the years into Shanghai's premier public space. Home to the new Shanghai City Hall , the Shanghai Museum, and the state-of-the-art Grand Theatre , it's a perfect spot from which to begin touring the city.

You'll also want to spend time visiting the excellent Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center . Here, you'll find superb displays and models - even a 360-degree movie theater - showing both existing and planned-for buildings. Be sure to view this massive scale-model from the upper galleries for a fascinating bird's-eye perspective of this modern metropolis.

Address: Wusheng Road, Huangpu, Shanghai

In what was once Shanghai's French Concession, Tianzifang has been transformed into a fascinating arts and crafts destination. While much of the older homes and buildings have been replaced, the character of this old European district has been carefully preserved in its architecture and layout, with numerous small laneways and alleys just begging to be explored.

In addition to its many shopping opportunities - it consists of numerous small galleries and craft shops, rather than the bigger stores found elsewhere in the city - it's also a fun place to visit at night due to its many restaurants serving traditional fare, its numerous cafés and music joints, as well as artists' studios and workshops.

Fuxing Park is another notable tourist attraction with a distinct French flavor. The city's largest park when constructed in 1909, it remains a delightful place to wander due to its many fountains, gardens, and pavilions.

Address: 10 Taikang Road, Da Pu Qiao, Huangpu, Shanghai

Built in 1911 in Neo-Romanesque style, Xujiahui Cathedral - also known as St. Ignatius Cathedral - is another splendid reminder of Shanghai's rich multi-national heritage. In the southern city district of Xujiahui, it's the largest place of Roman Catholic worship in Shanghai, and in addition to its splendid park-like setting is worth visiting for its twin 50-meter-high bell-towers and restored interior with fine stained-glass windows.

Another important religious site is the Sheshan Basilica (the National Shrine and Minor Basilica of Our Lady of Sheshan). This fine old Roman Catholic church stands on the western peak of the hill after which it's named. Like so many other religious sites, it was heavily damaged during the Chinese Cultural Revolution but in recent years has undergone extensive renovations and remains an important pilgrimage site. A highlight of a visit is following the 14 Stations of the Cross, which zigzag up the hill to the church, along with the many splendid views along the way.

Address: 158 Puxi Road, Xu Jia Hui, Xuhui District, Shanghai

In keeping with its status as a world-class city, Shanghai is not without its fair share of top-notch museums. In addition to the splendid Shanghai Museum, the city is home to the huge Shanghai Science and Technology Museum, the largest of its kind in China and one of the city's top draws with more than two million visitors each year.

Opened in 2001, the museum offers numerous things to see and do, including interactive multimedia exhibits, permanent displays, and state-of-the-art science theaters. Highlights include a large collection of animals native to the region, scientific achievements, a fascinating exhibit on robotics, as well as exhibits focusing on space travel.

Other fun attractions for families include the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium . This worthwhile attraction is popular for its 120-meter underwater tunnel, which provides a close-up view of the region's diverse marine life. Also worth a visit is the Shanghai Zoo , famous for its large collection of native species, including giant pandas and South China tigers.

Address: 2000 Century Ave, Pudong, Shanghai

Official site: http://en.sstm.org.cn

Also often referred to as the China Art Palace, the China Art Museum (Zhonghuá Yìshù Gong) is the largest art gallery in Asia. It's also home to the country's most important collections of modern art, housed in the city's spectacular China Pavilion, the sole survivor of the city's Expo 2010 event (and looking a little like an upside-down pyramid).

Highlights of a visit include its fascinating collections of Chinese modern art, exhibits of prominent Chinese artists, as well as numerous works related to Shanghai's cultural development over the decades. Culture lovers should also invest a little time visiting the Oriental Art Center , one of the city's most important venues for performances of classical music, opera, and theatrical productions.

Also of note is the splendid Shanghai Grand Theatre , well regarded for its regular roster of concerts, operas, ballet performances, and traditional theater.

Address: 205 Shangnan Road, Pudong, Shanghai

Shanghai Disney Resort, China's second Disney venture after Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, opened to great fanfare and huge crowds in 2016 and shows every sign of being a massive success.

In addition to its two themed hotels and the Disneytown entertainment and shopping district, this nearly 1,000-acre site in the city's Pudong district is home to the Shanghai Disneyland Park, the hub of all the action and the real reason some 10 million people visit the resort each year.

And it's every inch the kind of Disney experience fans and families alike can't seem to get enough of. The fun starts on Mickey Avenue, with its character meet and greets and merchandise-cum-souvenir shops, before guests head off to their favorite part of the park.

Highlights include Gardens of Imagination, with its pleasant Chinese gardens and Dumbo carousel, and Fantasyland, in many ways the parks "heart and soul." It's here you'll find the Enchanted Storybook Castle and hordes of mini wannabe princesses waiting to catch a glimpse of their favorite Disney royalty. Also popular is Treasure Cove, home to a thrilling Pirates of the Caribbean -inspired ride.

Address: 310 Huangzhao Road, Pudong, Shanghai

Official site: www.shanghaidisneyresort.com/en/

In a country that seems to build super-tall skyscrapers at a rate of knots, the Jin Mao Tower (Jinmoh Dusa) certainly manages to stand out. Reaching 93-stories skyward (420.5 meters), this impressive tower stands as testament to the new found prosperity that is so evident in Shanghai - hence the building's name, which in Chinese translates to "Golden Prosperity Building."

One of the world's tallest freestanding structures, it has become a popular tourist attraction for its thrilling Skywalk, a massive enclosed observation deck located on the 88th floor that's capable of holding upwards of 1,000 people at a time. While the views over the city and the Bund are of course impressive, it's the building's unique and spectacular interior view down to the atrium of the Grand Hyatt Shanghai Hotel far below that draws the biggest "oohhs" and "aahhs."

While here, be sure to visit the large shopping center at the base of the tower. Also worth visiting are the other neighboring skyscrapers, including the 121-story Shanghai Tower and the Shanghai World Financial Center, which together with the Jin Mao Tower make for the world's tallest trio of super-tall skyscrapers.

Address: 88 Century Ave, Lu Jia Zui, Pudong, Shanghai

Museum goers won't want to miss the chance to visit the Shanghai Natural History Museum. This stunning world-class facility was established in 1956 and only recently opened up in its new state-of-the-art location in Jing'an Sculpture Park in 2015. This is one of the country's largest museums - it covers an impressive 40,000 square meters.

You'll be rewarded with a chance to peruse a vast collection of more than 240,000 artifacts, many of them unique to China and including everything from rare animal and plant specimens, some dating back as far as 140 million years (there is a rare dinosaur skeleton, which stands over four stories high). Also fun to see are the many large animatronic dinosaurs, which provide a pretty good idea of the sheer size, power, and appearance of these extinct beasts.

Location: Jing'an District, Shanghai

If you're visiting Shanghai for the first time and want to see the top tourist attractions, the best place to stay is in the city center, near the Bund, Shanghai's famous waterfront promenade, which intersects with Nanjing Road, the bustling shopping street. Another popular base is near the People's Square, with the Shanghai Museum, Grand Theatre, and the exhibition center. Here are some highly rated hotels in these convenient locations:

Luxury Hotels:

• In a fantastic location right on the Bund, the Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund exudes grand elegance, with its chandeliers, lavish marble, and soaring columns.
• Also on the Bund, overlooking Nanjing Road and decked out in beautifully preserved Art Deco style, is the Fairmont Peace Hotel , with a pool and spa, plush rooms, and attentive staff.
• Near the Shanghai Museum, the art museum, and the Bund, JW Marriott Hotel Shanghai at Tomorrow Square delivers the same impeccable service found at other luxury Shanghai hotels for more affordable rates.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Fresh and modern with textural Chinese accents, Hotel Indigo Shanghai on the Bund , near Yu Garden, is a popular boutique option with large city-view rooms and a glass-encased pool overlooking the river.
• Also on the Bund and near Yu Garden, Les Suites Orient, Bund Shanghai sits on the banks of the Yangtze River, a few blocks from Nanjing Road, while the Marriott Hotel City Centre is a 12-minute walk from the People's Square, near great shopping.

Budget Hotels:

• Within walking distance of Nanjing Road and the Bund, Shanghai Fish Inn Bund offers clean, contemporary rooms and apartments, which are great value for groups, while the Jinjiang MetroPolo Hotel Classiq Shanghai Peoples' Square is a little pricier but offers excellent value for money in a fantastic location right next to its namesake attraction.
• Across the Yangtze River from the Bund, about 12 minutes away by car, Jinjiang Inn (Shanghai Lujiazui) offers clean, basic rooms for budget prices.

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Historic Hangzhou : Just a two-hour train ride away from Shanghai is the historic city of Hangzhou . Famous for its many beautiful temples, including the 13th-century Yue Fei Temple, and the six-square-kilometer West Lake with its lovely waterside parks and pagodas, Hangzhou is also a great place to explore on foot, especially around the historic Qinghefang Ancient Street area, popular for its old cobbled streets, quaint squares, traditional restaurants, and shopping.

Taking Flight : Thanks to its being a major transportation hub - both nationally and internationally - Shanghai serves as a great jumping-off point to explore other parts of the country. An easy two-hour flight away, Beijing , the country's capital, is a must for visitors to China. Highlights include the magnificent Imperial Palace, the Forbidden City, Tian'anmen Square, and more modern wonders, including the Beijing National Stadium, famous for its role in the 2008 Summer Olympics, and the Beijing Capital Museum.

Beijing also offers a variety of interesting day trip options , the most popular being a trip to Badaling Pass and the Great Wall of China.

A little further afield but still under three hours flying time, Chengdu is where you'll have the unique opportunity to spend time getting up close to the country's most iconic animals at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding (be sure to opt for one of the special, immersive caretaking packages, which include feeding and cleaning up after these cuddly creatures).

China Vacation Ideas : Thanks to its immense size, China offers a wide variety of interesting landscapes to explore. One of the most popular is a Li River Cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo . Starting in Guilin, you'll spend the best part of a day drifting along the Li River, enjoying the beautiful karst mountain scenery along the way, before disembarking in Yangshuo. Here, you can enjoy activities like exploring the riverside pathways by bike, or taking a ride on one of the traditional bamboo rafts available for hire.

Another great option for adventurous types is to take the (silk) road less traveled to Dunhuang and Jiayuguan . Located in the northwestern corner of the country, here you can enjoy such experiences as a spectacular sunset camel ride across the Gobi Desert, or exploring parts of the Great Wall of China not normally visited by tourists around the spectacular Jiayuguan Pass.

More on China

The Top 20 Things to Do in Shanghai

Shanghai, China's largest and most prosperous city, exudes an atmosphere of self-confidence and vitality. For those reasons alone it's worth a visit. Unlike places featuring ancient, imperial, or scenic attractions, Shanghai has its own unique and spectacular range of more-modern highlights . Below are the top things you should do in Shanghai.

1. Admire the classic skyline at the Bund

The Bund is undoubtedly on the top of list of things to see in Shanghai. The Bund displays Shanghai's classic skyline views of colonial architecture and skyscrapers along the 500m wide Huangpu River, which dissects the city into two.

You can stroll along the Bund, or take a Huangpu River cruise to enjoy the city skyline. The Bund Sightseeing Tunnel offers a unique but pricey way to cross the river.

Insider tips: If you are looking for a special way to admire the Bund, a private convertible jeep ride is recommended.

2. Enjoy green spaces at Yuyuan Garden

Not far from the Bund, Yuyuan is the most revered and the only surviving Ming Dynasty garden in Shanghai.

It has become a city highlight due to its beautiful scenery, characterized by decorated bridges, colorful pagodas and intimate enclaves separated by "dragon walls" - partitions with dragon decorations on top.

Insider tips : It is a beautiful garden but is often crowded with people. Your tour will be enriched if you have a tour guide to explain some of the garden's history. See how to arrange your day trip in Shanghai including Yu Garden.

3. Observe Shanghai from the Oriental Pearl TV Tower

On the Oriental Pearl TV Tower , not only do you get to enjoy sitting inside a revolving hotel in this revered and outstanding landmark, but you also get to see Shanghai metropolis from a "Space Module" - the highest observatory level set at 350 meters (1,148 feet) above the ground.

The attractive building has 3 legs, 11 spheres and 15 observatory levels. Get to know the city via the various artifacts exhibited at the Shanghai Municipal History Museum located in this building.

Insider tip: This attraction is often crowded with tourists, especially during weekends and holidays. It is not unusual to queue for 1-2 hours. Try to arrive early.

4. Bird's-eye view the city from the Shanghai Tower

The Shanghai Tower , the highest building in China and the second-tallest building in the world, is an increasingly popular place to admire a bird's-eye view of the entire city of Shanghai. Another draw is that it has the fastest elevator in the world, which will take you up to floor 119.

Many of our Shanghai tours include the Shanghai Tower instead of the Oriental Pearl TV Tower because it is taller but has a shorter queue . See one of our sample itineraries to discover how to visit it in a convenient way.

5. Walk and Shop along Nanjing Road

Famous Nanjing Road is an equivalent of New York's Fifth Avenue . Get a taste of bustling Chinese commerce where retailers from all over the world display their products on streets.

Tourists admire the different buildings with attractive architecture . Looking down is also interesting: learn the city's construction history from the attractive 37 Manhole Covers.

Nanjing Road features historic Chinese sculptures at the "Golden Belt". Read more on Shanghai Shopping - Top Places to Shop for Souvenirs .

6. Stroll around in a Watertown - Zhujiajiao

Zhujiajiao Water Town is one hour from central Shanghai. You can choose to stroll around by foot to admire the numerous fascinating canals, bridges and architecture in this old water town in Shanghai.

Alternatively, you can take boat or ferry rides . The shortest ride takes you up and down the main canal in the middle of the town while the longest takes you around the town and back.

A 2-day Shanghai and Zhujiajiao tour is perfect for those who want to see modern Shanghai as well as a traditional ancient town.

Insider tips: If you have more time, we recommend Nanxun and Tongli , which are a bit further away but are less commercial and less crowded. The detailed information about the Top 10 Ancient Water Towns Near Shanghai will help you to make a choice.

Get ideas from  Ultimate Shanghai Itineraries: How Long to Spend in Shanghai

7. Enjoy exhibits at Shanghai Museum

Located on the People's Square near Nanjing Road, the "glassy" Shanghai Museum has a large collection of rare cultural relics - over 120,000 pieces . For example, artifacts include over 400 beautifully-decorated bronzes.

Some exhibits have English descriptions , including the Ancient Ceramics, Ancient Bronzes, and Ancient Sculptures. Read more on Shanghai Museum .

Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall is a great visit if you want to learn about modern Shanghai and see how the city will look like in 2024 and years to come.

8. Relax, walk, eat, and shop in Tianzifang/Xintiandi

Tianzifang is a tourist shopping and café area in Shanghai in the old French quarter. It's good for souvenirs and unique cultural shops that sell products relating to tea therapy.

Xintiandi , compared to Tianzifang, is a better-known redevelopment within the French Concession that is used for shopping, gourmet restaurants, and luxury stores.

Insider tips: Tianzifang and Xintiandi are similar. Both feature shikumen (traditional residences with gates and courtyards) and are favorite places to go for many young tourists and expats in Shanghai. Whereas Xintiandi was renovated on a grand scale, Tianzifang was renovated on an ad-hoc basis.

Due to this, Tianzifang has a lot more character . It is truly a haphazard labyrinth of narrow alleyways and shikumen. Residents still live in the apartments above the shop units.

9. Have fun at Disneyland Park

Shanghai Disneyland Park, the first Disney theme park in Chinese mainland, blends the magic of Disney and unique cultural elements of China . There are six themed lands in the park.

On entering the park, you will be captured by the feeling of being in another world with countless excitements and adventures . It is a good place to visit with family and friends to spend a whole day or two days.

We'd be glad to arrange for you a Shanghai family tour including Disneyland.

10. Take a ride on the Maglev - the world's fastest train

A ride in the Maglev train from Pudong Airport to the city center is a perfect way to feel super-modern Shanghai .

At 431 kph (270 mph, twice the speed of a theme park roller coaster), this air-conditioned, super-clean, magnetically-levitated train covers 30 km (19 miles) in only 8 minutes, though you hardly feel you're moving!

Visit the Maglev Museum to understand the engineering feat and its history. Address: Maglev Longyang Road Station, floor 1. More on the Maglev .

11. See Shanghai's European architecture

Shanghai has a lot of old European architecture. The Europeans built many buildings in various national styles and in the styles of various historical eras.

The best areas for European-built buildings are the Bund where grandiose business and government buildings line the river and the French Concession area where there are numerous residential buildings in French style amid tree-lined avenues.

Xintiandi is a residential/business area that has earned fame for preserving the old architecture while transitioning to be a luxury shopping and dining area. Inside the buildings, there are vintage shops, antique wares, and traditional restaurants. The gorgeous architecture is a fine backdrop for dining.

12. See traditional architecture in Qibao and relax

See traditional Shanghai - gardens, pavilions, and narrow stone lanes give a taste of traditional China in Qibao . The dainty Chinese residences are a contrast to the stolid European architecture of the foreign concession areas.

It is an old Chinese residential area that was built about 1000 years ago. It is a place to get away from the hectic modern city and see the two square kilometer area crossed by two water lanes.

You can relax, dine on Shanghai cuisine and enjoy Chinese teas in traditional teahouses. Around the water lanes, there are preserved traditional houses, gardens, temples, shops and restaurants to explore.

13. Experience a thrill - The Sky Walk

A walkway with no handrail opened on the Jin Mao Tower in 2016. What is unique about this skywalk is that on the glass precipice, there are no rails or fences. The walkway is 340 meters (1,115 feet) high and 60 meters long, and a harness is provided for safety.

Inside on the 88th floor, there is also a large observatory where you can see the sights of Shanghai out of the elements. You can dine, enjoy a refreshment, and enjoy the view from the Grand Hyatt's restaurants and coffee shop on the top floors.

14. Enjoy the Century Park and Exercise

Century Park is the largest park in Shanghai. It is close to the area of Pudong where the skyscrapers are, so if you want some exercise, sun and to see some greenery, it is the best place to go downtown.

It has a lake where you can rent electric boats. You can jog and ride bicycles too on the interesting paths that wind among beach areas, gardens, and lawns.

15. Take a leisurely walk into the past

Shanghai Old Street is a place to see what Shanghai looked like 100 years ago. It is a movie set, and you may see movies or TV shows being made.

This street appears to be frozen in history. Walk around the old street at a slow pace like the people living there, and you'll find souvenirs, antiques from the past, and various entertainments such as Chinese shadow puppetry that was a favorite of the Chinese in the past before movies.

Check out the top Shanghai walking tours .

16. Enjoy Shanghai cuisine

Food is everywhere from every corner and from all kinds of Chinese and international restaurants. You find everything from authentic local snacks and street food to Michelin-starred restaurants.

As a rule, Shanghai cuisine is made to be sweet and refreshing, so the dishes are good for people who don't like spicy or heavy greasy food. Some exquisite snacks may attract your kids.

To eat like the locals, follow us for a Shanghai Local Food Hunt .

17. Watch performances at the Shanghai Circus World

Tourists enjoy a variety of domestic and international live performances , dances, music competitions, shows and acrobatics at this venue.

Examples of lively animal performances featured in the Happy Circus World include performances by sea lions. Another performance is cockfighting.

18. Bird's-eye view the city from the World Financial Center

There is a popular glass-bottom observation deck on the 100th floor at 474 meters (1,555 feet) for sightseeing and a Park Hyatt luxury hotel. It is the 12th tallest building in the world, and it was the tallest in Shanghai until 2014.

Witnessing the sunsets and sunrises from this observatory is recommended. Fine restaurants on the top floors also have fine views. Read more on Shanghai World Financial Center .

19. Cruise along the Huangpu River on your way to The Bund

An evening boat or ferry cruise on the Huangpu River is the most recommended method of exploring the colonial buildings in The Bund on one side and the skyscraper skyline in Pudong on the other side.

Read more about cruising the Huangpu River .

20. Use Shanghai as a base for exploring the rest of China

Shanghai has one of China's largest international airports, Pudong Airport, which allows you to easily come and go from China. Shanghai's second airport, Hongqiao Airport, only 20 minutes from the Bund by taxi, is a large domestic airport doubling your regional travel options.

Shanghai has several bullet train stations serving fast train lines that can get you to faraway places such as Beijing, Xi'an, Guiyang, Guilin, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Hong Kong... all in a day's travel. For example, from the main bullet train station, the Hongqiao Station next to Hongqiao Airport, you can arrive in Beijing in less than 6 hours.

See more on Shanghai's excellent international, regional, and local transport options .

Touring Shanghai with China Highlights

Our Shanghai tours can be customized to suit your travel needs in regard to dates/times and what you want to do . See our Shanghai tours page for more trip ideas.

Further Reading

• Shanghai Weekend Trips: 14 Refreshing Getaways
• How to Spend a Night in Shanghai: Top 10 Things to Do
• Top 7 Interesting Things to Do with Your Kids in Shanghai
• How to Plan a Day Trip in Shanghai
• Top 8 Places You Should Visit in China in Summer

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Symbolic of concession-era Shanghai, the Bund was the city’s Wall Street, a place of feverish trading and fortunes made and lost. Originally a towpath for…

Jade Buddha Temple

One of Shanghai’s few active Buddhist monasteries, this temple was built between 1918 and 1928. The highlight is a transcendent Buddha crafted from pure…

Shanghai Tower

China’s tallest building dramatically twists skywards from its footing in Lujiazui. The 121-storey, 632m-tall, Gensler-designed Shanghai Tower topped out…

French Concession

Tianzifang and Xintiandi are based on a similar idea – an entertainment complex housed within a warren of lòngtáng (弄堂, alleyways). Unlike Xintiandi,…

With its own namesake metro station, Xintiandi has been a Shanghai icon for over a decade. An upmarket entertainment and shopping complex modelled on…

Shanghai Museum

This must-see museum escorts you through the craft of millennia and the pages of Chinese history. It's home to one of the most impressive collections in…

Shanghai may be known for its glitz and glamour, but it's got an edgy subculture too. The industrial M50 art complex is one prime example, where galleries…

Jing'an Temple

With the original temple dating back to AD 1216, the much-restored Jing'an Temple was here well before all the audacious skyscrapers and glitzy shopping…

Oriental Pearl TV Tower

This 468m-tall globe-on-a-tripod tower is the most iconic contemporary building in the city, and its image is omnipresent around town – from postcards to…

Shanghai Natural History Museum

It's not quite on the same scale as Washington, DC's Smithsonian, but this sleek space is nevertheless as comprehensive as it is entertaining and…

Shanghai History Museum

Originally opened as the Shanghai Race Club in 1934, and having undergone several incarnations since, this iconic building now houses the Shanghai History…

Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall

Set over five levels, this modern museum covers Shanghai's urban planning history, tracing its development from swampy fishing village to modern-day…

Shanghai Museum of Public Security

This offbeat and macabre museum over three floors details how the Chinese authorities keep control. Display cases depict the illicit activities local cops…

Rockbund Art Museum

Housed in the magnificent former Royal Asiatic Society building (1932) – once Shanghai's first museum – this world-class gallery behind the Bund focuses…

Propaganda Poster Art Centre

Design junkies and history buffs will love this vast collection of original posters from 1950s, ’60s and ’70s China, stored in the basement of a…

Aurora Museum

Designed by renowned Japanese architect Ando Tadao, the Aurora Museum is set over six floors of the Aurora building and houses a stunning collection of…

Shanghai Disneyland

Disney has magicked-up a spectacular theme park in Shanghai, offering a subtly Chinese take on Mickey and Co. Six themed areas encircle Disney’s biggest…

One of the M50 art precinct's most creative, thought-provoking, interactive and engaging galleries is island6. Artist Liu Dao showcases his work and that…

If you tire of Shanghai's incessant quest for modernity, this tiny town is only a hop, skip and metro ride away. An ancient settlement that prospered…

Shanghai World Financial Center

Although trumped by the adjacent Shanghai Tower as the city’s most stratospheric building, the awe-inspiring 492m-high Shanghai World Financial Center is…

Ohel Moishe Synagogue & Jewish Refugees Museum

Hongkou & North Shanghai

Originally built by the Russian Ashkenazi Jewish community in 1928, this synagogue lies in the heart of the 1940s Jewish ghetto. In 2007 it was restored…

Longhua Temple & Pagoda

Shanghai's oldest and largest monastery is named after the pipal tree (lónghuá) under which Buddha achieved enlightenment. Trees are decorated with red…

Shanghai Exhibition Centre

The hulking monolith of the Shanghai Exhibition Centre was built in 1955 as the Sino-Soviet Friendship Mansion – a friendship that soon turned sour and…

Custom House

The neoclassical Custom House, established at this site in 1857 and rebuilt in 1927, is one of the most important buildings on the Bund. Capping it is Big…

Jing'an Sculpture Park

The attractive Jing'an Sculpture Park contains a mix of permanent and temporary pieces created by mainly international artists. The sculptures are…

Hongkong & Shanghai Bank Building

Adjacent to the Custom House, the Hongkong & Shanghai Bank Building was constructed in 1923. The bank was first established in Hong Kong in 1864 and in…

Yuanmingyuan Road

Like a smaller, more condensed version of the Bund, the pedestrianised, cobblestone Yuanmingyuan Rd is lined with a mishmash of colonial architecture…

Former British Consulate

The original British Consulate was one of the first foreign buildings to go up in Shanghai in 1852, though it was destroyed in a fire and replaced with…

A huge development for Shanghai's contemporary art scene, this enormous gallery is housed in the former hangar of Longhua Airport and sprawls over 9000 sq…

Duolun Road Cultural Street

This pleasantly restored but sleepy street of fine old houses, just off North Sichuan Rd, was once home to several of China’s most famous writers (as well…

Shanghai Botanical Gardens

The spacious 200 acres of gardens here offer an escape from Shanghai’s synthetic cityscape. The floral displays are truly impressive, especially during…

Lu Xun Park

Particularly photogenic in spring and summer when the trees are in blossom, Lu Xun Park is one of the city’s most pleasant green spaces. It was originally…

Lu Xun Former Residence

Writer Lu Xun's final residence was this three-floor domicile on lovely Shanyin Rd, where an excellent English-speaking guide can fill you in on his life…

Jinmao Tower

Resembling an art deco take on a pagoda, this crystalline edifice is a beauty. It’s essentially an office block with the high-altitude Grand Hyatt renting…

Liu Haisu Art Museum

The impressive Liu Haisu gallery exhibits works of the eponymous painter (one of China's earliest modern artists) and displays international contemporary…

Guangfulini Ancient Relics Park

This enormous archaeological park is built around the ancient relics of Songjiang and spans nearly three miles. You'll need a day to properly experience…

Lu Xun Museum

An excellent museum, this modern hall charts the life and creative output of author Lu Xun with photographs, first editions, videos and waxworks. Detailed…

Chenxiangge Monastery

Sheltering a community of dark-brown-clothed monks from the Chenhai (Sea of Dust) – what Buddhists call the mortal world, but which could equally refer to…

East Nanjing Road

Linking the Bund with People’s Square is East Nanjing Rd, once known as Nanking Rd. The first department stores in China opened here in the 1920s, when…

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15 Epic Places to Visit in Shanghai & Shanghai Bucket List 2024

Even if you're not mesmerized by the Shanghai's soaring skyscrapers, you'll be blown away by its flourishing fashion and nightlife scenes. Shanghai is modern and untamed . It is also traditional and exotic with Yu Garden and The Bund as its proofs. It's anything you want it to be. You can spend your morning browsing Nanjing Road , your afternoon catching stunning city views from the top of the Observation Deck on the Oriental Pearl Tower , and the night cruising on the dazzling Huangpu River . Or, if you're a museum-goer or an art lover, you can admire the various collections and striking works on display at Shanghai Museum and Tianzifang . So, let's go! Explore these 15 unmissable places and discover what it is that you LOVE about Shanghai .

Shanghai Attractions Map (Click to Enlarge)

3 Days Shanghai Highlights Tour with Water Town

The Bund - Witness the Past and Present of Shanghai

The Bund, “a gallery of international architectures”, is the landmark of Shanghai. It is always the best place to view Shanghai. Take a stroll along the embankment of the Huangpu River, and you’ll get various architectural styles from Gothic, Baroque, Romanesque to Classicism and the Renaissance in your camera. The modern skyscrapers of Lujiazui across Huangpu River in Pudong New Area provide another backdrop. The night view here is more breathtaking, how about taking an evening cruise or a stroll by it?

Type: Historic Walking Areas, Points of Interest & Landmarks, Sights & Landmarks Opening Hours: All Day Tickets: Free Entry Address: On the bank of Huangpu River, Shanghai, Huangpu District, Shanghai 上海市黄浦区中山东一路(临黄浦江)

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Yu Garden & Bazaar - Classic Chinese Garden in Shanghai

Dating back to the 16th Century, Yuyuan Garden is the most revered green space in Shanghai. Known as the “Mountains and Forest within the City”, it is crowded to bursting point every day. And yet, it managed to maintain something of its air of serenity. Here, you’ll find ornate structures as well as intimate enclaves that are divided by “dragon walls”. Highlights include the Heralding Spring Hall, the Jade Magnificent Hall, and the Lotus Pool. Out of the Yuyuan Garden is the Yuyuan Bazaar where you could explore how elaborating and cute the traditional Chinese handicrafts and art works are, and also savor some local flavor snacks here…

Type: Gardens, Nature & Parks, Bazaar Opening Hours: 09:00-16:30, No entry after 16:00, closed on Monday Tickets: CNY 40 - Peak Season (Apr to Jun, Sep to Nov); CNY 30 - (Jul to Aug, Dec to Mar) Address: No. 168 Fuyou Street, Huangpu District, Shanghai 上海市黄浦区福佑路168号

Nanjing Road (Nanjing Lu) - The Busiest Pedestrian Street in Shanghai

Running west from the Bund, Nanjing Road is Shanghai’s foremost shopping street and is one of the world’s busiest shopping streets. The Shanghai equivalent of New York’s Fifth Avenue, Nanjing Road boasts retailers from all over the world. In the daylight, you’ll admire the graceful architecture of the surrounding buildings. At night, you’ll marvel at the illuminated logos and brand names that line the avenue.

Type: Shopping, Street, Points of Interest & Landmarks Opening Hours: All Day Tickets: Free Entry Address: Nanjing East Road & Nanjing West Road, Huangpu District & Jing’an district, Shanghai 上海市黄浦区&静安区,南京东路&南京西路

Zhujiajiao Ancient Town - "Venice of Shanghai"

Known as the “Venice in Shanghai”, Zhujiajiao Ancient Town has a history of 1,700 years and is a well-preserved waterside ancient town. In Zhujiajiao Water Town, You could take the traditional boat to cruise along the canals and see the old residences, shops and bridges that are filled with classic architectural tone in Ming and Qing Dynasties (1368 - 1911).

Type: Known as the “Venice in Shanghai”, Zhujiajiao Ancient Town has a history of 1,700 years and is a well-preserved waterside ancient town. In Zhujiajiao Water Town, You could take the traditional boat to cruise along the canals and see the old residences, shops and bridges that are filled with classic architectural tone in Ming and Qing Dynasties (1368 - 1911). Opening Hours: All Day Tickets: Free Entry Address: Zhujiajiao Town, Qingpu District, Shanghai 上海市青浦区朱家角古镇旅游区

Shanghai Museum – No. 4 Museum in China

Shanghai Museum is not only the cultural landmark of Shanghai but the biggest museum in China with numerous fine Chinese artifacts. It contains over 120,000 items rated precious cultural relics. Unlike many museums in China, it arranges its exhibits by theme rather than by dynasty. The collection consists of 21 categories, having its highlights bronze wares from Shang and Zhou Dynasties, pottery and porcelain spanning 8,000 years, and a large variety of calligraphy works and paintings.

Type: Comprehensive Museum, historical & Cultural site Opening Hours: 9:00-17:00, no entering after 16:00, closed on Monday (except national holidays) Tickets: Free Ticket (ID card or passport is needed) Address: No. 201, Peoples Avenue, Huangpu District, Shanghai, China (上海市黄浦区人民大道201号)

Jade Buddha Temple (Yu Fo Si) - Enshrine Two Jade Buddha Statues

Quite different from many other temples hidden in mountains and forests, Jade Buddha Temple shows itself in the center of Shanghai city. It enjoys a high reputation both home and abroad for the extraordinary jade Buddha enshrined within it, hence the temple’s name. Among the clouds of incense smoke, it’s kind of unexpected to see so many pilgrims in such a modern city, no fewer than in Tibet.

Type: Buddhist Temples, Sacred & Religious Sites, Architectural Buildings Opening Hours: (Except for Major Festivals, No entry after 16:00) Tickets: Free Address: No. 170 Anyuan Road, Putuo District, Shanghai 上海市普陀区 安远路170号

Shanghai World Financial Center - One of the Tallest Skyscrapers in Shanghai

Shanghai World Financial Center in the key CBD is a new and vital landmark in Shanghai. Being the fifth tallest building in the world with a total height of 492 meters, SWFC provides visitors the world's highest observatory at 474 meters high that is the best deck to appreciate the panorama of the whole old and new Shanghai, including the Bund, Oriental Pearl TV Tower, Jinmao Tower, and Huangpu River, and so on.

Type: Observation Decks & Towers, Modern Buildings & Landmarks Opening Hours: 11:00~21:00 (No entry after 20:00, except for major festivals) Tickets: Free Entry (Sky Walk: CNY 135 per person, CNY 200 for two) Address: 88 Century Avenue, Pudong New Area, Shanghai 上海市浦东新区世纪大道88号

Shanghai Disney Resort - The 6th Disneyland in the World

Shanghai Disney Resort is the first Disney resort in China's mainland and the sixth one in the world. In Disneyland Park, you can lignite your dream by exploring Mickey Avenue, Gardens of Imagination, Fantasyland, Treasure Cove, Adventure Isle, and Tomorrowland with different themes, characters, and activities. It is about 18 kilometers from Shanghai Pudong International Airport, about 27 kilometers from the Huangpu River area. Disney is a dreamland for both children and adults. With Disney Resort, your Shanghai tour will be more enjoyable.

Type: Theme Parks, Water & Amusement Parks Opening Hours: 09:00~21:00 Tickets: CNY 261 - CNY 1250 Address: No. 310 Huangzhao Road, Chuansha Town, Pudong New District, Shanghai 上海市浦东新区川沙镇黄赵路310号

Oriental Pearl Tower – See the Whole Shanghai & Seek Thrill

Standing at the end of the Huangpu River, the Oriental Pearl TV Tower soars 468 meters, setting the character of the new urban area as well as its cityscape. An all-around panorama view of Shanghai from the tallest TV tower in Asia and the third tallest in the world can be amazing, walking on the glass bottom and feeling your adrenaline pumps is also cool. It is worthy to visit in the late afternoon that you could see the sunset and the city come alive with lights.

Type: Observation Decks & Towers, Modern Buildings & Landmarks Opening Hours: 8:00-21:30 Tickets: CNY 35 - CNY 458 Address: No. 1, Century Avenue, Pudong New Area, Shanghai, China 上海市浦东新区世纪大道1号

Shanghai Xintiandi - Represtative of Traditional and Fashionable Shanghai

Located in the downtown area of Shanghai City, Shanghai Xintiandi is a historical site as well as a fashionable center full of entertainment, restaurants, and shopping malls. You could enjoy the antique and rebuilt Shikumen structure which is a witness of the communication between the building cultures of western countries and China. Despite in old appearance, the inside life is tailor-made for people in modern society, you can feast on the international art galleries, fashion shops, coffee houses, themed restaurants, and so forth.

Type: Neighborhoods, Points of Interest & Landmarks, Shopping & Entertainment Opening Hours: All Day Tickets: Free Entry Address: Xintiandi, Huangpu District, Shanghai 200021, China 上海市黄浦区新天地

Tianzifang – Blend of Shanghai Ordinary Life & International Charm

Tianzifang at Taikang Road is one of the coolest places to wander in Shanghai. A lot of artistic and cultural studios of celebrities and young creatives set here in the typical Shikumen houses of both Shanghai and western styles make the mazy lanes full of artistic culture. Strolling along the old paths to see the daily life of the residents here to feel the old Shanghai flavor, watching people chatting and laughing in the restaurants and bars from many other countries, and finding various kinds of interesting items and Chinese crafts are especially funny!

Type: Historical & Cultural Lanes, Artistic Shops, International Restaurants Opening Hours: All Day Tickets: Free Entry Address: No. 210, Taikang Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai, China

Shanghai Circus World - Enjoy the Best Chinese Acrobatics

Referred as the No. 1 Circus World in China, Shanghai Circus World is a world-renowned comprehensive recreational venue with a uniquely designed building and acrobatic performance. It enjoys excellent hardware like complete facilities, advanced devices, and full-equipped functions as well as preeminent acrobats. Two great programs are performed in the Shanghai Circus World. One is ERA - Intersection of Time, from which the audiences could watch the most magical scenes and breathtaking acrobatics. The other is the Happy Circus, which is most loved by the kids and recommended as a family tour.

Type: Architectural Buildings, Theatre, Shows & Performance Opening Hours: 09:00 ~ 19:30 Tickets: 130 RMB ~ 880 RMB Address: No. 2266, Gonghexin Road, Zhabei District, Shanghai 上海市静安区共和新路2266号

Shanghai Wukang Road - Authentic Old Shanghai in Exotic Flavor

Shanghai Wukang Road Area is located in Huangpu district (黄浦区) and Xuhui District (徐汇区). Since its opening up in 1849, groups of foreigners from many countries came to Shanghai and settled down. Nowadays, while walking along the streets in the Shanghai Wukang Road Area, you can still feel the rich culture combining many antique buildings in many styles in other countries and the authentic Shanghai custom.

Type: Historic & Cultural Site, Walking Streets, Old Exotic Buildings Opening Hours: All Day Tickets: Free Entry Address: 22 Jianguo Middle Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai 上海市黄浦区建国中路22号

Huangpu River Cruise - Gorgeous West-Meets-East View by the Riverside

The Huangpu River, known as the Mother River of Shanghai as well as the largest river in Shanghai, is a 113-kilometer long river flowing through Shanghai which is the last tributary of Yangtze River ends in the East China Sea. Puxi (West Bank) and Pudong (East Bank) are bounded by it, forming the world-famous Bund, Lujiazui financial zone, and other important landmarks. The western side of Puxi is home to “An Exhibition of International Buildings”. The eastern side of Pudong is a recent development of the last few decades and is the new business and financial district boasting many awesome glass and steel towers.

Type: River Cruise; Bodies of Water Opening Hours: 11:00~21:30 Tickets: CNY 120 per person (without dining and snacks onboard) Address: Huangpu River, Pudong New Area, Shanghai 上海市浦东新区黄浦江

Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center – Witness the Development of Shanghai Over Time

Are you curious about what turned Shanghai into today’s super city? Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center is a must-see to witness how Shanghai became a cosmopolitan city from a shabby fishing village. With the theme of “ City, man, environment, and development” it serves for exhibition, research, communication, consultation, education, and sightseeing. The 3rd Floor is perhaps the most impressive, which displays a scale model of Shanghai. A cup of coffee on the top will be a good ending to this time travel.

Type: Museum, Exhibition Hall, Points of Interest Opening Hours: 9:00-17:00; Tuesday to Sunday Tickets: CNY 30 Address: No. 100, Peoples Avenue, Huangpu District, Shanghai 上海市黄浦区人民大道100号

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Best Shanghai Tour Packages for 2024

As the gateway city to visit China, Shanghai is an internatinal metropolis with numerous scenic sites. You can stroll along the Bund to enjoy the city's nightscape, appreciate the exotic buildings facing the towering skyscrapers, and step into the traditional Yu garden to experience the oriental sense of beauty...all of your dreams about Shanghai can be tangible in our Shanghai tours. No matter how many days you plan to stay in Shanghai, there is always a tour suitable for you. Following are some best Shanghai tour packages covering most highlights in Shanghai. If you still have no idea where to start, you can design a tailor-made Shanghai trip with us.

Explore the old and new of Shanghai, admire the past cultural heritages among the modern scrapers, meet perfect blend of traditional and urbanization

Explore the 3 most popular destinations of the Yangtze Delta - Shanghai, Hangzhou, and Suzhou by the fast bullet trains. Every day is connected well, without any waste of time and money.

In this 2-day classic Shanghai tour, you will discover top iconic landmarks of Shanghai like the Bund, Yu Garden, Shanghai World Financial Center to appreciate the real charm of Shanghai. Everything is perfectly arranged!

Looking for a unique Shanghai tour which is different from the regular itineraries? Here it is - A harmony between soft and hard landscapes results in one of a kind holiday in Shanghai.

Start planning your tailor-made holiday to China by contacting one of our specialists. Once inquired, you’ll get a response within 0.5~23.5 hours.

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• Top 20 Must Visit Attractions...

The Must-Visit Attractions in Shanghai, China

Shanghai is a city that reveals itself slowly, so it can take a while to see all of its charms. These attractions are a great place to start if you only have a few days to experience the city’s splendour. From the Shanghai Tower and Qibao to M50 and Fuxing Park, you’ll find something worth visiting around every corner in the largest city in China .

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

The Bund waterfront district is well known to people who live in the city, and as a visitor, it’s one of the first places in Shanghai you should check out. On the west bank of the promenade, which runs along the Huangpu River, are the old European buildings from Shanghai’s colonial days, and on the east are the skyscrapers that have come to represent the city on postcards and stamps around the world. For a peak Bund experience, visit at sunrise when pensioners practise tai chi and fly kites in front of the skyline.

Shanghai Propaganda Poster Art Centre

The Shanghai Propaganda Poster Art Centre is an art museum for people who don’t care for art and a history museum for people who don’t like history. It offers an eye-opening introduction to China’s tumultuous 20th century through more than 6,000 posters printed between 1910 and 1990 that show an ever-changing vision for a communist paradise. The museum was founded in 2002 in the basement of an apartment building and moved in 2019 to a larger space.

Eight ancient water towns surround Shanghai, creating one of the best tourist attractions in the city, especially if you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime road trip. If you don’t have time to visit them all, Qibao is the perfect place to stop. It dates back to the 10th century and is known for its delicious street food and beautiful canal views. Just a few streets long, this small town within the city limits is best enjoyed during the week, as it can be a busy tourist spot at weekends. Aside from the historic old town, highlights include cheap shopping and the Qibao Winery.

Tiánzǐfáng, Taikang Road

Tiánzǐfáng errs on the side of touristy, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t worth your time. This narrow lane-house neighbourhood is now a shopping, dining and crafts district. Always full of people, Tiánzǐfáng is popular for a reason – it’s charming, relaxing and easily accessible. After you buy a few souvenirs, visit one of the excellent bars or restaurants in the area.

Fuxing Park, Huangpu

Once the largest park in Shanghai, Fuxing Park is the quintessential Chinese senior hangout spot. Find sprightly older adults dancing their favourite ballroom steps, playing cards or mahjong, or writing ephemeral poetry with giant calligraphy brushes. The park is in the French Concession , which was occupied and governed by the French from 1849 to 1943. It’s a great escape from the city that surrounds it, and there’s plenty of green space and vegetation to renew your body and soul.

Lujiazui Skyline

Lujiazui is Shanghai’s financial district. When you exit the metro station, you’ll be surrounded by an urban jungle that is so much more impressive in person than it is in pictures. It’s home to the most iconic skyscrapers in the city, the tallest of which is the Shanghai Tower at 632m (2,073ft). It has an indoor observation deck at 562m (1,843ft) – perfect if you want to take in the view but don’t fancy feeling the wind on your face at such a great height. Whether you choose to walk around the elevated skyway, linking the station with the office blocks, or check out one of the rooftop bars , such as the trendy Bar Rouge, Lujiazui is sure to be an experience you won’t soon forget.

Short for Moganshan 50, M50 is an ultra-hip contemporary art district on Moganshan Road, home to more than 120 of the best art galleries, studios and museums in the city, including ShanghArt Gallery, one of the first contemporary art galleries founded in China. In an industrial area along Suzhou Creek, which has seen much development in the 2000s, M50 is often compared to the 798 Art District in Beijing or SoHo in New York City. This district embraces its grittiness, and there’s some very photogenic graffiti.

Yu Garden, Anren Street

Yu Garden, or Yuyuan, lies next to the City God Temple in Shanghai’s Old City, which was dedicated to the city’s spirits, or protectors, in the 1400s. The classic Chinese-style gardens, complete with rockeries, ponds, pavilions and towers, feature several distinct areas separated by grey tiled ridges called “dragon walls”. The area surrounding the gardens holds endless opportunities to try street food and buy souvenirs. If you can’t make it to Suzhou in Jiangsu province, which is better known for its gardens, Yuyuan is the next best thing.

Wan Shan bird and flower market

If you’re wondering what to do in Shanghai that’ll take you away from the tourist crowds, this is one option, as locals vastly outnumber visitors here. Flowers are sold alongside pet birds, fish, chinchillas and even crickets – from the tiny to the unnervingly massive – in this market, which sits at the junction of Tibet Road and Huiji Road. You’ll also find potted plants, such as bonsai trees and succulents, on sale. Antiques and jade are also sold nearby, in case you’re good for small mammals, and your aquarium and window box are both fully stocked.

South Bund Fabric Market

Want a designer look without the price tag? Head to the South Bund Fabric Market with a picture of your design and be amazed at the three floors of tailors ready to get you dressed up in style. Most stalls specialise in suits, coats or traditional dresses, but there’s always someone on hand who can help you create a unique look. As a general rule, avoid the aggressive touts on the first floor. Their work is not as high-quality as that of the tailors on the second and third floors. Depending on demand, an outfit should take less than a week to complete, from initial contact to final fitting.

Shanghai Disneyland

Shanghai Disneyland has been welcoming Disney lovers from all over the world since 2016, but this isn’t just any Disney park. Many of the rides, attractions and characters have been redesigned to cater to a Chinese tourist audience. A group of Chinese zodiac gardens make up its centre – with the 12 animals represented by Disney characters – and instead of Main Street USA, there is Mickey Avenue. There’s also more live entertainment here than in other Disney theme parks. It’s a great choice if you need a break from traditional sightseeing in Shanghai.

Shanghai Science and Technology Museum

The Shanghai Science and Technology Museum is split into two wings: one devoted to nature and the earth, with themes such as dinosaurs and large animals of the ice age, and the other featuring interactive exhibits on computing, robotics, cells, space travel and other scientific breakthroughs. The museum also features four theatres, two of them IMAX screens. It’s an excellent place to experience with the whole family or just for adults who get excited over the latest scientific advances.

Longhua Temple

Temples can be a great way to find peace within the noise of Shanghai tourism and city life in general, whether or not you are religious. The Buddhist temple of Longhua is the oldest in the city and has a fascinating history , from its inception in 242CE to its use as a Japanese-run internment camp during World War II. Simply walk around the complex, or buy some incense and send up a prayer of your own.

Chongming Island

Chongming Island forms the northernmost part of the municipality of Shanghai. Much of the island is made up of protected wetlands, but it’s also home to a migratory bird reserve, one of only three remaining Confucian temples in Shanghai, an ancient fishing village and several organic farms that provide local produce and meat products to health-conscious restaurants throughout the city.

Xintiandi is an upscale, pedestrianised shopping and dining area in the central Huangpu District. The neighbourhood is worth noting for its preservation (and renovation) of old shíkùmén (stone gate) housing, most of which has been demolished in other parts of the city. It’s also the site of the first congressional meeting of the Communist Party of China, so within the flashiness of Xintiandi, there’s also historical significance. If you have some extra cash to drop, there are a number of excellent fine-dining restaurants here.

Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street

Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street is about as touristy as it gets in Shanghai. Formerly the centre of life in the city, the street is now a major shopping and dining area that leads to the Bund. It’s worth seeing for the neon lights alone, but keep an eye out for scammers and petty thieves. For a small fee, you can take a little train down the street so that you can take photos without doing any walking.

Shanghai Circus World

Your colourful stories of visiting China would be incomplete if you couldn’t boast about the spectacular acrobatics you saw – and Shanghai Circus World is the best place to see them. Be dazzled by feats of contortion you never thought possible, all performed in a state-of-the-art facility that features a revolving stage, computer-controlled lighting, a mirrored cage and a digital water curtain.

Shanghai Wild Animal Park

Get up close to some of the world’s fiercest creatures at the Shanghai Wild Animal Park. It features more than 200 species in two zones: one that is more like a traditional walk-through zoo and another safari-style area home to cheetahs, zebras and a section with Asian animals.

1933 Laoyangfang

Part of a renovated industrial complex, the 1933 Laoyangfang is more than just dramatic angles. It has been transformed from an art deco slaughterhouse to a hip, industrial, creative hub that hosts restaurants, shops, art galleries, performance spaces and more. The buildings are worth the trip themselves, but the area surrounding them is equally beautiful. Sitting on an offshoot of the Suzhou Creek, this slice of Hongkou District features intact shíkùmén and old-Shanghai-style lane houses with residents nearly as old as the buildings they call home.

Former French Concession shíkùmén

It’s hard to call the French Concession an attraction, as it’s simply a large swathe of land that happened to be the home of the French government during Shanghai’s colonial days. However, the area is unique due to its architecture and street style, making it the perfect place to take a walk or a bike ride on a nice day. Some of the city’s best dining and drinking options are also here, so be sure to save time for a tipple or two.

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50 things to do in Shanghai: Activities & Attractions

Ride the Pearl Tower's roller coster, tour the city by sidecar and more

Posted: Wednesday July 23 2014, Updated: Monday August 25 2014

Ride the Pearl Tower's roller coster, visit old Shanghai, off beat museums, cycle routes, day trips and attractions. The best activities, attractions and things to do in Shanghai

Ride the roller coaster inside the Pearl Tower

Though now dwarfed by its neighbours, this bonkers, bulbous landmark (the design was based on a Tang dynasty poem) arguably remains Shanghai ’s most iconic building and is worth a visit for the sheer kitsch value of the entertainment within. Tickets are priced according to floor access, so skip the ‘space capsule’ sightseeing floor in the uppermost ‘pearl’ and the mediocre buffet at the 267m -high revolving restaurant. Instead, take the lift up to the 259m -high skywalk – a 360 degree transparent observatory where the floors, as well as the walls, are made of glass, which makes for some hilarious ‘falling’ photo opportunities for those not prone to attacks of vertigo.

The real draw, though, is the surreal roller coaster located at 98 metres (claimed to be the world’s highest indoor ride). It’s not well signposted: to get there you need to descend to ‘ Game City ’, an eerily deserted, pink-neon lit arcade stinking of rancid popcorn. The ride itself is short but surprisingly thrilling, especially for younger kids, and for 30RMB extra you can take home a photo of yourself mid-squeal. The fun doesn’t stop there, as you descend to ground level via a glass elevator on the building exterior.

Take in the view from the SWFC Observatory

While every Shanghai resident has seen the Shanghai World Financial Center from multiple perspectives and angles, surprisingly few have actually made it inside. The Bottle Opener stages several fun events throughout the year – such as a yoga workshop and a vertical marathon – so it’s worth teeing up your visit to coincide with one of those, but if you’re strapped for time it’s still worth the (admittedly steep) entry fee just to stroll around the Garden Observatory. The world’s second highest viewing platform at 474 metres, topped only by Guangzhou ’s Canton Tower , it’s a dizzying experience.

The outing begins with a basement exhibition hall that contains a brilliant scale model of Lujiazui and the Bund area with a 24-hour time lapse lighting effect. A lift then whisks you up at warp speed (5 metres/second) to the first observatory (94th floor; 423 metres), which is the cheapest option, but it’s worth paying the extra 40RMB to access the Garden Observatory on the 100th floor for truly jaw-dropping floor-to-ceiling views.

Key landmarks, from 1933 Old Millfun to Three on the Bund, are handily marked on photographs displayed alongside. If you visit during daylight hours, you might even spot a window cleaner or two dangling on the other side of the glass. If you’re looking to enjoy a drink with the view, there is a bar-café on the 94th floor, but you’ll get a far superior tipple in nicer surrounds just two floors down at the Park Hyatt’s 100 Century Avenue.

Join the old folks dancing in the park

Perhaps one of the most charming aspects of Shanghai nightlife are the early evening dances that spring up in parks and public spaces across the city. Chances are you already know where one of these goes down in your neighbourhood, but some of our favourites include the packed Sichuan Bei Lu strip (head to the eponymous metro station and you can’t miss the crowds) or the sedate ballroom twirls at Huashan Green Space, between Huashan and Xingfu Lus.

For some daytime dancing, the always enjoyable Fuxing Park provides plenty of entertainment, as should Hongkou’s Lu Xun Park when it reopens fully later this summer.

Get on your bike

Despite the rise of the car, Shanghai is still an incredibly bike-friendly city and there are few better ways to explore it than on two wheels. For some great cycle routes around lesser-travelled parts of town, including Fuxing Island, Suzhou Creek and more see our guided cycle routes around the city .

Find out where to buy the best bike for you, from Shanghai classic frames to slick fixed gear cycles in our guide to the top bike shops in Shanghai

Watch a bird singing contest at Guilin Park

Can’t wait until May? The Shanghai Bird Association holds regular meets at the City of God Temple, while keepers often head to parks such as Yichuan Park just north of Zhongtan Lu metro station and Jiuzi Park beside Chengdu Bei Lu bridge and Suzhou Creek to hang their cages.

...or see crickets do battle

If insects are more your thing, then you’re in luck: cricket fighting season is nearly upon us. Although the ‘sport’ is on the wane in Shanghai , there are a number of associations, sellers and practitioners who keep it alive (purely for entertainment purposes of course, gambling is banned here after all). The Wanshang Flower and Bird Market on Xizang Nan Lu is a regular haunt for owners of fighting crickets with matches usually taking place from August until October.

Take a trip on the Bund Sightseeing Tunnel

Shanghai is full of naff tourist attractions, but The Bund Sightseeing Tunnel (45RMB one way) is one of those so-bad-it’s-good experiences that everyone should try just once. Bizarre, trippy audio-visual effects play as you travel in an automated car 'into the core of the Earth' under the Huangpu river and though the whole journey is somewhat baffling and devoid of any actual sightseeing, you’ll come away with photos that look like they were taken in the 2001: A Space Odyssey wormhole and a story for your friends.

Check out Chongming Island

While it’s best not to harbour any visions of quaint island life – pastel coloured beach huts or pretty little fishing boats nestled in the harbour – when undertaking a trip to Chongming , that doesn’t mean there’s not plenty to do on what’s often referred to as China ’s third biggest island (that count includes Taiwan ). You can visit organic farm Mahota , go birdwatching among the reeds at the eastern Dongtan nature reserve, go barbecuing or grass skiing (basically donning elongated rollerskates to descend a hill) at the Dongping Forest Park , or unwind at the newly opened Hyatt Regency resort if you decide you want to make a weekend of it (the hotel even offers special ‘Puppy Getaway’ packages so you don’t have to leave your dog at home).

Witness ChinaJoy

Shanghai loves an expo, and we’re not just talking about the gathering of global clichés that took over a swathe of the city back in 2010. Practically every weekend there’s an expo of some sort taking place here. Sure, not all of them are particularly exciting (such as Annual China International Roofing and Waterproofing Expo and Pet Expo for example), but every year provides us with dog shows, wedding extravaganzas, sexpos, car and boat fests and all sorts of consumer craziness to gawk at. Sitting pretty at the top of the expo pile however, is ChinaJoy , which takes place at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre every August.

The computer game and cosplay spectacular features gaming launches, exotic costumes and hordes of photographers snapping away greedily at it all. Yes, there are some questionable outfits and use of ‘models’, but it’s still an incredible Shinjuku-esque assault on the senses that really has to be seen.

Stand with the ultras at a Shanghai derby

The Chinese Super League now features three of the city’s top flight teams in action. There’s the long-standing Shanghai Shenhua who play at Hongkou Stadium , the largely unloved Shanghai Shenxin and, while they may have dropped off the pace a little after their early season table topping performances, East Asia are still top of the Shanghai pile so far this season.

While attendances for games, and often the quality of football, fall short of major international leagues, the fans are passionate and friendly, especially if you sit (or more likely, stand) with the hardcore supporters. If you only go to one game, make it a Shanghai derby (preferably involving Shanghai Shenhua and East Asia ) or Shenhua versus hated rivals Beijing Guoan for the fieriest atmospheres. Here's a fan's guide to Shanghai's Shenhua . See the full season fixtures .

Give something back

There’s really no excuse for not volunteering or donating to charity in Shanghai – every month there are plenty of events that enable you to do both, while there are dozens of non-profit organisations based in the city doing fantastic work who are in need of a helping hand. For more details of how you can get involved, click here .

Take a cruise on the Huangpu

Taking to the water is still one of the best ways to gaze upon both The Bund and the skyscrapers of Lujiazui. Though there are numerous overcrowded and often over-long tourist cruises (tickets for which can be purchased from sellers along The Bund or at the tourist desk beside Jinling Lu), you can enjoy views of the best bit just as well by taking the ferry between Jinling Lu and Dongchang Lu or vice versa. Tickets cost just 2RMB and the journey is over in only a couple of minutes, giving you more time to tick off the other items on your bucket list. We recommend going early evening as the sun goes down and the lights come on. Check out the ferry routes across the Huangpu .

If you’re after something a bit more upmarket, a trip out on the Huangpu doesn’t come much classier than on The Peninsula hotel ’s yacht. Up to ten people can board the 15 million RMB vessel for private cruises (from 8,000RMB/person) with additional extras such as afternoon tea (580RMB/person including one glass of Champagne ) and even on board yoga sessions (from 1,100RMB/50 minutes) available. Contact The Peninsula’s concierge for more details.

Cycle the streets of Hongkou

Hongkou’s former Jewish quarter is one of our favourite parts of town to explore on two wheels and while modern developments are increasingly encroaching upon its old streets, there are still plenty of fascinating historic sites to see. Highlights include the Jewish Refugee Museum housed in the Ohel Moishe synagogue, the adjacent Zhoushan Lu where you can often see residents playing carrom (an old Shanghainese game that’s a cross between snooker and Chinese chess) and the Tilanqiao Prison, once the biggest in Asia and still in use today. Here's a guide to cycling around Hongkou .

Head to the Propaganda Poster Museum

Founded by Yang Peiming, the museum has been run out of its apartment tower basement setting for over a decade, but was only given official recognition two years ago and still maintains an air of secrecy. The vast collection of over 5,000 propaganda posters, many rescued from recycling centres and rubbish bins and spanning from the early days of the founding of the People's Republic of China in 1949 to the late 1970s, is absolutely fascinating and more than worth the 20RMB entrance fee.

Wander Nanjing Dong Lu at dawn

Nanjing Dong Lu may be a tourist-filled nightmare much of the time, but head there just as the sun comes up and you’ll find it empty of the matching baseball cap wearing hordes and people trying to sell you wheels to stick on your shoes. Instead, nearby residents creep out onto the pavements to do a spot of tai chi (often with fans and swords) or play badminton. Start at People’s Square and head south toward The Bund (where you’ll find another clutch of early risers performing) and you’ll see the street in a completely new light. Here are some photos of the city in its morning glory .

Check out an off-beat museum

Shanghai has some fantastic museums – the Animation Museum, Urban Planning Exhibition Centre and Science and Technology Museum are all worthy of a visit – but some of our favourite institutions are the more unusual ones. The Museum of Public Security features everything from old police cars to gruesome murder weapons; the Municipal History Museum features some brilliant scale models of old Shanghai; and the Tobacco Museum details the history of China’s favourite product. Visit just one and we guarantee you’ll learn something new.

Head to a water town

Whether it’s Zhujiajiao for its convenience or Xikang for its beauty, everyone has their favourite watertown . Ours is Nanxun. It may mean a little more travelling time than suburban spots such as Qibao of Fengjing, but the rewards are relatively fewer tourist hordes and a pleasantly laidback feel throughout the two sections of old streets crisscrossed by waterways. W e like the tranquil Little Lotus Garden, a grand former residential house with a small lake at the back, and the Jiayetang Library, home to a large collection of ancient tomes and tree-covered grounds, where locals sip tea and play cards beside the water. The main Shanghai Long Distance Bus Station (from 6.50am) and the South Station (from 10am) have regular services to Nanxun, costing 46RMB one way. The buses continue to Huzhou, so make sure your driver knows you want off at Nanxun. Here's our guide to the best canal-side towns worth a visit in Shanghai.

Tour Shanghai by sidecar

Discover another side of Shanghai by t ouring the city from the sidecar of a vintage 750cc Changjiang motorbike with Shanghai Insiders.

All Insider guides are extremely capable; completely at ease dodging Shanghai ’s notorious traffic whilst recounting interesting tit bits of local history. It’s a unique way to see the city. See more alternative tours of the city, including bike, food and photo tours .

Touropia Travel Experts

Discover the World

10 Top Tourist Attractions in Shanghai

Visitors either love or hate Shanghai. Many hate the flood of humanity and irritating traffic jams that come with being China’s largest city with 24 million residents. Others gush about the meandering Huangpu River that divides old and new Shanghai (pronounced Shang high). Still others rave about the innovative architecture as well as the fabulous museums and gardens that are among Shanghai’s top tourist attractions.

Some visitors pig out on the food – Shanghai’s cuisine is considered one of China’s top four cuisines. Yes, China’s financial capital, located on the Yangtze River Delta, is hustling and bustling but visitors also will find pockets of ancient culture and charm that make this city a winner.

See also: Where to Stay in Shanghai

10. Shanghai Circus World [SEE MAP]

Songhai is world-famous for its acrobatic acts and what better place to see them than Shanghai Circus World. Visitors can see these amazing acrobats in daily performances of Insertion of Time, a show that is comparable to a Broadway musical. Agile acrobats perform feats ranging from traditional acrobatics to martial arts, all enhanced by music, lighting and sets. Shanghai Circus World also has its own circus, Happy Circus, that has everything from clowns to animals to acrobats. Happy Circus takes center stage on weekends and holidays. Shanghai Circus World has its own full-sized circus ring where international circuses also perform.

9. Shanghai Maglev Train [SEE MAP]

Shanghai’s main airport, Pudong International Airport is located a fair distance from downtown Shanghai. Taking the Shanghai Maglev Train is the quickest way to get into town. Traveling at speeds up to 430 km/h (267 mph), the magnetic levitation train takes just eight minutes to make the 30-km (19-mile) journey to central Pudong. From there, visitors can transfer to the metro, bus or taxi to reach their final destination. When it was built in the early 2000s, it cost $1.2 billion to construct the maglev line. At that time it was the fasted commercial electric train in the world.

8. Oriental Pearl Tower [SEE MAP]

The Oriental Pearl Tower is a Shanghai landmark as it towers over the Huangpu River in Pudong New Area. At 468 meters (1,535 feet) tall, it was the highest building in Shanghai when it was built in the early 1990s. Looking like a cross between the Eiffel Tower and Seattle’s Space Needle, the world’s sixth largest radio and TV tower has 15 observation decks with a revolving restaurant at the 264-meter (867-foot) level. Eleven spheres are strung vertically through the tower, a scene that is suggestive of dragons playing with pearls. The glass floor of the outdoor viewing platform is probably one of the most thrilling attractions in Shanghai.

7. Zhujiajiao [SEE MAP]

Anyone visiting Shanghai must visit at least one water town to make their time there complete. Zhujiajiao, located in a Shanghai suburb, is one of the best preserved water towns in the area, despite being 1,700 years old. Visitors simply must take a cruise on the canal, boating under 35 ancient mostly stone bridges lined with old-fashioned houses. Perhaps the most famous bridge is the 1571 Fangsheng Bridge with its five openings and eight dragons surrounding a pearl. Visitors also won’t want to miss the short North Street that is lined with Ming and Qing dynasty buildings. Also worth a visit is Kezhi Garden, Zhujiajiao’s largest memorial garden.

6. Tianzifang [SEE MAP]

Tianzifang used to be a residential area in the French Concession. Today, it’s an art district similar to Beijing’s 798, It’s filled with boutiques where visitors can buy arts and crafts or just wander through looking at the traditional Chinese architecture. Located on a maze of alleys off Taikang Road, Tianzifang is filled with many small businesses that include art supply shops, trendy studios, galleries and coffee shops. The district is known for its legacy architecture with its traditional buildings. Tianzifang is a popular draw for yuppies; it’s not known as well in mainstream Shanghai, though that is changing.

5. Shanghai Museum [SEE MAP]

Paris has its Louvre, Amsterdam the Rijksmuseum and Shanghai has its own world-class museum in the Shanghai Museum. Located in a modern building on People’s Square, the Shanghai Museum has five floors containing the best in ancient Chinese history: old coins, priceless paintings and ceramics, intricately carved traditional lacquer furniture, and ancient bronze and jade artifacts. All told, the museum has more than 120,000 pieces divided among 11 galleries. Even the building itself is a work of art, with the round dome representing heaven and the square base, land. Best of all, the museum offers free admission to 8,000 people every day.

4. Shanghai World Financial Center [SEE MAP]

Since Shanghai is a powerhouse in the global economy, it’s only fitting that it have its own world financial center. This financial center isn’t a stodgy old building, however; it’s an innovatively designed skyscraper that reaches 492 meters (1,614 feet) into the sky. The 101-story building is home to 20 multinational financial institutions, shopping malls and a major hotel. Visitors who suffer from acrophobia may want to pass on visiting the observation deck that’s located near the top of this amazing landmark. Those that make the elevator trip up will be rewarded with stunning views of Shanghai.

3. Nanjing Road [SEE MAP]

Nanjing Road is THE shopping street in Shanghai. Indeed, it is one of the world’s largest and most famous attracting about a million shoppers a day. The road, created in 1845, is divided into East and West; the East section is the primary shopping area. Where once it was lined with traditional Chinese stores selling daily necessities, today Nanjing Road is lined with upscale shops, restaurants and hotels. The eastern section is one long pedestrian mall, so shoppers don’t have to worry about being hit by cars. They should, however, be on the lookout for hawkers zooming along on lighted roller-skates.

2. Yu Garden [SEE MAP]

Yu Garden has been a Shanghai fixture since the 16th century when a Ming Dynasty official wanted to create a tranquil garden for his parents to spend their senior years. Today, it is one of the most famous classical gardens in China . Yu translates as pleasing and satisfying, a concept that is very relevant in today’s garden. The garden is filled with rockeries (the Great Rockery is at the entrance), halls, pavilions where visitors can rest tired feet, and ponds that ooze serenity. Pagodas and artistically arranged lush vegetation round out the picture.

1. The Bund [SEE MAP]

Strolling along The Bund is simply one of the things any visitor to Shanghai must do. Located on the west side of the Huangpu River, The Bund is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Shanghai. The Bund is flanked by old buildings representing various architectural styles, including Gothic, Romanesque and Renaissance. This is in contrast to the east side of the river where the skyline is filled with amazing skyscrapers that reach into the sky at dizzying heights. A good time to walk The Bund is night, when the skyscrapers are lit up like Christmas trees.

Best Time to Visit Shanghai

Shanghai has a humid subtropical climate with intensely hot, wet summers and chilly, windy winters. Due to this, spring and autumn are considered to be the best times to visit.

From March to May and in October and November, the city averages 12 to 23°C (53 to 73°F); perfect for sightseeing or outdoor activities. The blooming flowers or glittering golden trees also make the metropolis look very pretty. Although drier than summertime, you should still bring a coat as each month sees 11 to 15 days with at least some rain.

June through September are by far the rainiest months with temperatures also averaging 27 to 31°C (80 to 88°F). The high humidity makes this feel much worse with typhoons sometimes sweeping along the coast. Due to the frequent downpours, you’re best off avoiding summer unless you want to watch the Dragon Boat racing in June.

Apart from around Christmas, December to February is the low season in Shanghai. As the colder weather puts most people off, prices are cheaper with many residents also heading to the countryside to see their family for Chinese New Year.

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Reader interactions.

November 6, 2017 at 5:46 am

Great post, shanghai is a nice place to travel and explore, i love that glass floor tower.

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Shanghai   Travel Guide

Courtesy of zorazhuang | Getty Images

10 Best Things To Do in Shanghai

Updated February 11, 2021

Shanghai is overflowing with things to do. Your challenge will be to prioritize the city's attractions and accomplish all of your goals in the limited time you have here. Should you want a glimpse of Shanghai's past, hurry over to Longhua Temple and

• All Things To Do

The Bund The Bund free

Shanghai's picturesque waterfront, known as "the Bund," is where you'll find those classic skyline photo ops. With the Oriental Pearl TV Tower , the Shanghai World Financial Center  and other skyscrapers standing across the Huangpu River, the view (on a clear day) stuns. And behind you, gorgeous European-style  buildings housing restaurants and shops ( Nanjing Road is just around the corner) line the waterfront boulevard, affording plenty of activities.

Though a gateway to other attractions, the views from the Bund were the only thing on most travelers minds. Visitors consistently report being  in complete awe of Shanghai's skyline, so much so that some said skipping this attraction would be like skipping the Eiffel Tower in Paris . Most agreed the best time is to go at night –  the skyscrapers illuminated in different colors create an unbeatable photo op. Not only that, but smog can occur during the day, and depending on the weather, can hinder one's first-time viewing experience. But whichever time you decide to visit, know  that many other people want to experience this picture perfect moment too –  so expect crowds around the clock. And considering the immense tourist traffic  the Bund receives, vendors and pesky hawkers set up shop here too. 

Shanghai Museum Shanghai Museum free

Located on the People's Square near Nanjing Road , the Shanghai Museum is hard to miss thanks to its distinct architecture (a circular building atop a square foundation) and remarkable size. And you really shouldn't skip this historical gem. Frequently called one of the best museums in China, this expansive museum houses a diverse collection of artifacts (more than 1,000,000 to be exact) that chart the nation's history. Highlights include ornate calligraphy, exquisite jade carvings, thousand-year-old bronze works and traditional Chinese garb. 

English-speaking travelers, in particular, praised the museum for its presentation of both Chinese and English exhibit descriptions. Others loved the vast amount of historical articles available for view and appreciated the comprehensive history lesson they were able to get out of it. Keep in mind: Since there is no entrance fee, you're likely to encounter many others looking to take advantage of this freebie, so come early if you can.

Zhujiajiao Zhujiajiao free

Located 29 miles west of downtown lies the Venice of Shanghai, Zhujiajiao. This ancient water town saw its heyday during the Ming Dynasty, when its success as a commercial hub resulted in the construction of its picturesque waterways. The area remains composed of  numerous canals with bridges connecting visitors to scores of charming narrow streets. Expect to find tiny cafes down back alleys, friendly boatmen offering rides and hole-in-the-wall shops selling souvenirs. Though recent visitors found strolling Zhujiajiao lovely, reviewers strongly suggested visiting during the week, as the big weekend crowds can hinder the experience.

Admission to Zhujiajiao is between 30 to 90 yuan ($4 to $13); the difference in price depends on what attractions you wish to visit within. Getting there, however, can be a challenge.  The easiest way to reach Zhujiajiao is to take a taxi from downtown Shanghai, which should cost you between 150 to 200 yuan (about $22 to $30) each way. But, if you'd like to save some dough, take the hour-long bus ride from the Puanlu bus station near People's Square in Shanghai. This will only set you back 12 yuan (about $2). Just make sure you get on the Hùzhu Gaosù Kuàixiàn bus line.

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Shanghai World Financial Center Shanghai World Financial Center

Resembling a gigantic bottle opener, the Shanghai World Financial Center stands as one of the world's tallest buildings, glittering majestically on the skyline. Competing with the Oriental Pearl TV Tower for the best bird's-eye views, this structure touts an array of digital Shanghai depictions that illustrate the city's rapid evolution. And that's just at the bottom floor. Take the 49-second elevator, which is one of the fastest in the world, to the 94th and 97th floors where you'll be treated to a jaw-dropping urban panorama.  However, the true highlight is on the 100th floor. Here, the Sky Walk – the world's highest observatory – allows guests to marvel at this Chinese metropolis from 1,555 feet above ground . 

Recent visitors loved the views from the top of the Shanghai World Financial Center, but said those afraid of heights shouldn't try to conquer their fear here. Aside from the glass walkway, the 94th and 97th floor vantage points feature floor-to-ceiling windows, with the latter also having ceiling windows. Travelers also strongly suggested going a clear day if possible, as those who went on overcast or smoggy days were disappointed. 

Yuyuan Garden Yuyuan Garden

Dating back to the 16th century, the 5-acre Yuyuan Garden is the city's most revered green space. The garden took nearly 20 years to completely construct and was initially intended to be the private garden for Ming-dynasty official Pan Yunduan and his family. However, the garden ended up taking some hits, enduring both British occupation during the Opium Wars and again by the French during the Taiping Rebellion. Despite the turmoil, the garden remained largely intact and is today a beautiful retreat loved by many. Here, you'll find six main scenic areas and 30 pavilions outfitted with ornate structures like decorated bridges and colorful pagodas as well intimate enclaves that are divided by "dragon walls" (partitions with stone dragons lying on top). Highlights include the Heralding Spring Hall, the Jade Magnificence Hall and the Lotus Pool. 

Recent visitors enjoyed the scenery and architecture that comprise the Yuyuan Gardens but lamented the hoards of tourists the gardens attract. Many travelers ran into crowds during their visit and strongly recommended choosing a time when there won't be as many people, as some felt the crowds took away from the peaceful nature of the gardens. And depending on the season, it's worth noting that there isn't too much cover in the park, so visiting at peak hours on a hot afternoon during the summer could easily end up being a miserable experience.

Longhua Temple Longhua Temple

As Shanghai's oldest and largest religious complex, Longhua Temple is a natural tourist attraction, drawing droves of travelers. The temple was built in the 10th century and is named after the pipal tree where B uddha is said to have reached enlightenment. It's staggering seven-story pagoda is easy to spot, though much more lies within. Take time to explore the five main halls each filled to the brim with ornate sculptures, including numerous buddhas. Also take time to marvel at the more than 14,000-pound bell located in the bell and drum tower near the entrance. And if you're visiting Shanghai in the spring, expect hordes of peach blossoms to make appearances in your photographs. Unfortunately, the most photogenic point of the property, the pagoda, is not open for exploration. 

Recent visitors found the Longhua Temple peaceful and enjoyed being able to witness locals in worship. Many also strongly recommended visiting during the week, as the weekends bring in the most tourists and can become quite crowded. Travelers who reported visiting at peak days of the week and popular times of the year reported admission prices surging, especially during Chinese New Year. 

Jade Buddha Temple Jade Buddha Temple

One of the city's most popular attractions, the Jade Buddha Temple impresses visitors with its legion of statues. The temple was originally built to house two jade statues brought in from Burma. But over time, its collection of ornate statues grew, subsequently drawing crowds in droves.  While you should definitely pay homage to the jade buddhas, there are other figures that merit your attention. In the Grand Hall, three golden Buddhas represent the incarnations of Buddha (past, present and future), while the Heavenly King Hall features four heavenly kings surrounding more buddhas, acting as divine protectors. There's also the Hall of the Reclining Buddha, which houses the second jade buddha statue, carved from a single piece of white jade. It's also worth noting that the temple is one of Shanghai's few active Buddhist monasteries, so many monks call this place home. 

Recent visitors reported thoroughly enjoying their trip to the Jade Buddha Temple, calling the attraction both tranquil and beautiful. The artwork is awe-inspiring, with many travelers strongly suggesting future visitors take time to admire the uniqueness of the Jade Buddha. Photography of the buddha, however, is prohibited. And keep in mind that the temple does get quite busy, so try to arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds.

Shanghai Maglev Shanghai Maglev

It's simple: The Shanghai Maglev is one of the fastest passenger trains in the world. Traveling at about 270 miles per hour, this train is the adult equivalent of the theme park ride, especially since it is also very convenient. Passengers on board the Shanghai Maglev are blasted between downtown and Pudong International Airport in about 7 minutes. This 18-mile ride is quite a trip. Plus, there's a museum dedicated to exhibiting the history of the train and the engineering feats required to construct it. You'll find the small museum at the Maglev Longyang Road Station, where the train stops in the city. That said, most visitors recommend the train for more practical purposes.

The train operates from 6:45 a.m. to 9:40 p.m. every 20 minutes. A one-way ticket costs 50 yuan (about $8). For more information, consult the Shanghai Maglev's official website .

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Oriental Pearl TV Tower Oriental Pearl TV Tower

As Shanghai's most recognizable landmark, the Oriental Pearl TV Tower occupies a prominent place on the city's landscape. Standing tall in the Pudong district, the structure features one revolving restaurant, three legs, 11 spheres and multiple observatory levels. The most thrilling viewpoints are from the "Space Module" – the highest observation deck, sitting a staggering 1,148 feet above the ground. The Shanghai Municipal History Museum also resides here and merits a quick visit.

Recent visitors found the views from the tower to be simply incredible, but it comes at a cost. Many travelers expressed frustration over the long wait times for buying tickets, being admitted to the attraction and getting to the elevators –  with the average wait time being at least an hour. That being said, some felt the high price wasn't worth it. Though the glass bottom floor at one of the observation levels and the Shanghai Museum were redeeming features for some reviewers. 

Nanjing Road Nanjing Road free

Whether or not you have money to burn, consider visiting Nanjing Road to witness the hustle and bustle of Chinese commerce. The Shanghai equivalent of New York 's Fifth Avenue , Nanjing Road stretches six miles total and boasts retailers from all over the world in addition to local shops and department stores. In the daylight, you'll admire the graceful architecture of the surrounding buildings. At night, you'll marvel at the illuminated logos and brand names that line the avenue.

The main drag has been designated a pedestrian-only street, but that doesn't mean you can ignore traffic. Thousands of shoppers clog this main artery on a regular basis, so come prepared to power through the crowds. And if you are planning to spend some cash, make sure you do so wisely. Recent visitors said they didn't do much shopping because it was difficult to find a bargain. However, travelers were taken by the atmosphere of the lively thoroughfare and recommended going to witness the life of the area for that reason alone (though many strongly cautioned against engaging aggressive hawkers that permeate some parts of the street). Some even said vendors followed them, but not for very long. The best thing to do is to completely ignore them. Prostitution can also be found on Nanjing Road, so it's best not to bring children along. 

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25 Exciting Things to Do in Shanghai — First Timer’s Guide From Must-Dos to Hidden Gems

The best list of things to do in Shanghai beyond just the popular tourist attractions — from soaking in the city skyline to amusement rides at a national park!

First published:  21 Oct 2019

Known as the “Paris of the East”, Shanghai is famous for its seamless blend of the old and new, and the East and the West. And we can easily see why! With traditional Chinese temples alongside towering skyscrapers and modern shopping malls neighbouring small family-owned eateries, Shanghai truly does have it all.

After five days in the city, it’s safe to say that my impression of Shanghai has drastically changed for the better, after visiting for the first time as a kid. The city didn’t leave much of an impression then, but now it’s a sprawling metropolis with so many things to do!

Most Shanghai guides for first-timers only cover the most popular tourist attractions, but that isn’t enough for us travellers hungry for unique local experiences. We want to go beyond that and see what else the city has to offer. 

Besides standard tourist must-sees like The Bund and Shanghai Disneyland , there are many gems within the city you probably don’t know about. Gongqing National Park , for example, is home to activities like rock climbing, horse riding, roller coaster rides and even a zipline!  

Whether you’re an art lover, a thrill-seeker, a shopaholic, a foodie or something in between, there’s something on this all-in-one list of things to do in Shanghai for everyone.

Shanghai Itinerary Map

All 25 things to do on this Shanghai Guide have been pinned out on the google maps below for your convenience. Blue pins indicate must-sees, pink indicates hidden gems, while yellow refers to recommended accommodations!

Read more: Where to Stay in Shanghai — Centrally-located Hostels, Hotels and Apartments Under S$53/pax

Things to Do in Shanghai for First-Timers

1) the bund.

A trip to Shanghai isn’t complete without seeing the city’s most famous boardwalk . With 26 western colonial buildings alongside modern architecture, the bund is the embodiment of East meets West and Old meets New. Check it out especially at night — from 6PM to 10PM, the lights truly bring the skyline to life!

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 24 hours How to get there: Take Shanghai Metro Line 2 until Nanjang Road (E.) Station, then walk 6min ( Google Maps )

2) Shanghai Tower

At 632m high, Shanghai Tower is the second tallest tower in the world. Viewing platforms on the 118th and 119th floors give a city view that’s second to none. The elevators are speedy too — it takes slightly over a minute to reach the top!

Entrance fee: ~S$33/pax   Opening hours: 8:30AM – 9:30PM (Last entry 8:30PM) How to get there: 8min walk from Jin Mao Tower ( Google Maps )

*Pro-tip: Use code <THETRAVELINTERN> on Klook to get 5% off all activities * with a min. spend of S$50 (discount cap at S$15). Apply the promo code when you checkout. One-time use only! (* – see list of excluded activities )

3) Huangpu River Cruise

End your day with a cruise along the Huangpu River — for 45 minutes, you’ll be treated to mesmerising views of the city’s famous skyline featuring the Pearl TV Tower, Shanghai Tower and The Bund. A cool alternative to watching the city skyline!

Entrance fee: ~S$20/pax via Klook Opening hours: 11AM – 9:30PM (last redemption for night cruise: 8PM) How to get there: Varies depending on departure point ( check meet-up information before booking )

*Pro-tip: Arrive early and collect your tickets first to secure your preferred slot!

4) ERA Intersection of Time Acrobatic Show

The acrobatics show by Shanghai Circus World was a truly memorable experience. It combined martial arts, gymnastics, acrobatics and Chinese culture, and the show kept us on the edge of our seats throughout! The performers were doing backflips on stilts and riding motorcycles (there were eight of them!) in a tiny sphere.

Shanghai is famous for its circuses so do check one out when you’re in town!

Cost: From ~S$62/pax via Klook (Area C)  Opening hours: 7:30PM – 9PM  How to get there: 2min walk from Pengpu Park ( Google Maps )

*Pro-tip: Get at least Area C seats for a better view. The theatre forms a semicircle and Area D seats back-face a few of the performances.

5) Shanghai Disneyland

Of course, the happiest place on Earth. Shanghai Disneyland boasts seven different themed zones and is home to the only TRON Lightcycle Rollercoaster in the world (that is until another one recently opened at Florida’s Magic Kingdom in 2023)! It’s one of the fastest Disney coasters, with riders sitting on motorcycles instead of seats. As if you need another reason to visit.

Cost : From ~S$75/pax Opening hours: 8:30AM – 9:30PM, Check the Shanghai Disney Park Calendar as opening hours vary. How to get there: Take Metro Line 11 and get off at Disney Resort Station ( Google Maps )

Read also: Ultimate Shanghai Disneyland Guide — 11 Strategies To Beat the Crowd

6) Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street

Stretching 5.5km from Jing’an Temple to the Bund, Nanjing Road is Shanghai’s version of New York’s Times Square. Modern shopping malls line the street with brands like Sephora and Tiffany & Co. The world’s largest Starbucks is also here, featuring a 27m-long bar!

How to get there: Take Metro Line 2 or 10 until East Nanjing Road Station ( Google Maps ), or Line 2, 12 and 13 until West Nanjing Road Station ( Google Maps )

7) Huanghe Road Food Market

Huanghe Road is a popular food street amongst locals, especially for breakfast. Authentic local restaurants serve up Shanghai favourites like xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), jianbing (a savoury crepe) and noodles at reasonable prices. This street is famous for its dumplings and must-tries include No. 90 Jiajiatangbao and No. 97 Yang’s Dumplings .

Happy bellies at Jiajiatangbao!

Opening hours: 6:30AM – 7:30PM How to get there: Take Metro Line 1, 2 or 8 until People’s Square Station then walk to Huanghe Rd ( Google Maps )

*Pro-tip: Go before 9AM to avoid the morning breakfast crowd.

8) Zhujiajiao Ancient Town

With over 1,700 years of history, Zhujiajiao is one of the most famous ancient towns in China. Known as the Venice of Shanghai, the town features several bridges and waterways.

Fangsheng Bridge , the town’s crown jewel, is a 70m-long bridge with five arches and provides a picturesque backdrop for photos. End your day trip here by trying some of the local delicacies at one of the waterside restaurants!

Opening hours: 8:30AM – 4:30PM How to get there: Take Metro Line 17 and exit at Zhujiajiao Station ( private car charter from Shanghai available )

*Pro-tip: Entrance is free and we recommend starting at the North Gate. Getting to Zhujiajiao via cab from central Shanghai costs ~200RMB and takes an hour. A cheaper alternative is to take the Huzhu Gaosu Kuaixian bus line from the Pu’an Road bus station near People’s Square (also about an hour).

9) Oriental Pearl TV Tower

Arguably the most iconic structure in Shanghai’s skyline, the Oriental Pearl TV Tower sports a 360° clear bottom walkway from 259m high, which gives stunning views of the city.

Entrance fee: From ~S$64/pax (buffet included) Opening hours: 9AM – 9PM (last entry at 8:30PM) How to get there: Ride Metro Line 2 and alight at Lujiazui Station. Take Exit A, then walk 8mins ( Google Maps )

10) Yuyuan Garden & Market, Shanghai Old Street and Chenghuangmiao Temple

These three attractions form the heart of Old Shanghai and is an area you cannot miss when you visit. It’s an extremely lively area with traditional Chinese buildings and food streets selling local snacks. One of the most popular photo spots is the Huxingting Tea House and its accompanying zig-zag bridge (pictured above)!

Entrance fee: 40RMB (~S$7) for Yuyuan Garden , 10RMB (~S$2) for Chenghuangmiao Temple Opening hours: 9AM – 4:30PM, last admission at 4PM (Yuyuan Garden), 8:30AM – 4:30PM (Chenghuangmiao Temple) How to get there: Take Metro Line 10 and exit at Yuyuan Garden Station ( Google Maps )

11) Tianzifang Art District

Tianzifang is easily one of my favourite spots in Shanghai. It’s a trendy, bustling area featuring tons of alley-style shopping streets catered to the younger crowd. Enter by Exit No.3 (Lane 274) to head straight to the main shopping lane! There are also food stalls if you get peckish.

Check out Lane 210 if you’re interested in art — many artists have studios in that area!

Note: This street is a hotspot for pickpockets, so keep watch of your belongings when you visit.

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 24 hours, but most shops close by 10PM How to get there: Take Metro Line 9 and exit at Dapuqiao Station ( Google Maps )

12) Xintiandi Pedestrian Road

For more old Shanghai vibes, the Xintiandi pedestrian street features shikumen (traditional Shanghainese architectural style) buildings reminiscent of the period. While the original exteriors remain, modern shops and restaurants now fill the buildings and breathe new life to the district.

How to get there: Take Metro Line 10 or 13 to Xintiandi Station ( Google Maps )

13) Wukang Lu French Concession

Photo credit: ChinaDaily

Previously known as Ferguson Lane, Wukang Lu lies in Shanghai’s former French concession. The district is one of Shanghai’s most historic and well-known neighbourhoods and has an upscale feel to it! With mostly cafes and restaurants around, you could make this a mid-day stop.

How to get there: 12min walk from Jiaotong University ( Google Maps )

14) Jing’an Temple

Jing’an Temple is one of Shanghai’s oldest Buddhist temples, and amongst the most well-known in the city — the bright gold rooftops easily stand out amongst the surrounding urban architecture from afar. It’s said that if you throw a coin into the cauldron in the centre of the temple, you’ll be blessed with good luck!

Entrance fee: 50RMB (~S$9) Opening hours: 7:30AM – 5PM How to get there: Take Metro Line 2 or 7, and exit at Jing’an Temple Station ( Google Maps )

15) AP Plaza Fake Market

Photo credit: Smart Shanghai

Located under Shanghai’s Science and Technology Museum is the city’s largest “fake” market, AP Plaza . If you’re not too hard-up about original goods, you can find anything and everything from knock-off designer bags and shoes to toys and electronics! Be prepared to bargain hard and leave with some pretty good deals.

Opening hours: 10AM – 8:30PM How to get there: Take Metro Line 2 then exit at Shanghai Science & Technology Museum Station, 2000 Shiji Da Dao, near Yingchun Lu ( Google Maps )

Hidden gems in Shanghai most tourists overlook

16) people’s park marriage market.

A 5-minute walk from Huangheroad Food Street lies People’s Park Marriage Market . The name itself is pretty self-explanatory — parents flock here to find partners for their children. Posters of singles mostly in their 30s are displayed on umbrellas lining the streets — we’re not joking!

Age, education, employment status and details of what they seek in a partner fill up the majority of the descriptions. You’ll find many locals browsing and making note of potential partners for their children. It’s a prime example of how old traditions and customs are still practised to this day!

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 12PM – 5PM, weekends only How to get there: Take Metro Line 1, 2 or 8 and exit at People’s Square Station, then walk 7mins ( Google Maps )

17) Happy Valley Theme Park

Happy Valley in Beijing

This amusement park is a real hidden gem. While we didn’t visit Happy Valley Shanghai , we spent an entire day at the Beijing branch and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.

The Shanghai park is also one and a half times the size of its Beijing counterpart! With seven themed areas boasting over 100 attractions, you can easily spend an entire day there.

Entrance fee: From ~S$55/pax via Klook Opening hours: 10AM – 4:30PM (Mon – Fri), 10AM – 6:30PM (Sat – Sun) How to get there: Take Subway Line 7 to Beijing Happy Valley Station, then walk 13mins ( Google Maps )

18) Disc Go-karting Club

Drinking and driving is illegal but at Disc Go-karting Club , it’s encouraged. The first thing you’ll notice when you walk in is the bar overlooking the racecourse.

One race consists of eight laps and features sharp twists and turns that’ll make you feel like the star of a Fast and Furious movie! If you’re looking for an alternative to the usual bars and clubs for a night out, give this a try.

Cost: From 100RMB (~S$19) Opening hours: 1PM – 1AM  How to get there: 8min walk from Changfeng Park ( Google Maps )

19) Jump360 Trampoline Park

Jump360 owns some of the largest trampoline parks in China. There are two branches in Shanghai and we visited the smaller branch closer to the city centre. But at 5,550 square metres, even the smaller one ain’t too shabby (we spent a good 2 hours)!

The super fun ninja warrior obstacle course, volleyball trampoline court and zip-line all brought out the inner child in us, and it’s one heck of a workout too. The best part? We went on a Monday afternoon and had the entire park to ourselves. Score!

Cost: From 118RMB/hour (~S$22) Opening hours: 10AM – 9PM  How to get there: 17min walk from NGS Shopping Mall ( Google Maps )

* Pro-tip: Grip socks are compulsory and are sold at 10RMB. Bring your own if you have a pair to save money.

20) RIINK Rollerskating Rink

Photo credit: Brandon Mcghee via SmartShanghai

Old souls who dig all things old school will love the RIINK Rollerstaking Rink . With neon lights and retro 80s vibes, this place transports you to the era of Earth, Wind & Fire and The Bee Gees. Cocktails go for ~50RMB and the music here is bangin’. Need I say more?

Cost: 158RMB for skate rental, drink and snack (~S$29) Opening hours: 5PM – 1AM How to get there: Take Metro Line 4 or 12 to Damuqiao Road Station, then walk 19mins ( Google Maps )

21) 1933 Old Millfun

Formerly a cattle slaughterhouse, 1933 Old Millfun is now a trendy arts complex housing art galleries, cafes and offices. This unique labyrinth-like building is the last of its design, making it a famous Instagram spot!

Explore the building’s unique bridges and umbrella-like columns, or simply grab a cuppa and recharge.

*Pro-tip: Take the best photos from the third floor! The vantage point really showcases the angular structures (and wear bright colours to stand out from the concrete too).

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 9AM – 10PM  How to get there: Take Metro Line 4 to Hailun Station, then walk 9mins ( Google Maps )

22) Moganshan Art District

Photo credit: @partyismyhome via Instagram

50 Moganshan Road (M50 for short) is Shanghai’s version of Beijing’s 798 Art District . Formerly a textile mill, M50 is now home to over 130 art galleries, craft workshops, graphic design studios and other businesses. It’s a great place to soak in the city’s street art and creative atmosphere!

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: Most galleries open 10AM – 7PM, and close on Mon How to get there: Take Subway Line 1, 3 or 4 to Shanghai Railway Station, then walk 20mins ( Google Maps )

23) West Bund & Xuhui Riverside Park

The Bund is well-known as a viewing space for the city skyline, but few know of the public recreation and art space further down the Huangpu River. West Bund offers free outdoor facilities including a running track, climbing wall and skate park! People of all ages come to enjoy the scenery and engage in sports like skateboarding and jogging.

West Bund’s Long Museum

Art and culture institutions have popped up in recent years to form the largest art zone in Asia. Part of the city’s plan is to further develop West Bund into a high-quality downtown public space comparable to London’s South Bank, so expect more upgrades over the next few years.

Entrance fee: Free (except for some museums) Opening hours:  24 hours How to get there: Take Metro Line 11 to Yunjin Road Station ( Google Maps )

24) Gongqing National Forest Park

Trust me when I say Gongqing Park trumps all other parks. Amusement rides, rock climbing, go-karting, horseback riding and air-gun shooting are just some of the activities you can actually do here!

But if you’re looking to just relax, the park offers plenty of open spaces perfect for picnicking and flying kites. The main entrance is located at the west gate; head right to get to the main activities area (10 – 40RMB per activity).

Entrance fee: 15RMB (~S$3) Opening hours: 6AM – 4:30PM  How to get there:  Take Metro Line 8 and exit at Shiguang Lu Station. Then, take a cab or walk ~30mins ( Google Maps )

25) Propaganda Poster Art Centre

Photo credit: AirFrance

The one-of-a-kind Shanghai Propaganda Poster Art Centre hosts a massive collection of original posters from the Mao Zedong period! It showcases changes in China’s propaganda over the years and is a cool, visual way of learning the country’s history.

Entrance fee: 25RMB (~S$5) Opening hours: 10AM – 5PM How to get there: Take Metro Line 1 or 7 to Changshu Road Station then walk 18min ( Google Maps )

Pre-trip Essentials

Here’s some extra information to help plan your Shanghai trip:

Best time to visit: Avoid national holidays. Not only does it get extra crowded, some attractions close for the holidays too. Key holidays include Chinese New Year, Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day Golden Week. Check exact dates here as they vary every year.

Connectivity: Book a 4G eSIM online (from ~S$11) with different validity periods and package options. To access sites like Google and Instagram, you’ll have to download a VPN app like VPN Proxy Master .

Read also: 10 Essential Apps You Must Have for Travelling in China

Flights: Secure your flights early at the best prices! Check for your date of travel using this nifty widget:

If you can’t see the widget above, click here to check flights from Singapore to Shanghai instead!

Getting around Shanghai

Walking: Because of the location of our hostel, we could walk to many places. Google Maps was pretty accurate and helped a lot.

Metro: Shanghai’s metro system is cheap, efficient and easy to navigate. Download the free Shanghai Metro App to plan your routes. It’s in English and shows which lines to take and the estimated journey time. Tickets can be purchased easily at metro kiosks using cash. Note: only small change is accepted.

Cab: Didi is China’s version of Uber. It’s a convenient way of getting around and the auto-translation feature makes it easy for foreigners to communicate with drivers. Both card and cash payment options are available.

Where to Stay in Shanghai

Our hostel, The Pheonix Hostel Shanghai was within walking distance from The Bund, Yuyuan Gardens and Xintiandi. It’s also a short walk from Dashijie Metro Station (Line 8) and People’s Square Metro Station (Lines 2 and 8)!

While it may not be the cheapest around, its prime location in the heart of the city makes it an excellent base for exploring Shanghai. Several restaurants and convenience stores are also located right at your doorstep.

Cost: From 417RMB/night (~S$79 for 1 pax) How to get there: 11min walk from People’s Square ( Google Maps )

Pre-book Shanghai activities

Shanghai is a lively city with an endless amount of things to do. Give me a week there and I’ll easily pack each day to the brim. One thing that kept our itinerary organised and fuss-free was pre-booking our tickets whenever we could!

We purchased tickets for attractions like the Huangpu River Cruise , Shanghai Tower and ERA Intersection of Time Acrobatic Show conveniently on Klook , which made everything scan-and-go with QR codes.

This makes getting around so much easier, especially if you aren’t fluent in Mandarin (myself included). Some attractions do need you to collect physical tickets at the counter, but similarly, you just have to show them your booking receipt and there shouldn’t be any problems!

How many in this list of things to do in Shanghai do you want to try? Let us know in the comments!

This post was brought to you by  Klook .

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The Top 10 Must-Visit Tourist Attractions in Shanghai (+ Visa Info for China)

Shanghai, China’s electrifying megalopolis on the eastern shore, is a heady blend of age-old traditions and razor-sharp modernity. As one of the most highly populated cities in the world and a global financial capital, Shanghai entices adventurers with its high-rise skyscrapers, picturesque neighborhoods, tantalizing gastronomy, and flourishing cultural scene. Regardless if you are smitten by the city’s famous skyline, dreamy water towns, or spirited wet markets, Shanghai presents a bounty of tourist gems. In the following detailed tourist attraction guide, you will take a closer look at Shanghai’s best 10 places to see and a review of the visa you would need before embarking on this trip to China.

Table of Contents

Here are the 10 Must-Visit Tourist Attractions in Shanghai, China

#1 The Bund

Today, the Bund is a testament to Shanghai’s diverse past and rapid growth. The waterfront promenade, located adjacent to the Huangpu River, is a wonderful blend of architectural aesthetics – grand, colonial-style structures juxtaposed with futuristic skyscrapers. Visitors are encouraged to stroll the Bund’s walkway, past the world-famous Peace Hotel, Customs House and other landmarks. At night, the waterfront dazzles with lights, bringing the story of Shanghai’s past and future to life.

#2 Oriental Pearl Tower

The Oriental Pearl Tower stands majestically above the Pudong skyline and is one of Shanghai’s most iconic structures. This futuristic tower is home to an observation deck with spectacular panoramic views, providing breathtaking views of the city. They are areas where guests can take an elevator to the top of the tower to view the stunning Huangpu River, the Bund and more from a distance. A museum that chronicles Shanghai’s past and present is located inside the tower, and a revolving restaurant guarantees a memorable dining experience.

#3 Yu Garden

Escape the busy streets of Shanghai and relax in a peaceful paradise at Yu Garden. Built during the Ming Dynasty, this classical Chinese garden is an excellent representation of traditional garden design and architecture. Stroll through winding corridors, tranquil ponds and exquisitely crafted rockeries adorned with ancient sculptures. Admire the stunning pavilions, assembly halls and square yards decorated with floral carvings and vibrant ceramic tiles. Yu Garden offers a tranquil sanctuary to experience the beauty of Chinese culture and history.

#4 Shanghai Disneyland

Shanghai Disneyland is a dream vacation for families and Disney fans. Located in the Pudong New Area, the park features various Disney mega rides and themed lands, offering magic-filled entertainment and activities. Shanghai Disneyland certainly brings the magic – from adrenaline-pumping rides like Pirates of the Caribbean to fairy tale Disney characters roaming the streets. At the end of the day, fireworks shows are nothing but magic; It’s breathtaking.

#5 Nanjing Road

Spend the day strolling down Nanjing Road, one of the busiest and lively shopping streets in the world. With a total length of over five kilometres, this shopper’s paradise is filled with department stores, high-end boutiques, Chinese craft stores and contemporary malls. From huge designer shops to street vendors, you can find everything you need in terms of goods and price. Grab some street snacks while enjoying the lively atmosphere and feeling the heartbeat of Shanghai’s business district.

#6 Tianzifang

Tianzifang is also worth a visit if you don’t desire the more sophisticated atmosphere of Xintiandi. Explore this strange and chaotic maze of narrow streets in the former French Concession. Tianzifang is a dreamland for artists, designers and millions of people, with a diverse selection of shops, art galleries, cafes and bars. Spend an hour wandering the maze-like streets of formerly restored Shikumen-style residences painted with intriguing murals and off-the-wall artworks. Shop around for exclusive craft products, have a tipple at the artisan café or sip a handcrafted beer while enjoying the atmosphere.

#7 Shanghai Museum

The Shanghai Museum has a wonderful collection of art and objects that reflect the history of China’s civilization. This prestigious institution preserves thousands of years of history in its exquisite treasures of bronzes, ceramics and sculptures. It is also home to exquisite vases and ceramic vessels, ancient Chinese ceremonial objects and exquisite carvings of jade among various sculptures and paintings. Wander the vast galleries of the Shanghai Museum and admire awe-inspiring masterpieces ranging from the Neolithic Age to the Qing Dynasty. Some important features include Bronze Age collections, Chinese ceramics and Hindu sculptures.

#8 Jin Mao Tower

From here, climb to the top of Jin Mao Tower, a massive building located in Shanghai’s Lujiazui business district. Standing at a height of over 420 metres, this architectural marvel offers a panoramic view of the city skyline from its observation deck. The observation deck of the tower is best reached by high-speed elevator, and from the top, the surrounding landscape allows you to see the Oriental Pearl Tower and the Shanghai World Financial Center. You can also go shopping at the tower’s luxury mall and enjoy exquisite dining at the local top floor restaurants.

#9 Shanghai World Financial Center

The Shanghai World Financial Center is a massive high-rise building in the Lujiazui skyline, rising more than 490 meters. The building has an observation deck located high on the 100th floor, offering incomparable views of Shanghai and neighboring areas. Stand there and look out over the city, the Huangpu River flowing like a silver life vein through the forest. Inside, you will find office suites for prestigious firms, big brand hotels and luxury shopping destinations.

#10 Zhujiajiao Water Town

Escape from the busy city life and step into the past with a day trip to Zhujiajiao Water Town, a quaint ancient village located on the outskirts of Shanghai. Known as the “Venice of the East,” this delightful water city features winding waterways, stone bridges, and beautifully preserved Ming and Qing dynasty homes. Wander the narrow streets filled with unique shops, teahouses and old temples. Additionally, enjoy a relaxing boat trip on delightful waterways, enjoying rural Chinese tranquility and natural beauty.

Visa Information for China

However, before departing for Shanghai, you should be familiar with the visa requirements and the process of obtaining it. Depending on your nationality and the purpose of your visit, you may need a Chinese tourist visa . Below you can find a comprehensive guide for your Chinese visa requirements.

Types of Visa: Tourist visas are usually single or multiple-entry visas that allow a person to stay in China for a fixed period of time ranging from 30 to 90 days depending on the state. For example, a common tourist visa is the L visa.

Required documents: The general materials that need to be presented when applying for a Chinese tourist visa are a passport with six months validity before expiry and a small-sized photograph attached, recent passport-sized photograph, round-trip ticket, booking With a completed visa application. In a hotel, and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.

Submit your application: The application for a Chinese tourist visa can be handed over to the nearest Chinese embassy or consulate in your country of origin. In addition, this document can be submitted through designated visa centers and online services depending on the national policy regulating visa issues. 

Pay the fee: Your visa payment depends on the nationality, duration and type of your visa and the time it takes to issue it. Consult with the Chinese Consulate or Embassy to learn about their fees and means of payment. 

Attend an interview: In some cases you may be called for an interview to maintain your visa application. Be prepared to answer questions from the Consulate regarding your return home and your residence in China.

Shanghai, A city as vibrant and alive as the sky under the rising sun. A city that was, in fact, based on many different living themes and a vast and populous orchestra playing over many centuries and even millennia. 

In fact, Shanghai is known for its destroyed and resurrected ancient cities, so many that their foundations rest on thousands of prayer stones. Planton, 3002. The veins of Shanghai flow with the blood of ancient people, meet, cross, intertwine. Shanghai is a city that cannot be described: it has to be seen with your own eyes. City of love, happiness, pain. The city of endless dreams, but perhaps only because it takes a lot of time to explore all its hidden secrets. 

It is not without reason that Shanghai has become a must-see destination for millions of tourists every year. For all cities within a single city, Shanghai is, in a way, one giant spectacle. From old to new, from ancient temples and stone bridges to futuristic skyscrapers and the Oriental Pearl Tower – this place has it all, and it’s all stitched together in a strange harmony. In fact, it is impossible to tell where to start exploring Shanghai, as it can all be considered the center of this universe of wonders.

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Top 10 Attractions

Tongli water town.

Located in Suzhou, Tongli Water Town is only around 100 kilometers away from Shanghai. Although it is not a part of Shanghai, the water town became the most popular day-trip attraction for people who live in Shanghai in recent years. It takes only around 1.5 hours to go to the Tongli Water Town by car or bus and there are less tourists there than most other attractions. People in Shanghai can touch the authentic water town culture in a very convenient way. The Tuisi Garden in the Tongli Water Town is a world heritage listed by the UNESCO, so tourists can enjoy the garden and water town cultures at the same time in Tongli. Learn about Tongli Culture>>

Sighboard Bridge in Tongli Water Town

Oriental Pearl TV Tower

The 468 meters high tower, which is the highest in Asia and the third highest in the world, was put into construction on July 30th, 1991 and completed on october 1st, 1994. it faces the bund across the Huangpu River. With eleven steel spheres in various sizes Hanging from the blue sky to the green grassland, the body of the tower creates and admirable image, which is described in an ancient chinese verse as: large and small pearls dropping on a plate of jade. Ascend the Tower >>

The bund, which extends from Jinling Road in the south to the Waibaidu Bridge in the north, is a 1.5-kilometer-long boulevard on the western bank of the Huangpu River. Walking along Zhongshan Road, not only can visitors enjoy the scenery of Huangpu River but have a glimpse of the development of Lujiazui district on the other side. The architecture along the bund is unanimously honored as a "world architectural fair". Stroll on the Bund >>

Night View of the Bund

Yuyuan Garden

Yuyuan Garden was first established in Ming Dynasty by Pan yunduan who used to be the governor of Sichuan and later expanded greatly. Yuyuan Garden was considered the best garden in southeast China. It enjoys a history of over 400 years since its first establishment by Pan yunduan who had intended to bring happiness and pleasure to his parents and relatives. Enter the Garden>>

Shanghai Disney Resort

Opened in June, 2016, the Shanghai Disney Resort is the first Disney theme park in China mainland. The colorful decoration and top technology make the resort one of the most popular destinations for couples and kids in China. Almost all characters in the Disney cartoons can be found in the resort. They become even more attractive when combined with the light and shadow effects. Exlplore Fairyland>>

Shanghai Tower

The design of the Shanghai Tower was confirmed in 2006. Its construction was finished in 2014. And it has been open to tourists since January, 2017. Sitting 632 meters (2,074 feet) above the ground, the Shanghai Tower is the highest building in China and the second highest in the world. Enjoy the new skyline of Shanghai>>

World Financial Center

The Shanghai World Financial Center is a super tall skyscraper. It is a mixed use skyscraper, which will consist of offices, hotels, conference rooms, observation decks, and shopping malls on the lower floors. The hotel component has 175 rooms and suites and goes by the name: The Park Hyatt, Shanghai. On September 14, 2007, the skyscraper reached 492.3 meters (1,615.2 ft) and became the tallest structure on mainland China. See More >>

Xintiandi is located downtown nestled between the towering skyscrapers. Tt is one of the busiest urban tourist attractions and imbued with the city's historical and cultural legacies. Shanghai Xintiandi's Shikumen building was created by converting residential blocks into a multifunctional dining, retail and entertainment center flowing with restaurants, boutiques, cafes and bars of an international standard. See More Xintiandi Fashion >>

French Concession Region

The French Concession is an area of Shanghai once designated for the French colonialists and consists of today's Luwan and Xuhui Districts. It is said that the charm of Shanghai lies in the old street and neighborhoods that make up the former French Concession. It is a great area to explore, from the old European buildings in shady avenues to the cafes and restaurants and upmarket shopping area in Huaihu Road. You will find fashionable boutiques selling everything from designer handbags to pricey silks. Step into History and Elegance >>

Former French Concession

Zhujiajiao Water Town

Zhujiajiao is the best-preserved ancient water town among the four ancient towns in Shanghai with a history of 1700 years. In the period of the Three Kingdoms there were already country fairs in Zhujiajiao and the business prospered in the Ming Dynasty. Now Zhujiajiao is a graceful and quiet town. walking on the zigzag stone pathway and the winding long lanes, you would feel like walking in an elegant and fresh painting. What to See in Zhujiajiao >>

Top Tour Packages

Suzhou and Tongli Water Town Day Tour from Shanghai

For travelers with limited time, this is a perfect option to visit the essence of Suzhou gardens and a water town in a short time.

Tongli Water Town Tour from Shanghai

This day tour includes private pickup and drop-off from Shanghai with a private local guide and a driver. Visit eseence of Tongli and enjoy a boat ride along the ancient canal.

5-Day Shanghai, Suzhou and Tongli Combo by Bullet Train

This package tour covers must-see and must-do in Shanghai, Suzhou and Tongli. Accommodation, breakfasts and lunches are well arranged. A private local guide will lead you to know the area deeper in an interesting way.

Our local experts are always ready to create you a hassle-free tour. Get an authentic experience by contacting one of our specialists.

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Top 15 tourist attractions you can't miss in Shanghai

TOP 1 Shanghai Disney Resort

Top 2 oriental pearl radio & television tower, top 3 shanghai wild animal park, top 4 shanghai haichang ocean park, top 5 shanghai happy valley, top 6 shanghai ocean aquarium, top 7 the bund, top 8 shanghai science and technology museu, top 9 top of shanghai observatory, top 10 shanghai world financial center, top 11 madame tussauds shanghai, top 12 yu garden, top 13 shanghai natural history museum, top 14 shanghai zoo, top 15 changfeng ocean world, public security, food & water safety, sustainability.

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Shanghai also known as the Pearl of the Orient, is well known for being full of vibrant energy, as well as China's financial hub. What was once the ten-mile Shanghai International Settlement, established by the British in conjunction with Americans and French living along the Huangpu River in present-day Puxi, the metropolis currently develops and changes every day.

There are historical and cultural architectural wonders lining the Bund and Xintiandi, as well as fashionable attractions in Pudong, such as the Oriental Pearl TV Tower and Shanghai Disneyland Resort. Young creative souls can go to the Former French Concession’s Tianzifang and 1933 Laoyangfang (a former slaughterhouse turned into unique shops and art galleries) to experience what the area was once like centuries ago. The fashionable can walk up and down Nanjing Xi Shopping Street to their hearts’ content. Foodies can go to the Chenghuang (City God) Temple in the Yu Garden complex to try Shanghai delicacies. Shanghai is a multifaceted place no one will regret visiting.

As the first Disney resort in mainland China, Shanghai Disney Resort is a world-class family entertainment destination. It features Shanghai Disneyland Park, an entertainment district, two themed hotels, recreational facilities, a lake, and associated transportation hubs. One unique aspect about Shanghai Disney is the way the park incorporates Chinese tastes into its design. With plenty to do and fun for people of all ages, the Shanghai Disney Resort is certainly one of the city’s premiere attractions.

The Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower is arguably the most recognizable feature on Shanghai’s skyline. Situated across the Huangpu River from the Bund, the Oriental Pearl tower stands 468 m to the top of its antenna spire. Completed in 1994, it has come to symbolize China’s modernization and emergence on the global scene. Visitors travel up and down the Oriental Pearl Tower in double-decker elevators that can hold up to fifty people. Located on the tower’s lower levels is the Shanghai Municipal History Museum. Given its iconic status, this is certainly a can’t-miss attraction.

Opened in 1995, the Shanghai Wild Animal Park was one of the first AAAAA (highest-rated) tourist attractions in China. Visitors can see more than 10,000 exotic animals, most of which are rare wildlife, including giant pandas, snub-nosed monkeys, takins, crested ibis, giraffes, zebras, antelopes, white rhinos, and cheetahs. The park is divided into drive-through and pedestrian areas. The drive-through portions are modeled on safari parks where animals roam through natural habitats. Another popular attraction is the park’s tiger feeding pen where you can witness up close giant tigers. With lots to see and do, the Shanghai Wild Animal Park is fun for people of all ages.

Shanghai Happy Valley is a large-scale theme park located in the Songjiang district of Shanghai, about 40 km west of the city center. It includes seven themed areas: Sunshine Harbour, Happy Times, Hurricane Bay, Gold Mine, Happy Ocean, Shanghai Beach, and Shangri-La. Happy Valley features many thrilling rides, circus shows and parades, and even a Mayan Carnival. The park is great for kids and makes for an enjoyable outing. With plenty of thrilling rides, adults also have much to enjoy from a day spent at Happy Valley.

The Shanghai Ocean Aquarium is located in the bustling Lujiazui section of Pudong, Shanghai. Located near the Oriental Pearl Tower, the aquarium exhibits a wide variety of marine life. The Aquarium's 168 m underwater tunnel is a central attraction and provides visitors the chance to explore several, distinct aquatic environments. The many animal species on display include spotted seals, Antarctic penguins, giant salamanders, and Chinese alligators, not to mention such aquarium treasures as weedy seadragons and zebra sharks.

Arguably Shanghai's most-famous tourist attraction, the Bund is a waterfront promenade and famous business district in central Shanghai. Historically, the Bund was the city’s main financial and trading center, and was located within the Shanghai International Settlement, an area under nominal British control between 1843 and 1941. The walking areas extend roughly 1.6 km along the west bank of the Huangpu River. Owing to its historic status and zoning restrictions, the Bund contains fantastic examples of classic Shanghai architecture. For this reason, it is a popular spot for photography, offering the best views across the river to Shanghai’s modern skyline in Lujiazui. No visit to Shanghai would be complete without a visit to the Bund.

Located near Century Park, the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum (SSTM) is the city’s premiere museum dedicated to enhancing public awareness of and engagement with science and technology. The museum’s large collection covers everything from geology and plate tectonics to space exploration and human health. With many interactive features, SSTM is a great destination for families with young children. No matter who you are, there is something to spark your curiosity. You won’t regret spending a few hours exploring this vast museum.

The Top of Shanghai Observatory is the observation desk in the Shanghai Tower, the world's second tallest building. Located in the Lujiazui section of Pudong, the Top of Shanghai Observatory is currently the world's tallest observation desk. Visitors can rocket up the 118 floors in elevators that travel 74 km/h! You will then enjoy stunning views of Shanghai from the 360-degree observation deck. On clear days it's nothing short of breathtaking. Access to the observation desk includes entry to the Top of Shanghai Exhibition Hall featuring information about the planning and construction of Shanghai Tower. Shutter bugs won't want to miss the chance to snap some truly memorable photos.

The Shanghai World Financial Center (SWFC) is a skyscraper located in the Pudong area of Shanghai. Having a total of 101 floors and a height of 492 m, it is the second tallest skyscraper in Shanghai, and is similar in shape to a bottle opener. The 100th floor features a sightseeing hall where, on a clear day, you get a fantastic view of the whole city. The observation desk also boasts a 55 m long glass floor, providing a sunning look at the scenery below. When conditions are right, it can feel like you're walking in the clouds. The SWFC has been lauded for its design, and in 2008 it was named by architects as the year's best-completed skyscraper.

Madame Tussauds Shanghai has become famous throughout the world for its lifelike wax figures. As only the second Madame Tussauds located in Asia, the museum features uncannily lifelike reproductions of nearly 80 celebrities, including Yao Ming, Jackie Chan, David Beckham, Tom Cruise, Michael Jordan, and Bill Clinton. Each figurine is elaborately made in a London studio with more than 200 years of wax making experience. By incorporating new technologies into the figurines, Madame Tussauds Shanghai is able to offer visitors a more immersive experience. Certainly this particular museum lives up to the reputation Madame Tussauds has garnered throughout the world.

Yu Garden is located in central Shanghai’s Huangpu District, on a spot within the boundaries of former Old City. It is the only classic Chinese garden in the downtown area and was once a private garden for Ming Dynasty officials. The garden covers roughly two hectares and contains various rambling pathways, hidden pavilions, and classic flora. It is a good place to escape the bustling modern city outside. Take note of the hundreds of plaques and inscriptions written by well-known individuals, as well as the park’s collection of stone carvings. Yuyuan Bazaar, located nearby, is good to browse for antiques and souvenirs.

Shanghai Natural History Museum is located in Jing'an Sculpture Park. The museum is housed in a purpose-built space designed to resemble a nautilus shell. Natural elements are depicted across the building’s façades. The 44,517 square meter exhibit space offers visitors the opportunity to explore the natural world. On display are more than 10,000 artifacts from all seven continents. Visitors can learn about the history of the development of the universe, observe various animals, and excavate fossils with their own hands. The Shanghai Natural History Museum is an excellent choice for a family outing.

Located near Hongqiao Airport, Shanghai Zoo is a modern metropolitan zoological garden featuring more than 6,000 animals in additional to various plant life. Species native to China include giant pandas, golden snub-nosed monkeys, lions, South China tigers, hoopoe, black bulbuls, scimitar-horned oryx, great hornbills, and Bactrian camels. With its convenient location and visitor-friendly design, the Shanghai Zoo provides a fun outing for the entire family.

Changfeng Ocean World is a marine aquarium located in Shanghai's Changfeng Park. When it opened in 1999, it was China's first large-scale aquatic museum and exhibition. Interestingly, the aquarium's main building is located 13 m below Yin Chu Lake. The star attraction is undoubtedly the beluga whale and sea lion performance hall. Changfeng Ocean World is a great place for children to come in close contact with nature and marine life. The interactive displays are informative and user-friendly. It is a superb destination for families to visit while on holiday.

Local Lifestyle of Shanghai

Shanghai is one of the safest cities in China, where violent crime is rare, and streets are safe to walk about at night.

Tap water in Shanghai is safe for teeth brushing, but not safe for consumption, unless boiled. Bottled water is widely available in all convenience stores, supermarkets, and dining areas.

Chinese Yuan (元/¥), otherwise known as Renminbi (RMB)

Religion is not widely practiced in Shanghai, but you'll find Buddhist temples, Protestant and Catholic churches, and mosques around the city.

Modern day Shanghai fuses Western cultures with the local Wuyue culture.

Since 2018, the local Shanghainese government has stepped up their environmental protection efforts. To date, most hotels in Shanghai have stopped providing disposable toiletries, most vehicles are electric, and the use of plastic bags and containers have been banned.

😉 Read more:

1. The Bund: Shanghai Landmarks

2. A Guide to Shanghai Suburbs

3. A Planning Guide to The Shanghai Disney Resort

4. Best Travel Guide to Shanghai Museum

5. Shanghai Travel Guide: What to Know Before You Visit Shanghai

6. Shanghai Nightlife: 8 Best Things to Do Besides Clubs in Shanghai

7. Shanghai's 7 Most Beautiful Street: Locals' Guide

8. Go and Check Shanghai Modern Skyline with Bird's Eye View

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Here are some of the best places to visit in shanghai:.

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Oriental Pearl Tower

The construction of the Oriental Pearl Tower was completed in 1995 and it is the second tallest tower in China. This tower is surrounded by Yangpu Bridge and Nanpu Bridge, creating an amazing view of twin dragons playing with pearls. The unique architecture of this TV and radio tower makes it one of the most attractive places in Shanghai. It is surrounded by green grassland on all sides, making it even more photographic. You can travel up and down the tower in its double-decker elevator and enjoy the view from any of its six observation decks. Location: 1 Century Ave, Lu Jia Zui, Pudong, Shanghai, China Entry Fee: 120 CNY onwards per head Timings: 8 AM to 9:30 PM

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Shanghai Attractions: 10 Famous Places to Visit in Shanghai

No visit to Shanghai is complete without exploring the famous Shanghai attractions. Shanghai , one of the top destinations in China , is a city that truly encapsulates the essence of modernity and cultural fusion. With its towering skyscrapers, historical landmarks, and vibrant atmosphere, Shanghai offers a unique and captivating travel experience. Join us to explore the top places to visit in Shanghai .

To make the most of your visit, it's recommended to allocate at least one or two days , or even more, to explore Shanghai tourist attractions . Here are some highlights to consider:

(1) Immerse yourself in the charm of the banks of the Huangpu River , which encompass iconic sights such as the Bund and Lujiazui . Here, you'll witness the juxtaposition of historic architecture and futuristic skyscrapers, creating a mesmerizing skyline.

(2) Explore the old town, home to the renowned Yu Garden . This classical Chinese garden will transport you to a world of tranquility and beauty, with its intricate pavilions, rockeries, and serene landscaping.

(3) Venture into the French Concession , which includes vibrant areas like Xintiandi and Tianzifang , as well as the picturesque Wukang Road . Experience European elegance as you stroll through its tree-lined streets, discover charming boutiques, and savor delicious cuisine.

(4) If you're looking for a change of scenery, travel beyond downtown Shanghai to explore the exquisite water towns nearby. Lose yourself in the enchanting ambiance of ancient bridges, canals, and traditional architecture that will transport you back in time. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the magic of Shanghai Disneyland Park , a whimsical destination that delights visitors of all ages.

Shanghai is a city that seamlessly blends tradition and modernity, offering a kaleidoscope of experiences for you. From its futuristic skyline and historical landmarks to its diverse culinary scene and vibrant nightlife, Shanghai promises an unforgettable journey that will leave you in awe of its dynamic charm. Prepare to be swept away by the TOP 10 Shanghai Tourist Attractions that the city has to offer.

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No.1 The Bund - A Symbol of Shanghai’s Rich History and Modern Fashion

The Bund in Shanghai stretches approximately 1.5 kilometers , starting from Waibaidu Bridge in the north and extending to Yan'an East Road in the south. It is the most famous tourist destination in Shanghai which allows visitors to experience the fast-developing history of China.

The Bund itself is free to visit , but some buildings require admission tickets , such as Bund 22, Bank of China Tower, and Pudong Development Bank Tower. The best time to visit the Bund is from 6 to 9 PM , and it is recommended to allocate 2 to 3 hours for the evening tour.

The Bund Light Show typically concludes around 10 PM in the evening, although during holidays and special occasions, the display may be extended until 11 PM.

What to See at The Bund?

The Huangpu River winds through the city center, with the east side featuring the renowned " Bund International Architecture Museum ", a witness to the historical development of old Shanghai. On the west side, there are iconic modern skyscrapers of Shanghai , representing the achievements of China's modernization and reform.

During the daytime, the Bund in Shanghai exudes a solemn and majestic atmosphere. However, as night falls and the lights illuminate, it undergoes a stunning transformation, shining brightly like a dazzling star under the spotlight.

Best Things to Do at The Bund

Strolling along The Bund is simply one of the things any visitor to Shanghai must do. Immerse yourself in the vibrant crowd of the Bund , where you can leisurely appreciate the grandeur of the buildings. Feel the energy and excitement exuded by tourists as you wander aimlessly. For a more in-depth experience, choose some specific buildings that intrigue you and embark on a journey to unravel their mysteries.

Meanwhile, taking a Huangpu River Cruise provides another unique experience when visiting the Bund . Not only does it allow visitors to avoid the crowded promenade, but it also offers an exclusive view of both banks. Especially when the daylight fades, the skyline comes alive with vibrant lights.

Classic Shanghai Day Tour - A Glimpse of China's Magic City 2 Days Shanghai Highlights Tour with the Bund, Skylines & City Walk Experience

No.2 Yu Garden - An Outstanding Representation of Jiangnan Classical Garden

Yu Garden (豫园) , also known as the Yuyuan Garden, is a famous classical Chinese garden located beside the City God Temple in Huangpu District in the heart of Shanghai . Originally built during the Ming Dynasty, this private garden has a history of over 450 years.

Due to its proximity of only 1 kilometer to the Bund in Shanghai, Yu Garden has also become one of the must-visit attractions in Shanghai .

Yuyuan Garden

Ticket : 40 Yuan

Open time : 9 am - 16:30 pm. Closed every Monday

Recommend visiting hours : 1 hour

Yuyuan Garden features a diverse array of elaborate pavilions, intricate rockeries, and lush greenery. It is considered one of the finest examples of traditional Chinese garden design. The true treasure of Yuyuan is the Exquisite Jade Rock , one of the three most famous rockeries in South China.

Yuyuan Bazaar

Ticket : Free

Open time: 9 am - 23:00 pm.

Recommend visiting hours: 1 hour

Yuyuan Bazaar is next to Yu Garden , with beautiful Chinese-style architecture and design and lots of small and delicate shops selling souvenirs and local snacks .

The most popular local snacks are Yangchun noodles , steamed stuffed buns, crispy fried cakes, and chopped rice cakes. You can also buy jewelry, silk, antiques, arts, and crafts, and other souvenirs with local characteristics.

Old City God Temple

Ticket : 10 Yuan

The City God Temple of Shanghai , also known as Chenghuangmiao(城隍庙), is a historic Taoist temple located next to the Yu Garden in the heart of Shanghai . Dating back to the Ming Dynasty, it is dedicated to the deity of the city's guardian. The temple complex consists of multiple halls, courtyards, and gardens, showcasing traditional Chinese architecture and intricate sculptures. The temple is not only a religious site but also a popular tourist destination, offering a glimpse into Shanghai's cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the vibrant surrounding area filled with shops, restaurants, and traditional craft stalls, creating a lively and bustling atmosphere.

Shanghai City Tour - Shore Excursion from Shanghai International Port Shanghai Layover Tour - Flexible to Explore Highlights of Shanghai

No.3 Shanghai Museums - Know Shanghai In-depth through Cultural Relics

Shanghai is home to numerous museums where visitors can gain a concise and rapid understanding of the history and present of not only Shanghai but also China .

Shanghai Museum

Location: 201 Renmin Avenue, Huangpu District, Close to Shanghai People's Square

Ticket : Free, Reservation required

Open Time: 9 am - 17:00 pm. Closed every Monday

Recommend Visiting Hours : 2 hours

The Shanghai Museum was established in 1952 and is considered one of the four major museums in China , along with the Palace Museum (Forbidden City), Shaanxi History Museum, and Nanjing Museum. The museum is widely recognized for its collection of exquisite ancient Chinese artworks and is referred to as the " Half of the Artifacts Realm " in the Chinese cultural heritage field. The museum housed a total of 1,020,220 pieces/sets of collections. Among the collections, the bronzes, ceramics, and paintings are particularly outstanding.

The following are four of the most treasured artifacts at the Shanghai Museum:

1. Da Ke Ding (大克鼎): This is a bronze vessel from the mid-Western Zhou Dynasty.

2. Jin Hou Su Zhong (晋侯稣钟): An ancient musical instrument, a set of bells from the late Western Zhou Dynasty.

3. Gao Yi Tu Juan (高逸图卷): A famous painting by Sun Wei (孙位), a court painter of the Tang Dynasty. It is his only surviving work.

4. Ku Sun Tie Juan (苦筍帖卷): A calligraphy work by Huai Su (怀素), a renowned calligrapher of the mid-Tang Dynasty.

Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall

Location : 100 Renmin Avenue, Huangpu District, next to Shanghai People's Square

Open Time : 9 am - 17:00 pm. Closed every Wednesday

Recommend Visiting Hours : 1 hour

The Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center is a place that showcases the urban planning and development process of Shanghai . Visitors can learn about the city's history and future development plans here.

Shanghai History Museum

Location: 325 Nanjing West Road, Huangpu District, next to the People's Park

Ticket: Free

Open Time : 9 am - 17:00 pm. Closed every Monday

The Shanghai History Museum (formerly known as the Shanghai Art Museum) houses a vast collection of artifacts and documents representing the historical development of Shanghai . The collection includes prehistoric cultural relics from Shanghai , such as the Majiabang Culture, Songze Culture, and Liangzhu Culture, as well as a large number of ancient paintings, ceramics, bronzes, and coins.

One of the most visually captivating collections at the Shanghai History Museum is the " Wuhua" Baizi sedan chair (物华号百子大礼轿). It is a wedding sedan chair made by Zhou Weicheng (周渭澄) in 1927. This sedan chair needs eight people to lift, also known as a ' big sedan chair carried by eight men’(八抬大轿).

Shanghai Museum Tour - Unveil The Historical and Cultural City of Shanghai

No.4 Shanghai Tower, Shanghai World Financial Center, and Jin Mao Tower - Representative of the Shanghai Skyscrapers

The "Lujiazui Trio" refers to the trio of buildings in Lujiazui, Shanghai : Shanghai World Financial Center (the Bottle Opener), Shanghai Tower (the Whisk), and Jin Mao Tower (the Injector). These buildings stand adjacent to each other, boasting unique architectural designs and close geographical proximity, earning them the nickname "Kitchen Utensils Trio." These three buildings form an impressive skyline and have become iconic symbols of Shanghai's modern architecture and economic prowess.

Shanghai Tower

Shanghai Tower (上海中心大厦) , completed in 2013, has a total height of 632 meters and a structural height of 580 meters. It is the tallest building in China and the world's third-tallest building by height to architectural top. 'Top of Shanghai Observatory' (上海之巅) is the sightseeing floor of the Shanghai Tower, reaching a height of 632 meters, with the highest indoor sightseeing floor in the world, from which you can overlook the magnificent view of the center city of Shanghai , especially the Bund and other skyscrapers around.

The Shanghai Tower stands in a spiraling upward form, resembling a mighty dragon soaring into the sky. It had the world's fastest elevators at a top speed of 20.5 meters per second (74 km/h). Located on the 125th floor of the Shanghai Tower, the wind damper , also known as the "Shanghai Eye," is a notable feature. It consists of counterweights and suspension cables, resembling a gigantic pendulum, and adds to the allure of the Shanghai Tower.

The ticket price for the elevator ride to the observation deck is 180 yuan per person. If you plan to visit the wind damper as well , th e total cost would be 268 yuan per person.

Shanghai World Financial Center

Shanghai World Financial Center (上海环球金融中心, short for SWFC), which was completed in August 2008, stands at a height of 492 meters . It is the third tallest building in China and the fifth tallest one in the world .

SWFC has a total of 101 floors, with the 94th to 100th floors dedicated to observation decks . Visitors can access the ticketing area on the B1 floor from the entrance and then take the high-speed elevators, reaching a speed of up to 8 meters per second. It takes only 66 seconds to travel from the underground 2 floors to the 94th floor.

The Sky Arena 94 provides a perfect and extensive view of Shanghai along the Huangpu River. The open glass ceiling design in the Sky Walk 97 is particularly unique. In good weather, it can be opened, turning the hall into a bridge across the sky. The Sky Walk 100 is the world’s largest observatory , spanning 55 meters and located 474 meters above the ground. The skywalk features three transparent glass floors, offering a clear view of the cars and pedestrians passing by on the ground below.

Jin Mao Tower

Jin Mao Tower , which was finished in 1999, reaches a height of 420.5 meters with 88 above-ground floors. Including its spire, it has a total of 93 floors, and the 88th floor is the only observation deck. It is the best place to admire the Oriental Pearl Tower in Shanghai .

Jin Mao Tower offers the service " wander in the cloud ". Visitors can walk along a 60-meter-long (66-yard-long) and 1.2-meter-wide (1.3-yard-wide) glass skywalk without rails.

The ticket price for the elevator ride to the observation deck is 120 yuan per person. If you plan to visit the “ wander in the cloud " as well, the price is 388 yuan per person.

2 Day Modern Shanghai Impression Tour Modern Skyscrapers, Lifestyle & Art Shanghai Museum Tour - Unveil The Historical and Cultural City of Shanghai

No.5 Oriental Pearl Tower - An Iconic landmark of Shanghai

The Oriental Pearl Tower is a TV tower and an iconic landmark in Shanghai , located by the east side of the Huangpu River, opposite the Bund . The Oriental Pearl Tower was built in 1991 and completed in 1994. Since its completion, the Oriental Pearl has become an integral part of the Shanghai skyline . At 468 meters , its unique architectural design, resembling a colossal pearl rising from the banks of the Huangpu River, has made it a symbol of modern Shanghai .

The Shanghai Oriental Pearl Tower consists of three spheres, namely the Space Capsule, the Upper Sphere, and the Lower Sphere.

The Space Capsule is located at a height of 350 meters and is a glass ball that takes visitors high into the clouds. Inside, it features an observation deck, a conference hall, and a café, providing a unique perspective for visitors to overlook the panoramic view of Shanghai .

Upper Sphere Positioned at a height of 272.5 meters in the center of the tower. The 45-meter diameter sphere consists of nine floors primarily dedicated to electronic devices and entertainment venues. Here, you can enjoy the scenery, indulge in delicious food, and even listen to music or sing, as the revolving restaurant is located within the Upper Sphere.

With a diameter of 50 meters, the Lower Sphere is situated at a height of 93 meters and comprises four floors, mainly serving as an indoor amusement park . It offers numerous entertainment attractions such as the Antarctic Journey, an adventure train, a laser cinema, and more.

The price for visiting two spheres is 199 yuan per person, while the price for visiting all three spheres is 220 yuan per person.

No.6 Former French Concession & Tianzifang - Paris of the East

The former French Concession is quite a large area of Sycamore-lined streets and alleys that make up what used to be the French-administered part of town during the late 19th century to mid-twentieth.

Today, most of the streets are relatively quiet, especially in the early morning or late evening, and make great venues for strolling and walking . Elegant European-style mansions, quaint cafes, boutique shops, and art galleries have sprung up along the streets. Taking a bit of time just to walk and observe is one of the best ways to explore Shanghai .

Tianzifang is the most famous district in the French Concession. It’s a vibrant and artistic destination that has transformed from traditional shikumen houses into a bustling arts and crafts enclave . Tianzifang truly comes alive at night, with its array of restaurants serving traditional cuisine, cozy cafés, lively music venues, and artists' studios. It is a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and those seeking a vibrant cultural atmosphere in Shanghai .

2 Days Shanghai Highlights Tour with the Bund, Skylines & City Walk Experience Shanghai Half-Day Tour: Savor Highlights of Shanghai in Limited Time

No.7 Nanjing Road - A Vibrant and Bustling Shopping Street

Nanjing Road is a renowned and bustling shopping street in downtown Shanghai. Stretching from Zhongshan Road for several miles towards the west, it offers a vibrant blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Nanjing Road is the earliest commercial street established in Shanghai after the city opened as a port. It has evolved from its initial four companies, Sincere, Wing On, Xin Xin, and Da Xin, into the bustling commercial district it is today.

Along this largely pedestrian-friendly street , you'll find every conceivable type of consumer goods, from street vendors selling Chinese-themed souvenirs to expensive boutiques selling traditional arts and crafts. Nanjing Road is a shopper's paradise and a must-visit for those seeking a vibrant and memorable experience in Shanghai .

Make sure not to miss the vibrant nights on Nanjing Road . It is not only a premier shopping destination but also a bustling entertainment district . The array of food and drinks available here is diverse, and the prices are generally more affordable compared to the nearby Bund. Indulge in the culinary delights and enjoy the lively atmosphere as you explore the vibrant nightlife of Nanjing Road.

Classic Shanghai Day Tour - A Glimpse of China's Magic City Shanghai City Tour - Shore Excursion from Shanghai International Port

No.8 Jade Buddha Temple - A Tranquil Haven amidst the Urban Hustle and Bustle

The Jade Buddha Temple , located in the Anyuan Lu district of Shanghai , is a renowned Buddhist temple and a significant cultural site .

What Is Jade Buddha Temple Famous for?

The temple is home to two precious jade Buddha statues , which were brought from Burma by the monk Huigen in the late 19th century. Both the Sitting Buddha and the Recumbent Buddha , crafted entirely from whole white jade, are considered masterpieces of Buddhist art.

The temple's architecture combines traditional Chinese and Buddhist elements, creating a serene and spiritual ambiance. Visitors can admire the intricate carvings, and beautiful gardens, and participate in Buddhist rituals and ceremonies.

No.9 Shanghai Disneyland Park - The Most Popular Amusement Park in China

Facts about shanghai disneyland.

Location: In the southeast area of Shanghai , 20km away from the Bund

Tickets Price in 2023 : ¥475 CNY for 1- Day ticket, and ¥854 CNY for 2- Day ticket

Opening Hours : 8:30 am – 21:30 pm

Hotels : Shanghai Disney Hotels, more than ¥3000 CNY per night, and Toy Story Hotel, more than ¥2000 CNY per night

Transportation From Downtown: Subway Line 11 goes directly to the front gates of the theme park

Please note that prices may vary during peak seasons and holidays. it's important to check the official website or inquire closer to your visit date, as the operating hours may vary.

Highlights of Shanghai Disneyland

Shanghai Disneyland, which opened in 2016, is the largest Disney theme park in Asia , covering over 390 acres of land. It features seven themed lands and over 20 attractions . The seven themed lands include Mickey Avenue, Gardens of Imagination, Adventure Isle, Treasure Cove, Tomorrowland, Fantasyland, and Disney-Pixar Toy Story Land. Treasure Cove is the world's first pirate-themed land , unique to Shanghai Disneyland.

Among the 20+ attractions, popular ones include Tron Lightcycle Power Run, Soaring Over the Horizon, Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, Roaring Rapids, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Buzz Lightyear Planet Rescue . These are must-visit attractions for visitors to Shanghai Disneyland.

The park boasts the tallest enchanted fairytale castle worldwide, so don't miss the castle's nighttime fireworks spectacular. The fireworks show takes place between 8:30 PM and 9:30 PM, with timing adjusted according to the season.

As the first Disney park in mainland China, Shanghai Disneyland seamlessly integrates Disney magic with Chinese culture . Traditional Chinese architecture, design, and storytelling elements are incorporated into the park's attractions, and even some of the traditional Disney stage shows are performed in Chinese.

In addition, Shanghai Disneyland has launched a special mobile app, named Shanghai Disney Resort (迪士尼度假区). It allows visitors to purchase tickets online and provides information on ride routes, strategies, and wait times. The app enhances the convenience of park entry and reduces wait times. You can download the app from the official Shanghai Disneyland website.

4 Days Shanghai Relaxing Family Tour with Disneyland Fun

No.10 Zhujiajiao Water Town - Venice of The East

Zhujiajiao Water Town is a charming ancient town located in the Qingpu District of Shanghai , right between the center of Suzhou and Shanghai . For the Shanghai people, Zhujiajiao is the backyard of the city to avoid the crowds. You can take Line 17 to visit Zhujiajiao in 1.5 hours from downtown.

The origins of Zhujiajiao Water Town can be traced back to around the year 998 when it was a fishing village known as "Zhujiajiao." Due to its favorable geographical environment and abundant water resources , Zhujiajiao quickly flourished during the Song, Yuan, and Ming dynasties, becoming a prosperous water town and an economic center for the surrounding region.

Known as the " Venice of Shanghai ," it is a must-see Shanghai Attraction for tourists.

Highlights of Zhujiajiao Water Town

1. Canals and Bridges: Zhujiajiao boasts 36 stone bridges, adding to its charm.

2. Ancient Buildings: Explore well-preserved structures like the Kezhi Garden, Fangsheng Bridge, and Yuanjin Buddhist Temple.

3. Boat Tours : Enjoy leisurely rides along canals, admiring the town's beauty.

4. Local Cuisine: Indulge in delicious rice dumplings, sticky rice balls, and street food.

5. Arts and Crafts: Witness traditional crafts like rice paper art and wood carving.

6. Cultural Festivals: Experience vibrant celebrations like the Dragon Boat and Lantern festivals.

2 Day Shanghai Zhujiajiao Water Town Tour: From Urban Cityscape to Jiangnan Waterway

How to Plan Your Shanghai Tours with Top Attractions?

1 day in shanghai:.

If you only have one day in Shanghai , maximize your time by visiting the city's top attractions with Shanghai Day Trips . Start at the Shanghai Museum to delve into art and history. Then, head to Yu Garden and Shanghai City God Temple , followed by lunch at Yuyuan Bazaar.

Afterward, take a leisurely walk from Nanjing Road to the Bund , enjoying the bustling atmosphere. From there, hop on a ferry to Lujiazui and marvel at the renowned skyscrapers.

As the "City That Never Sleeps," Shanghai offers a vibrant nightlife. Experience traditional life in Xintiandi or catch a captivating Shanghai Acrobatic Show.

2 Days in Shanghai:

On day one: Begin your day at the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center . Then have an immersive tour of Yu Garden . Next, take a public ferry across the Huangpu River to Lujiazui and explore the towering skyscrapers for an exhilarating experience. Conclude your day with a city walk along the Bund .

On day two: Begin your day with a coffee at the Starbucks Reserve Roastery . Take a leisurely stroll through the charming Xintiandi area and explore the Shikumen architecture. Enjoy a unique lunch experience at a fully automated and unmanned retail supermarket . In the afternoon, visit the M50 Art District to immerse yourself in the local art scene. If time permits, consider experiencing the Shanghai Maglev Train.

2 Day Modern Shanghai Impression Tour Modern Skyscrapers, Lifestyle & Art 3 Days Best Shanghai Tour: Encounter Old and New Shanghai 2 Days Shanghai Highlights Tour with the Bund, Skylines & City Walk Experience Classic Shanghai Day Tour - A Glimpse of China's Magic City

Explore Shanghai with Local-based Asia Odyssey Travel

Headquartered in China with a local team based in Shanghai , Asia Odyssey Travel is dedicated to providing the best service and ensuring an authentic and unforgettable experience for those looking to explore Shanghai. Our local team offers a range of carefully designed tours, including classic Shanghai tours , Shanghai Day Trips , Shanghai Layover Tours , Museum Tour , Biking Tour , Walking Tour , Disneyland Tour , Water Town Tours, Shanghai Suzhou Tours, and Shanghai Hangzhou Tours to meet your needs and desires, ensuring a pleasant holiday during your Shanghai tour.

Furthermore, as Shanghai serves as an important gateway on China's eastern coast, Asia Odyssey Travel also presents a variety of inspiring ideas through our China tour packages from Shanghai . Our professional travel consultants are always ready to help you customize your Shanghai tour at the most favorable local prices. Contact us now to start planning your dream Shanghai trip!

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Florida is home to theme parks, sharks, alligators, beaches, but it made ‘most boring’ list

Florida is boring?!

The Sunshine State is home to Disney World and Universal Studios and has hundreds of miles of beaches. We have the oldest city in the U.S. in our backyard and some of the richest people in the world .

To keep life interesting, we even have sharks and alligators .

Apparently, that's not enough.

According to a study by Solitaired , Florida is the fifth most boring state in the United States , based on an analysis of 66.7 million Google reviews of 3,290 popular tourist attractions around the world. The analysis was made to determine what locations were the least interesting.

Here's what the study discovered.

Takeaways from study on Top 100 most boring tourist sites around the world

According to Solitaired , key takeaways include:

• Branson Scenic Railway in Branson, Missouri, is the most boring attraction in the world.
• Museums comprise 33% of the Top 100 most boring attractions.
• Four LEGOLAND Discovery Centers are in the Top 25 most boring attractions worldwide.
• Georgia is the most boring state, with many attractions and extensive reviews indicating boredom.
• The U.S., Canada and Australia hold the top three spots for countries with the most boring tourist attractions. And yes, U.S. was No. 1.

Top 'most boring' tourist attractions in Florida

Here are the Florida locations ranked among the most boring tourist attractions around the world. The "boredom score" is on a scale from zero to five.

• No. 7: Museum of Science & Technology, Tampa. Score: 3.10
• No. 19: Phillip & Patricia Frost Museum of Science, Miami. Score: 2.40
• No. 21: Jungle Island, Miami. Score: 2.40
• No. 22: Skull Island: Reign of Kong, Universal Orlando theme park. Score: 2.40
• No. 23: Miami Seaquarium, Miami. Score: 2.30
• No. 35: Ripley's Believe It or Not! Orlando. Score: 2.20
• No. 46: Ripley's Believe It or Not! St. Augustine. Score: 2.10
• No. 56: WonderWorks, Orlando. Score: 2.0
• No. 100: Glazer Children's Museum, Tampa. Score: 1.80

Top 10 states with highest boredom score

"We ranked states based on how often attractions were called boring in reviews compared to the total number of attractions with any reviews labeling them boring in that state," Solitaired said. "By this metric, Georgia, Massachusetts, and Tennessee are the nation's top three boring states."

The "boredom score" is on a scale from zero to five.

• Georgia: 21 boring attractions. Boredom score: 5.0
• Massachusetts: 4 boring attractions. Boredom score: 4.1
• Tennessee: 49 boring attractions. Boredom score: 4.1
• Missouri: 33 boring attractions. Boredom score: 3.9
• Florida : 104 boring attractions. Boredom score: 3.5
• Texas: 72 boring attractions. Boredom score: 2.8
• California: 99 boring attractions. Boredom score: 2.7
• Nevada: 33 boring attractions. Boredom score: 2.5
• Minnesota: 7 boring attractions. Boredom score: 2.4
• Illinois: 23 boring attractions. Boredom score: 2.3

How did Florida rank as 5th most boring state in US?

"With its 104 boring attractions, Florida might seem like the boredom capital at first glance ," Solitaired said.

"Yet, it only ranks as the fifth most boring state because each attraction garners very few yawns from visitors. Despite many attractions being labeled boring by reviewers, this sentiment is such a minority that Florida only pans out as the fifth most boring state."

Top 10 most boring tourist attractions in the US

• Branson Scenic Railway: Branson Missouri. Boredom score: 5.0
• lluminarium Atlanta: Atlanta, Georgia. Boredom score: 4.5
• Jurassic Jungle Boat Ride: Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Boredom score: 3.70
• Salem Witch Museum: Salem, Massachusetts. Boredom score: 3.40
• LEGO Discovery Center Atlanta: Atlanta, Georgia. Boredom score: 3.40
• Adler Planetarium: Chicago, Illinois. Boredom score: 3.30
• Museum of Science & Industry: Tampa. Boredom score: 3.10
• LEGOLAND Discovery Center Dallas/Fort Worth: Dallas, Texas. Boredom score: 2.90
• Museum of Ice Cream: New York City. Boredom score: 2.50
• The Shepherd of the Hills: Branson, Missouri. Boredom score: 2.50

➤ Want more? Here's the most boring tourist attraction in every state

Around the world: 8 of Top 10 boring tourist attractions in US

Eight of the Top 10 most boring tourist attractions are in the U.S., according to the Solitaired analysis:

• Museum of Science & Industry: Tampa . Boredom score: 3.10
• Shrek's Adventure London. London, England. Boredom score: 2.90
• LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Toronto. Vaughan, Canada. Boredom score: 2.80

➤ More boring content: The most boring tourist attraction in every country

Methodology used by Solitaired in ranking attractions

Solitaired, an online gaming platform that creates classic games — like Solitaire — with a focus on improving mental acuity, memory and processing speed.  

In March 2024, Solitaired "analyzed 66.7 million Google reviews of 3,290 popular tourist attractions worldwide , spanning 384 cities across 71 countries.

"We focused our analysis on keyword mentions indicative of a bored tourist. Those keywords were "boring," "bored," "bore," "boredom," "tiresome," "dull," "drab," "lackluster," "lifeless," "mediocre," and "tedious.

"We ranked the attractions by the frequency with which tourists mentioned boredom-related keywords, comparing the mentions to the total reviews for each spot."

Attractions with fewer than 2,000 total reviews were removed.

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Foreign visitors experience technology innovations at tourist attractions

China's visa-free offer and global air travel rebounds have boosted the country's inbound tourism market, and foreign visitors enjoy their trips lit up by technology innovations at tourist attractions.

• China Daily
• People´s Daily
• China.org.cn

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