Top 10 Must-See Places to Visit in Shanghai: Ultimate Tourist Guide

In 2024, a trip to the great city of Shanghai tops the must-have experiences that perfectly blend its marvelous history with contemporary architecture and culture. Whether a history buff or a fan of grand structures, this city has many famous attractions that will surely catch any tourist’s fancy. As the title suggests, in the following list, we try to focus on some of the best travel spots in Shanghai that define the city perfectly and that will provide you with quite the experience. This list consists of sparkling skylines of the Pauban financial district, the elegant traditional gardens, and the urban culture of ancient neighborhoods. China is the most dynamic country on the planet, So strap in and get ready for a journey across one of the most astonishing cities in the world!

What are the must-visit landmarks in Shanghai?

1. The Bund—Enormous structures from a bygone era sit alongside the city’s majestic skyline, providing a vicious but relentless view.
2. Oriental Pearl Tower – One of the television broadcast towers, it encompasses viewpoint levels and overlooks the beauty of Shanghai.
3. Yu Garden—This classical Chinese garden features the delightful architecture of pavilions, rockeries, and ponds during the city’s early stages.
4. Nanjing Road is an unrestrained shopping boulevard that emits a lively, pulsating atmosphere. It is lined with luxurious organizations and local enterprises.
5. Jade Buddha Temple – A remarkable temple that conveys an astonishing ambiance while encompassing stunning jade Buddha sculptures.
6. Shanghai Tower—The highest Chinese building in a fast-paced modern society, gives guests a diversified view of the city.

Is the Shanghai Tower worth visiting?

The Shanghai Tower is splendid and deserves every effort to reach its astounding heights. Having visited the country multiple times, particularly Shanghai, I have realized that the government doesn’t lack when it comes to alluring modern structures. Starting with the unparalleled structure that exquisitely looks like a skyscraper, the eco-friendly tail features are simply out of this world. Without any doubt, if you are an urban traveler, the boundless awe-inspiring views will make their way to one of the finest moments of your life.

What’s unique about the Oriental Pearl Tower?

The Oriental Pearl Tower has a culturally significant element of beauty in its design. Its design is so outlandish that having such spheres embedded into a tower makes it easy to identify it and represents Shanghai’s ever-changing nature. Also, it has so much more to offer, including a glass observation room with astonishing views of the city, an interactive history of the city’s growth and development in the form of a museum, and restaurants that rotate. Indeed, it represents how Shanghai has mastered modern technology while preserving most of its rich history.

How do you experience the Bund’s iconic skyline?

To appreciate the Bund, it would be best to go at night as the lighting would bring that beautiful view to life. Strolling along the waterfront promenade or going on a Huangpu river cruise gives an up-close experience of the many architectural wonders. If you are an avid photographer, early mornings and evenings would provide the best opportunities for great photographs. If you want to capture the existence of everything in the city, Shanghai Tower and Jin Mao Tower are your best bet, as their height is 632 meters and 420.5 meters, respectively. Most importantly, these will allow you to look over the entire city and, with the promise of being breathtaking, allow great immersion into the decorations of Shanghai.

Which historical sites should I explore in Shanghai?

The overwhelming combination of colonial-style buildings in The Bund represents Shanghai’s integration of Western values. The Yu Garden is a beautiful ancient Chinese garden that demonstrates the artistry of pavilions and serene landscapes. Other notable places are the Jade Buddha Temple and the artistically sculpted Jade Buddha statues. If you wish to step into the streets of early 20th-century Shanghai and its relaxed lifestyle, wander through the pathways in Tianzifang. Each place and building is imbibed with an ancient rich culture and deep history, as is everyone here.

What can I see at the Shanghai Museum?

When I visited The Shanghai Museum, I remember being welcomed with an impressive assortment of Chinese artworks. If you enjoy bronze, gorgeous jade, centuries of ceramics, and other beautifully made crafts, you will enjoy this range of artistic gifts from country houses. The Furniture building is packed with reasonably traditional Chinese paintings, calligraphy artworks, and other significant pieces of furniture. The Shanghai Museum is home and offers various carefully selected artifacts that showcase China’s profoundly imprinted history and rich culture.

Is the Jade Buddha Temple a significant attraction?

If you want to explore China’s rich history, the Jade Buddha Temple should be at the top. It was founded in 1882 and is well known for its striking Asian architecture and serene environment. The temple features three gold stupas that are prominently located within the temple. The Jade Buddha Temple is necessary for anyone who understands the proper parts of China’s history. The two exquisite jade Buddha statues are, without a doubt, the temple’s main attraction. One of the statues represents Buhha, deep in meditation, while the miniature statue represents Buddha’s peaceful death. Besides the art, the temple is home to breathtaking architectural designs, silence, and serene gardens.

How to discover Old Shanghai in the French Concession?

To relive the Old Shanghai era, I recommend heading to the French Concession for a stroll along Wukang and Fuxing Roads, surrounded by historic villas and others. Start the journey at Tanzi Fang, a lovely arts and crafts center with shops, cafes, and galleries where you can relish the area’s essence. The ideal place to visit is Xintiandi for a more profound cultural immersion. In this area, older shikumen-style buildings have been given a facelift with modernistic conveniences, giving us a glimpse of the Shanghai of yore alongside Modern Shanghai. Another area to visit is Fuxing Park, which provides a peaceful environment where tai-chi and leisure games can be played.

Tips for your visit:

• Walking Distance: Due to the area being so big, it would require between 2-3 miles of thinking, so wear practical shoes.
• Best Time to Visit: Early mornings or late afternoons, as there will be fewer people.
• Transit Options:  If you plan to visit the Xintiandi station, use Metro lines 1 or 10. From South Shaanxi Road Station, use line 13.
• Timing: To Native experiences, plan on spending at least 3-4 hours exploring leisurely.
• Budget: An entry fee is usually not required, but you might need around ¥100-¥200 for light meals and souvenirs.

Taking this route will allow you to deeply appreciate the ambiance of Old Shanghai nestled in the French Concession.

What are the best family-friendly attractions in Shanghai?

A carefully planned trip to Shanghai offers much to families and their kids. For a magical experience, families can visit Disneyland, which features excellent amusement rides and shows catering to children and adults. If you want a more refined experience, visit the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum, with many interactive technology displays. Families can also enjoy outdoor fun at Century Park, where they can go boating, cycling, and even join in picnics. Another attraction is the ocean aquarium, where all sea life can be observed, combined with the great experience of walking through an underwater tunnel. Overall, Shanghai never fails to create an unforgettable family experience.

Is Shanghai Disneyland worth the trip?

Looking at my experience and research, I would say that Shanghai Disneyland is worth visiting, especially if you are fond of Disney or traveling with family. It is the largest Disney amusement park worldwide and boasts some of the world’s first rides, such as the TRON Lightcycle Power Run and the gigantic Enchanted Storybook Castle. The park combines Chinese culture with Disney magic, providing unparalleled shows and attractions unavailable in other parks. Other attractions are available in different parks. It is also advisable to prepare for the visit properly because the place tends to be overcrowded during high seasons. You can better plan your day there by purchasing the tickets and going in earlier. Overall, Shanghai Disneyland is a fun place and a great experience regardless of your age group.

What can we expect at the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium?

The Shanghai Ocean Aquarium is a unique piece of art. It is the largest aquarium in the world and has an astonishing-looking structure. While seeing the aquarium, one can visit all nine themed exhibition zones, which include the Deep Ocean, Polar, China, and Africa zones, which feature over 15000 marine animals from over 450 species. A unique experience would be having the chance to swim in the detail-ordered 155-meter-long underwater tunnel. This will be a one-of-a-kind experience for anyone as being inside the tunnel allows the person to see the sea life from all angles, not just one.

Moreover, the aquarium also focuses on educational activities and saving the planet. It has organized interactive displays and detailed literature about various ecosystems, their endangered parts and species, and more valuable and interesting information. The aquarium showcases the wildlife of China’s wildlife, such as Yangtze River dolphins, which are among the most endangered animals in the world. For anyone looking for underwater magic, the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium will definitely be the place to go, as it combines entertainment with education and amusement.

How fun is the Shanghai Zoo for kids?

The Shanghai Zoo is guaranteed to be a spectacular experience for younger children, as it has a range of activities that aim to teach and entertain. The zoo boasts a collection of over 6000 animals, such as tigers, pandas, elephants, and a wide variety of birds, giving children the chance to experience exotic wildlife firsthand. The zoo has life-size interactive play and educational zones where children learn about the animals and their ecosystems, along with spectacular animal shows. The zoo offers a lot of open space suitable for picnics, shady walking trails surrounded by trees, and eateries, making it a great place to learn and have fun all in one place. Encompassing over 743 thousand square meters, the zoo features 580 animals and spaces explicitly built to cater to the needs of both animals and visitors, making it ideal for children and families.

Where can I experience Shanghai’s modern culture?

Shanghai is a blend of a cosmopolitan city with a rich culture and can be best appreciated from various locations. The Bund is the city’s most prominent Tourist center, boasting a panoramic skyline view. Head to the Power Station of Art to experience modern art and technology in one building. While in Tianzifang and Xintiandi, experience how Shanghai has gracefully preserved its inheritance while adopting a modern lifestyle through design studios, cafes, and art galleries. And lastly, don’t forget to go to Nanjing Road for a shopping experience in the heart of the city.

What’s exciting about Nanjing Road for tourists?

Being a tourist like the rest, I have to say that Nanjing Road is one of the top places to visit in the city because it is the best combination of the old and the new world, blending in with who the person is. Over 5 kilometers long, it is, alongside Oxford Street in London, one of the most busy shopping districts of the globe, inundated with shops, designer outlets, and retailers. What I enjoyed most were the neon lights around the buildings and the numerous street performers who added to the lively environment. Moreover, it’s more than just a retail hub: Nanjing Road features long-standing structures and many eateries that can introduce visitors to the best of Shanghai culture, rendering the city tour more enjoyable.

How can you enjoy Shanghai’s art scene at the China Art Museum?

The majesty of China’s art and culture, both ancient and modern, is encapsulated within a single location: the China Art Museum. This is one of the few museums internationally that comes fourth in size and is rich in content because it exhibits more than 14,000 treasured art pieces. If you are an art lover, this place is bound to leave you awestruck with its beauty.

A good start would be to check the museum’s star attraction, which is its dynamic interpretation of the well-known painting ‘Along the River During the Qingming Festival.’ This should be your starting point, as this breathtaking animation beautifully captures ancient China’s intricate details. Then, check out the permanent exhibitions dedicated to modern Chinese art alongside world-renowned artists. To assist with variety, the museum frequently hosts temporary exhibitions. When touring the galleries, don’t overlook the rooftop garden; it provides an incredible panoramic view of the entire Pudong skyline.

Plan your visit accordingly since the timings extend from 10:00 AM and close at 6:00 PM, with the last allowance at 5:00 PM. Access to the general collection is free of cost, but some of the special exhibitions do cost. The museum is conveniently next to the China Art Museum Metro Station on Metro Line 8; thus, it is easy to acquire by public transport. Since the place is vast, wearing comfortable shoes and enhancing your experience is recommended using the museum’s free guided app. Whether you are a regular tourist or an art collector, the museum provides an interesting way to engage with the lively art of Shanghai.

What’s unique about the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center?

The Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center is illuminating, focusing on the city’s rich history, modern developments, and future goals. The city’s major attraction caught my attention the most: a gigantic scale model of the whole town, allowing viewers to experience an overhead view of Shaghai’s intricate architecture. I was fascinated by how advanced the technology in the center is- It has interactive touch displays and 3D shows that assist in visualizing the city’s laid-out plans. Covering a total area of 20,000 square meters and observing five floors, this center has state-of-the-art gadgets that help showcase the city’s progress throughout the years. This is the ideal location to visit if one wishes to gain insights into how Shanghai plans to acquire the status of one of the major metropolises in the world.

Are there any day trips from Shanghai worth considering?

Certainly! Shanghai is an excellent base for taking breathtaking trips. One of the most common is Suzhou, ‘the Venice of the East,’ characterized by its traditional gardens, elegant canals, and ancient buildings. Another is Zhujiajiao, an ancient water town where you can walk along cobbled streets and ride in boats on winding rivers. For vegetation lovers, Chongming Island has rural areas that are calm and bird-watching. All these places are ideal for relaxing when you want to escape the busy city life while offering opportunities to engage in cultural and natural activities.

What are the top attractions near Shanghai for a day trip?

There are countless fabulous day trip destinations in Shanghai; each can be tailored based on various preferences. Below, you will find a few suggestions:

1. Zhujiajiao Ancient Town

Located about an hour from the heart of Shanghai, Zhujiajiao is nicknamed the Venice of Shanghai because of its beautiful canals, ancient bridges, and old buildings. This site has many features, including the famous Fangsheng Bridge, historical paths, and delicious foods. You can also take a boat along the rivers and canals.

2. Suzhou’s Classical Gardens

85 kilometers from Shanghai by train, Suzhou has multiple classical gardens on the UNESCO list, such as Lingering Garden and Humble Administrator’s Park. It is known for its stunning classic gardens, which include calm ponds, intricately carved pavilions, and complex rock formations. In addition to the classical gardens, there is also the historic Pingjiang Road, which perfectly suits a casual walk along the canals.

3. Hangzhou and West Lake

Located 175 kilometers from Shanghai, Hangzhou is home to West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Travelers can sail on the lake, visit ancient theaters such as Lingyin Temple, and stroll around the tea trees in Longjing Village, where the Dragon Well tea is cultivated. All of these locations are a few minutes away, making it no trouble to explore.

Considering the breathtaking views, Traditional sophistication, and Distance from Shanghai, these places are perfect for a one-day trip.

How do you plan a perfect day in Shanghai’s surrounding areas?

When going to Shanghai, I like to get some things in place before commencing my journey, preferably deciding which place to visit first. Do I wish to see the classical gardens in Suzhou, perhaps the stunning West Lake in Hangzhou, or visit Zhujiajiao water town with its beautiful canals? I will always check for transportation first, regardless of where I wish to go. If I plan to visit Suzhou or Hangzhou, high-speed trains ensure a smooth and fast journey that will last around 25 minutes and an hour, respectively. Otherwise, if my destination is Zhujiajiao, I will take a bus, which usually takes me one hour. Once I’ve decided where to go, I book places for humbly administrator’s garden in Suzhou or boat rides in West Lake, allowing me to avoid long queues.

While going to Suzhou, I also want to visit the Lingering Garden and the Classical Gardens. We all know how vital massage therapy is for the body; however, I bring walking shoes, water, and a portable charger to ensure my smooth trip. Once I reach my destination, I like to look around Pingjang, which has incredible food. I check for the weather to make my journey smoother, ensuring I’m dressed appropriately and my activities are settled. The bottom line is if I am punctual and flexible, I do not see why I should not be able to enjoy my trip to Shanghai and the neighboring gems.

What’s the best time to visit Shanghai’s attractions?

If you ever want to visit Shanghai, consider visiting during the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November). During these periods, one can enjoy above-par temperatures and generally favorable weather conditions for sightseeing and other related activities. The flowering action in places such as Yu Garden during spring and clear blue skies accompanied by changing leaves are astonishing fall features. It’s best to avoid the Great Chinese holidays, including Golden Week, at the end of September.

Which season offers the best sightseeing experience in Shanghai?

The warm and sunny weather and stunning outdoor sites make Shanghai the dream tourist destination in spring and autumn. Spring begins in March and lasts till May, with temperatures ranging between 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F). During this period, regions such as Yu Garden and the Shanghai Botanical Garden exploded in color with flowering plants. On the other hand, autumn lasts from September to November, when temperatures fall into the range of 15-22°C (59-72°F). This period is marked by low humidity and chilly wind, which provides a pleasant experience while strolling through the city or parks such as Century Park. These seasons allow for a significant reduction in humidity relative to the summers. It is essential not to visit national holidays such as Labor Day or Golden Week as crowds make navigating exceedingly tricky.

How can crowds be avoided at popular Shanghai attractions?

How can I make the most of my Shanghai sightseeing experience?

When you go sightseeing in Shanghai, make sure you plan well to maximize your benefits. Start by determining the critical attractions you want to visit and make a plan such that these attractions are near enough to reduce travel time. Use transport facilities like the metro to get around the city. Consider taking a local tour or hiring a guide for cultural insight. Be a little more flexible with your plans to have time for extra unplanned fun or surprising entertainment. Finally, drink sufficient fluids, wear the proper footwear, and have a camera in hand to enjoy the city’s bright sights and sounds.

What’s the most efficient way to tour Shanghai’s top 10 attractions?

To get the most out of your visit to Shanghai, it’s best to start by categorizing the top 10 must-see spots. For instance, head to Yu Garden and Bund, as they are within walking distance of each other, and then start using the metro or taxis to reach further attractions such as Lujiazui’s Shanghai Tower or Jade Buddha Temple. Disneyland or Zhujiajiao Water Town would require a day’s out for proper exploration as they are further away from the city center. To avoid peak-hour crowds, it would be best to visit during the early hours or the late evening, and if possible, making ticket purchases online would save time. An appropriately crafted plan would be the key to effectively utilizing local transportation to cover all these sights.

Are there any Shanghai tourist passes worth buying?

Several Shanghai travel cards allow travelers to have decent savings and comfort. These include, among others:

1. Shanghai Public Transport Card (Jiaotong Card)

This pre-paid card can be used on buses, metro, ferries, and even taxis across Shanghai. It has discounted rates, so people cannot buy single-trip tickets. This is especially suitable for foreign visitors who travel around the city often. It costs roughly twenty RMB as a deposit. The card can be recharged at metro stations and even in convenience stores.

2. Shanghai City Pass (City Guidebook or Sightseeing Card)

With this pass, visitors can access some of the most fascinating sites, such as the Oriental Pearl, Jin Mao Tower, or the Shanghai Zoo. Different versions of this pass are available, and some of them offer promotions like free or discounted transport, shopping, or dining, especially for the hungry or Shopaholics. The price usually ranges from 150-200 RMB, depending on the preferred package. This is a good option for seeing some sights covered by the pass.

3. Shanghai Disneyland Pass

Those keen on checking out Shanghai Disneyland can benefit from ticket packages or multiple-day passes. A ticket for a single day usually starts at RMB 400, and there are also ticket packages that include food vouchers or fast-the-line tickets that can be sold for a higher price. Buying these tickets via the official Disneyland site or the application is advisable since they will generally be cheaper and guarantee the purchased tickets.

Also, remember how many points of interest you have and how many days you will be staying to decide on the appropriate pass. If you will be spending a couple of days and intend to visit many points of interest and take considerable transport, then the Public Transport Card and City Pass combined may be time—and money-saving.

How many days do I need to see all the major attractions in Shanghai?

As for me, It is better to plan 3 to 5 days of sightseeing in Shanghai, although the consensus is that 3 days are usually enough to see the most important places like The Bund, Yu Garden, and Shanghai Tower, and during the evening take a walk on Nanjing Road and the French Concession. It seems that on 3 days alone, the key points mentioned earlier can be covered without excessive activity. However, If you want more experiences, like spending a whole day at Shanghai Disneyland or visiting the Zhujiajiao Water Town and the Jade Buddha temple, then having 5 days would be ideal. There are some other aspects such as opening hours for the attractions (which is commonly between 9 in the morning and between roughly 5 and 6 at nighttime), the time it takes to go between units (usually 20 to 40 minutes by metro), and traffic peaks (which is especially important for weekends and holidays). Don’t forget about the coffee breaks and meals; this is Shanghai.

References

Nanjing Road

Shanghai

The Bund

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the top 10 places to visit in Shanghai?

A: The top 10 must-see places in Shanghai include The Bund, Yu Garden, Shanghai Tower, Shanghai Disneyland Park, Nanjing Road, Shanghai Museum, Jade Buddha Temple, Tianzifang, Shanghai World Financial Center, and the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum. These attractions offer a perfect blend of history, culture, modernity, and entertainment for tourists exploring Shanghai.

Q: Is it worth visiting Shanghai Disney Resort?

A: Absolutely! Shanghai Disney Resort is a fantastic place to visit, especially for families and Disney fans. It features the Shanghai Disneyland Park, which offers unique attractions like TRON Lightcycle Power Run and Pirates of the Caribbean: Battle for the Sunken Treasure. The resort also includes themed hotels and a shopping district, making it a must-visit destination for those looking to experience Disney magic with a Chinese twist.

Q: What are some things history buffs can do in Shanghai?

A: History enthusiasts will find plenty to explore in Shanghai. Visit the Shanghai Museum to see ancient Chinese artifacts, explore the Shanghai History Museum to learn about the city’s past, or stroll through the Shanghai French Concession to admire colonial architecture. The Jade Buddha Temple and Yu Garden offer insights into traditional Chinese culture and architecture. For a more modern historical perspective, visit the Shanghai Natural History Museum or the former Jewish Ghetto in Hongkou District.

Q: What’s the best way to explore Shanghai’s skyline?

A: To experience Shanghai’s breathtaking skyline, visit the observation decks of its iconic skyscrapers. The Shanghai World Financial Center offers a 100th-floor observation deck with stunning views. Alternatively, ascend the Shanghai Tower, the world’s second-tallest building, for an unparalleled panorama. For a unique perspective, cruise along the Huangpu River at night to see the illuminated Pudong skyline, including the Oriental Pearl Tower.

Q: Are there any fascinating parks in Shanghai that you can visit?

A: Yes, Shanghai has several beautiful parks worth visiting. Century Park in Pudong is the city’s largest park, offering lakes, gardens, and recreational facilities. Fuxing Park in the French Concession is known for its European-style gardens and local activities like tai chi. For a more traditional Chinese garden experience, visit the classical Yuyuan Garden. Additionally, Gongqing Forest Park provides a natural retreat with its vast green spaces and outdoor activities.

Q: What unique experiences can I have during my Shanghai trip?

A: For a unique Shanghai experience, consider watching a spectacular show at Shanghai Circus World, known for its acrobatic performances. Take a ride on the Shanghai Maglev train, the world’s fastest commercial train. Explore the quirky and futuristic sights of the Oriental Pearl TV Tower. Visit Tianzifang, a maze-like neighborhood filled with art galleries and boutique shops. To taste local life, join a cooking class or take a food tour through the city’s vibrant street food scene.

Q: How can I best experience the culture and history of Shanghai?

A: To immerse yourself in Shanghai’s culture and history, visit the Shanghai Museum and Shanghai History Museum. Explore the preserved old town area around Yu Garden and the City God Temple. Take a walking tour of the former French Concession to see the blend of Chinese and Western influences. Visit Longhua Temple, the oldest temple in Shanghai, and attend a traditional tea ceremony. Don’t miss the opportunity to try local Shanghainese cuisine and visit a traditional water town like Zhujiajiao on the city’s outskirts.

Q: What are some family-friendly attractions in Shanghai?

A: Shanghai offers numerous family-friendly attractions. Besides Shanghai Disneyland Park, families can enjoy the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum, which offers interactive exhibits. The Shanghai Ocean Aquarium is home to diverse marine life. Shanghai Wild Animal Park provides a safari-like experience. For a fun and educational outing, visit the Shanghai Natural History Museum. Families can also enjoy a picnic and boat ride at Century Park or experience the thrilling rides at Happy Valley Shanghai amusement park.