The Ultimate Guide to 20 Must-See Attractions and Things to Do in Shanghai

Whether you are fascinated with the jaw-dropping Pudong skyline or in the mood to take a leisurely walk through the French Concession, there’s no chance that you would ever get bored in Shanghai. With the perfect blend of traditional and modern culture, nail-biting street food, and Michelin-star restaurants, Shanghai is a paradise for travelers. This guide will serve as a distilled source of information where you will find 20 places you cannot miss while in Shanghai. This beautiful city boasts many adventurous activities, cultural sites, and iconic landmarks. Hence, this read will help you plan your trip efficiently and immerse you in what Shanghai offers. Prepare yourself to get lost in this city’s fantastic nature, vibrant streets, and rich history.

What are the top 10 places to visit in Shanghai?

1. The Bund is a dazzling waterfront walkway that views the city’s stylized buildings and various histories.
2. Yu Garden – A grand Chinese garden comprising beautifully crafted pavilions, ponds, and rockeries like a tranquil retreat.
3. Shanghai Tower—This is the peak building in China, with an observation deck at the top that offers a view of the whole city.
4. Nanjing Road – A bustling market street consisting of haute-couture stores, local shops, and lively streets.
5. Shanghai Museum – A wide range of collections of ancient Chinese Paintings, ceramics, artworks, and other artifacts.
6. Tianzifang – A puzzle of backstreets crammed with art studios, boutiques, and cafes {it reflects the city’s creative side}.
7. Jade Buddha Temple—This beautiful, serene Buddhist Muslim temple has gorgeous jade Buddha statues and an exquisite ambiance.
8. People’s Square is a widely distributed area with green parks, cultural institutes, and an excellent city observation base.
9. Zhujiajiao Water Town—This stunning ancient hotel is surrounded by suitable canals, bridges, and typical buildings. It is an excellent spot for short excursions.
10. Oriental Pearl Tower – A famous tower built to provide people with fun, food, and great views.

The Bund: Shanghai’s iconic waterfront promenade

One of the most significant architectural wonders of Shanghai is The Bund. One can easily spot it on a map as it is located on the western edge of the Huangpu coastline, which looks towards the Pudong skyline. As I stroll around the vantage point, I admire some of the greatest and oldest architectural buildings, such as the Customs House from a distance and the Peace Hotel alongside the Shanghai Tower. It’s safe to say that the tranquillity of the buildings and the bustling activities present at the site make it an ideal location for taking pictures or just enjoying the spectacular views day or night.

Yu Garden: A serene oasis in the heart of Old Shanghai

Yu Garden, also known as the Yuyuan Garden, is a classical garden with an exquisite, beautiful appearance despite being located in the Middle City of Shanghai. This garden spans more than 2 Hector and is subdivided into six regions with a distinct focal point. The garden was commissioned as a private getaway for a civil servant’s family in 1559 as per the Ming Dynasty, and it was built using traditional Chinese architectural principles.

The garden has stunning pavilions, tranquil ponds, great stones, curved bridges, and remarkable ancient trees that create a quiet atmosphere. Outstanding ones are the Grand Rockery, a yellow stone building that is 12 meters high, and the beautiful Sansui Hall, which acts as a cultural exhibition space, but not only that in addition. The garden has the Exquisite Jade Rock, a 3.3-meter tall porous limestone rock that is thought to have originated from Taihu Lake.

People can easily escape the noise and the hustle-bustle while enjoying the decoration work and the traditional designs. The Yuyuan Garden is a public garden suitable for all seasons, opening no earlier than half past eight in the morning and closing no later than half past five in the evening. The entrance fees can be from 30 to 40 RMB, depending on the season. It is easily accessible by public transportation. The closest stop is Yuyuan Garden Station on Metro Line 10. Visiting Yu Garden combines everything: a relic of the past, beautiful buildings, calmness, and a sense of dynamism that Shanghai is famous for.

Shanghai Tower: Ascending the world’s second-tallest building

How can I experience the best of Shanghai’s history and culture?

The Bund, where colonial and contemporary architecture meet, is bound to be the first stop while marveling at the historic structures of Shanghai’s skyscrapers. Moving on to the Yuyuan Garden, which depicts the best of the Ming dynasty, and the Shanghai Museum, which has a vast collection of ancient Chinese art. Walking around the former French Concession allows you to admire the sights and sounds of streets influenced by the Chinese and the Europeans. A short waterway side trip to Zhujiajiao, an ancient town, will then complete the reminiscence of history. All these places offer a glimpse of the beautiful intertwining of the old and new Shanghai.

Shanghai Museum: Exploring China’s rich artistic heritage

The contrast was especially striking when I visited the Shanghai Museum, which boasts a formidable assemblage of around 120,000 pieces depicting different periods and aspects of Chinese history. All the exhibits were accompanied by essential Chinese history and cultural elements, including bronze, ceramic, calligraphy, and painting. The future was already interspersed with jade, sculptures, and decorative arts in different rooms, leading to a broader approach to traditional crafts. The museum’s interactive displays and multi-lingual guides made the experience entertaining and informative while developing an appreciation for China’s achievements in the arts.

Former French Concession: Strolling through Shanghai’s colonial past

The Former French Concession is a unique blend of colonial and urban Shanghai. Established in 1849 and lasting until 1943, the French controlled the area, evident in the tree-lined roads, European-style villas, and the beautiful Art Deco architecture. Huaihai Road, Wukang Road, and Tianzifang have modern streets alive with a smorgasbord of boutique stores, cafes, and art galleries. There are numerous sites to visit, such as the Sun Yat-sen former residence, and one can stroll around Fuxing Park, a French-inspired Chinese garden.

This district also offers high walkability, which allows tourists to find quiet alleyways and small museums, a perfect mix of East and West. The area is well-connected through the Metro Lines 1, 10, and 12, connecting the South Shaanxi Road and Xintiandi stations. The Former French Concession provides a relaxing yet enjoyable view of Shanghai’s colonial history alongside the modern present.

Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center: Glimpsing the city’s future

The Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center is a bit overwhelming for a casual visitor, with exhibits like interactive displays, scale models, and impressive multimedia presentations showcasing the city’s transformation into a global hub or the 1:500 scale model of the town. The Expo emphasizes Sustainable Urbanism and guides people toward the vision of Shanghai’s future. Located at People’s Square, the center offers a dynamic experience through cutting-edge technology like augmented reality spanning 20,000 square meters across five floors, making it easy to access via Metro lines 1, 2, and 8. Shanghai’s Urban Planning, as showcased at the exhibition, focuses on urbanization, so it is only fitting the planning center actively works towards engaging the visitors.

What are the must-see attractions for families in Shanghai?

There are many amazing things to do with your family in Shanghai. The Shanghai Natural History Museum is sure to impress with its wide range of interactive exhibits, including realistic models of dinosaurs. Treat your family to a fairytale experience with magical rides and famous characters at Shanghai Disneyland. On the other hand, the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum is perfect for families who wish to combine education and entertainment. Here, you will find fun activities and excellent exhibits. Then there is the Yu Garden, which showcases classic Chinese buildings and beautiful gardens, which is an experience for the whole family, and The Bund, which has the best skyline views, is great for people of all ages.

Shanghai Disneyland: Magic and adventure for all ages

Shanghai Disneyland is a magical place for young and adults alike. Walking into Mickey Avenue, you can feel the excitement, a perfect start to your adventure! The park offers various attractions for all ages, such as the TRON Lightcycle Power Run and Peter Pan’s Flight. Be sure to check out the Enchanted Storybook Castle, the largest castle in the world, built by Disney, and it is a breathtaking sight to behold. Moreover, parades, live performances, and seasonal festivities keep the Pixie Dust glittering through the seasons. Come with your family for the best experience and make beautiful memories you will cherish forever.

Oriental Pearl Tower: Panoramic views and interactive exhibits

The people who visit Oriental Pearl Tower can enjoy some of the most stunning panoramic views of the lovely Shanghai, which is why this is an attraction worth seeing. The glass skywalk is one of many tourist options when viewing Shanghai’s skyline from high above the ground. If you can reside inside the tower, there are many interactive exhibitions where a lot can be learned, such as the Shanghai Tower, which takes you on an advanced journey through the city’s history. This beautifully combines engaging views and deep, valuable insights, enhancing the experience for visiting people.

Shanghai Science and Technology Museum: Hands-on learning experiences

The Shanghai Science And Technology Museum has been a captivating and entertaining investigation into science and technology for decades. The museum has a mind-boggling 980049 sq. Ft. The exhibition space has several interactive sections, such as the “Robot World,” focusing on paintings of future robots, and the “Exploration Zone,” covering the science of exploring our ecosystems. With the world of imagination, one of the best things in the museum is the IMAX theaters, which allow us to view the wonders of science as they are. Whether you are delving into the depths of the human body or working on energy technologies, the museum always guarantees a hands-on experience, whether an adult or a child. It is the ideal combination of learning and fun, making science engaging for all of us.

Where can I find the best views of Shanghai’s skyline?

Shanghai has several fantastic locations where people can enjoy its picturesque skyline. One such destination is the Bund, which remains popular because it juxtaposes modern skyscrapers, such as the Oriental Pearl Tower and the Shanghai Tower, with older buildings on the opposite bank of the Huangpu River. Alternatively, one can try out the observation spokes on the Jin Mao Tower, the Shanghai Tower, and even the Shanghai World Financial Center. An equally classy alternative can be the Lujiazui rooftop bars, where it’s an experience to enjoy the lights in the city because that’s magical too, especially at night time.

Shanghai World Financial Center: Observation deck with breathtaking vistas

From my experience, I feel that the Shanghai World Financial Center is among the most incredible places to visit, as the window view provides an impressive perspective of Shanghai’s skyline. With the best view sitting at the top observation deck known as the Sky Walk, I could see the Shanghai Tower, its nearby Jin Mao, and the Architectural buildings I had long admired. But even more ecstatic was I to be standing on the glass floor of the deck, which wasn’t only cool but also offered a captivating glance downward at the bustling streets below. In my opinion, the mode of the perfect time to tour is at night; after all, when else would you want to experience a grand show of lights?

Huangpu River Cruise: Admiring the city lights from the water

Sailing through the Huangpu River was astonishing to watch. The tour passed by the impressive skyline of modern-day Pudong and the historical Bund lit up with bright lights. The perfect time to get onboard is right after the sun sets since the city is turned into a shining wonder. Cruises can last between 45 and 90 minutes and can be easily accessed from places like the Shiliupu Wharf. The boats offer all necessities, such as outdoor decks and large windows, for an improved viewing experience. Boats usually charge between 100 and 300 RMB, depending on the seating arrangements and vessel design. Booking at least 30 minutes in advance ensures you capture memorable pictures by getting better seats, so I recommend doing that.

What unique experiences should I add to my Shanghai itinerary?

• Explore Yu Garden—Located within the city, Yu Garden is a great place to unwind. It features traditional Chinese Buildings, landscapes, ponds, and beautiful houses.
• Visit the Shanghai Tower. The modern skyscraper design allows visitors to reach one of its highest points, the Observation deck.
• Stroll Through Tianzifang—A delightful, artsy place, Tianzifang has narrow streets with small shops, galleries, and cafes.
• Watch an Acrobatics Show—Shanghai Circus World is a place to enjoy magnificent performances by circus artists.
• Try Shanghainese Cuisine – Traditional restaurants and street markets sell authentic food such as xiaolongbao, essentially soup dumplings.
• Discover the Former French Concession—Tree-lined avenues, colonial buildings, and heritage sites are all part of this fascinating part of Shanghai’s history.

Shanghai Maglev Train: Riding the world’s fastest commercial train

If you ever wished to ride on a train that defines the “future,” the Shanghai Maglev Train would be the perfect fit for you, and even if you do not wish for that, the experience is thrilling and unique as riding it is exhilarating. This magnetic levitation train reaches insane speeds of up to 431 km/h (268 mph) while covering the distance between the Pudong International Airport and the Longyang Road Station. This journey takes only between 7-8 minutes. While that seems like magic, the technology behind it is as well magic as a series of electromagnetic forces ensures the train remains hovering above the track, ensuring it is efficient and quiet simultaneously. It is a perfect way to show progress and modernization to visitors in Shangai as a means of transportation, and best of all; it also acts as an attraction. This makes it a great use of time when visiting Shangai as it provides maximum ease and comfort.

Shanghai Circus World: Witnessing spectacular acrobatic performances

Another destination in this spectacular city is the Shanghai Circus World, which hosts phenomenal venues featuring jaw-dropping acrobatic spectacles. Li mur ceded to as the “Magic Space,” showcases performances filled with inspirational acts featuring over-the-top strength and breathtaking visuals immersed with impressive stage performances and theatrical elements. One of the most cherished shows in the venue is the “ERA—Intersection of Time,” which successfully merges the essence of traditional Chinese gymnastics with the assistance of modern tech, guaranteeing an immersive experience.

The performances usually feature thrilling activities such as wire walking, human pyramids, jumping through hoops, and aerial silks, and the level of perfection is nothing short of impressive. The theatre can accommodate over 1,600 persons and has been constructed so that there is no obstruction of view to the stage from any seat, enhancing the audience’s pleasure.

Regarding transport link convenience, Shanghai Circus World is close to the Shanghai Metro Line 1 (Shanghai Circus World Station). The shows last approximately one and a half to two hours, and the ticket price per person ranges between ¥120 and ¥480 depending on the preferred seating location.

This is a superb place for tourists and residents as it not only provides entertainment but also highlights the appreciation of the history of Chinese acrobatics. With friends, family, or even alone, Shanghai Circus World promises to amaze and entertain with the best shows for the most spectacular evening.

Exploring Shanghai’s vibrant street food scene

As I tasted various dishes in the lively street food scene of Shanghai, I experienced the flavorful and diverse culinary offerings that the city holds. In places such as The Tongchuan Road Seafood Market and Yuyuan Bazaar, one can find multiple stalls that sell stuffed dumplings, such as Shengjianbao and even sweet egg tarts. If there is something that I would recommend, it would be Xiaolongbao, the well-known soup dumplings that contain a delightful blend of meat broth inside its wrapper. Similarly, hand-pulled noodles made from scratch were also on my radar, and these were visually appealing and tasted delicious.

From my observations, I can say that regardless of the type of dish and the portion size, most of them ranged around a price tag of ¥5 to ¥30. I observed that the maintenance of hygienic conditions was not uniform among all vendors, so I looked for vendors with many customers to ensure that I got fresh ingredients. The time of day also mattered- during peak hours in the evening, vendors were abundant, allowing consumers to choose the freshest food options. If dishes bother you due to too much spice, inform the vendors, as many spice their food up with chili.

In a nutshell, visiting Shanghai and experiencing the street food culture is more than just eating; it is an experience filled with innovation and stories.

What are the best day trips from Shanghai?

In Shanghai, you can explore the city and reach several great locations in less than a day. Suzhou is a must-visit place to see classical gardens, traditional water towns, and peaceful canals. A train ride to Suzhou gives you a glimpse of China’s culture within a few minutes. Hangzhou is also another beautiful place filled with tea plants and, of course, West Lake. If you want to take a trip back in time, you can explore the ancient towns of Zhujiajiao or Tongli: cobbled streets, stunning bridges, and traditional Chinese buildings. All places, along with Shanghai, can be traveled easily by train or car, making it perfect for a trip.

Zhujiajiao Water Town: Venturing into a picturesque ancient town

This picturesque settlement is located fifty kilometers away from Shanghai. However, due to its network of canals, it is often referred to as “Shanghai’s Venice.” This ancient city is over 1700 years old and has well-constructed architecture dating back to the Ming and Qing dynasties. If you are looking for a place to visit for cultural and historical reasons, I suggest adding this city to your agenda.

Tourists can explore the winding alleyways lined with cobblestones, travel over 36 ancient stone bridges, and get an impression of traditional courtyards like the one featuring the Fangsheng Bridge. The Fangsheng Bridge is the largest stone bridge in Zhujiajiao and was built in 1571. Its area amounts to approximately 47 square kilometers. The famous sights are the Kezhi Garden, the Tongtianhe Pharmacy Museum, and the post office built in the Qing dynasty.

Zhujiajiao is famous for its local markets, traditional crafts, and local food, including zongzi (sticky rice dumplings), lotus root dishes, and roasted braised pork. For something out of the ordinary, visitors can enjoy a gondola ride along the canals, which gives them a lovely view of the water town scenery.

To enter the place, you must pay an admission fee of ¥30 to ¥60, depending on the sites you intend to visit. Traveling by car or tourist bus is convenient; otherwise, you can take Line 17 of the Shanghai Metro, which stops near Zhujiajiao. Spring and autumn are the best periods as the weather is not too hot or too cold, making it perfect for an enjoyable and considerably memorable one-day trip.

Suzhou: Discovering classical Chinese gardens and canals

Rose Gardens, Lingering Gardens, and similar locations are notably considered UNESCO World Heritage sites, and not for no reason. To those who are unfamiliar with these places, they sit in Suzhou in China. They are well known for their perfect blend of picturesque landscapes, tranquil waterways, breathtaking architecture, and beautiful tea houses. I was thoroughly impressed and fully understand why Suzhou is often regarded as Eastern Venice. It is not one of those sites that stick to Chinese traditions and follow everything about Chinese culture; it is a fusion of many cultures, architecture, and aesthetics all wrapped together to create one stunning place with no rival.

The ideal time to visit would be during spring or fall, as during these times, the temperature ranges from comfortable to warm, and the flowers in the gardens are in full bloom. It is readily reachable thanks to its minimal distance from Shanghai, with a train ride of only 30 minutes being required. The goal and outcome are to make it inexpensive for tourists, encouraging them to explore that site even more. Suzhou, or Eastern Venice, perfectly blends culture, nature, and history with unparalleled aesthetics and diverse architecture.

How can I plan an efficient trip to see Shanghai’s top attractions?

A well-planned trip in Shanghai requires ranking attractions and locations in terms of their proximity. First, begin your day at The Bund, where you can take in the fascinating skyscraping skyline alongside some mesmerizing historical buildings. After that, visit Yu Garden, a tranquil area with classical Chinese landscape architecture. For your lunch, check out the Yuyuan Bazaar for some local cuisine. Afterward, head over to Shanghai Tower, located in the Pudong district, for some breathtaking views of the city, followed by a walk on Nanjing Road to gather some shopping and entertainment At the end of the day. Taxis or the detailed metro system of shanghai are helpful in terms of money and time, so you do not have to waste time in long queues, it is better to purchase attraction tickets in advance.

Creating a strategic itinerary based on location and opening hours

In planning an innovative and effective travel plan, I concentrate on planning areas immensely to cut travel time. As an instance of this, I go to The Bund in the early hours of the day since it is best experienced with fewer people. From there, I walk over to the closely situated Yu Garden, but this time, I note the time of the day, which coincides with the faster pace. After touring the garden and having lunch at Yuyuan Bazaar, I headed to the Pudong district to tour the Shanghai Tower in the early afternoon and get a stunning city view. I end my day with a trip to Nanjing Road, bustling with shops and entertainment late into the night. These activities help you feel relaxed at the end of the day. Checking when things open and booking tickets to places online saves me a lot of time to make the best of my visit.

Tips for using Shanghai’s public transportation system

Shanghai’s public transport system is extensive, efficient, and affordable, thus making it a good option for getting around the city. Here are a few tips that would assist you in making use of the system more efficiently:

1. Obtain a Shanghai Public Transportation Card (SPTC)

Jiaotong Card, or SPTC, is an excellent option for paying for several services, including buses, subways, ferries, and even taxis. The card can be bought and recharged at any metro station, service center, or convenience store. It gives a rebate if buses are transferred to and from the metro within 90 minutes. The cards are sold with a 20 China Yuan, nontransferable, refundable deposit, which can be refunded if the card is returned.

2. Understand the Metro System

20 lines containing over 500 stations make the Shanghai metro system one of the most advanced systems in the world. These are usually open from about 5:30 am to 11 pm, with fares between 3 RMB and 16 RMB based on the distance. Maps and announcements are available in Chinese and English alike. Download “Shanghai Metro” or something similar that provides other facilities like route planning, travel updates, etc.

3. Leverage Bus Routes for Accessibility

Buses are ideal for areas not easily accessible through metro stations despite the metro offering quicker travel options. Bus services typically commence at 5 AM and continue until 11 PM. However, certain bus lines do offer a night route. The prices are approximately the same for all buses; however, regular buses charge around 2 RMB, while air-conditioned buses cost 1 RMB.

4. Plan for Taxis and Ridesharing

In Shanghai, taxis are quoted based on a taxi meter. The starting price is around 14 RMB for any distance up to 3 kilometers, increasing by 2.5 RMB per kilometer afterward. The Didi Chuxing ridesharing app is also prevalent. However, write the desired destination in the Chinese language for better accuracy. If possible, try to avoid peak traffic to save time and money.

5. Take Note of Ferry Services

If you want fantastic skyline views, the best alternative is to use ferries to cross the Huangpu River. Furthermore, the cost of ferry services is relatively low, averaging around 2 RMB, and it runs at 10-15-minute intervals. However, review the schedule beforehand, as the times may differ.

6. Use Mobile Apps for Navigation

Baidu maps, AutoNavi, and similar services comprehensively overview Shanghai and its public transportation. They even include guides, maps, and alternative routes for easy in-app navigation. If you do not have mobile data, ensure that you download the offline maps for easy access to the app.

Combining these hints with a bit of foresight should allow you to easily use Shanghai’s public transport systems, enhancing your travel experience in the city.

Best times to visit popular attractions to avoid crowds