Shanghai

Things to see and do in Shanghai

Shanghai – China’s Futuristic Metropolis

Shanghai, China’s largest city with over 24 million residents, is a dazzling fusion of colonial heritage, cutting-edge innovation, and cosmopolitan flair. Once a modest fishing village, it became a global financial hub in the 19th century, with The Bund’s historic skyline facing Pudong’s futuristic towers. Shanghai pulses with energy along Nanjing Road, serene gardens like Yu Garden, and vibrant art districts. Its cuisine—from xiaolongbao to hairy crab—reflects Jiangsu and Zhejiang influences, while its nightlife rivals any world city. Whether cruising the Huangpu River, sipping cocktails 470m up in Shanghai Tower, or exploring French Concession lanes, Shanghai offers an electrifying journey through China’s modern soul and storied past.

Top Activities and Experiences in Shanghai

Shanghai, where neon lights meet ancient temples, offers a thrilling mix of urban exploration, cultural immersion, and culinary adventures. Whether you’re marveling at Pudong’s skyline, strolling The Bund, or tasting soup dumplings, Shanghai delivers an unforgettable Chinese metropolis experience.

Stroll The Bund at Night

Walk this iconic waterfront promenade, established in the 1840s, for colonial architecture on one side and Pudong’s glowing skyline on the other. Sunset or night views are unmissable.

Visit Yu Garden and Bazaar

Explore this 400-year-old Ming Dynasty garden, opened to public in 1961, with pavilions, rockeries, and koi ponds. The adjacent bazaar offers souvenirs and street food.

Ride to Shanghai Tower Observation Deck

Ascend to the 118th floor (561m) of China’s tallest building, completed in 2015. The world’s fastest elevator offers 360° views of Shanghai’s sprawling urban landscape.

Shop on Nanjing Road

Walk this 5.5km pedestrian street, Asia’s busiest since the 1930s, for luxury brands, department stores, and street performers. It connects The Bund to Jing’an Temple.

Cruise the Huangpu River

Take a 1-hour night cruise to see Shanghai’s dual skylines illuminated. Boats depart from The Bund, offering stunning views of colonial and modern architecture.

Explore the French Concession

Wander tree-lined streets like Wukang Road or Fuxing Road, once a 1910s French enclave. Cafés, art deco villas, and boutique shops define this chic, historic district.

Savor Xiaolongbao

Taste these delicate soup dumplings at Din Tai Fung or Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant. Pair with hairy crab in autumn or shengjianbao for a true Shanghai flavor.

Visit Shanghai Museum

Discover this free museum on People’s Square, opened in 1996, with 120,000 artifacts, including ancient bronzes, ceramics, and calligraphy from the Shang to Qing dynasties.

Day Trip to Zhujiajiao Water Town

Travel 50km west to this 1,700-year-old canal town. Ride a gondola, cross 36 stone bridges, and explore teahouses in a serene escape from the city.

Explore Tianzifang

Stroll this labyrinth of shikumen lanes in the French Concession, transformed in the 2000s into an artsy hub. Boutiques, galleries, and cafés offer a bohemian vibe.

Visit Jing’an Temple

Admire this 1,700-year-old Buddhist temple, rebuilt in 1983, with its golden roofs and 15m jade Buddha. Located on Nanjing Road, it’s a spiritual oasis amid skyscrapers.

Experience M50 Art District

Explore this former textile mill zone, now a contemporary art hub since 2000. Graffiti, galleries, and design studios showcase Shanghai’s creative pulse in Putuo District.

Walk Xintiandi

Visit this upscale shikumen redevelopment, opened in 2001, blending restored 1920s architecture with luxury dining and bars. It’s a trendy spot for evening outings.

Attend the Shanghai International Film Festival

Join this June event, held since 1993, for red carpet premieres, screenings, and industry forums across Shanghai’s cinemas, celebrating global cinema.

Relax in Fuxing Park

Enjoy this 10-hectare green space in the French Concession, opened in 1909. Locals practice tai chi, while flowerbeds and statues offer a peaceful retreat.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Shanghai

What are the top things to do in Shanghai?

Stroll The Bund, visit Yu Garden, ride to Shanghai Tower, shop Nanjing Road, and savor xiaolongbao.

What are the must-visit places in Shanghai?

The Bund, Yu Garden, Shanghai Tower, Nanjing Road, and the French Concession are top attractions.

When is the best time to visit Shanghai?

Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer mild weather. Summer (June-August) is hot and humid; winter (December-February) is cold but festive.

What are the best things to see in Shanghai?

Colonial waterfronts, futuristic skyscrapers, classical gardens, shikumen lanes, and neon-lit streets define Shanghai’s must-see wonders.

Which are the best places to visit near Shanghai for a short trip?

Zhujiajiao, Suzhou for gardens, Hangzhou’s West Lake, or Zhouzhuang water town are great day trips.

Do you have a comprehensive Shanghai tour guide?

Yes! Our Shanghai tour guide covers attractions, dining, transport, and tips for a seamless metropolitan adventure.

What are the top tourist attractions in Shanghai?

Key spots include The Bund, Yu Garden, Shanghai Tower, Tianzifang, and Shanghai Museum.

What are the best places to visit in Shanghai with family?

Family-friendly spots include Shanghai Disneyland, Shanghai Ocean Aquarium, Yu Garden, Century Park, and The Bund promenade.

Where can I find a Shanghai tour guide for my trip?

Hire local guides via platforms like Viator or agencies like China Highlights for tailored Bund walks, tower visits, or water town tours.

What are the top festivals in Shanghai?

Shanghai International Film Festival (June), Longhua Temple Fair (April), and Mid-Autumn Festival (September) showcase culture and lights.

Where to stay in Shanghai?

Choose luxury at The Peninsula Shanghai, mid-range at Campanile Shanghai Bund, or budget hostels like Rock & Wood International Youth Hostel.

Is Shanghai safe?

Shanghai is safe for tourists with low crime; use licensed taxis, avoid unofficial guides, and secure valuables in crowded areas like Nanjing Road.

What are some essential Shanghai travel advice tips?

Use a VPN, download Didi for rides, carry passport for attractions, use WeChat Pay/Alipay, and check air quality for outdoor plans.

What are the best places to eat in Shanghai?

Try xiaolongbao at Din Tai Fung, hairy crab at Wang Bao He, or street food at Yunnan Road Food Street for local flavors.

Is Shanghai safe for women travelers?

Yes, Shanghai is safe for solo women; stick to well-lit areas, use official transport, and join group tours for day trips.

What are some must-try experiences on a trip to Shanghai?

Walk The Bund at night, eat soup dumplings, ascend Shanghai Tower, explore French Concession lanes, and cruise the Huangpu River.

How can I book a Shanghai tour or vacation package?

Book customizable packages via GetYourGuide or local agencies, including skyline tours, food walks, and water town trips.

What are some offbeat things to do in Shanghai?

Explore the Propaganda Poster Art Centre, visit the Jewish Refugees Museum, or take a sunrise tai chi class in Fuxing Park.

What should I pack for my Shanghai vacation?

Pack comfortable shoes, a mask for pollution, layers for weather, a power bank, and a translation app for urban adventures.

Is there a Shanghai cherry blossom festival?

Shanghai celebrates cherry blossoms in spring (March-April) at Gucun Park and Century Park; no official festival, but stunning pink displays.

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Places to Visit

The Bund

Established in the 1840s as a British settlement, this 1.5km waterfront features 52 colonial buildings, now a UNESCO-recognized skyline opposite Pudong’s modern towers.

Shanghai Tower

Completed in 2015, this 632m skyscraper is China’s tallest, with the world’s highest observation deck at 561m, offering panoramic city views.

Nanjing Road

Since the 1930s, this 5.5km shopping street has been Asia’s premier retail hub, with over 600 stores, neon lights, and pedestrian energy.

Jing’an Temple

Founded in 247 AD and rebuilt in 1983, this golden-roofed temple features a 15m jade Buddha and active worship amid Nanjing Road’s bustle.

Shanghai Museum

Opened in 1996 on People’s Square, this free museum holds 120,000 artifacts, including ancient bronzes and jade, in a building shaped like a ding vessel.

Yu Garden

Built in 1559 during the Ming Dynasty, this 2-hectare classical garden offers pavilions, rockeries, and ponds, a serene retreat in Shanghai’s old city.

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Accommodation choices for Shanghai

Sunrise on The Bund

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Sunrise On The Bund is an old Shanghai and European style luxury 5-star hotel, providing 140 luxurious rooms and 11 suites. The hotel features four high-end restaurants including Crystal Café, Tainan Tan-Tsu-Mien seafood restaurant, Sho-u To Japanese restaurant, and Zan teppanyaki. There is also a private club, The Bund Club, and four distinct bars—The Lobby Lounge, Churchill Cigar Bar, La Riva Bar located on the hotel's top floor, and Old Captain Bar renovated from an old villa circa 1932, located on 136 Gaoyang Road.

Hengshan Garden Hotel

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Hengshan Garden Hotel features stylish rooms with modern amenities, including free Wi-Fi and a restaurant offering a variety of cuisines. Surrounded by scenic gardens, the hotel provides a peaceful retreat while being conveniently located near local attractions and transportation.

Jin Jiang Hotel

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Hotel features European architecture and luxurious rooms. It has a heated pool, 5 resturants and 3 bars. Spacious and bright, rooms at Jin Jiang feature classic wooden furnishing. Views of the hotel’s landscaped garden can be enjoyed from the large windows. Each room comes with a cable/satellite TV and minibar. Guests can exercise at the fitness centre, enjoy a relaxing massage or simply lounge at the sauna. For convenience, the hotel also provides free parking and a helpful tour desk.