Things to do in Shanghai

Activities, attractions and tours

A traditional Chinese courtyard with ornate buildings and a modern cityscape in the background.
A crowded street lined with traditional red buildings and shops.
A traditional Chinese courtyard with ornate buildings, a bridge over water, and a statue.
A narrow alley with shops, a 3DJP sign, and a Story in the Box store.
A traditional multi-tiered pagoda with ornate wooden railings and golden accents.

Things to do

Shanghai: Hop-on Hop-off Bus Ticket and Optional Attractions

Shanghai: Hop-on Hop-off Bus Ticket

€11
per adult
Shanghai: Hop-on Hop-off Bus Ticket
Award-winning Shanghai Acrobatics Show in Shanghai

Chinese Acrobatics and Shanghai Evening Tour

€116
per adult
78% of travellers recommend
Chinese Acrobatics and Shanghai Evening Tour
Evening Huangpu River Cruise & Bund City Lights Tour

Evening Huangpu River Cruise & Bund City Lights Tour

€68
per adult
84% of travellers recommend
Evening Huangpu River Cruise & Bund City Lights Tour
Shanghai Yu Garden Admission Ticket

Shanghai Yu Garden Admission Ticket

€8
per adult
Shanghai Yu Garden Admission Ticket
Pan fried dumplings

Authentic Local Food Tour in Central Shanghai

€69
per adult
96% of travellers recommend
Authentic Local Food Tour in Central Shanghai
Shanghai Natural History Museum Ticket Booking

Shanghai Natural History Museum Ticket Booking

€10
per adult
Shanghai Natural History Museum Ticket Booking
Shanghai City Walking Tour

Shanghai City Guided Walking Tour | China's 1st and Best Rated

€4
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Shanghai City Guided Walking Tour | China's 1st and Best Rated
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Top places to visit

1. The Bund

In the early 19th century, The Bund was merely a narrow, muddy towpath on the banks of Huangpu River. Within a hundred years, European and American investors had created a lavish boulevard that rivaled the great avenues of the West. After decades of post-revolution neglect, this grand street is back in business. Many of its 52 architectural treasures have been lovingly restored and the once traffic-clogged, multilane street has been remodeled into a pedestrian-friendly promenade.
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A large, historic building with a clock tower and a dome, surrounded by modern skyscrapers and a busy square with pedestrians.

2. Nanjing Road Shopping District

The Nanjing Road Shopping District, one of the city’s busiest shopping areas, has a history stretching back more than 100 years. The district is now a mix of towering department stores and colonial-era buildings along a pedestrian mall. Find luxury brands, international fast-food chains, and shops selling silk and jade.
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A busy urban street with tall buildings, billboards, and traffic lights.

3. People's Square

People's Square, or Renmin Square, is Shanghai’s massive central square. This popular public gathering place is home to the Shanghai Museum, the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall and the Grand Theater, among other attractions. Admire the towering modern buildings that surround the square and watch local residents chatting and flying ornate kites over the grassy lawn areas.
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A cityscape with modern skyscrapers, a large park with trees, and a distinctive building with a unique roof design.

4. Jing'an Temple

Jing’an Temple has a fitting name. It translates to “Temple of Peace and Tranquility” and this complex on one of the city’s main shopping streets does indeed offer an oasis of calm. Built in the third century, the Buddhist temple has a checkered past. It was relocated during the Song Dynasty (960-1279), converted into a plastics factory during the Cultural Revolution and destroyed by fire in 1972. Today’s reconstructed temple, surrounded by modern skyscrapers and shopping malls, is a perfect place to escape the busy streets of downtown Shanghai. It also offers a fascinating window into the spiritual lives of Shanghai’s people.
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A traditional Chinese temple with golden roofs and intricate designs, surrounded by modern skyscrapers.

5. Former French Concession

The French Concession was one of Shanghai’s major European enclaves from the mid 19th century to just before World War II. Today, the district is again a sought-after address for expats living in Shanghai, as well as being a popular tourist destination and the hub of the city’s upmarket shopping scene.
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A tree-lined urban street with outdoor cafes and restaurants.

6. Yu Garden

Yu Yuan Garden was lovingly created in the 1500s by a government officer as a retreat for his parents. Yu Yuan means “peace and comfort,” and despite the popularity of the attraction, the gardens remain a serene sanctuary. Set aside an hour or two to explore the gardens, pavilions, courtyards, chambers and halls. The ponds, bridges and streams also provide perfect spots for reflection, while the protective dragon wall that encircles the garden keeps Shanghai’s bustling Old Town at bay.
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A traditional Chinese pavilion over a pond with tourists, surrounded by modern skyscrapers.

7. Xintiandi Style Shopping Centre

Located in the heart of Shanghai, historic Xintiandi (which translates to “New Heaven and Earth”) is a car-free, inner-city paradise for those seeking open-air dining, chic bars and boutique shopping. Most importantly, however, this redevelopment preserves a style of architecture unique to Shanghai, and gives a window into the community which once inhabited the area’s narrow lanes.
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An outdoor cafe with brick arches, red umbrellas, and trees.

8. Oriental Pearl Tower

The Oriental Pearl TV Tower is one of the world’s highest transmission towers. Since its completion in 1994, the tower has become Shanghai’s most recognizable landmark. More than just a TV tower, this multifunction marvel offers unique shopping, an informative museum, a revolving restaurant and some of the best views in Shanghai.
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A city skyline at night with illuminated buildings and a prominent tower with a spherical structure at its top.

What to do in Shanghai

Stay near popular Shanghai attractions

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Photo by Susanna Wilder Puzzuoli
Open Photo by Susanna Wilder Puzzuoli

Shanghai Disneyland©

8.8/10 (629 reviews)
Shanghai Disneyland blends classic Disney magic with Chinese cultural elements, featuring the world's tallest Disney castle. Explore the exclusive Zootopia-themed land or enjoy spectacular nighttime shows.
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Where to stay in Shanghai

Find the best Shanghai areas for the activities you enjoy most.
A panoramic view of a densely built city with modern skyscrapers, a prominent tower, and a river.

The North Bund

While you're in The North Bund, take in top sights like Shanghai International Cruise Ship Terminal or Shanghai Jewish Refugees Museum, and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Tilanqiao Station or International Cruise Terminal Station.

A cityscape with modern skyscrapers, a calm pond, and well-maintained greenery.

Lujiazui

Consider exploring the abundant dining options in Lujiazui. If sightseeing is on the list, Huarun Times Square is a top attraction. Hop on the metro at Shangcheng Road Station or Dongchang Road Station to see more of the area.

An outdoor cafe with brick arches, red umbrellas, and trees.

Xintiandi

While Xintiandi isn't home to many top sights, People's Square and Nanjing Road Shopping District are some notable places to visit nearby.

A city skyline at night with illuminated buildings and a prominent tower with colorful lights.

Downtown Shanghai

Known for its beautiful gardens and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Downtown Shanghai. Check out top attractions like The Bund and Nanjing Road Shopping District, and jump on the metro at East Nanjing Road Station or Yuyuan Garden Station to see more of the city.

A city skyline with illuminated buildings and a large spherical structure reflecting in the water.

Pudong

Shanghai Disneyland© and The Bund are top sights in Pudong, and you should be sure to explore the popular shops. Hop aboard the metro at Huinan Station or Safari Park Station to see more sights in the area.

A traditional Chinese pavilion over a calm pond with a red bridge.

Suzhou

Frequently asked questions

Is Shanghai worth visiting?
Renowned for its views and history, discovering cool things to do in Shanghai is a breeze. Be sure to add Former French Concession to your itinerary when here.
How do I spend a day in Shanghai?
Kick-start your day with a visit to Former French Concession and Shanghai Tower. Then, check out other areas of Shanghai for local restaurants and some retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Shanghai?
You can't go home without exploring Former French Concession, rated the top tourist attraction in Shanghai.
Is three days enough to stay in Shanghai?
You can easily visit leading sights like Former French Concession, Shanghai Tower and Shanghai Museum with a three-day getaway in Shanghai. On average, many travellers book three days here. There's plenty to see and do nearby too, so stay a while longer and check out Pengpu.
Is Shanghai a walkable city?
With popular neighbourhoods and major attractions within walking distance of the city centre, Shanghai is a great destination to see on foot. Have fun wandering between Former French Concession and Shanghai Tower. Then take a stroll around Huangpu, located 2 kilometres from the centre, and Lujiazui, which is about 3 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Shanghai with kids?
Deciding what to do in Shanghai with kids has never been so simple. Whether you're getting away with toddlers or teenagers, there's a range of family-friendly sights to keep them busy here.

What to do in Shanghai for adults?
Three on the Bund and Xianxia Road are just a couple of the things to do in Shanghai. With lots of activities available, there's something here for everyone to experience.
Are there free things to do in Shanghai?
From enjoying parks to wandering around hip neighbourhoods, it's a breeze to discover free things to do in Shanghai. If you need inspiration, ask a local tour guide for some tips. Former French Concession is a great spot for anyone wanting to save on their travel adventures.