The 14 Best Things to do in Shanghai 2025: Your Shanghai Travel Guide

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Best Things to do in Shanghai

Planning to travel to Shanghai but at a loss about what to do and what to eat? This guide helps you explore the most fun parts and the most delicacies in Shanghai. You'll find everything you need to know about touring around Shanghai.👇

  • One way
  • Round-trip

Crossed out prices are calculated based on the average price of the corresponding route on Trip.com.

Flights to Shanghai

Shanghai Fun Facts

Boasting more skyscrapers than any other city in the world, Shanghai is now one of the most captivating cities in China.

In this video, we provide an overview of what's the city like and share some intriguing facts that are not widely known. We will aslo highlight the top 4 must-visit places for first-time visitors to Shanghai. Let's explore this incredible city, starting with Yu Garden Old Street, The Bund, and Nanjing Road!

Top Things to do in Shanghai

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Explore Shanghai

Shanghai Disney Resort
📅 When to go Avoid summer (June-August) — +37°C and 3-hour queues. Ideal time: autumn-spring (September-November, March-May) on weekdays, especially Tuesday-Wednesday. Minimum visitors after Chinese New Year (February-March). 🚇 Getting there and payment Metro: Disney Resort station (line 11), an hour from the center for $1. Taxi: $20-25, 50-90 minutes. Pay via Alipay, WeChat Pay or UnionPay. 🎫 Tickets (online at Trip.com) - Regular Ticket: $45-75 depending on the season - Early Bird: +$7-10 for entering 30 minutes earlier - Disney Premier Access: $10-20 for skipping the line at top attractions 🎢 Must-visit attractions **TRON Lightcycle** — motorized coaster of the future, queues up to 2 hours **Pirates of Caribbean** — 20-minute water adventure with realistic decorations **Soaring Over the Horizon** — flight simulator over the world **Seven Dwarfs Mine Train** — family swinging coaster **Roaring Rapids** — wet rafting (bring raincoats for 10 RMB) **Zootopia** — the newest attraction with cutting-edge technology 🏨 Accommodation Shanghai Disneyland Hotel (premium): $200-400 with early entrance Toy Story Hotel: $100-200, themed Nearby hotels: $30-80, 10-20 minutes to the park 📱 Useful life hacks Download the Shanghai Disney Resort app for maps and wait times. Arrive at 8:00 (30-minute queue to enter). Go to TRON or Pirates first. Use lunch time (12:00-14:00) for popular rides - crowds in restaurants. 🍔 Food and shopping Bring food with you - save time and money. In the park: Mickey ice cream $8-12, lunch $15-25. World Disney Store at the entrance: Mickey ears $24, T-shirts $28, souvenirs $10-17. 🎭 Shows and parades Daytime parades: 12:15 and 15:45. Evening show: 9:00 PM (sometimes two shows). Get your seats an hour in advance. 🎒 What to bring A bottle of water (free refills), sunscreen, comfortable shoes, power bank, food. Free WiFi throughout the park. Pro tip**: plan your route by zones, use Single Rider lines, the lines are shorter after 6:00 PM! Swipe the cards to learn more #shanghai #preparingforatriptochina
Shanghai
# Shanghai: What to See and What to Miss ## Must-See The Bund remains Shanghai's main attraction, offering stunning views of the Lujiazui skyscrapers. It's especially beautiful in the evening when the buildings are illuminated. A stroll along the Bund is free and offers a glimpse of the architectural contrast between the city's colonial past and futuristic present. The Tianzifang district is a labyrinth of narrow alleys in traditional shikumen buildings, lined with cozy cafes, art galleries, and designer shops. Here you can experience the authentic atmosphere of old Shanghai and buy quality souvenirs away from the tourist traps. Shanghai Disneyland offers a unique Asian experience with exclusive attractions not found at other Disney parks. Plan a full day for your visit and purchase tickets in advance to save money. Yuyuan Garden showcases a classic example of Chinese garden architecture with picturesque pavilions and ponds. Despite its popularity as a tourist destination, the garden offers a glimpse of traditional China amidst a modern metropolis. Lujiazui District embodies the financial might of modern China. Futuristic glass and steel skyscrapers create an impressive panorama. Observation decks in the high-rise buildings offer breathtaking views of the entire city. ## What to Miss The Starry Sky Art Museum will disappoint visitors with its mediocre exhibits and inflated prices. For the same price, you can visit more significant cultural sites in the city. Screaming children will spoil your enjoyment of the "cosmic" atmosphere. Wukang Building becomes a real tourist hotspot during the hot months, with endless lines for photos. The architecture is interesting, but not worth spending hours waiting. It's better to visit during the cooler months. Jing'an Temple, located in the middle of a business district, looks somewhat artificial and doesn't make much of an impression. For similar prices, you can visit more significant and authentic cultural monuments. Madame Tussauds' wax museum offers mediocre exhibits that don't justify the price. Continued in the cards above #placeswithoutcrowds
Shanghai
Shanghai offers incredible shopping experiences far beyond the typical malls. Each of these stores boasts a unique concept, transforming shopping into a true adventure. The iconic White Rabbit milk candy store on Nanjing Pedestrian Street evokes childhood memories. It offers a variety of new flavors of the famous candy, and the highlight is the opportunity to try White Rabbit ice cream for just 8 yuan. The store brings back the joy of in-person shopping, which online shopping simply cannot replace. The renowned cosmetics store Old Shanghai Snowflake specializes in traditional Shanghai Snowflake cream. The products are renowned for their exceptional quality and rapid absorption. The selection includes a variety of scents, including jasmine, rose, osmanthus, and gardenia. It is especially popular among students and workers due to its affordable prices and the effectiveness of its moisturizing products. The Japanese lifestyle store Niko and... on Huaihai Road impresses with its three-story space featuring various zones. The store is renowned for its stunning canvas bags, high-quality men's clothing, and a variety of hats for every season. Unique items from around the world are found here, though many visitors come simply to browse without actually buying. The official Studio Ghibli store, Donguri Republic, is a true paradise for anime fans and one of only four in China. The selection includes plush toys, collectible figurines, household items, stationery, and traditional Japanese accessories featuring Hayao Miyazaki characters. The Chinese streetwear brand Masonprince, founded in Shenzhen in 2014, combines retro style with futurism. The store is housed in a historic building with an innovative design: the ground floor is decorated in a fire theme, while the second floor is ice-themed, creating an "ice and fire" effect. Installations, large screens, and themed fashion shows are also impressive. The popular brand's pink flagship store, MINISO Pink, greets visitors with a giant strawberry teddy bear. Inside, collections from Disney, Sanrio, and an impressive Harry Potter series are on display. The store boasts a wide selection. #souvenirguide
The Bund
Get ready for a Shanghai citywalk that’s truly next level! 🇨🇳✨ Start your stroll on Anfu Road (An Fu Lu, Xuhui Qu, Shanghai Shi, China – open 24/7). This spot is a literal vibe: chic old villas, artsy coffee shops, and bakeries that smell sooo good you’ll have to stop and grab a treat. 🍰☕️ Snap some pics under the tree-lined streets and feel like you’re in a retro movie! Next, walk over to Wukang Road (Xuhui District, Shanghai – open all day). This place is Insta-famous for its historic buildings and iconic corner cafes—perfect for your main character moment. Strolling here feels like hitting pause on the buzz of the city. When you’re ready for those "wow" skyline views, hit up The Bund (Zhongshan East Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai – by the Huangpu River, open all day). Night or day, the views here are 🤯 – old-world grandeur on one side, futuristic skyscrapers on the other. Make sure to walk along the riverside for that classic Shanghai cityscape. Last stop: Xintiandi (6-7, Lane 123, Xingye Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai – open all day). It’s Shanghai’s nightlife meets history: think cute boutiques, restaurants, and bars tucked inside revamped Shikumen buildings. Perfect for a chill dinner or that golden hour photo sesh. Whether you’re into bakery hopping or riverside vibes, citywalks in Shanghai serve all the feels—from super chill to seriously grand. 🌳✨ #chinatravel #travelchina #shanghai #citywalk #thebund Ready to roam? Check trip.com for the best travel deals and planning tips!
The Bund
Such a beautiful combination of buildings and night views, you can't take your eyes off it 👀 The Bund lights up starting at 7 PM 💛 💡Crowds start gathering 30 minutes before the lights turn on Arrive early to enjoy the sunset and take photos Capture the moment the lights turn on with a video 💡Recommended route 1. Take photos with the Bund as your background 2. Turn around to capture the dazzling Oriental Pearl Tower night view 3. Stroll and enjoy the scenery on your way to Yuyuan Garden 💡Lighting on/off times for the Bund - Summer season (March–October): Lights on at 7:00 PM / Lights off at 10:00 PM - Winter season (November–February): Lights on at 7:00 PM / Lights off at 9:00 PM 💡Location of Gaode Map: 外滩-观景大道
Shanghai
Shanghai continues to amaze with its diverse range of retail concepts, transforming ordinary shopping into an unforgettable experience. Each of the featured stores boasts a unique approach and atmosphere. Green Party is a store offering original gifts and souvenirs with an extraordinary selection. It features unique home goods, stationery, and accessories that are hard to find elsewhere. The store boasts an unusual design with green plants and creative decor, creating a vibrant atmosphere amid the bustle of the city. Gentle Monster stands out as a luxury museum-style store specializing in premium accessories. Beyond shopping, visitors are drawn to futuristic installations and high-tech photo zones. The store is an art space where every detail is carefully considered, creating an immersive experience for visitors. M&M's World is a themed store in central Shanghai dedicated entirely to M&M's candies. It offers exclusive souvenirs and merchandise featuring the brand's logo, making it an unusual gift. Bright installations and interactive zones make visiting a fun experience for the whole family, especially engaging children with the brand's colorful characters. Urban Revivo positions itself as a Chinese equivalent of Zara, offering trendy clothing styles at affordable prices. It stands out from other local brands in that its sizing is well-suited to European body types. The store offers stylish, fast-fashion-inspired solutions with an emphasis on modern trends and high-quality materials. Wow Beauty is a chain store with a wide selection of makeup and skincare products. It offers popular Chinese brands, including Flower Knows, at affordable prices. The pink decor and convenient layout create a comfortable atmosphere for choosing beauty products. Nike House of Innovation is one of three unique Nike stores worldwide, along with New York and Paris. It features high-tech design and numerous stylish photo zones at standard Nike prices. The store offers an innovative approach to retail with interactive elements. Harmay is a multi-brand cosmetics store. Continued in the cards #souvenirguide
Shanghai Greenhouse Garden
Right in the heart of Shanghai, there’s a museum that’s totally next-level—hidden among skyscrapers in Expo Culture Park! Step into the Greenhouse Garden and it’s like teleporting straight into a tropical dreamland. The glass doors open and—BOOM—you’re surrounded by lush greenery, funky cacti 🌵, breadfruit trees, and chonky succulents. If the heat catches up, don’t worry—walk over those quirky manhole covers (trust me, they’re unexpectedly cool to touch!). Venture deeper and the whole vibe shifts into a wild rainforest paradise. Rare plants peek out everywhere 🌳 and the Underwater Forest zone is the real MVP here. It’s stacked with crazy aquatic plants and a rainbow of fish 🐟—some totally chill, some absolute weirdos, all mesmerizing to watch! Getting a people-free photo is next to impossible (this spot is Insta-famous 😂), but silhouette shots turn out so dreamy. Next, hit up the Cloud Corridor and BAM—you’re surrounded by flower power! Huge flower columns loaded with Phalaenopsis orchids stretch high above, with misty palms 🌴 below setting the vibe. Sneak around the “seating” and you’ll catch stunning butterfly specimens 🦋—fun surprise for all you curious explorers! ⭐️Here’s the 411 on the Greenhouse Garden’s three themed zones: • Sea Sandbar—Tropical Arid Plants • Cloud Forest—Tropical Rainforest Plants • Misty Gorge—Tropical Flowering Plants ⭐️these 5 check-in spots are must-shoot: • Giant Cactus • Underwater Gallery • Underwater Forest • Sky Flower Column • Palm Blossom Stream 🕦 Hours: 9:00-21:00 (last entry 20:30) 📍Address: 199 Jiming Road, Expo Culture Park, Greenhouse Garden, Shanghai 🎫Ticket Options: Multiple types available! • How long to stay: At least 2 hours if you wanna see every corner #shanghai #greenhouse #shanghaiadventures
Shanghai
Shanghai generously shares its cultural treasures, offering dozens of free-entry locations. From historic neighborhoods to futuristic architecture, each spot reveals a unique facet of this amazing city. The Shanghai Postal Museum offers a unique look at the history of China's postal service. Housed in the historic General Post Office building, the museum displays exhibits on the development of communications in the country. The majestic architecture, including the clock tower, is worth a visit in itself. North Bund Greenland is a modern promenade on the north bank of the Huangpu River, combining green parkland with panoramic views of skyscrapers. The tranquil atmosphere is ideal for strolling and contemplating the contrast between nature and urbanity. Yuyuan Bazaar is a bustling historic market in central Shanghai where you can find traditional Chinese souvenirs and local food. The classical Ming Dynasty architecture creates a sense of time travel, although admission to the Yuyuan Garden itself requires a fee. Nanjing Road remains one of Shanghai's busiest shopping thoroughfares. Hundreds of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues attract tourists and locals. Evening illuminations transform the street into a vibrant light show. The Bund is a promenade along the Huangpu River, offering breathtaking views of Pudong's skyscrapers and historic colonial buildings. The evening panorama, with its iconic towers illuminated in multicolored colors, is especially impressive. The China Art Museum occupies the former China Pavilion at Expo 2010. The country's largest art museum displays works of traditional and contemporary Chinese art. The building itself, with its red architecture, is a work of art. The French Concession attracts visitors with its elegant colonial architecture, cozy cafes, and trendy boutiques. The unique blend of Western and Chinese styles creates a special atmosphere for leisurely strolls along the shady streets. Lujiazui is a modern business district on the banks of the Huangpu River, renowned for its futuristic skyscrapers, including the Jin Mao Tower, Shanghai Tower, and Oriental Pearl Tower. The district showcases the ambitions of modern China through its impressive architecture. #guide

Top 6 Attractions in Shanghai

The Bund

The Bund in Shanghai

The Bund: No need to recommend. The most iconic landmark in Shanghai! A magical combination of colonial architecture and modern skyscrapers here. Every time you stroll along the bund, you'll have a totally different mindset! Such an amazing place.

  • 🕒 Opening Hours: 24/7
  • 💰 Ticket Price: Free
  • 📍 Location: Zhongshan East Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai

Shanghai Disney Resort

Disneyland in Shanghai

Shanghai Disney Resort: A place has nothing but innocence, fun and dreams! Eye-catching giant castle, various performance by true-to-life characters, spectacular leaping horizon that brings you adrenaline rush, and beautiful firework show that imprints itself in your mind forever...

  • 🕒 Opening Hours: Monday-Friday: 08:30-20:30, Saturday-Sunday: 08:30-21:30 (Current Time)
  • 💰 Ticket Price: From $54.88
  • 📍 Location: Shanghai Disney Resort, Chuansha New Town, Pudong New Area, Shanghai

Yu Garden

Yu Garden in Shanghai

Yu Garden: It was originally a private garden from Ming Dynasty. The owner of the garden, the governor of Sichuan Province then, built it in order to let his father enjoy his retirement age. Now it's a quiet retreat from the hustle and bustle of the Megacity. The pavilions, bricks, tiles, trees reveal exquisite and rich historical heritage of Ming Dynasty.

  • 🕒 Opening Hours: 09:00-16:30 (Closed on Mondays)
  • 💰 Ticket Price: From $3.93
  • 📍 Location: Shanghai Yuyuan Tourism Business District (the main entrance of Yuyuan Garden on the north side of Huxin Pavilion Jiuqu Bridge)
Yu
Yu Garden
Garden
ancient architecture

Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower

Oriental Pearl Tower in Shanghai

Oriental Pearl Tower: Located at No. 1 Century Avenue, Lujiazui, the Oriental Pearl Tower stands on the bank of the Huangpu River, left behind it countless modern skyscrapers. It has a layer of full glass floor, and the air corridor is absolutely worth seeing.

  • 🕒 Opening Hours: 09:00-21:00 (Latest entry time: 20:30)
  • 💰 Ticket Price: From $27.37
  • 📍 Location: No. 1 Century Avenue, Lujiazui, Pudong New Area, Shanghai
Oriental
Oriental Pearl Tower
Modern Architecture
Observation Decks
From $41.19
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Zhujiajiao Ancient Town

Zhujiajiao Water Town in Shanghai

Zhujiajiao Ancient Town: The town has 36 ancient bridges, 9 long streets and more than 1,000 Ming and Qing Dynasty buildings, exuding strong water town vibes. For hundreds of years, the water town has bred countless heroes and rich cultrual heritage. Strolling along the stone slabs or taking a boat on the rippling waterways, you can feel an utmost tranquility.

  • 🕒 Opening Hours: 08:30-20:00
  • 💰 Ticket Price: From $7.56
  • 📍 Location: No. 555, Kezhiyuan Road, Zhujiajiao Town, Qingpu District, Shanghai
Zhujiajiao
Zhujiajiao Ancient Town
Ancient Towns
Water Town
From $7.57
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Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street

Nanjing Road Pedestrian Road in Shanghai

Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street: One of Shanghai's most iconic shopping blocks. Stretching over five kilometers, it’s packed with modern malls, traditional stores, and street vendors offering a variety of goods. Gathering well-known international and domestic brands, Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street also houses countless historial and cultural heriatge. Walking on the street, you can feel the prosperity, energy and historical vibes of the city at the same time.

  • 🕒 Opening Hours: 24/7
  • 💰 Ticket Price: Free
  • 📍 Location: Henan Middle Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai

Day Trip in Shanghai

Shanghai Disney Resort

Disneyland in Shanghai
  • 🕒 Opening Hours: 08:30-20:30
  • 💰 Ticket Price: From $54.88
  • 📍 Location: Shanghai Disney Resort, Chuansha New Town, Pudong New Area
Shanghai
Shanghai Disney Resort
Theme parks
Nighttime sightseeing

Shanghai Haichang Ocean Park

Haichang Ocean Park in Shanghai
  • 🕒 Opening Hours: Monday-Friday: 09:30-17:00 (Latest entry time:16:00)· Saturday-Sunday: 09:30-18:30 (Latest entry time:17:30)
  • 💰 Ticket Price: From $50.76
  • 📍 Location: No.166 Yinfei Road, Nanhui New Town, Pudong New District, Shanghai
Shanghai
Shanghai Haichang Ocean Park
Aquariums
Theme Parks
From $50.76
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Shanghai Wild Animal Park

Shanghai Wild Animal Park
  • 🕒 Opening Hours: 09:00-16:30 (Latest entry time:15:30; Tickets available until:15:30)
  • 💰 Ticket Price: From $22.7
  • 📍 Location: No.178, Nanliu Road, Pudong New Area, Shanghai
Shanghai
Shanghai Wild Animal Park
zoo
wild animals

Shanghai Natural History Museum

Shanghai Natural History Museum
  • 🕒 Opening Hours: 09:00-17:00
  • 💰 Ticket Price: From $12.29
  • 📍 Location: No. 510, Beijing West Road, Jing'an District, Shanghai (in Jing'an Sculpture Park)
Shanghai
Shanghai Natural History Museum
animal fossil
museum

Huangpu River Cruise

Huangpu River Cruise
  • 🕒 Opening Hours: 11:00-22:00
  • 💰 Ticket Price: From $12.38
  • 📍 Location: Shiliupu Pier,Terminal 2,No.551 Zhongshandonger Road,Huangpu,Shanghai
Huangpu
Huangpu River Cruise
Boat Tours
Nighttime sightseeing

Street food in Shanghai

Shanghai Food #1 Xiao Long Bao (soup dumpling)

Street food in Shanghai

When it comes to Shanghainese cuisine, the first classic dish popping up in my mind is xiao long bao. Cubes of pork jelly, minced shrimp and pork with some vegetables are mixed up and wrapped in a thin layer made of dough. They will then be steamed in a bamboo cage. Just a little bite into their thin skin, the sweet and fresh meat soup spews out wildly, making you crave for more.

万寿斋(山阴路店)
Wan Shou Zhai (Shanyin Road)
Snacks
Time-honored brand

Shanghai Food #2 Sheng Jian Bao (pan fried bun) at Xu Ji shengjian

Street food in Shanghai

To make Sheng Jian Bao, the chef adds oil to a huge pan and fries the bottom of the buns until they are crisp and golden brown while the rest of the bun stay soft. Before they’re served on table, toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions are sprinkled over for fragrance enhancement.

Address: 585 Zunyi Rd, Changning District, Shanghai, China

Shanghai Food #3 Crab Roe Noodle

Street food in Shanghai

Six male crabs plus six female crabs! It takes hours of delicate hand labor for a bowl of crab roe and meat. They are heaped up high on the noodles. The crab roe and meat are giving off such a rich, flavorful crab aroma. The noodles are bouncy and chewy, complementing the richness of the crab roe.

Address: 142 Yuyuan Rd, Jing'An, Shanghai, China

Shanghai Food #4 Chopped Cold Chicken

Street food in Shanghai

The chicken skin is soft and tender, with a thin layer of jelly texture between the skin and the meat, and a beautiful pink color on the cut surface of the bones. The chicken is always served together with special made soy sauce and scallion oil. Dip the chicken with some sauce, enjoy the rich flavor blending. It’s one of the greatest pleasures of life!

Tai
Tai Huang Ji
tender chicken
Shanghai flavor

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FAQs about Shanghai Travel

  • What are the must-see attractions in Shanghai?

    The Bund, Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai Disneyland, Yu Garden, etc.
  • What is the best time to visit Shanghai?

    Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November).
  • How to get around Shanghai? Do I need to rent a car?

    Shanghai has an extensive and efficient public transportation system, including the metro, buses, and taxis. The metro is often the fastest way to get around.
  • How many days should I spend in travelling Shanghai?

    Most people find that 3 to 4 days are sufficient.
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