The 14 Best Things to do in Shanghai 2026: Your Shanghai Travel Guide

by Yuan Wu

December 12, 2024

Things to Do Shanghai

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.👇

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This summary is AI-generated by Trip.com. For the complete guide, please refer to the article below.

Shanghai features top attractions including The Bund and Shanghai Disney Resort, with tickets starting at $54.88. Key cultural sites include Yu Garden and Zhujiajiao Ancient Town. Visitors enjoy signature local dishes like Xiao Long Bao and Sheng Jian Bao. Most major landmarks provide free access or entry fees starting from $3.93.

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!✨

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Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower

Until you check out this post! My name is Yinghe, and I want to tell you more about China before you arrive! I decided to start with Shanghai because it's the most common arrival spot for tourists. We are thrilled to welcome guests, and I hope you'll love it here and leave with plenty of great memories. But to make that happen, you need to prepare in advance and do some research about your destination, because things aren't always as simple as we'd like 😁. One major hurdle is using AliPay and WeChat, as well as staying connected. If you're worried about this, head over to my Instagram and DM me the word "payment," and I'll send you a free guide that answers many of your questions. If you enjoy this kind of content, let me know what else you'd like to learn or hear about, and I'll do my best to put it together for you. And if you're looking for a place to stay, the InterContinental Shanghai Pudong is waiting for you 🫶🏻. Sending hugs and wishing you awesome trips!

Инхэ и Владимир

Shanghai

#underratedspots Who says you have to dive into the ocean to visit Bikini Bottom? In Shanghai, SpongeBob fans can step into a colorful underwater world inspired by one of the most beloved animated series of all time. From the moment you arrive, you’ll feel like you’ve entered SpongeBob’s hometown. Bright coral reefs, playful sea-themed decorations, and familiar landmarks bring the world of SpongeBob SquarePants to life, making it a nostalgic experience for both kids and adults. 🍔 Welcome to the Krusty Krab One of the biggest highlights is seeing the iconic Krusty Krab recreated in real life. Whether you’re taking photos, browsing themed merchandise, or simply reliving childhood memories, it’s impossible not to smile. 📸 A Dream for SpongeBob Fans Pose beside SpongeBob’s pineapple house, meet your favorite characters, and explore immersive spaces filled with fun details straight from the cartoon. Every corner is designed for unforgettable photos. 🎡 More Than Just a Theme Area The experience combines interactive attractions, family-friendly entertainment, themed food, and exclusive souvenirs. It’s a perfect stop whether you’re traveling with children or simply grew up watching SpongeBob after school. ✨ A Dose of Childhood Nostalgia Sometimes the best attractions aren’t the biggest—they’re the ones that remind you of simpler days. Visiting Bikini Bottom in Shanghai is a chance to reconnect with childhood memories while experiencing one of the city’s most playful attractions. 📍 Shanghai, China 🧽 Inspired by SpongeBob SquarePants 🍔 Krusty Krab • 📸 Photo spots • 🎡 Family-friendly fun #Shanghai #BikiniBottom #SpongeBob #ShanghaiTravel #VisitShanghai #ThemePark #FamilyTravel #TripMoments #ExploreChina #ChildhoodMemories 🧽🌊🍍

JoyceLee2906

Shanghai Auto Museum

Traveling can be surprisingly affordable if you master the art of planning. The key to saving is buying tickets in advance or during seasonal sales, when prices drop significantly. The money saved on flights will allow you to indulge in new experiences and spend more on what's truly important: emotions, comfort, and local cuisine. 💡The most important rule when searching for cheap tickets, if you have several stops, is to look for a complex itinerary with transfers, as a single ticket, and then you get the magic 💫 💵Main expenses: · Tickets - 35,753 rubles (for three people), I've never seen such cheap tickets before 😁😁😁 · Two-level apartment - 40,156 rubles · Legoland - 10,435 rubles (for three people) · Greenhouse Garden - 2,631 rubles (tickets for 3) · Shanghai Auto Museum - 1,793 rubles (tickets for 3) · The Stage - 4,587 rubles (2 adults) and 1,233 rubles (child's ticket) · Food - 800-1,000 rubles for one meal for three 😁 TOTAL: 105,000 rubles 🛍️ I didn't include shopping in the expenses, as the cost can range from zero to infinity; everyone has different expenses. #familytravel #shanghai #shanghaitrip #chinatravel #china #shanghai

NATALI_SADOVAIA

Shanghai Tower

If you're flying to Shanghai for the first time, it's easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer number of attractions. The city is massive, and without a solid plan, you could spend half your day just getting around and missing out on the best spots. Here is an itinerary that lets you explore Shanghai at a relaxed pace. 📍 Day 1 — First Impressions Start at The Bund, stroll down Nanjing Road, and check out the Old City and Yuyuan Garden. In the evening, head up to the Shanghai Tower observation deck or simply take in the dazzling lights of Pudong. 🏛 Day 2 — History and Vibe Visit People's Square and the Shanghai Museum, then make your way to the French Concession. In the evening, drop by Xintiandi—one of the city's coziest neighborhoods. 🏙 Day 3 — Modern Shanghai Explore the Lujiazui district to see the iconic skyscrapers, take a walk along the Huangpu River promenade, and wrap up your day with an evening river cruise. 🎨 Day 4 — Art and Shopping Check out the M50 art district, then go on a shopping spree at IFC Mall, Plaza 66, or other major malls. In the evening, consider visiting another observation deck to see the city from a totally different perspective. 🌿 Day 5 — Laid-back Shanghai Before your flight, wander through Tianzifang, pick up some souvenirs, sip tea in a traditional teahouse, and soak up your final hours in the city without rushing. A few tips 🚇 The metro is the best way to get around—it’s fast, cheap, and covers almost the entire city. 📱 Set up Alipay in advance—it makes paying for public transit, shopping, and even vending machines a breeze. 🥟 You absolutely have to try xiaolongbao, shengjianbao, and Shanghai-style noodles—your culinary journey wouldn't be complete without them. 📌 Save this itinerary if you're planning your first trip to Shanghai. Five days is the perfect amount of time to hit the major sights, soak in the city's vibe, and not feel like you're in a constant rush. 🇨🇳✈️

Fedoriada

TX (Huaihai Exhibition Hall)

The average price of a bag without additional keychains is ¥300-¥700. Shops in Shanghai: · muva. (TX) · muva. (CP) Also available in Chengdu and Guangzhou! Coming soon, a review of other Chinese fashion brands, don't miss out 🔥

il520li

Yu Garden

Shanghai turned out to be way more fascinating than I ever expected. It's a place where modern skyscrapers sit right next to traditional gardens, and three days is just enough to explore the highlights without feeling rushed. 📍 Day 1 — Getting to Know the City Morning: · The Bund · Nanjing Road Afternoon: · People’s Square · People’s Park Evening: · Huangpu River Cruise · View of the Pudong skyline after sunset 💡 If you have to choose between a daytime and an evening stroll along the waterfront—go for the evening. The city completely transforms as it lights up. 🏙 Day 2 — Modern Shanghai Morning: · Shanghai Tower (observation deck) · Lujiazui Financial District Afternoon: · Oriental Pearl Tower · IFC Mall Evening: · Riverside Promenade · Dinner with a view of the skyscrapers 💡 You'll get the best photos about an hour before sunset. 🌿 Day 3 — Old Shanghai Morning: · Yu Garden · Yuyuan Bazaar Afternoon: · Xintiandi · French Concession Evening: · Tianzifang · Dinner at a local restaurant 💡 The French Concession is my absolute favorite neighborhood in Shanghai. It has a completely different vibe: leafy green streets, quaint cafes, and cozy boutiques. Must-See Spots ✅ The Bund ✅ Shanghai Tower ✅ Yu Garden ✅ French Concession ✅ Huangpu River Cruise 💬 My Top Tip If it's your first time in Shanghai, set aside at least three full days. That way, you can take your time checking out the main attractions, heading up to an observation deck, wandering through historic neighborhoods, and experiencing the city both during the day and at night—because it's after dark when Shanghai truly leaves the strongest impression.

Marialatoha

Yu Garden

1. The Bund (North Bund) 2. Lujiazui Pedestrian Bridge among Skyscrapers 3. Louis Vuitton Airliner 4. 1000 Trees Complex 5. Greenhouse Garden 6. Yuyuan Garden 7. Shanghai Old Town 8. Traditional Imperial Banquet 9. French Quarter 10. Saint Igrand Cathedral ✅ We also highly recommend visiting these destinations from Shanghai: · The famous cliff village 📍Wangxian Valley · The "Venice of China" 📍Zhujiajiao #travel2026 #travel #couplestrip #staycation #myitinerary #citydaytours #china #shanghai

TRIPPERS.IO

People's Square

The choice of neighborhood can make or break your trip. You could book a gorgeous hotel but spend an hour commuting every single day. Or, you could step out of the subway and be strolling along the Bund, sipping coffee in cozy alleys, or marveling at the Pudong skyscrapers within minutes. There is no single "best" neighborhood in Shanghai. It all depends on your travel goals. In this guide, we've put together a list of neighborhoods for different scenarios: 🌇 The Bund — if it's your first time in Shanghai and you want to stay right next to the main attractions. 🏙 Lujiazui — for those who dream of waking up to skyscraper views and staying in the city's most modern district. 🌳 Jing’an — an all-around great option with fantastic public transit, plus a huge selection of cafes, restaurants, and hotels. ☕ Former French Concession — atmospheric streets, historic villas, top-notch coffee shops, and peaceful strolls. 🛍 People’s Square — the perfect choice if you want shopping, museums, and the subway right at your doorstep. 💰 Zhongshan Park, Xujiahui, and Changning — excellent options for those who want to save on accommodation but still have quick access to the city center. 📌 Swipe through the cards and pick the neighborhood that matches your travel style. If you've already been to Shanghai, let us know in the comments where you stayed and which neighborhood was your favorite. It’ll really help out anyone planning their first trip!

Fedoriada

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 Garden

From $4.13
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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

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

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

From $54.88
Book Your Tickets Now!

Shanghai Disneyland Hotel

No. 1009, Shendi West Road

From VND 10,640,401

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

From $50.76
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Shanghai Haichang Ocean Park Resort Hotel

No. 777 Qiqing Road, Nanhuixincheng Town

From VND 4,717,438

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

From $22.7
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Madison Hotel Shanghai Wild Animal Park

No. 373 South 6th Highway

From VND 1,283,050

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

From $12.29
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GEM Hotel (Shanghai Bund Nanjing East Road Pedestrian Street shop)

7th Floor, Asia Pacific Plaza, No. 600 Nanjing East Road

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

From $12.38
Book Your Tickets Now!

JI Hotel (Shanghai The Bund Jinling East Road)

No. 33 Henan South Road

From VND 1,926,513

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)

Check details now!

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

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The West Lake

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Lingyin Temple

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Moganshan National Park

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Hello Kitty Park

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Sky Land

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FAQs about Shanghai Travel

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Jeffery

Trip.com Blogger

Hi, I’m Jeffery. I love visiting new cities, trying local food and finding fun, off-the-beaten-path spots. I share my real travel stories, easy itineraries and honest tips from my own trips. I hope my posts can help you plan better.

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