Shanghai, China's largest and most dynamic city, radiates confidence and energy. These qualities alone make it a destination worth exploring.
Unlike cities with ancient ruins or scenic countryside, Shanghai offers an impressive array of contemporary attractions. Here are the top activities and sites you shouldn’t miss in Shanghai.
1. Marvel at the iconic skyline at the Bund
The Bund is a must-see highlight of Shanghai. It showcases a breathtaking skyline of colonial-era buildings and modern skyscrapers along the expansive 500-meter-wide Huangpu River, which divides the city into two parts.
You can take a leisurely stroll along the Bund or enjoy the cityscape from a Huangpu River cruise. For a unique yet pricey experience, consider crossing the river via the Bund Sightseeing Tunnel.
2. Unwind in the tranquil Yuyuan Garden
Located close to the Bund, Yuyuan Garden is the most famous and the sole surviving Ming Dynasty garden in Shanghai.
This historical gem is a visual treat, featuring elegant bridges, colorful pavilions, and cozy corners separated by "dragon walls" adorned with intricate dragon motifs.
3. View Shanghai from the Oriental Pearl TV Tower
The Oriental Pearl TV Tower is a landmark that combines entertainment and panoramic views. Visitors can dine in its revolving restaurant or gaze out over the city from the "Space Module," the highest observation deck at 350 meters (1,148 feet) above the ground.
This iconic structure, supported by three massive columns, boasts 11 spheres and 15 observation platforms. Inside, the Shanghai Municipal History Museum offers fascinating exhibits about the city's past.
Many tours in Shanghai include the Shanghai Tower as a stop due to its height and shorter wait times compared to other attractions.
5. Shop and stroll along Nanjing Road
Nanjing Road is Shanghai’s answer to New York’s Fifth Avenue. This bustling commercial hub is packed with global retailers and lively street scenes.
Tourists often admire the striking architecture of the buildings and the decorative 37 manhole covers, which narrate the city’s construction history.
6. Explore Zhujiajiao Water Town
About an hour from downtown Shanghai, Zhujiajiao Water Town is famous for its canals, ancient bridges, and charming architecture.
Visitors can explore the town on foot or opt for a boat ride. Short cruises take you along the main canal, while longer ones offer a full circle of the town.
7. Discover treasures at Shanghai Museum
Situated in People’s Square near Nanjing Road, the Shanghai Museum boasts over 120,000 precious artifacts, including beautifully decorated bronzes, ceramics, and sculptures.
Many exhibits, like those on Ancient Ceramics and Ancient Bronzes, include English descriptions, making it easier for international visitors to appreciate the displays.
8. Relax, dine, and shop in Tianzifang/Xintiandi
Tianzifang, a trendy area in the former French Concession, offers unique shops and cafes specializing in cultural goods and tea therapy.
Xintiandi, a more upscale redevelopment of the French Concession, features luxurious boutiques, fine dining, and charming historic architecture.
9. Experience magic at Disneyland Park
Shanghai Disneyland Park, the first Disney resort on the Chinese mainland, combines Disney’s charm with local cultural influences.
The park features six themed lands, each filled with adventures and excitement. It's an ideal destination for families and friends to spend a day or two immersed in fun.
10. Ride the world’s fastest train - the Maglev
A ride on the Maglev train from Pudong Airport to the city center is a thrilling way to experience Shanghai’s cutting-edge technology.
Traveling at an incredible speed of 431 kph (270 mph), this magnetically-levitated train covers 30 kilometers (19 miles) in just 8 minutes. Don’t miss the Maglev Museum at Longyang Road Station to learn about its engineering marvels.
11. Admire Shanghai’s European-style architecture
Shanghai is home to numerous European-style buildings from different eras.
The Bund features majestic business and government buildings, while the French Concession is lined with charming residential structures and tree-shaded streets. Xintiandi, with its preserved historic architecture, combines old-world charm with modern luxury, making it a favorite spot for dining and shopping.
