15 Best Things to Do in Shanghai, China

Shanghai, a vibrant hub of China, epitomizes the nation’s swift modernization. Often referred to as the Pearl of the Orient, the city skillfully blends traditional elements with futuristic architecture. Here, historic alleys known as longtangs intersect with towering skyscrapers. Spend your days exploring renowned landmarks like the Bund and Jade Buddha Temple, wandering through peaceful classical gardens, or discovering the city’s rich cultural scene in modern art galleries, quirky boutiques, and chic tea houses. With countless things to do in Shanghai, China, this guide will help you uncover all the gems this dynamic city has to offer.

Things to do in Shanghai China

Shanghai, a dynamic metropolis on China’s eastern coast, is an excellent starting point for exploring China. While the city’s history saw significant changes during the 20th century, leading to a modern architectural landscape, it retains a vibrant cultural essence.

Dive into Shanghai’s world of glowing neon lights at its lively bars, innovative cuisine, friendly locals, and avant-garde fashion choices. Despite its towering skyscrapers and bustling streets, Shanghai also offers quaint tea houses and tranquil parks, showcasing a harmonious blend of new and old.

This city is a testament to China’s rapid evolution, yet it manages to celebrate its rich heritage at every turn.

1. Yu Garden

Yu Garden, a serene escape nestled in the heart of Shanghai, offers a peaceful contrast to the city’s bustling streets. This historic garden, established in the 16th century, serves as a beautiful testament to traditional Chinese landscape design.

Within its 20,000 square kilometers, visitors can explore a rich tapestry of cultural heritage, from the classic Kuailou Pavilion and Wanhua Chamber to the majestic Jade Rock. The garden’s intricate layout features traditional Chinese pagodas, tranquil ponds filled with lily pads, quaint bridges, and a diverse collection of flora and fauna, making it an essential destination for anyone visiting Shanghai.

2. Jade Buddha Temple

Located in the Anyuan Lu district of Shanghai, the Jade Buddha Temple stands as a beacon of serenity and traditional spirituality. Renowned for its exquisite architectural design and the golden statues that line its walls, this temple offers a deep dive into the city’s rich cultural heritage. The exterior of the temple showcases traditional Chinese designs replete with intricate details that will captivate any culture enthusiast.

However, the temple’s crowning glory is the majestic statue of a reclining Buddha inside, adorned with ornate jewels and fruits, making it a revered site in Shanghai. Visiting the Jade Buddha Temple is a must-do for those looking to explore the spiritual landmarks of the city.

For a continued exploration of Shanghai’s spiritual sites, a visit to Jin’an Temple, another stunning temple within the city, is highly recommended. Both temples provide a profound glimpse into the city’s religious artistry and are spectacular in their own right.

3. The Bund Promenade

Also known as Zhongshan Lu, strolling along The Bund Promenade is a must when visiting Shanghai, particularly in the early evening when the city lights begin to sparkle. This iconic promenade offers a unique blend of Shanghai’s modern skyline with historical colonial architecture, reflecting its English and French influences which become apparent once you delve into the city’s past.

The Bund is not just about the panoramic views of Shanghai’s skyscrapers; it’s also a hub of activity with an array of shops, restaurants, bars, and galleries. Whether you’re aiming to capture that ‘iconic’ Shanghai photo or simply want to enjoy a leisurely meal or a drink while soaking in the cityscape, The Bund has something for everyone.

For a deeper exploration of Shanghai’s historical layers, a visit to the nearby French Concession is highly recommended. With its charming tree-lined avenues and an eclectic mix of shops and cafes, the French Concession offers a distinct and enchanting experience that complements your visit to The Bund.

4. Longhua Temple

Longhua Temple stands as the most authentic and best-preserved Song Dynasty monastery in Shanghai, showcasing traditional architecture that epitomizes the Song era. This temple complex features an array of pointed roofs and uniquely styled pagodas that capture the essence of ancient Chinese design.

The highlight of Longhua Temple is the imposing six-tiered pagoda, which towers above the other structures, offering a breathtaking sight that shouldn’t be missed. After exploring this historic site, continue your journey to Yuyuan Old Street and Garden Temple, where more architectural and cultural treasures await.

5. The Shanghai Museum

Situated in the vast expanse of People’s Square, The Shanghai Museum is a premier destination for exploring ancient Chinese art, recognized as one of the most significant repositories in the country. This imposing stone structure houses an extensive collection that spans the breadth of Chinese history, with artifacts that trace back to the earliest dynasties.

The museum is organized into various sections, each dedicated to different forms of art. Visitors can admire ancient bronzes, intricate sculptures, delicate ceramics, exquisite jades, and masterful calligraphy. Additionally, the museum showcases exceptional pieces of furniture from the Ming and Qing dynasties, offering a comprehensive insight into Chinese artistic evolution.

For those with a keen interest in natural history, a visit to the Shanghai Natural History Museum is also highly recommended. Located nearby, it presents another fascinating opportunity to delve into the natural wonders of the region, making both museums ideal destinations for a day of exploration, especially on less favorable weather days.

6. The Oriental Pearl Tower

The Oriental Pearl Tower is not just a striking figure against the Shanghai skyline but also a beacon of modern architectural prowess. Known for its unique design featuring two prominent spheres, this iconic tower stands out as one of Shanghai’s most memorable landmarks.

Soaring to a height of 467 meters, it once held the title of the tallest structure in China. The tower is equipped with 15 observation decks and a revolving restaurant, making it a must-visit for those looking to capture Shanghai from different perspectives. The best time to visit is about an hour before sunset, when the city is bathed in golden hues, offering truly breathtaking views.

For those interested in exploring beyond the city, consider a day trip to the charming town of Zhujiajiao, located just 30km from central Shanghai. This picturesque town provides a peaceful contrast to the bustling city and can be easily visited on a half-day tour.

7. People’s Square

People’s Square serves as the heart of Shanghai and is an ideal starting point for any city tour. This sprawling open space not only holds historical significance but also bustles with daily activities and cultural vibrancy. At the center of the square, you’ll find the serene People’s Park, adorned with lovely fountains that provide a tranquil retreat from the urban energy.

Surrounding the park, key attractions include the Grand Cinema, the Shanghai Museum, and the Municipal Government Headquarters. Each offers a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural and political history, making People’s Square a strategic spot to begin your exploration of Shanghai.

8. Xujiahui Cathedral

Nestled within a quaint park in Shanghai, Xujiahui Cathedral offers a surprising departure from the city’s typical architectural landscape. Built in 1911, this Romanesque cathedral, with its formidable spires, stands as a stark contrast to the traditional Chinese structures that dominate the area.

It serves as the primary place of worship for Shanghai’s Catholic community and visiting this cathedral is highly recommended if you wish to explore a different facet of Shanghai’s diverse cultural identity. The cathedral’s unique style and serene environment make it a must-visit, especially for those looking to experience the city’s rich religious heritage.

9. Xintiandi District

Known as the “New Heaven and Earth,” Xintiandi stands as a premier entertainment hub right in the heart of Shanghai. This trendy area is the perfect destination for anyone looking to experience the city’s dynamic nightlife. Whether you’re in the mood for a delicious dinner, fancy drinks, or a memorable night out, Xintiandi has it all.

Despite its popularity, Xintiandi offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the bustling Nanjing Road, making it ideal for those who prefer a laid-back evening. Its blend of modern and traditional architecture, coupled with a wide array of high-end restaurants, bars, and boutiques, ensures that a visit here is among the top things to do in Shanghai for a night on the town.

10. Yangpu Bridge

Spanning the mighty Huangpu River, Yangpu Bridge is an impressive cable-stayed structure and one of the longest bridges in the world, stretching 8,354 meters in total length. This engineering marvel connects the Yangpu District with the Pudong region, facilitating bustling traffic across its expanse.

For those interested in a closer look, the bridge offers two sightseeing sidewalks that provide unique perspectives of Shanghai’s skyline and the river below. However, be mindful of the local weather; walking these sidewalks can be challenging during the midday heat, so early morning or later evening visits are recommended for a more comfortable experience.

11. Shanghai World Financial Center

Dominating the Shanghai skyline, the Shanghai World Financial Center stands out as one of the tallest buildings in the world. This architectural marvel is not just a sight to behold from the outside but also offers some of the most stunning views of the city from its 100th-floor observation deck.

Visiting just an hour before sunset is highly recommended as it provides a magical backdrop for photography, capturing the city as it lights up against the evening sky. Additionally, don’t miss the chance to visit the Flair Rooftop at the Ritz Carlton, located nearby. It offers a spectacular vantage point for city views and is an excellent spot for enjoying a cocktail in a breathtaking setting.

12. Shanghai Tower

Shanghai Tower marks the pinnacle of the city’s skyline as the tallest building in Shanghai and hosts one of the highest observation decks in the world. As a national landmark, this tower is celebrated globally for its unique twisting design and cutting-edge architecture.

The observation deck on the 121st floor offers unparalleled 360-degree views of the city, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience Shanghai from above. It’s regarded as one of the best activities in Shanghai, especially for first-time visitors.

For a truly exceptional dining experience, consider visiting Ultraviolet by Paul Pairet afterwards. This Michelin-starred restaurant offers a unique culinary journey, albeit with a higher price tag, but it’s well worth the splurge for a memorable meal.

13. Travel on the Maglev

Experiencing the Shanghai Maglev train is a must for any visitor to the city. As a shining example of modern technology, this magnetically levitated train embodies innovation. Connecting the airport(s) to the city center, the Maglev speeds along at a breathtaking 270 mph, covering 19 miles in just 8 minutes.

The train’s design and style are unrivaled, offering a futuristic travel experience. As the fastest commercial high-speed electric train in the world, the Maglev provides the most efficient and exciting way to travel within Shanghai, turning what is typically a mundane journey into an exhilarating adventure.

14. Nanjing Road

If shopping is on your agenda in Shanghai, Nanjing Road is your essential destination. Stretching for several miles from the Zhongshan Lu intersection, this pedestrian-friendly avenue is a shopper’s paradise, boasting an overwhelming array of shops.

From street vendors and souvenir stalls to boutique clothing stores, large malls, cinemas, and an assortment of street food, Nanjing Road offers everything you could possibly want to buy. The experience is particularly magical at night when the street is brilliantly illuminated and teeming with energy, making it the perfect time to explore and soak in the lively atmosphere of Shanghai.

15. Đường Đông Đài

While Nanjing Road is synonymous with mainstream retail therapy, Dongtai Road offers a more rustic and traditional shopping experience. This street is a treasure trove for those looking to discover the quirkier side of Shanghai’s market scene. Along this road, you’ll find a delightful jumble of shops and stalls selling an eclectic mix of items, from books and antiques to metal teapots and even insects.

Dongtai Road truly captures the essence of local life in Shanghai, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic cultural experience. It’s also one of the best activities in Shanghai for those who love to explore. Additionally, if you’re interested in the old town atmosphere, take a stroll around the nearby Nanshi area, which is equally enchanting and offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history.