Things to do in Shanghai

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What to do in Shanghai

Popular places to visit

Shanghai Disneyland©

4.5/5(11 reviews)

Enjoy the excitement at Shanghai Disneyland© and see why people love this theme park in Shanghai. Wander through the picturesque gardens and riverfront in this vibrant area.

The Bund

4.5/5(96 reviews)

The changing fortunes of this sprawling riverside walkway are symbolic of the evolution of Shanghai itself.

Nanjing Road Shopping District

4/5(89 reviews)

Experience the bustling energy of Shanghai’s most famous commercial street, with a pedestrian mall surrounded by traditional and luxury shopping opportunities.

Yu Garden

4.5/5(60 reviews)

Created as a place of sanctuary over 400 years ago, Yu Yuan Gardens still provide a soothing retreat from the bustling streets of the Old Town.

People's Square

4/5(60 reviews)

To see the modern heart of Shanghai, visit this square, a vast green space surrounded by museums and a grand theater.

Oriental Pearl Tower

4.5/5(60 reviews)

Combining artistic expression with technological innovation, the Oriental Pearl TV Tower is a towering example of Shanghai’s recent resurgence.

Jing'an Temple

4.5/5(38 reviews)

The Jing’an Temple is a cultural treasure trove, packed with Buddhist relics and maintaining the ancient tradition of the Temple Fair.

French Concession showing street scenes and a city

Former French Concession

4.5/5(48 reviews)

Take a stroll along the shaded avenues of Shanghai’s historic French Concession before enjoying a spot of shopping in some of the city’s trendiest boutiques.

Xintiandi featuring street scenes, a city and café lifestyle

Xintiandi Style Shopping Centre

4.5/5(44 reviews)

Shanghai’s colonial past is displayed in the distinctive Shikumen architecture of Xintiandi, fusing influences from both East and West.

Areas of Shanghai

Downtown Shanghai

4.5/5(11 area reviews)

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

Pudong

4/5(109 area reviews)

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.

Jing'an

4/5(16 area reviews)

Travellers choose Jing'an for its ample dining options. Hop aboard the metro at Yanchang Road Station or Circus World Station and check out top sights like Jade Buddha Temple.

Shanghai Museum featuring modern architecture

Huangpu

4.5/5(94 area reviews)

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

Lujiazui

Climb the innovative towers in this financial district for unobstructed views of Shanghai’s mesmerizing cityscape and stroll along the riverside.

Xuhui

3.5/5(3 area reviews)

Travellers choose Xuhui for its abundant dining options. Hop aboard the metro at Stadium Station or Xujiahui Station and check out top sights like Shanghai Stadium.

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

Nantong

Suzhou

Kunshan

Jiaxing

Zhoushan

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.