30 Best Tourist spots & Things to Do in Shanghai | Apr 2025

 Private Shanghai Full Day City Tour with Old and New Highlights Image
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Private Shanghai Full Day City Tour with Old and New Highlights

This great 8-hour Shanghai city tour takes you to discover the must see sites in Shanghai from its old and modern perspectives, from its colonial Bund riverside to the modern skyscrapers Oriental Pearl TV Tower, Shanghai Tower, from the elegant Ming Dynasty Yu Garden and old town Bazaar to the charming French Concession, from the exquisite Jade Buddha Temple to China's No.

4.98 (727 reviews)

Shanghai Private Tour: Zhujiajiao Water Town and Boat Ride Image
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Shanghai Private Tour: Zhujiajiao Water Town and Boat Ride

Enjoy short get away from Shanghai city to beautiful Zhujiajiao Water Town where you can explore the classic Chinese buildings and to take a relax boat ride along the water canals.

4.99 (406 reviews)

Zhujiajiao Water Town and Shanghai City Private Day Tour Image
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Zhujiajiao Water Town and Shanghai City Private Day Tour

Discover Shanghai’s most incredible city attractions and beautiful Zhujiajiao Water Town during this wonderful private day tour.

4.98 (815 reviews)

Private Suzhou Day Trip from Shanghai by Bullet Train with All Inclusive Option Image
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Private Suzhou Day Trip from Shanghai by Bullet Train with All Inclusive Option

Discover the beautiful city Suzhou on a full-day sightseeing tour from Shanghai. Departing at 9:30am at your Shanghai hotel, you will be accompanied by your private guide to discover the beautiful garden, such as Humble Administrator's Garden, Tiger Hill and etc.

4.98 (152 reviews)

Authentic Local Food Tour in Central Shanghai Image
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Authentic Local Food Tour in Central Shanghai

Taste a dozen traditional Shanghainese dishes in 3 hours during this culinary tour of Huangpi Road, the old border between the former French Concession and Shanghai residential areas.

4.96 (981 reviews)

Shanghai: Southern Great Wall Day Trip by Bullet Train Image
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Shanghai: Southern Great Wall Day Trip by Bullet Train

Embark on an unforgettable journey to the Southern Great Wall of China in Zhejiang province near Shanghai, and enjoy a unique experience away from Beijing's crowds.

4.64 (11 reviews)

4-Hour Flexible Private Shanghai City Tour Image
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4-Hour Flexible Private Shanghai City Tour

Pick 2 to 3 most incredible Shanghai city attractions that you wish to discover during this 4-hour private tour. Accompanied by your professional guide with comfortable vehicle so that you can get around the city easier.

4.98 (148 reviews)

Shanghai Circus World: ERA2 Intersection of Time Acrobatics Show Image
Shanghai Circus World: ERA2 Intersection of Time Acrobatics Show Image
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Shanghai Circus World: ERA2 Intersection of Time Acrobatics Show

Two versions of ERA2-Spirit of Shanghai will be performed: 60-minute version and 100-minute version. These two versions will be priced same.

4.55 (227 reviews)

All-inclusive Half-day Private Tour To Zhujiajiao Water Town Image
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All-inclusive Half-day Private Tour To Zhujiajiao Water Town

What better way to explore one of the last remaining hidden sites—not yet touched by modernization—than by having an indigenous inhabitant tell you stories about the history and evolution of this great city.

5.00 (20 reviews)

Flexible Hangzhou Private Tour from Shanghai by Bullet Train Image
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Flexible Hangzhou Private Tour from Shanghai by Bullet Train

Discover the famous Paradise City of Hangzhou on a fully customized sightseeing day trip from Shanghai by bullet train. Accompanied by your private guide, stroll around Flower Harbor Park and take a relaxing boat on the West Lake.

5.00 (178 reviews)

Shanghai Tower (The Top of Shanghai) Ticket Booking Image
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Shanghai Tower (The Top of Shanghai) Ticket Booking

The world’s fastest elevator will take you to the 546-meter-high observatory, where you will have a 360 degree bird’s-eye view of Shanghai’s renowned buildings, natural beauties and ever-changing sky.

4.19 (32 reviews)

Best of Shanghai Day Tour, including Jade Buddha Temple & Bund & Yuyuan Garden Image
Best of Shanghai Day Tour, including Jade Buddha Temple & Bund & Yuyuan Garden Image
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Best of Shanghai Day Tour, including Jade Buddha Temple & Bund & Yuyuan Garden

See all the main sites of Shanghai, 'Paris of the Orient'. Your fully guided coach tour includes lunch as well as entry into the Jade Buddha Temple, Shanghai Museum, Bund and Bund History Museum, Yuyuan Garden, Shanghai Old Street, Fresh Water Pearl Gallery, a silk factory and Xin Tian Di, Shanghai's entertainment district.

3.96 (329 reviews)

Private Full-Day Tour: Incredible Shanghai Highlights Image
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Private Full-Day Tour: Incredible Shanghai Highlights

If you have very limited time in Shanghai, and want to go home with a great understanding of Shanghai, its people, history and culture, then this private day tour is perfect for you! You will visit both the east and west sides of Shanghai and also discover Shanghai's fascinating mix of modern and classic character.

4.94 (291 reviews)

Shanghai Night River Cruise VIP Seating with Private Transfer and Dinner Option Image
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Shanghai Night River Cruise VIP Seating with Private Transfer and Dinner Option

Capture the spectacular night Shanghai on this exclusive private tour by taking the 60-minute cruise along Hungpu River.

4.97 (30 reviews)

Shanghai Pudong Airport to Shanghai Hotels: Private with Meet & Greet Service Image
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Shanghai Pudong Airport to Shanghai Hotels: Private with Meet & Greet Service

One-way private transfer from Shanghai Pudong Airport to Shanghai hotels Avoid the hassle of locating a taxi by pre-booking your private transfer service Our driver will go inside the airport and wait for you at the exit by holding your name sign.

4.88 (107 reviews)

Shanghai Night River Cruise Tour with Xinjiang Style Dining Experience Image
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Shanghai Night River Cruise Tour with Xinjiang Style Dining Experience

Enjoy a night in Shanghai by starting a 60-minute night cruise on beautiful Huangpu River where you can see amazing city landmarks, such as Oriental Pearl TV Tower, Shanghai World Financial Center Shanghai Tower, Shanghai Tower (the second tallest building in the world) and more! The city view along the Bund area in the evening is the most prosperous, which you shouldn't miss out.

4.96 (284 reviews)

Private Evening Tour: VIP Huangpu River Cruise and Shanghai Lights Image
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Private Evening Tour: VIP Huangpu River Cruise and Shanghai Lights

In this private evening tour, you will have the chance to enjoy the amazing night lights of Shanghai City.   Besides visiting Old Shanghai Town, Xin Tian Di, Lujiazui commercial area and some 100 years old buildings in the city, you will also take the evening VIP Class cruise on the Hungpu River.

4.92 (122 reviews)

Beijing Great Wall Private Day Tour from Shanghai by Bullet Train Image
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Beijing Great Wall Private Day Tour from Shanghai by Bullet Train

Make full use of your short visit in Shanghai by taking the exclusive private full day trip to Beijing, the capital city of China .

5.00 (11 reviews)

Private Amazing Shanghai City Day Tour in Your Way Image
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Private Amazing Shanghai City Day Tour in Your Way

Make the most of a day in Shanghai with this private customized highlights tour. Accompanied by your professional tour guide, visit the city’s top attractions, such as the city skyline on the Bund,the tallest observatory in the world at Shanghai tower, the most charming alley Tianzifang at Former French concession, the old traditional garden at Yuyuan garden& bazaar, the century-old Buddhism temple at Jade Buddha temple, Riverside Promenade (Binjiang Da Dao).

4.98 (126 reviews)

Shanghai Authentic Dinner and Night River Cruise with Rooftop Bar Hopping Option Image
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Shanghai Authentic Dinner and Night River Cruise with Rooftop Bar Hopping Option

Enjoy a relaxing Shanghai night with a delightful dinner at the local restaurant followed by a romantic night cruise ride along the Huangpu River where you will see the amazing city landmarks with lights up.

4.97 (30 reviews)

Wuzhen and Xitang Water Town Private Full Day Trip from Shanghai with Lunch and Dinner Image
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Wuzhen and Xitang Water Town Private Full Day Trip from Shanghai with Lunch and Dinner

Discover beautiful Wuzhen and Xitang water town on a private full day trip from Shanghai. Travel to 1,300-year-old Wuzhen, and stroll around the canals, bridges, and Ming-era houses.

5.00 (36 reviews)

Private Shanghai Evening Street Food Walking and Cruise Tour Image
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Private Shanghai Evening Street Food Walking and Cruise Tour

If you are a food adventurer and also enjoy walking and learning local history and culture, you surely don't want to miss this fun evening walking tour.

4.95 (102 reviews)

Private Zhujiajiao Water Town Tour with Shanghai Zoo and Panda Image
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Private Zhujiajiao Water Town Tour with Shanghai Zoo and Panda

Combine a private sighting seeing tour with Zhujiajiao water town -known as the “Little oriental Venice” and see the national treasure animal-Panda at Shanghai zoo.

5.00 (33 reviews)

Oriental Pearl Tower Ticket - Optional Tower Ticket or Buffet Image
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Oriental Pearl Tower Ticket - Optional Tower Ticket or Buffet

-Unique Architecture: A blend of cylinders and spheres, 468m tall, a modern landmark. -Panoramic Views: Main deck at 263m and glass corridor at 259m for cityscape vistas.

4.48 (21 reviews)

Hangzhou Private Customized Day Trip from Shanghai by Bullet Train Image
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Hangzhou Private Customized Day Trip from Shanghai by Bullet Train

Take this full day private excursion to visit the dream-like city Hangzhou ,tour Hangzhou's top attractions including the West Lake and famous Longjin Tea Farm, the amazing Buddhist culture in Linyin temple ,Feilai Peak; stroll along ancient Hefang old street, alongside a private guide from Shanghai which includes advanced round-trip bullet train experience and door to door private transfers.

5.00 (82 reviews)

Shanghai Huangpu River Night Cruise with Buffet Dinner Image
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Shanghai Huangpu River Night Cruise with Buffet Dinner

Enjoy a relaxing night cruise along the Huangpu River in the historic east and west Bund area, take in the amazing city skylines when it’s lit up at night include the historic colonial’s architecture such as Peace hotel, Shanghai custom house and futuristic modern skyscrapers in Pudong such as Oriental Pearl TV Tower, Shanghai World Financial Tower, Shanghai Tower as well as the iconic buildings from 2010 world Expo include “China Pavilion”, Expo Culture Center etc.

4.75 (16 reviews)

Suzhou and Zhouzhuang Water Village Day Trip from Shanghai Image
Suzhou and Zhouzhuang Water Village Day Trip from Shanghai Image
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Suzhou and Zhouzhuang Water Village Day Trip from Shanghai

Visit two picturesque Chinese towns, Suzhou and Zhouzhuang on a day trip from Shanghai. You'll see how daily life has remained unchanged over the centuries in these unique old towns.

3.73 (417 reviews)

Shanghai Huangpu River Charter Yacht Experience with Champagne or Beer Image
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Shanghai Huangpu River Charter Yacht Experience with Champagne or Beer

This 60-minute romantic private yacht experience takes you to see the amazing Shanghai city landmarks along the famous Shanghai Bund, such as Shanghai Tower, Shanghai World Financial Center, Jin Mao Tower, Oriental Pearl Tower, Peace Hotel and etc.

5.00 (3 reviews)

Suzhou Private Day Trip from Shanghai with Bullet Train Option Image
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Suzhou Private Day Trip from Shanghai with Bullet Train Option

Enjoy a fully guided private day trip to famed “Oriental Venice ” Suzhou under the lead of your personal expert guide with fully customizable itinerary.

4.97 (305 reviews)

Private Shanghai Day Tour in Your Way Image
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Private Shanghai Day Tour in Your Way

Enhance your sightseeing experience of Shanghai on an enriching full-day excursion around the city. Itinerary is open. You can follow the suggested itinerary to see the highlights of Shanghai.

5.00 (12 reviews)

What activities can I do in Shanghai?

There are plenty of things to do in Shanghai, China. Here are some top recommendations: 1. Explore the Bund: Take a stroll along the iconic Bund waterfront area and enjoy the stunning views of the city's skyline. 2. Visit Yu Garden: Explore the classical Chinese garden with its beautiful pavilions, rockeries, and ponds. Don't miss the nearby bustling bazaar for shopping and local snacks. 3. Discover the French Concession: Wander through the charming tree-lined streets of the former French Concession, filled with trendy boutiques, cafes, and art galleries. 4. Ascend the Oriental Pearl Tower: Enjoy panoramic views of Shanghai from the observation deck of this iconic landmark. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even try the glass-bottomed walkway. 5. Explore Shanghai Museum: Immerse yourself in Chinese art and history at this world-class museum, which houses an extensive collection of ancient artifacts, paintings, and calligraphy. 6. Take a Huangpu River Cruise: Embark on a scenic cruise along the Huangpu River to witness the contrast between Shanghai's historic buildings and modern skyscrapers. 7. Shop on Nanjing Road: Explore one of the world's busiest shopping streets, Nanjing Road, lined with luxury boutiques, department stores, and traditional Chinese shops. 8. Visit Tianzifang: Wander through the narrow alleyways of this artsy district filled with boutique shops, galleries, cafes, and restaurants housed in traditional Shikumen buildings. 9. Enjoy Shanghai's nightlife: Experience the vibrant nightlife scene in Shanghai by visiting popular areas like Xintiandi, The Bund, or the former French Concession, where you'll find trendy bars, clubs, and live music venues. 10. Taste local cuisine: Don't miss the opportunity to try Shanghai's famous dishes such as xiaolongbao (steamed soup dumplings), shengjianbao (pan-fried buns), and hairy crab. Explore local food markets or dine at traditional Shanghainese restaurants to savor the flavors of the city. These are just a few highlights of what Shanghai has to offer. The city is constantly evolving, so there's always something new and exciting to discover.

When is the best time to travel to Shanghai?

The best time to travel to Shanghai, China is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these times, the weather is generally pleasant with mild temperatures and lower humidity. Spring brings blooming flowers and cherry blossoms, while autumn offers colorful foliage. Avoid traveling to Shanghai during the summer months (June to August) as it tends to be hot and humid, with occasional typhoons and heavy rainfall. Winter (December to February) can be cold and damp, although it offers the chance to experience Chinese New Year celebrations. Overall, spring and autumn provide the most comfortable weather for exploring Shanghai's attractions, such as the Bund, Yu Garden, and Nanjing Road, without being too crowded with tourists.

Travel culture you should know when traveling to Shanghai

Shanghai is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city that seamlessly blends traditional Chinese culture with modern influences. Here are some aspects of Shanghai's travel culture that you should know: 1. Architecture: Shanghai is known for its impressive skyline, featuring a mix of towering skyscrapers and historic buildings. The Bund, a waterfront promenade, offers a glimpse into Shanghai's colonial past with its European-style architecture. The city also has a thriving Art Deco scene, with many buildings from the 1920s and 1930s still standing. 2. Food: Shanghai is a food lover's paradise, offering a wide range of culinary delights. From traditional Shanghainese cuisine to international flavors, you'll find endless options to satisfy your taste buds. Don't miss trying local specialties like xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), shengjianbao (pan-fried buns), and hairy crab during the autumn season. 3. Shopping: Shanghai is a shopper's paradise, with numerous shopping streets, malls, and markets. Nanjing Road is one of the most famous shopping streets, lined with luxury boutiques, department stores, and international brands. For a more local experience, visit Yuyuan Bazaar, where you can find traditional Chinese handicrafts, souvenirs, and local snacks. 4. Traditional culture: Despite its modernity, Shanghai has preserved its traditional culture. Visit the City God Temple, a Taoist temple complex dating back to the Ming Dynasty, to experience ancient rituals and traditions. The Shanghai Museum is another must-visit, showcasing a vast collection of Chinese art, including calligraphy, ceramics, and paintings. 5. Entertainment: Shanghai offers a vibrant nightlife scene, with a wide range of entertainment options. From trendy bars and clubs in areas like The Bund and Xintiandi to traditional Chinese opera performances at the Shanghai Grand Theatre, there's something for everyone. The city also hosts various cultural festivals throughout the year, showcasing traditional music, dance, and art. 6. Parks and gardens: Shanghai has several beautiful parks and gardens where you can relax and enjoy nature. The Yuyuan Garden is a classic Chinese garden with pavilions, rockeries, and ponds. Zhongshan Park and Century Park are also popular choices for leisurely strolls and outdoor activities. 7. Transportation: Getting around Shanghai is convenient and efficient thanks to its extensive public transportation system. The Shanghai Metro is the most popular mode of transportation, with numerous lines connecting all major attractions and neighborhoods. Taxis, buses, and bike-sharing services are also readily available. Remember to respect local customs and traditions while traveling in Shanghai. It's always a good idea to learn a few basic Chinese phrases and be aware of local etiquette.

Shopping list or souvenirs to buy when traveling to Shanghai

When it comes to shopping in Shanghai, there are plenty of options for unique souvenirs and items that you can take back home. Here are some popular shopping lists or souvenirs you can consider: 1. Chinese Tea: Shanghai is known for its tea culture, and you can find a wide variety of Chinese teas in local tea shops. Some popular options include Longjing tea, Tieguanyin tea, and Pu'er tea. 2. Silk Products: China is famous for its silk, and Shanghai is a great place to buy silk products such as scarves, clothing, and accessories. Visit the Shanghai Silk Museum or local markets like the South Bund Fabric Market for a wide range of silk options. 3. Traditional Chinese Clothing: If you want to take home a piece of traditional Chinese attire, consider buying a qipao (cheongsam) dress or a tang suit. These elegant garments are available in various designs and materials. 4. Chinese Calligraphy: Shanghai has numerous art stores where you can find beautiful Chinese calligraphy brushes, ink, and paper. You can also purchase framed calligraphy artworks as souvenirs. 5. Antique and Vintage Items: For antique lovers, Shanghai's Dongtai Road Antique Market is a must-visit. Here, you can find a wide range of vintage items, including porcelain, furniture, jewelry, and more. 6. Chinese Snacks and Food: Bring back some Chinese snacks or food items as souvenirs. Popular choices include preserved fruits, tea leaves, Chinese spices, and packaged snacks like dried seaweed or shrimp chips. 7. Traditional Chinese Crafts: Shanghai is known for its craftsmanship, and you can find a variety of traditional Chinese crafts such as porcelain, jade carvings, cloisonné, and paper-cutting artworks. 8. Shanghai-themed Merchandise: Look for Shanghai-themed merchandise like keychains, magnets, postcards, or t-shirts featuring famous landmarks such as the Bund, Oriental Pearl Tower, or Yuyuan Garden. Remember to explore local markets, such as Nanjing Road, Yuyuan Bazaar, Tianzifang, and Xintiandi, for a wider selection of souvenirs and shopping options.

Shanghai travel review

Shanghai: A Vibrant Fusion of Tradition and Modernity Shanghai, the largest city in China and a global financial hub, is a destination that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity. With its stunning skyline, bustling markets, historical landmarks, and delicious cuisine, Shanghai offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience. One of the first things that captivates visitors upon arrival in Shanghai is its iconic skyline. The cityscape is dominated by towering skyscrapers, including the famous Oriental Pearl Tower and the Shanghai World Financial Center. These architectural marvels showcase the city's modernity and economic prowess, making Shanghai a symbol of China's rapid development. However, amidst the modernity, Shanghai has managed to preserve its historical charm. The Bund, a waterfront promenade along the Huangpu River, is a perfect example of this. The Bund is lined with grand colonial-era buildings that harken back to Shanghai's past as a major trading port. Walking along the Bund, visitors can admire the architectural beauty of these buildings while enjoying panoramic views of the city's skyline. Another must-visit historical landmark in Shanghai is the Yu Garden. Built during the Ming Dynasty, this classical Chinese garden is a tranquil oasis in the heart of the bustling city. Its intricate pavilions, winding pathways, and beautiful rockeries are a testament to the traditional Chinese garden design. The Yu Garden also houses the City God Temple, where visitors can witness locals praying and making offerings, providing a glimpse into Shanghai's religious and cultural traditions. Shanghai is also known for its vibrant markets, where visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture and indulge in some retail therapy. The Yuyuan Bazaar, located near the Yu Garden, is a bustling marketplace filled with shops selling traditional Chinese handicrafts, souvenirs, and mouth-watering street food. The aroma of steamed dumplings, sizzling noodles, and freshly brewed tea fills the air, tempting visitors to sample the local delicacies. For those seeking a taste of Shanghai's thriving art scene, a visit to the M50 Creative Park is a must. Located in a former textile mill, this contemporary art district is home to numerous galleries, studios, and exhibition spaces. Here, visitors can explore the works of both established and emerging artists, showcasing the city's artistic diversity and creativity. No visit to Shanghai is complete without indulging in its culinary delights. Shanghai cuisine, known as Hu cuisine, is famous for its delicate flavors and emphasis on freshness. From xiaolongbao (steamed soup dumplings) to shengjianbao (pan-fried pork buns), the city is a paradise for food lovers. Local street food stalls and upscale restaurants alike offer a wide range of dishes that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. In conclusion, Shanghai is a city that effortlessly combines tradition and modernity, offering visitors a unique travel experience. From its impressive skyline to its historical landmarks, vibrant markets, thriving art scene, and delectable cuisine, Shanghai has something to offer for everyone. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the dynamic and enchanting city of Shanghai.