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

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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.