What to do in Shanghai

Activities, attractions and tours
Jing An Temple which includes a city and a temple or place of worship

Shanghai Attractions

Also known as the "Paris of the East", Shanghai is one of the most popular tourist destinations in China. With a population of over 23 million people, this city is alive 24 hours a day, three hundred sixty-five days a year. There are so many Shanghai activities that it will be hard for you to prioritize the ones you want to see the most.

One of the must see attractions in Shanghai is the Yu Yuan Garden. This spectacular garden covers over five acres of land and was built in the 16th century. The Grand Rockery is the most famous structure located inside the garden, primarily because it is made up of over 30,000 yellow stones and stands at 46 feet high. The attraction is popular among both local Shanghai citizens and tourists alike.

After exploring the wonderful Yu Yuan Garden, head over to the Huang Pu River Cruise. The cruise offers daily Shanghai tours on the Huang Pu River through the city. From the boat, tourists can enjoy wonderful views of the city skyline behind local fishermen bringing in their catch of the day. This is one of the top things to do in Shanghai because it offers an easy way to see the entire city in one day.

Shanghai excursions aren't complete without a visit to Nanjing Road. This road is one of the top spots for locals and tourists alike who are looking for cheap places to buy quality items from street vendors. The road stands at over 5 kilometers long and is currently the longest shopping road in the world. When visiting this area, it's best to bring a map, should you get lost among the hustle and bustle of bargain shoppers and business people.

Shanghai is known for its historical wonders and modern marvels, and is the perfect destination for your next vacation.


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Most fun & popular experiences in Shanghai

What to do in Shanghai

Free Things to Do in Shanghai

There's no need to run your credit card hot in Shanghai. The following won't even cost a dollar.

Liuli China Museum - Stroll around and admire the fascinating exhibits and carefully curated collections at this respected museum.

Deke Erh Art Centre - When it's time to get cultured, stop here and appreciate the creative talent on show.

People's Square - Drop by this modern landmark and be inspired by its unique design.

Former Residence of Mao Zedong - Spend time at this historic site and discover a few things about the region's cultural heritage.

Shanghai Times Square - This is a bustling location where you can soak in the vibe and join in on local life.

Wujiang Road Food Street - If you're eager to check out a few of the more important or unique places in the community, start here.

Holy Trinity Church - Toss some spirituality into your travels with a visit to this religious site.

People’s Park - Work on your green thumb and appreciate the wide range of plants on display.


 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Shanghai? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 


 

Read travel guides and advice on visiting Shanghai

Frequently asked questions

What to do in Shanghai on a sunny day?
What to do in Shanghai on a rainy day?
What is Shanghai famous for?
Head straight for The Bund and Jing’an Temple if you’re into renowned attractions.
What should I not miss in Shanghai?
Put these sights high on your must-do list to get the most out of your trip:

  • Nanjing Road Shopping District
  • People’s Square
  • Yu Garden
  • Oriental Pearl Tower

Are there cheap things to do in Shanghai?
What can you do in Shanghai for free?
Your vacation in Shanghai needn’t send you broke with free things like these to enjoy:

  • The Bund
  • Nanjing Road Shopping District
  • People’s Square
  • Former Site of the International Mixed Court for the French Concession


Popular places to visit

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Day trip destinations from Shanghai