Shanghai, China’s vertical city, is a wonderful blend of tourism and business, which places it among the top ones in the world, and it is no surprise that it attracts most tourists. This 2025 sightseeing guide seeks to assist travelers with tips on the distinguishing features of the city and its culturally significant places. Shanghai’s Lujiazui and the old French Concession tell different yet appealing stories that represent the city’s breathtaking skyline and streets, so whether one is looking for history, modernity, or food, it has something to offer for everyone. This guide sets a framework for enjoying the city on your visit.
What are the top tourist attractions in Shanghai?
A trip to the phenomenal Bund waterside area
The Bund, one of Shanghai’s most popular landmarks, is situated on the west bank of the Huangpu River and offers breathtaking views of the city’s skyline. This place has a lot of history and several colonial buildings built in various styles- Gothic, Baroque, Romanesque, and Neoclassical. While walking down this walkway at a leisurely pace, one can’t help but notice the immense difference between historical architecture on the Bund side and modern skyscrapers across the Lujiazui area. Some notable attractions include the spectacular peace hotel, customs house, and panoramic photo-taking opportunities at night when all lights illuminate the skyline. Therefore, The Bund remains an essential destination for understanding how history fuses with today’s development pattern in Shanghai.
To get an overview of the area by going up Shanghai Tower
The 2nd highest tallest building in the world and China’s tallest, the Shanghai Tower offers an unmatched observation experience. The tower has one of the fastest elevators in the world that moves at a speed of 20.5 meters per second and leads to the observation deck on the 118th floor. On its deck, one can see panoramic views of Huangpu River and its famous sites like Oriental Pearl Tower and Bund, among others. The winding structure that enhances wind resistance and sustainability epitomizes modern architectural innovations in Shanghai. From both a breathtaking viewpoint and an ever-changing skyline, visitation to this site is inevitable.
Discovering the tranquil Yu Garden
Yu Garden, situated in Shanghai’s Old City, is a traditional Chinese garden that is famous both for its complex layout and peaceful atmosphere. It was first built during the Ming Dynasty in 1559 and covers about five acres with pavilions, rockeries, ponds, and many trees that depict the traditional Chinese landscape. Among other things, the main highlights include Grand Rockery as well as Exquisite Jade Rock, which is a very tall and beautiful San Sui Hall. Despite its rich history, it remains a quiet sanctuary within the busy city, offering insights into Shanghai’s cultural heritage and architectural excellence to visitors.
How to plan a perfect day of sightseeing in Shanghai?
How to Get Around Using Public Transportation in Shanghai
Shanghai has one of the best public transportation systems in the world, as it is very easy to get around the city and visit its main sights. The easiest and quickest means is the Metro, which covers virtually all important sites, business centers, and the suburbs. Purchasers of the Shanghai Public Transportation Card (the Metro Card) can conveniently change between Metro lines, buses, and even ferries. The city’s bus network augments the Metro system by providing service to areas the train routes do not cover. Metro aside, taxis and ride-hail services like DiDi are prevalent for short trips or night travel, but buses and the Metro remain the cheapest options.
Preferred periods for visiting well-known attractions
When you visit Shanghai’s landmarks, the bund can be seen best in the evening and early morning, during the sunrise, while Yu Garden is less visited on weekdays in the morning of spring. Additionally, the Disneyland of Shanghai should be visited on midweek days around late spring or fall as it is less crowded around those times, thus reducing wait times for rides. Always check the weather conditions and best hours to visit before starting your trip.
Efficient touring by combining diff landmarks
The effort will always translate to travel saved, like how combining trips to nearby landmarks is an effective strategy. For instance, going to the Bund alongside Yu Garden can be easily paired as both are located in the central area, alongside its historic and scenic features. Tianzifang and Xintiandi are similar, so they can be easily paired when going out to experience Shanghai’s vibrant arts and dining opportunities. When visiting Shanghai Disneyland, the Chuan Sha old town can be visited next as it provides a cultural contrast and a more relaxed environment after the high-volume theme park. Meticulously planning out neighboring features will not only eliminate time wastage but also allow for maximized experiences in a single travel plan.
What are the must-visit historical sites in Shanghai?
Researching The Historical Relics Of The Shanghai Museum
The Shanghai Museum, situated at the center of People’s Square, is famous for having a comprehensive collection of ancient Chinese artifacts, with over 120,000 items on display. Notable highlights include the bronze gallery with exquisite pieces dating back to the Shang and Zhou dynasties, and the porcelain collection which has a set of delicate ceramics from the Imperial China period. There is also a large gallery for Chinese paintings and calligraphy, showcasing the development of Chinese art over the centuries. The museum is an absolute necessity for inquisitive historians, as they’re provided with free access to the relics of China’s cultural heritage.
Strolling Around the Beautiful French Concession
Due to its well-preserved history, the French Concession is one of the most famous neighborhoods in Shanghai. It is known for its trees, ornate buildings from its colonial past, and advanced cultural life. The French Concession was established in the mid-1850s and has perfectly transformed into a wonderful area where visitors can find numerous shops, cafes, and even art galleries. People can visit Tianzifang, which is a complex network of shops and restaurants located in alleys, or they can admire famous buildings on Hengshan Road and Wukang Mansion. There is a pleasant mixture of modern life and well-preserved natural beauty in the French Concession, making it an outstanding place to visit in Shanghai.
Exploring the Peaceful Jing’an Temple
Jing’an Temple today, located in the center of Shanghai, was first built in 247 AD, so it is a historic landmark of China. This temple serves as a Buddhist place of worship and has been rebuilt several times. The last significant reconstructions occurred during the Qing Dynasty and after the 1980s. The architectural features of the temples, such as the rooftops with gold plating, intricately carved pillars, and a silver Buddha statue weighing fifteen tons, make the temple even more appealing. From some of the quieter halls, you can observe the city and forget about its liveliness with enabled meditation spaces and cultural exhibitions, which reflect the essential cultural aspects of Shanghai.
Which modern attractions showcase Shanghai’s futuristic side?
Shanghai Disneyland
Shanghai Disneyland effortlessly combines high-tech design and captivating storytelling. It first opened in 2016 and was gifted with its rotating attractions such as the TRON Lightcycle Power Run; a speed-filled rollercoaster, and Pirates of the Caribbean, Adventure for the Sunken Treasure, which uses advanced technology to bring forth a grand underwater escapade. The park also contains the show-stopping, ‘Enchanted Storybook Castle,’ the most prominent Disney castle in the world, which serves as the centerpiece of the park and houses numerous interactive displays. Shanghai Disneyland boasts grand visuals and delights viewers of all ages, marking Shanghai’s determination and vision toward competition in global entertainment markets.
Oriental Pearl Tower
The Oriental Pearl Tower is located in the Pudong district and combines Shanghai’s architectural artistry. This landmark tower is 468 meters (1,536 feet) high, which marks it as one of the tallest structures in Asia. It is uniquely crafted and is noteworthy due to its eleven spheres ordered from long to short, the longest being 50 meters across. This tower’s prominent observation deck sits at 263 meters, providing viewers with panoramic views of the Shanghai skyline.
The tower has high-speed elevators that operate at a maximum of 7 meters per second, allowing for swift travel between its levels. Its state-of-the-art broadcasting and telecommunications system are also capable of providing television and radio services. The Oriental Pearl Tower was completed in 1994 and features a strong steel structure, giving it stability and resilience towards extreme weather, including typhoons. The Pearl Tower’s design, along with other elements of engineering beauty, has forged its reputation as a treasured piece of engineering in Shanghai, alongside its use as a functional broadcasting tower.
Visiting the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum
With a total area of around 98,000 square meters, China’s educational science center, the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum, is one of the best interactive science museums in the country. The museum opened its doors to the public in 2001 with the goal of engaging the public with science and technology through a range of exhibits and activities. Its thematic sections include geology, natural habitats, and biology in the “Earth Exploration” and “World of Animals” sections. Educational IMAX theaters and virtual simulation experiences serve to further enrich the learning experience. The museum is an exemplary model of innovation in public learning, and as a pivot for scientific advancement, the museum is an essential part of Shanghai’s science enthusiasts.
What are the best areas in Shanghai for shopping and entertainment?
Walking through the lively shopping hub of Nanjing Road
Undeniably, Nanjing Road serves as Shanghai’s focal point of shopping and entertainment. Nanjing Road is approximately 5.5 kilometers long, from Nanjing East road and extending to Nanjing West Road. While the eastern section offers a variety of street food, high-end stores, and Chinese-branded products, the western section houses several luxury malls and boutique stores. Over the years, the region has become a hotspot for millions of tourists across the globe, all thanks to its brand value and ease of transportation using metro lines 1, 2, and 10, which have major stations at People’s Square. The area is also famous for the Park Hotel and the old Wing On Department Store, both a century old. Nanjing Road boasts the incredible potential of Shanghai as a shopping center with its extensive array of boutiques and impressive multicultural shows, and light performances.
Visit the popular area of Tianzifang.
TianZiFang is a contemporary cultural zone in the heart of the french concession in Shanghai, combining traditional Shikumen architecture with a modern artistic feel. The area is famous for its walking streets, which are lined with narrow alleyways that are full of boutiques, art galleries, coffee shops, and studios that also blend international styles. What used to be a residential neighborhood has morphed into a center of creativity and tourism, serving the needs of both locals and tourists. Tianzifang retains its ancient charm while housing modern-day businesses, making it an intriguing place to dine, shop, or just absorb Shanghai’s rich history and culture. Its location and true to life feel makes it a place that cannot be missed when visiting The city.
Experiencing nightlife along the Huangpu River
One can relish the beats of the Huangpu River at night with its rich collection of nightlife attractions. Evening cruises allow tourists to appreciate Shanghai’s skyline including the Oriental Tower and the Bund sailing through the bright lights of the city. Bars and restaurants complement Puxi and Pudong, creating a social upper-class setting that serves delicious food and lets customers enjoy the view of the river. Passionate culture lovers can admire the light displays and shows that frequently occur at this spectacular area where the pulsating city meets historical Shanghai. Be it a leisurely walk along the riverside or a luxuriously relaxing cruise, one can feel the sophistication and energy of Shanghai’s nightlife along the Huangpu river.
What unique experiences can tourists have in Shanghai?
Scenic Huangpu River Cruises
On a cruise along the Huangpu River, one can get a glimpse of Shanghai’s skyscrapers. The Bund, Lujiazui Financial District, and the Oriental Pearl Tower are some of the most recognizable parts of the city’s skyline. These cruises last between one to two hours and offer stunning views of the city during the night when the buildings are lit up. Guests can get a feel for the city’s Puxi region while modern skyscrapers dominate the Pudong side. Many cruises supplement the sight with recorded information about the city’s history and its architecture.
Sampling street food in local markets
Visiting the various markets in Shanghai provides tourists with a chance to dive into a culture’s cuisine, where an assortment of renowned street foods are served. While shopping at popular spots like the Yuyuan Garden Bazaar or Shouning Road Market, one can find local specialties such as soup dumplings (xiaolongbao), fried scallion pancakes (cong you bing), and the infamous stinky tofu (chou doufu). These vibrant markets allow tourists to experience the city’s diverse food culture served fresh and hot from the street vendors. While tourists get immersed in the lively environment, they can enjoy the different tastes of Shanghai’s everyday life.
Exploring ancient water towns within a day
A day’s trip to the ancient water towns is a highlight of Shanghai’s charm and facilitates an exploration of the historical wonders of China’s water towns. Towns like Ahujiajiao, Xitang, and Tongli are famous for their ancient historical buildings, stone bridges, and scenic waterways. Zhujiajiao, often referred to as the “Venice of Shanghai”, offers scenic boat rides along the waterways alongside historical sites like Kezhi Garden. Xitang boasts narrow streets and covered walkways, making it especially immersive. Tongli is known for its beautiful canals and well-preserved architecture from the Ming and Qing dynasties. These towns can be visited from Shanghai using public transport or guided tours, making it easy for travelers to experience the beauty of these water towns.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What are the top attractions to visit in Shanghai?
A: Some of the top attractions in Shanghai include the Bund, Yu Garden, Shanghai Tower, Shanghai Disneyland, Nanjing Road, and the Oriental Pearl TV Tower. These attractions offer a mix of historical, cultural, and modern experiences, making them popular tourist destinations in China.
Q: Is Shanghai one of the world’s busiest cities for tourism?
A: Yes, Shanghai is indeed one of the world’s busiest cities for tourism. As a major economic hub and cultural center, it attracts millions of visitors each year. The city’s blend of modern architecture, historical sites, and vibrant culture makes it a popular tourist destination in mainland China.
Q: What are some of the best things to do in Shanghai for first-time visitors?
A: First-time visitors to Shanghai should consider taking a Shanghai tour to see key attractions like the Bund, exploring the old Shanghai area in Tianzifang, visiting the Shanghai World Financial Center for panoramic views, and experiencing the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium. Additionally, enjoying local cuisine and shopping on Nanjing Road are must-do activities.
Q: Are there any ancient towns to visit near Shanghai?
A: Yes, there are several ancient towns near Shanghai worth visiting. Zhujiajiao Water Town, often called the “Venice of Shanghai,” is a popular choice. Other options include Qibao Ancient Town and Nanxiang Ancient Town. These towns offer a glimpse into old Shanghai and traditional Chinese architecture.
Q: What is the best time to visit Shanghai?
A: The best time to visit Shanghai is generally during spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November). During these seasons, the weather is mild and comfortable for sightseeing. However, Shanghai attractions can be enjoyed year-round, with each season offering unique experiences.
Q: Are there any notable parks in Shanghai for tourists?
A: Yes, Shanghai has several beautiful parks worth visiting. Century Park, the largest park in Shanghai, is a popular choice. Other notable options include Fuxing Park, Gucun Park (famous for cherry blossoms), and Yu Garden, which combines traditional Chinese garden design with historical architecture.
Q: What are some of the best places to see the skyline of Shanghai?
A: To see Shanghai’s impressive skyline, visit the observation decks of the Shanghai Tower or the Shanghai World Financial Center. The Bund promenade along the Huangpu River also offers spectacular views, especially at night. For a unique perspective, consider taking a river cruise or visiting a rooftop bar in the Pudong area.
Q: Are there any interesting residential areas of Shanghai for tourists to explore?
A: The Former French Concession is a charming residential area of Shanghai once designated for French settlers. It’s now a popular tourist destination known for its tree-lined streets, colonial architecture, and trendy cafes. Tianzifang, located in the French Concession, is another interesting area featuring narrow alleyways, art galleries, and boutique shops.