Safety Score
7/10
Currency
CNY
Language
Mandarin
Timezone
Asia/Shanghai
About Shanghai
Shanghai, a dazzling blend of East and West, captivates travelers with its stunning skyline dominated by the futuristic Oriental Pearl Tower and the historic Bund's colonial architecture. This vibrant metropolis pulses with energy, offering a rich tapestry of culture, world-class cuisine, and bustling markets, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both modernity and tradition. Explore its vibrant neighborhoods, indulge in delectable street food, and immerse yourself in the dynamic arts scene that defines Shanghai's unique character.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Shanghai is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) months. These seasons offer mild and pleasant weather, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), making it ideal for outdoor activitie
Top Places to Visit in Shanghai, China
Discover the Best Attractions in Shanghai
Shanghai Tower
Popular attraction
The Shanghai Tower offers a breathtaking, unparalleled view of the city from its 118th floor observation deck. Visitors appreciate its innovative design, swift elevators, and the overall awe-inspiring experience it provides.
- +Stunning city views
- +Fast elevators
- +Innovative design
- -Always crowded
- -Weird show
Oriental Pearl TV Tower
Popular attraction
The Oriental Pearl TV Tower is a mesmerizing and iconic landmark in Shanghai, providing stunning panoramic views of the city and a cultural experience with its unique architecture and beautiful lighting at night.
- +Iconic Landmark
- +Panoramic Views
- +Unique Architecture
Tianzifang
Popular attraction
Tianzifang offers a vibrant experience through its maze-like lanes brimming with creativity, featuring numerous boutiques, art studios, eateries, and souvenir shops. Though crowded, the historical and cultural charm of the site makes it worth visiting.
- +Charming atmosphere
- +Creative local shops
- +Variety of restaurants
- -Crowded
- -Commercialized
Yu Garden
Popular attraction
Yu Garden is a stunning, historically-rich oasis in the heart of Shanghai, offering beautiful architecture, tranquil scenery, and an authentic Chinese experience. Visitors recommend exploring the garden and nearby bazaar, especially during the less crowded early hours or lit-up at night.
- +Beautiful scenery
- +Historic architecture
- +Vibrant bazaar
- -Can be crowded
The Bund
Popular attraction
The Bund in Shanghai offers an awe-inspiring blend of historic and modern architectural marvels, with spectacular views, especially at night when the cityscape is lit up. It's an essential, vibrant, and picturesque destination that caters to history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and photographers.
- +Stunning views
- +Historic significance
- +Architectural diversity
- -Can be crowded
Shanghai Museum
Popular attraction
The Shanghai Museum offers an immersive journey into Chinese history and culture, housing a vast collection of artifacts in an architecturally impressive building. The free admission and efficient flow of exhibits make it a must-visit destination.
- +Free admission
- +Impressive architecture
- +Extensive collections
- -Can be crowded
- -Some closed exhibits
Waitan Sightseeing Tunnel
Popular attraction
The Waitan Sightseeing Tunnel in Shanghai provides a unique and convenient way to travel from Pudong to The Bund. Its proximity to local hotels and high-end malls makes it an interesting attraction for tourists.
- +Convenient location
- +Quick transfer
- +Unique experience
- -Overpriced
Shanghai Old Street
Popular attraction
Shanghai Old Street is a vibrant and charming destination, offering a unique blend of traditional architecture, local cuisine, and a lively shopping experience that transports visitors back to old Shanghai.
- +Traditional architecture
- +Vibrant atmosphere
- +Local cuisine
- -Overcrowded
- -Ongoing renovations
Yuyuan Old Street
Popular attraction
Yuyuan Old Street is an energetic and vibrant part of Shanghai that offers a glimpse into traditional Chinese architecture, bustling local life, and an array of small shops and street food. The charm of this lively and picturesque street is enhanced at night with beautifully lit temples.
- +Authentic architecture
- +Lively atmosphere
- +Variety of shops
- -Very crowded
- -Mostly tourist-oriented
Huangpu Park
Popular attraction
Huangpu Park in Shanghai provides a picturesque view of the city's skyline, historic architecture, and waterfront, making it an ideal spot for leisurely strolls, biking, and photography. The park's close proximity to eateries and public transportation enhances the visitor experience.
- +Breathtaking views
- +Historic charm
- +Bike-friendly
- -Can be crowded
Lujiazui Central Green Space
Popular attraction
Lujiazui Central Green Space is an impressive urban oasis that seamlessly blends architecture and nature in the heart of Shanghai's financial district. It offers stunning views of the city's skyline and serves as a relaxing retreat amid the cosmopolitan hustle and bustle.
- +Stunning architecture
- +Relaxing atmosphere
- +Interesting art installations
- -Can get crowded
- -Limited greenery
Shanghai Natural History Museum.
Popular attraction
The Shanghai Natural History Museum offers visitors an engaging and educational journey through the history of life on Earth. Its well-designed exhibitions are highly recommended by travelers.
- +Comprehensive information
- +Visually impressive exhibits
- +Suitable for all ages
- -Can be crowded
Planning a trip to Shanghai? Discover the 12 best things to do and places to visit in Shanghai, China. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, our curated guide covers must-see attractions that make Shanghai one of the most exciting destinations in China.
Top attractions include Shanghai Tower, Oriental Pearl TV Tower, Tianzifang and 2 more incredible sites.
Whether you're visiting Shanghai for a weekend or planning a longer stay, these attractions offer something for every traveler. Many visitors recommend spending at least 2-3 days to explore the highlights of Shanghai.
Frequently Asked Questions about Shanghai
Shanghai offers numerous iconic attractions. Our curated list includes top-rated landmarks, museums, and hidden gems. Browse our recommendations above to plan your perfect sightseeing itinerary.
To avoid long queues, visit popular attractions early in the morning or book skip-the-line tickets online. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends.
Yes, Shanghai has many free attractions including parks, historic neighborhoods, and sometimes free museum days. Check our tips section for money-saving advice.
Explore More of Shanghai
About Shanghai, China
Shanghai offers travelers an authentic China experience with its unique blend of culture, cuisine, and attractions. Whether you're exploring historic landmarks, savoring local flavors, or discovering hidden gems, Shanghai promises memorable adventures for every type of traveler. Our curated guide features 12 must-see attractions, 25 recommended restaurants, 25 places to stay, carefully selected to help you make the most of your visit. Use Free City Guides to plan your perfect Shanghai itinerary, discover local favorites, and travel smarter with insider tips from experienced travelers.




