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Shanghai, the largest and most populous city in China, is a world of its own. As the economic hub of the country, Shanghai exudes an aura of self-confidence and vitality. Well, this is one of the many reasons that the city is crowded with visitors throughout the year. However, Shanghai is not just about business and trade. If you take a closer look at the city, you will realise that it has a wealth of things to see and do. From ancient to modern, Shanghai has some of the best attractions in the world. With the variety of things to do in Shanghai, it is guaranteed that you will have a great time in the city.
10 Things To Do In Shanghai
From places to people and culture, everything about the city is unique. So, while you are out there, make sure to enjoy these things to do in Shanghai.
1. Admire The Skyline At The Bund
When looking for the best things to do in Shanghai, you simply cannot miss out on The Bund. As one of the most famous landmarks in the city, The Bund gives you the chance to admire the skyline and enjoy views of skyscrapers. However, the interesting thing about the buildings out here, is that they feature a variety of architectural styles, including Baroque, Gothic, and Art Deco. But for the best experience, you should visit the place in the evening and enjoy a cruise ride on the Huangpu River.
Location: Zhongshan Rd (E-1), Waitan, Huangpu, Shanghai, China, 200002
Timings: 24*7
2. Go Shopping At Nanjing Road
When you are not sure what to do in Shanghai, you should go shopping at Nanjing Road, the most famous shopping street in the city. With numerous stores, shops, and street vendors located in this place, Nanjing Road is nothing less than a paradise for shopaholics. However, the best part of shopping at Nanjing Road is that it gives you access to both local and luxury brands. From clothes to electronics, and souvenirs, you will find a wide variety of things to buy in this market. Additionally, there are many cafes and restaurants where you can relax after shopping.
Location: Nanjing East Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai 200000 China
Timings: 24*7
3. Visit Zhujiajiao Water Town
You may find a variety of things to see in Shanghai, but there’s nothing more unique than Zhujiajiao Water Town. Located an hour away from the city centre, Zhujiajiao Water Town is called the “Venice of Shanghai.” That’s because the entire town is adorned with traditional houses, stone bridges, and canals. Once you reach the town, you can explore the narrow streets on foot. That way you can check out the small shops and stores that sell handicrafts, snacks, and souvenirs. But for the ultimate experience, you should take a boat ride down the main canal and enjoy the peaceful scenery.
Location: No.36 Meizhou Road, Qingpu District Zhujiajiao Town, Shanghai 201713
Timings: 24*7
4. Learn History At the Shanghai Museum
Photo: そらみみ / Wikimedia Commons
Located in People’s Square, the Shanghai Museum is a must-visit place for history buffs. Visiting the museum not only allows you to learn the history and culture of China, but also gives you access to numerous artefacts as the Museum houses over 120,000 pieces, including ancient pottery, paintings, calligraphy, and more. Another interesting thing is the unique shape of the museum. Based on Chinese beliefs, the square base symbolises Earth and the round shape represents heaven. Other than that, you have a few other exhibits to explore in the museum.
Location: 201 Renmin Ave, People’s Square, Huangpu, China, 200003
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
5. Take A Ride On The Maglev
Photo: Chainwit. / Wikimedia Commons
When you are in Shanghai, you should make time to ride The Shanghai Maglev, the fastest commercial train in the world. With speeds up to 431 km/h, it connects Pudong International Airport to the Longyang Road interchange station in just 8 minutes. For those who don’t know, the train uses magnetic levitation technology that allows you to zoom past the city in no time. So, if you are up for a thrilling experience in Shanghai, you shouldn’t miss the Maglev. After all, it is one of the best examples of cutting-edge technology in the city.
Location: Pudong New Area, Shanghai, China
Timings: 6:45 AM – 9:42 PM
6. Enjoy Green Spaces At Yu Garden
Photo: Stefan Fussan / Wikimedia Commons
Despite being a modern city, there’s no shortage of green spaces in Shanghai. In case you are looking for a serene environment to take a break from the busy city life, you should visit Yu Garden. Located near The Bund, Yu Garden is a traditional Chinese garden that was built during the Ming Dynasty. The speciality of this place is the elegant pavilions, rock formations, and beautiful ponds that make it a popular site for both locals and tourists. Besides that, the garden has decorative walls that are adorned with dragon designs all over.
Location: 279 Yu Yuan Lao Jie, Huang Pu Qu, Shang Hai Shi, China, 200000
Timings: 8:30 AM – 5 PM (April to June and September to November); 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM (December to March and July/August)
7. Watch Shanghai From The Oriental Pearl TV Tower
After The Bund, The Oriental Pearl TV Tower is another iconic landmark in Shanghai that is not to be missed. With a height of 468 meters, the tower allows you to watch breathtaking views of the city. Besides that, the tower also has a revolving hotel and an observation deck that further adds to your experience. However, if you want something even more thrilling, you should access the Skywalk which allows you to watch the city through its glass-bottom. Last but not least, you also have the Shanghai Municipal History Museum on the ground floor to explore.
Location: 1 Shiji Blvd, Lujiazui, Pu Dong Xin Qu, Shang Hai Shi, China, 200120
Timings: 9 AM – 9 PM
8. Visit Jade Buddha Temple
Photo: Stefan Fussan / Wikimedia Commons
If you are looking for a place that can take you close to spirituality, you should consider visiting the Jade Buddha Temple. Built between 1918 and 1928, the Jade Buddha Temple is home to two beautiful Buddha statues – the Sitting Buddha and the Reclining Buddha. The speciality of these statues is that they are entirely made of white jade. The Sitting Buddha Statue is almost 6 feet tall and carved from a single piece of white jade. Other than the statues, you can explore the temple halls and witness the monks performing various rituals.
Location: 170 Anyuan Rd, Jing’An, China, 200061
Timings: 8 AM – 4:30 PM
9. Explore The Former French Concession (FFC)
Photo: Szalai.laci / Wikimedia Commons
One of the charming places in Shanghai that needs to be on your itinerary is the Former French Concession. Visiting this place allows you to witness a mix of European and Chinese elements. As soon as you reach the site, you will notice the streets lined with trees, cafes, and old European-style buildings. These things make the place look beautiful and relaxing. Besides that, you will find plenty of boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants that further add to the appeal of the place. While you are at FFC, you can also visit attractions like Tianzifang and Fuxing Park.
Location: Puxi Central, Huangpu District, Shanghai 200000, China
Timings: 24*7
10. Sample Shanghai Cuisine
Photo: Mackenzie Ryder / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Your trip to Shanghai is incomplete without trying the best cuisines out there. Known for its sweet and savoury flavours, the best food to try in Shanghai is the soup dumplings, or xiao long bao. The speciality of this dish is that it is filled with tasty broth and meat. Other local dishes that you shouldn’t miss include fried rice cakes, red-braised pork, and Shanghai-style noodles. In case you are more into street food, you can try various snacks like scallion pancakes and sticky rice balls at the night markets.
Location: All over Shanghai
The variety of things to do in Shanghai is enough to make your stay worthwhile. Even if you are travelling solo, you don’t have to worry about having a boring time in the city. Well, that’s the beauty of Shanghai that makes it one of the best places to visit in China. To ensure your trip goes smoothly, you can sort your plans and itinerary with TripXL.
