Discover what to do in Shanghai, from iconic landmarks like the Shanghai Tower and the Bund to neighbourhoods perfect for walking, food and culture.
This guide brings together the city’s must-see attractions along with a few lesser-known spots worth exploring. We’ve also put together a 2-day Shanghai itinerary to help you plan your trip. If you only have a few hours between flights, you may still have enough time to visit some key sights using our Shanghai layover itinerary.
Planning your trip? See our Where To Eat In Shanghai guide for nearby food options.
Top Attractions in Shanghai
Shanghai blends historic landmarks with modern architecture, offering plenty of options for what to do in Shanghai for first-time visitors. These attractions showcase both sides of the city, from classical gardens to striking modern landmarks. If you need help traveling to these sites, our helpful guide to getting around town will help.
The Bund (外滩)
Shanghai’s most famous waterfront area offers classic skyline views across the Huangpu River toward Pudong’s skyscrapers.
Find out more in our in-depth Bund guide.
Shanghai Tower (上海中心大厦)
The tallest building in China and one of the highest observation decks in the world. Visit for sweeping views across the Bund and Pudong skyline, particularly at sunset.
Oriental Pearl Tower (东方明珠塔)
The Oriental Pearl Tower (东方明珠塔) is one of Shanghai’s most recognisable landmarks and a defining part of the Pudong skyline. Its distinctive spheres and futuristic design make it instantly recognisable, especially when viewed from the Bund.
Shanghai Disneyland (上海迪士尼乐园)
Shanghai’s version of the world-famous theme park, with several rides and attractions unique to this park. A great option for families or anyone who enjoys theme parks.
Yu Gardens (豫园)
One of Shanghai’s most famous attractions and on most visitors’ must-see lists. Famous for its traditional Chinese architecture, Yu Garden is a great place to explore and take photos.
We have a comprehensive guide to Yu Gardens if you need to know more.
Jing’an Temple (静安寺)
One of the city’s most visited temples, Jing’an Temple at the western end of Nanjing Road stands out for its golden roofs set against the surrounding skyline, right in the heart of the city. Its ornate architecture rises against a backdrop of glass skyscrapers and one of Shanghai’s busiest intersections.
More details can be found on our top Shanghai attractions guide.
Xintiandi (新天地)
When I first moved to Shanghai in 1999, Xintiandi, in the former French concession was still under construction. Today, it is one of the city’s most popular areas for dining, shopping and nightlife.
Want more sightseeing ideas? From famous landmarks to historic neighbourhoods, see our guide to the top attractions in Shanghai.
Beyond The Main Attractions
Once you’ve seen Shanghai’s famous landmarks, there’s plenty more to explore beyond the usual tourist checklist. From riverside walks and photography museums to quieter neighbourhoods and modern cultural spaces, these places offer a different side of the city away from the biggest crowds.
West Bund Riverside (西岸滨江)
A modern cultural district along the Huangpu River with wide promenades, art museums, cafés and striking contemporary architecture. The riverside paths are ideal for walking or cycling and offer open views across the river toward Pudong.
The area has developed rapidly in recent years and is now home to galleries, exhibition spaces and popular spots such as Gate M, a lively restaurant and bar with outdoor seating overlooking the river.
Longteng Avenue, Xuhui District, Shanghai
(Nearest Metro: Longhua Middle Road)
Wukang Mansion (武康大楼)
A distinctive wedge-shaped apartment building from the 1920s located at a busy intersection in the former French Concession. Originally known as the Normandie Apartments, it has become one of the most photographed buildings in Shanghai, with visitors constantly gathering at the crossroads to capture its striking Art Deco façade.
The surrounding streets are lined with plane trees, cafés and boutiques, making this a pleasant area to explore on foot.
1850 Huaihai Middle Road, Xuhui District | 徐汇区淮海中路1850号
Louis Vuitton “The Louis” (路易威登之船)
A striking ship-shaped building on Nanjing West Road housing exhibitions, retail and dining. Created by Louis Vuitton, it has quickly become one of Shanghai’s most photographed new landmarks, with visitors gathering outside to take photos.
Part exhibition space, part flagship store, the building blends fashion, art and architecture in a way that feels very Shanghai. Even if you have no interest in shopping, it is worth stopping by to see the design up close and take in the atmosphere around the plaza.
Located outside Taikoo Hui mall opposite the Starbucks Reserve Roastery on Nanjing Road, it is easy to visit both in one stop.
789 Nanjing West Road, Jing’an District | 静安区南京西路789号
Insider tip:
There are often photographers outside The Louis offering to take professional photos and show them instantly on an iPad. Prices are usually around 30 RMB depending on negotiation, and the results can be surprisingly good.
Fotografiska Shanghai
A branch of the well-known Stockholm photography museum, featuring rotating exhibitions from world-class photographers. A good option if you’re interested in contemporary photography.
Incidentally, Fotografiska is right next to the Sihang Warehouse, the site where, in 1937, Chinese soldiers famously resisted multiple waves of Japanese attacks to allow Chinese troops to retreat to the west. You can see the side of the warehouse riddled with over 400 bullet holes, a permanent reminder of some of the darker days in Shanghai’s history. If you do visit Fotografiska, it’s well worth taking a quick peek next door, even if you just view the building from the outside. It’s a fascinating story and if you’d like to know more about it, there’s a lot that’s easily found on Google, but here’s a series of videos which is as good a place to start as any.
127 Guangfu Road, Jing’an District, Shanghai | 上海市静安区光复路 127号
Hidden Gems In Shanghai
Beyond the main sights, there are plenty of lesser-known places worth exploring. From quiet streets in the former French Concession to riverside walks along the West Bund, these spots offer a different side of the city without the crowds. These are great options if you’re looking for something different beyond the usual answers to what to do in Shanghai.
What To Do In Shanghai By Area
Shanghai is a huge city, and different neighbourhoods offer completely different experiences. Some areas are known for skyscrapers and skyline views, while others are better for historic streets, cafes, nightlife or local food. Understanding the city’s layout can help you plan your time more effectively.
Pudong is known for Shanghai’s modern skyline, with landmarks including Shanghai Tower, the Oriental Pearl Tower and the Lujiazui financial district. This side of the river is best for observation decks, futuristic architecture, large shopping malls and newer riverside developments.
Puxi offers a more traditional and varied side of Shanghai, with historic neighbourhoods, local restaurants, shopping streets and much of the city’s nightlife. Areas such as the Former French Concession, Jing’an and Xintiandi are popular for walking, cafes and everyday city life.
These are some of the main highlights when deciding what to do in Shanghai, but there’s plenty more to explore.
Ready to start planning?
Our Shanghai Travel Essentials guide covers getting around, SIM cards, payment apps and everything you need before you arrive.
Day Trips From Shanghai
If you’re planning what to do in Shanghai, it’s also worth considering day trips to nearby cities. Most of these places can be done in a day, although in some cases, time permitting, you might want to stay overnight so you can see more and have a more relaxed schedule. Here are just a few of them:
Suzhou
Famous for its classical gardens, Shanghai’s close neighbour Suzhou is just 30 minutes away by fast train, making it an ideal day trip destination.
Hangzhou
Around 175km from Shanghai, Hangzhou is known for the West Lake as well as tea plantations. The fast train gets you there in an hour or more.
Zhujiajiao
This ancient water town is located on the western outskirts of Shanghai, around 45km from the city centre, making it a very comfortable day trip.
Wuzhen
Signifcantly further away from Shanghai than Zhujiajiao (around 130km), this traditional water town is still an option for a day trip excursion.
Moganshan
Around 220km from Shanghai, this is a very popular getaway destination for Shanghai expats, Moganshan offers lots of outdoor activities including hiking in the Bamboo Forest, cycling, barbecues, kayaking or just chilling and being pampered in one of the luxury retreats (my personal choice).
Huangshan
Perhaps more suited for an overnight trip, Huangshan boasts stunning mountain views from above the clouds (weather permitting). There’s even an hotel at the peak for those who want to wake up to see the sunrise from the top of the mountain. The train takes 2.5-3 hours to get to the nearby Huangshan city.
Nanjing – Historical Significance
Although distance-wise, Nanjing is quite far from Shanghai (approximately 300km), modern train connections mean that you can be in Nanjing in as little as 90 minutes, depending on which train service you select.
Not sure where to start?
We’ve put together a Shanghai 2-day itinerary that takes in the best of the city without the guesswork.
Photographic Spots
The Bund is by far the most popular tourist spot for stunning photographs, whether you are looking at the buildings in Puxi or across the river towards the more modern Pudong skyline. It needs to be visited at night and during the day as the view is very different at different times of the day. The photo above is taken from the Puxi side facing towards the modern skyline on the Pudong side of the river in the late afternoon, before sunset.
Yu Gardens is another great spot for taking photos. The old town lights up at night to offer some impressive images. Bring a tripod if you can for longer exposures like the one above. The photo above was taken by the entrance to the Yu Gardens looking back towards Nanxiang Steamed Buns restaurant and the Huxinting tea house.
Flair, the rooftop bar at the Ritz-Carlton in Pudong is one of my favourite places in the entire city with stunning views of the city. You can actually see the people moving around inside the dome of the Oriental Pearl Tower nearby.
Worked up an appetite?
Our Shanghai food and drink guide covers everything from street food to special occasion dining.
Best Time To Visit Shanghai
Shanghai can be visited year-round, but spring and autumn are generally the most comfortable. Summers are hot and humid, while winters can feel cold due to the damp air. The time of year you visit can also shape what to do in Shanghai, especially if you plan to spend a lot of time outdoors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best thing to do in Shanghai?
The Bund is the most iconic place to visit, offering views of the Pudong skyline. Shanghai Tower and Yu Garden are also top highlights.
How many days do you need in Shanghai?
Two to three days is enough to see the main attractions, with extra time for day trips like Zhujiajiao or Suzhou.
What should first-time visitors do in Shanghai?
Start with the Bund, Shanghai Tower, Yu Garden and the former French Concession, then explore local food and neighbourhoods.
Is Shanghai easy to explore as a tourist?
Yes, Shanghai is easy to navigate with metro, DiDi and walking. Most major attractions are well connected.
Explore more: The Bund | Yu Gardens | Shanghai Tower | Disneyland | Nanjing Road | Jing’an District | Huangpu District | Former French Concession | 2-Day Itinerary | Shanghai Layover Itinerary | Where to Stay | Subway vs Taxi | Best eSIM for China | Airport Transfer | Food & Drink | Travel Essentials