Shanghai is a city of contrasts, where historic temples and old streets sit alongside some of the tallest skyscrapers in the world. Whether you are visiting for a few days or planning a longer stay, there are certain attractions that most visitors should not miss.
From the colonial architecture of the Bund to the futuristic skyline of Pudong, Shanghai offers a mix of history, modern development, shopping, food and culture that makes the city unique. Some attractions are famous landmarks, while others are simply great places to soak up the atmosphere and experience everyday life in Shanghai.
This guide covers the top attractions in Shanghai, including practical tips, nearby highlights and links to more detailed guides where available.
The Bund
The Bund is Shanghai’s most famous waterfront area and one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks. Stretching along the Huangpu River, it is known for its grand historic buildings on one side and the futuristic Pudong skyline on the other.
The Bund is especially popular in the evening when the city lights come on and the skyline reflects across the river. Many visitors simply walk along the promenade taking photos, while others stop at rooftop bars, restaurants or river cruises nearby.
Across the river you can see major landmarks including Shanghai Tower, the Oriental Pearl Tower and the Shanghai World Financial Center.
The Bund is easy to combine with nearby attractions including Nanjing Road, Yu Garden and river cruises.
See our full guide to The Bund in Shanghai.
Nanjing Road
Nanjing Road is Shanghai’s most famous shopping street and one of the busiest commercial areas in the world. Stretching from the Bund towards People’s Square, it combines historic department stores, giant malls, restaurants, cafes and huge crowds throughout the day and evening.
The pedestrianised eastern section is the most popular with visitors and is worth experiencing even if you are not planning to shop. Neon signs, street performers and illuminated buildings give the area a lively atmosphere after dark.
Along the street you will find everything from luxury brands and international chains to snack shops and old Shanghai department stores. The area is also convenient for transport, making it an easy stop during a day exploring central Shanghai.
Nanjing Road works particularly well combined with a visit to the Bund in the late afternoon and evening.
Visiting Nanjing Road? Here’s what to expect from Shanghai’s most famous shopping street.
Yu Garden and Old Town
Yu Garden is one of Shanghai’s most famous historic attractions. Originally built during the Ming Dynasty, the classical Chinese garden features traditional pavilions, ponds, bridges and rockeries surrounded by busy old-style shopping streets.
The surrounding Old Town area is often just as popular as the garden itself. Visitors come for the atmosphere, traditional architecture, local snacks and famous xiaolongbao soup dumplings nearby.
This area can become extremely busy during weekends and holidays, but it remains one of the best places to experience a more traditional side of Shanghai in the middle of the modern city.
The surrounding Old Town area is also one of the best places in the city for snacks and traditional local food. See our guide to where to eat in Shanghai for more restaurant recommendations.
Many visitors combine Yu Garden with the Bund, which is only a short taxi or metro ride away.
Visiting Yu Garden? See our guide to Shanghai’s famous classical garden.
Shanghai Tower
Shanghai Tower is the tallest building in China and one of the tallest skyscrapers in the world. Located in the Lujiazui financial district of Pudong, the tower has become one of Shanghai’s defining landmarks.
Visitors can travel to the observation deck using one of the world’s fastest elevators and enjoy panoramic views across the city, including the Bund, the Huangpu River and the surrounding skyscrapers of Pudong.
Sunset and evening are particularly popular times to visit, especially on clear days when visibility is good. The surrounding area also contains several other major attractions including the Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai World Financial Center.
Even for visitors who do not go to the top, the area around Shanghai Tower is worth visiting simply to experience the scale of Pudong’s modern skyline.
Visiting Pudong? Read our guide to China’s tallest skyscraper.
Shanghai Disneyland
Shanghai Disneyland is one of the most popular family attractions in China and a major destination for both local and international visitors.
Compared with many other Disney parks, Shanghai Disneyland combines familiar attractions with several experiences created specifically for China, including the large Enchanted Storybook Castle and the Pirates of the Caribbean ride, which is widely considered one of the park’s highlights.
The park is located in Pudong and is easily accessible using Shanghai Metro Line 11. Most visitors spend a full day here, although some choose to stay overnight nearby.
Weekends, holidays and school vacation periods can become extremely crowded, so arriving early is strongly recommended.
Planning a family trip? See our guide to Shanghai Disneyland.
Jing’an Temple
Jing’an Temple is one of Shanghai’s best known Buddhist temples and stands out dramatically against the surrounding modern shopping malls and office towers.
The temple’s golden roofs and traditional architecture create a striking contrast with the busy Jing’an district around it. Inside, visitors will find prayer halls, large Buddha statues and a quieter atmosphere compared with the surrounding streets.
Although the temple dates back more than 1,700 years, much of what visitors see today is the result of major restoration work completed in the 2000s. Despite sitting in the middle of one of Shanghai’s busiest commercial districts, the temple often feels surprisingly calm once you step inside the gates.
Conveniently, Jing’an Temple sits directly above Jing’an Temple metro station (Lines 2, 7 and 14), making it one of the easiest major attractions in Shanghai to reach. Entry currently costs ¥50.
The surrounding area is also worth exploring, with shopping centres, cafes and restaurants all within walking distance. Many visitors combine Jing’an Temple with nearby attractions including Nanjing Road and the Former French Concession.
1686 Nanjing West Road, Jing’an District | 静安区南京西路1686号
Former French Concession
The Former French Concession is one of the most pleasant areas in Shanghai for walking and exploring. Known for its tree-lined streets, historic villas, cafes and boutiques, it offers a very different atmosphere from the skyscrapers of Pudong.
This part of the city is especially popular with photographers and visitors looking for a slower pace. Streets around Wukang Road and Anfu Road are filled with coffee shops, independent stores and restored historic buildings.
Rather than focusing on major landmarks, the attraction here is the atmosphere itself. It is one of the best areas in Shanghai for simply wandering without a strict plan.
Explore one of the city’s most walkable neighbourhoods in our guide to the Former French Concession.
Xintiandi
Xintiandi is a popular dining and shopping district known for its restored shikumen architecture, combining historic stone-gate buildings with modern restaurants, bars and cafes.
The area is especially popular in the evenings and attracts both visitors and local residents looking for dining, nightlife and outdoor seating areas.
Although heavily modernised, Xintiandi still preserves elements of old Shanghai architecture while offering a more upscale and international atmosphere.
It is also conveniently located near the Former French Concession, making it easy to combine the two areas in one visit.
Tianzifang
Tianzifang is a maze of narrow alleyways filled with small shops, cafes, bars and art studios. Located inside a traditional residential lane neighbourhood, it has become one of Shanghai’s most popular tourist areas.
The area is known for its compact alleyways and lively atmosphere, with visitors browsing souvenir shops, local crafts and snack stalls.
Tianzifang can feel crowded at busy times, but many visitors still enjoy it for the atmosphere and photography opportunities.
It is particularly convenient to visit while exploring the nearby Former French Concession.
Zhujiajiao Water Town
Zhujiajiao is one of the most popular day trips from central Shanghai. Often called a water town, it is known for its canals, stone bridges and traditional riverside buildings.
Visitors can walk through old streets, take boat rides along the canals and explore a quieter side of the Shanghai region away from the modern skyscrapers.
Zhujiajiao is located outside the city centre but can still be reached relatively easily by metro and taxi.
Weekdays are usually a more pleasant time to visit as weekends can become extremely crowded.
Map and Planning Tips
Shanghai is a huge city, so grouping nearby attractions together helps save time.
Popular combinations include:
- The Bund + Nanjing Road
- Yu Garden + Old Town
- Pudong skyline + Shanghai Tower
- Former French Concession + Xintiandi + Tianzifang
For transport, Shanghai’s metro system is usually the fastest and easiest way to move between attractions.
For metro tips, payment apps, airport transport and other practical advice, see our Shanghai Travel Essentials guide.
Planning your trip?
From skyline views to historic gardens and shopping streets, our Things to Do in Shanghai guide covers even more places to explore across the city.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most famous attraction in Shanghai?
The Bund is generally considered Shanghai’s most famous attraction thanks to its historic waterfront and skyline views.
Is Nanjing Road worth visiting?
Yes. Even if you are not interested in shopping, Nanjing Road is worth visiting for the atmosphere, especially in the evening.
How many days do you need in Shanghai?
Most visitors need at least 3 to 4 days to comfortably see Shanghai’s main attractions.
What is the best area to stay in Shanghai for sightseeing?
Popular areas include the Bund, People’s Square, Jing’an and the Former French Concession because they provide convenient access to many attractions.
Explore more: Things To Do in Shanghai | The Bund | Yu Gardens | Shanghai Tower | Nanjing Road | Disneyland | Jing’an District | Huangpu District | Former French Concession | 2-Day Itinerary | Shanghai Layover Itinerary | Where to Stay | Best eSIM for China | Subway vs Taxi