Top best things to do in Shanghai

Top Things to do in Shanghai

Helen Tang
2333 Words/10 Minutes, By Helen Tang, Updated July 23, 2025

Shanghai is a vibrant metropolis with a rich cultural heritage, offering a wide range of hands-on experiences that immerse visitors in its dynamic local culture.Whether you're traveling solo, with family, or on a fun weekend getaway, Shanghai never fails to impress. It doesn't just meet expectations; it exceeds them. From the dazzling skyline to hidden alleys filled with history and flavor, this city will leave you saying “wow” at every turn.

Top 1: Stroll Along the Bund

To truly understand the rich and diverse cultural history of Shanghai, don’t miss the city’s most iconic landmark—the Bund. Starting from the Waibaidu Bridge, take a leisurely stroll along the riverside promenade and admire the magnificent row of 52 historic buildings in various classical revival styles, including Gothic, Baroque, and Romanesque. Landmarks like the Bank of China Building, the Customs House, and the Peace Hotel showcase the grandeur of old Shanghai. Across the Huangpu River, you’ll witness the striking contrast of Pudong’s futuristic skyline, creating the perfect setting for a dialogue between the city’s past and future. Whether you visit at dawn (when it’s less crowded), during sunset, or at night (for the stunning light show), the Bund offers an unparalleled opportunity to grasp the multifaceted soul of the modern city.

Top 2: Discover the dynamic district of Pudong

Discovering the dynamic district of Pudong, where Shanghai’s modern skyline comes to life. You can sweep views of the city from observation decks of the Oriental Pearl Tower, visit Shanghai Tower, the tallest building in China, with a high-speed elevator that takes you to one of the world’s highest observation floors. Explore the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium, home to diverse marine life and one of the world’s longest underwater tunnels. Take a walk along Lujiazui Riverside Promenade for stunning views of The Bund across the Huangpu River. Wrap up your visit with some shopping and dining at Super Brand Mall or IFC Mall, where luxury and local brands meet. Pudong is a must-visit for anyone who wants to experience Shanghai’s bold vision for the future.

Top 3: Explore Yuyuan Garden

Step into the tranquil beauty of Yuyuan Garden, a classic example of traditional Chinese landscaping nestled in the heart of bustling Shanghai. Wander through elegant pavilions, rockeries, koi-filled ponds, and zigzagging bridges that reflect Ming dynasty aesthetics. Admire the exquisite carvings and intricate latticework, pause at the iconic Grand Rockery for panoramic views, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere amid centuries-old trees. If you are tea lover, enjoy tea and traditional storytelling at the Huxinting Teahouse. Don’t miss the nearby Yuyuan Bazaar, where you can shop for antiques, souvenirs, and savor local snacks like xiaolongbao (soup dumplings).

Top 4: Experience the Vibrant Energy of Nanjing Road

Just as Wangfujing street is a must-visit in Beijing, Beijing Road in Guangzhou, and the Great Tang All Day Mall in Xi’an, no trip to Shanghai is complete without a stroll down the famous Nanjing Road. Known as “China’s No.1 Commercial Street,” Nanjing Road is often referred to as Shanghai’s answer to New York’s Fifth Avenue. Here, you'll find a fascinating mix of the old and new, from historic department stores and time-honored Chinese brands to international names like H&M and Zara. Step into iconic landmarks like the Shanghai No.1 Department Store, or shop for silk, tea, and traditional souvenirs at Lao Feng Xiang Jewelry and Wu Liang Cai Glasses. Whether you're shopping or just soaking in the atmosphere, Nanjing Road offers a quintessential Shanghai experience.

Top 5: Take a Huangpu River Cruise

In addition to walking along the Bund, another great way to take in the stunning scenery along the Huangpu River is by taking a leisurely cruise. Enjoy a relaxing one-hour journey, whether by day or night, and feel the cool river breeze as you admire the city skyline from a different perspective. Along the way, you’ll not only take in iconic views of the historic Bund and the futuristic skyscrapers of the Pudong financial district, but also gain insights into Shanghai’s rich history and vibrant culture.

Top 6: Wander Through the French Concession

Wander through the leafy streets of the former French Concession and discover a charming blend of East and West. Admire the elegant colonial-era architecture, sip coffee in stylish cafés tucked inside historic villas, and browse boutiques featuring local designers and vintage finds. Don’t miss spots like Fuxing Park, where locals practice tai chi, or Sinan Road, lined with historic residences of notable figures. Whether you’re into history, architecture, or simply soaking up the laid-back vibe, this neighborhood offers a unique glimpse into Shanghai’s cosmopolitan past.

Top 7: Visit the Shanghai Museum

Visit the Shanghai Museum to delve into China’s rich artistic and cultural heritage. Located in the heart of the city, this world-class museum houses over 120,000 pieces, including ancient bronzes, ceramics, calligraphy, paintings, and ethnic minority art. Its distinctive architecture, shaped like an ancient bronze vessel, is a cultural icon in itself. Highlights include the exquisite bronze collection from the Shang and Zhou dynasties and the elegant Ming and Qing furniture gallery. Whether you're a history enthusiast or a casual traveler, the Shanghai Museum offers a fascinating journey through China’s millennia-old civilization, and for families traveling with children, it’s an especially educational and enriching experience.

Top 8:Take a boat with a black canopy at Zhujiajiao

Take a traditional boat ride with a black canopy through the ancient water town of Zhujiajiao and experience its timeless charm from the water. As you gently glide along the narrow canals, you’ll pass under centuries-old stone bridges and admire well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty buildings lining the banks. This peaceful cruise offers a unique perspective of the town’s historic architecture, riverside teahouses, and daily life of the locals. It’s a perfect activity for those seeking a quiet escape from the city's fast pace and hoping to appreciate the elegance and tranquility of this 1,700-year-old town.

Top 9: Explore Tianzifang and Xintiandi

Experience two different styles of creative and lifestyle districts: Tianzifang’s artsy alleys and Xintiandi’s elegant Shikumen architecture and modern flair.

Tianzifang, nestled in a labyrinth of renovated alleyways, is a charming arts and crafts enclave filled with boutique shops, art studios, quirky cafés, and creative galleries. Just a short distance away, Xintiandi presents a more upscale and cosmopolitan side of the city, where historic Shikumen houses have been transformed into chic restaurants, fashionable bars, and luxury stores. Strolling through these two neighborhoods, you’ll witness how Shanghai seamlessly blends tradition and modernity, making it a must-visit for culture lovers, shoppers, foodies, and anyone curious about the city’s evolving identity.

Top 10: Enjoy a City Bike Tour

Take a city bike tour to explore the streets of Shanghai and get a feel for the local culture. You'll see historic neighborhoods, modern skyscrapers, and famous landmarks while learning about the city's history and culture.

Cycling on Chongming Island, Chongming Island is a large island located in the Yangtze River delta, just a short ferry ride from Shanghai. The island offers plenty of cycling trails that take you through scenic countryside and along the coast.

Historical and Cultural Cycling Route: This route includes historical landmarks such as Xilin Temple and the Yun Jian Granary. As you pedal through Songjiang, you’ll trace the city’s thousand-year-old cultural lineage. Cycling along Zhongshan Road feels like riding alongside history itself.

Riverside Scenic Cycling Route: The Pudong Riverside Greenway stretches 24 kilometers from the north wall of Yangpu Bridge to the south wall of Xupu Bridge. This uninterrupted, signal-free cycling path offers sweeping views of the Huangpu and Suzhou River confluence. It’s ideal for both families and cycling enthusiasts.

Top 11: Sample Local Cuisine and Street Food

Shanghai's culinary scene rivals that of Guangdong and Chengdu. The city is not only known for its authentic Shanghainese cuisine, but also offers a rich tapestry of regional Chinese flavors and international cuisines from around the globe. Try classic local favorites like xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), shengjianbao (pan-fried buns), and Shanghai-style braised pork for an authentic taste of the city. Don’t miss the vibrant food streets around Nanjing Road, Yunnan Road, and Shouning Road, where local flavors come alive.

Beyond Chinese cuisine, Shanghai offers a world-class international dining scene. You can savor authentic French cuisine in the elegant restaurants of the Former French Concession, Japanese sushi and izakayas in areas like Gubei and Jing’an, Korean BBQ and street food in Hongqiao, and Italian trattorias and pizzerias in Xintiandi and the Bund. Michelin-starred restaurants and trendy fusion spots also make Shanghai a paradise for global food lovers.

Top cultural hands-on activities in a shanghai trip

1. Chinese Calligraphy Class: Take a Chinese calligraphy class to learn the art of writing Chinese characters. You'll learn about the history and meaning behind each character and create your own unique piece of art.

2. Dumpling Making: Take a dumpling-making class to learn how to make Shanghai's most famous dish. You'll learn how to wrap the dumplings, mix the filling and cook them, before enjoying a tasty meal.

3. Chinese Tea Ceremony: Attend a traditional Chinese tea ceremony to learn about the tea art and tea culture.

4. Chinese Brush Painting: Take a Chinese brush painting class to learn the art of painting with ink and brushes. You'll learn about the different styles and techniques, and create your own masterpiece to take home.

5. Chinese Knotting: Learn the ancient art of Chinese knotting, which involves tying intricate knots to create beautiful decorations. You'll learn about the different types of knots and their meanings, and create your own unique piece of art.

6. Tai Chi: Practice Tai Chi, a traditional Chinese martial art that focuses on slow, flowing movements and deep breathing. You'll learn about the health benefits and history of Tai Chi while improving your balance and flexibility.

7. Acrobatics Show: Attend acrobatics show to witness the incredible strength, flexibility and agility of the performers. You'll be amazed by their feats of balance and coordination.

Top outdoor adventures to do in a shanghai trip

While Shanghai is known for its bustling city and towering skyscrapers, there are also plenty of outdoor adventures to enjoy in the surrounding areas. Here are some top outdoor adventures to do on a Shanghai trip:

1. Hiking in Moganshan: Located about 2.5 hours from Shanghai, Moganshan offers great hiking trails with stunning views of the surrounding forests and mountains. There are several trails to choose from, including a popular trek to the top of Moganshan.

2. Cycling on Chongming Island: Chongming Island is a large island located in the Yangtze River delta, just a short ferry ride from Shanghai. The island offers plenty of cycling trails that take you through scenic countryside and along the coast.

3. Rock climbing in Qingliangfeng: Located in Zhejiang Province, Qingliangfeng is a popular spot for rock climbing. The area has over 300 routes for climbers of all skill levels, and the stunning views from the top make it worth the climb.

4. Water sports at Dishui Lake: Located in the Pudong New Area of Shanghai, Dishui Lake offers a range of water sports, including kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and windsurfing.

5. Camping in Dianshan Lake: Dianshan Lake is a large lake located about 1.5 hours from Shanghai. There are several campsites around the lake where you can pitch a tent and enjoy the scenic views.

6. Skiing at Yinqixing Ski Resort: Located in the suburbs of Shanghai, Yinqixing Ski Resort offers skiing and snowboarding in the winter months. The resort has several slopes and a variety of amenities, including a restaurant and a ski shop.

These are just a few examples of the many outdoor adventures you can enjoy on a Shanghai trip. With a little research and planning, you're sure to find something that suits your interests and preferences.

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Helen Tang

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