Shanghai, China’s largest city, is a mesmerizing blend of modern skyscrapers, colonial architecture, and traditional Chinese charm. Whether you’re seeking cultural exploration, iconic landmarks, or mouthwatering cuisine, Shanghai offers something for everyone. In this blog, we’ll explore the top 20 tourist spots in Shanghai, starting with the first five. Each section includes essential details to help you plan your visit effortlessly.

1. The Bund (Waitan)

Description:
The Bund, Shanghai’s most iconic waterfront area, offers breathtaking views of the city’s modern skyline juxtaposed with historic colonial buildings. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, especially at night when the skyline is illuminated.

History:
The Bund dates back to the 19th century and was a major trading and financial hub during colonial times. Today, it remains a symbol of Shanghai’s rich history and modernization.

Google Maps Link:
The Bund Location

Official Website:
Not available.

Details:
– Ticket Price: Free entry.
– Opening Hours: Open 24/7.
– Travel Options: Accessible via Metro Line 2 or Line 10 to East Nanjing Road Station.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– M on the Bund: Famous for its European cuisine and stunning rooftop views.
– Hakkasan Shanghai: Known for modern Cantonese dishes.

Pro Tip: Visit at night for the best views of the illuminated skyline.

2. Yu Garden (Yuyuan Garden)

Description:
Yu Garden is a classic Chinese garden featuring traditional pavilions, rockeries, koi ponds, and intricately designed pathways. It offers a serene escape from the bustling city.

History:
Built during the Ming Dynasty in 1559, Yu Garden was originally a private garden for a government official and later opened to the public. It is considered one of the finest examples of Chinese garden design.

Google Maps Link:
Yu Garden Location

Official Website:
Not available.

Details:
– Ticket Price: ¥40 ($6) during peak season, ¥30 ($4.5) during the off-season.
– Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM.
– Travel Options: Accessible via Metro Line 10 or Line 14 to Yuyuan Garden Station.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant: Famous for its xiaolongbao (soup dumplings).
– Old Shanghai Teahouse: Known for traditional teas and snacks.

Pro Tip: Visit early morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquil ambiance.

3. Oriental Pearl Tower

Description:
One of Shanghai’s most recognizable landmarks, the Oriental Pearl Tower offers stunning panoramic views of the city. It also features a revolving restaurant, a glass-bottomed viewing platform, and a history museum.

History:
Completed in 1994, the tower was designed to symbolize the city’s modernization. At 468 meters (1,535 feet), it was the tallest structure in China until 2007.

Google Maps Link:
Oriental Pearl Tower Location

Official Website:
Oriental Pearl Tower Official Website

Details:
– Ticket Price: ¥160–¥280 ($22–$38) depending on the levels accessed.
– Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 9:30 PM.
– Travel Options: Accessible via Metro Line 2 to Lujiazui Station.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Shanghai Min (Lujiazui): Known for Shanghainese cuisine.
– Aura Lounge & Jazz Bar (The Ritz-Carlton): Offers cocktails with a view.

Pro Tip: Book tickets online in advance to skip the long queues.

4. Shanghai Tower

Description:
The Shanghai Tower, standing at 632 meters (2,073 feet), is China’s tallest building and the second tallest in the world. The observation deck on the 118th floor offers unparalleled views of the city.

History:
Opened in 2015, the Shanghai Tower represents the pinnacle of modern architecture and sustainability, featuring the world’s fastest elevators and a unique twisting design.

Google Maps Link:
Shanghai Tower Location

Official Website:
Shanghai Tower Official Website

Details:
– Ticket Price: ¥180 ($25) for the observation deck.
– Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM.
– Travel Options: Accessible via Metro Line 2 to Lujiazui Station.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– 100 Century Avenue Restaurant (Park Hyatt): Offers fine dining with panoramic views.
– Jade on 36 (Pudong Shangri-La): Known for French cuisine with an Asian twist.

Pro Tip: Visit on a clear day to enjoy unobstructed views of the skyline.

5. Nanjing Road

Description:
Nanjing Road is Shanghai’s premier shopping street, stretching 5.5 km and lined with boutiques, malls, and local shops. It’s a shopper’s paradise and a great spot to soak in the city’s energy.

History:
Established in the 1840s, Nanjing Road has evolved from a colonial-era commercial street to a bustling modern shopping district.

Google Maps Link:
Nanjing Road Location

Official Website:
Not available.

Details:
– Ticket Price: Free entry; shopping prices vary.
– Opening Hours: Stores typically open from 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
– Travel Options: Accessible via Metro Line 1, Line 2, or Line 10 to People’s Square Station.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Yang’s Dumplings: Famous for shengjianbao (pan-fried soup dumplings).
– Xiao Yang Fried Dumpling: Known for crispy dumplings with savory fillings.

Pro Tip: Visit in the evening when the neon lights make the street come alive.

6. Jade Buddha Temple (Yufo Si)

Description:
The Jade Buddha Temple is one of Shanghai’s most revered Buddhist temples, housing two exquisite jade Buddha statues imported from Burma. The tranquil ambiance offers a serene escape from the bustling city.

History:
Built in 1882, the temple was established to enshrine two jade Buddha statues brought to Shanghai by a monk named Huigen. The original temple was destroyed during the Qing Dynasty rebellion and rebuilt in 1928.

Google Maps Link:
Jade Buddha Temple Location

Official Website:
Jade Buddha Temple Official Website

Details:
– Ticket Price: ¥20 ($3) for the main temple; ¥10 ($1.5) additional fee to view the jade Buddhas.
– Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM.
– Travel Options: Accessible via Metro Line 13 to Jiangning Road Station.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Vegetarian Lifestyle: Known for delicious plant-based dishes.
– Xibei Youmian Cun: Famous for Northwestern Chinese cuisine.

Pro Tip: Visit in the morning to experience the temple’s peaceful atmosphere and avoid crowds.

7. Tianzifang

Description:
Tianzifang is a vibrant arts and crafts enclave in the French Concession area. It’s a maze of narrow alleyways filled with boutique shops, art studios, cafes, and street art.

History:
Originally a residential area, Tianzifang was transformed into a cultural and artistic hub in the 1990s. The preservation of Shikumen-style buildings adds to its unique charm.

Google Maps Link:
Tianzifang Location

Official Website:
Not available.

Details:
– Ticket Price: Free entry; shopping and dining prices vary.
– Opening Hours: Shops and cafes are open from 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
– Travel Options: Accessible via Metro Line 9 to Dapuqiao Station.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Café Dan: Known for Japanese-style pastries and coffee.
– Lotus Eatery: Famous for Yunnan cuisine.

Pro Tip: Explore during late afternoon to capture great photos in natural light and stay for dinner.

8. People’s Square (Renmin Guangchang)

Description:
People’s Square is a sprawling public space in central Shanghai, surrounded by key landmarks like the Shanghai Museum, Shanghai Grand Theatre, and People’s Park. It’s also a gateway to cultural and recreational activities.

History:
Originally a horse racing track during colonial times, People’s Square was transformed into a public space in the 1950s and has since become a cultural and civic hub.

Google Maps Link:
People’s Square Location

Official Website:
Not available.

Details:
– Ticket Price: Free entry.
– Opening Hours: Open 24/7.
– Travel Options: Accessible via Metro Line 1, Line 2, or Line 8 to People’s Square Station.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Din Tai Fung: Famous for xiaolongbao (soup dumplings).
– Guang Ming Cun Restaurant: Known for Shanghai-style dim sum.

Pro Tip: Combine your visit with the nearby Shanghai Museum and enjoy a leisurely walk in the park.

9. Shanghai Museum

Description:
The Shanghai Museum is a world-class museum showcasing ancient Chinese art and artifacts, including ceramics, bronze sculptures, paintings, and calligraphy. Its modern circular design symbolizes heaven.

History:
Established in 1952 and relocated to its current location in People’s Square in 1996, the museum houses over 120,000 pieces of historical and cultural significance.

Google Maps Link:
Shanghai Museum Location

Official Website:
Shanghai Museum Official Website

Details:
– Ticket Price: Free entry; ID may be required for tickets.
– Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last admission at 4:00 PM). Closed on Mondays.
– Travel Options: Located within People’s Square, accessible via Metro Line 1, Line 2, or Line 8.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Lost Heaven on the Bund: Known for Yunnan-inspired dishes.
– Mercato: Offers Italian cuisine with a Shanghai twist.

Pro Tip: Arrive early to secure tickets and explore popular exhibits without crowds.

10. Zhujiajiao Water Town

Description:
Often referred to as the “Venice of Shanghai,” Zhujiajiao is a historic water town known for its charming canals, arched stone bridges, traditional homes, and tranquil ambiance.

History:
With a history spanning over 1,700 years, Zhujiajiao was an important trading town during the Ming and Qing Dynasties. It remains a well-preserved slice of ancient China.

Google Maps Link:
Zhujiajiao Water Town Location

Official Website:
Not available.

Details:
– Ticket Price: ¥30–¥60 ($4.5–$9) depending on the package.
– Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM.
– Travel Options: Accessible via Metro Line 17 to Zhujiajiao Station, followed by a short taxi or bus ride.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Nanxiang Steamed Bun Shop (Zhujiajiao): Famous for xiaolongbao.
– Ke Zhi Yuan Tea House: Offers traditional teas and snacks.

Pro Tip: Take a gondola ride along the canals to fully experience the charm of this water town.

11. Shanghai Disney Resort

Description:
Shanghai Disney Resort is a magical destination for families and Disney enthusiasts. The park features thrilling rides, enchanting parades, and themed zones, including Treasure Cove and Tomorrowland.

History:
Opened in 2016, Shanghai Disney Resort is the first Disney theme park in mainland China. It combines traditional Disney elements with local cultural touches, such as the Enchanted Storybook Castle—the largest Disney castle in the world.

Google Maps Link:
Shanghai Disney Resort Location

Official Website:
Shanghai Disney Resort Official Website

Details:
– Ticket Price: ¥399–¥699 ($55–$97) depending on the season and day.
– Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 9:00 PM (varies by day).
– Travel Options: Accessible via Metro Line 11 to Disney Resort Station.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Lumière’s Kitchen (Shanghai Disneyland Hotel): Offers buffet dining with Disney character appearances.
– Royal Banquet Hall: Serves fine dining in the Enchanted Storybook Castle.

Pro Tip: Download the Shanghai Disney app to check wait times and show schedules.

12. Longhua Temple

Description:
Longhua Temple is Shanghai’s largest and oldest temple, known for its seven-story pagoda and tranquil gardens. It remains an active site of worship and a significant cultural landmark.

History:
Built in 242 AD during the Three Kingdoms Period, Longhua Temple has undergone multiple reconstructions. It has long been a place of Buddhist worship and meditation.

Google Maps Link:
Longhua Temple Location

Official Website:
Not available.

Details:
– Ticket Price: ¥10 ($1.5) for the temple, ¥50 ($7) for pagoda access.
– Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 4:30 PM.
– Travel Options: Accessible via Metro Line 3 to Longcao Road Station.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Zen Vegetarian: Known for plant-based Chinese dishes.
– Lotus Flower Vegetarian Restaurant: Offers healthy and flavorful meals.

Pro Tip: Visit during the annual Longhua Temple Fair in spring for a vibrant cultural experience.

13. Shanghai Propaganda Poster Art Centre

Description:
This unique museum features a vast collection of propaganda posters from China’s revolutionary era, offering a fascinating insight into the country’s political and cultural history.

History:
Founded in 1995 by a private collector, the museum aims to preserve and showcase China’s propaganda art from the 20th century. It’s a hidden gem for history and art enthusiasts.

Google Maps Link:
Shanghai Propaganda Poster Art Centre Location

Official Website:
Not available.

Details:
– Ticket Price: ¥25 ($4).
– Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Closed on Mondays.
– Travel Options: Accessible via Metro Line 10 to Shanghai Library Station.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Element Fresh: Known for salads, smoothies, and light meals.
– RAC Café: Famous for its French-inspired brunch menu.

Pro Tip: Allocate about an hour to explore this small yet impactful museum.

14. Xintiandi

Description:
Xintiandi is a chic pedestrian area featuring trendy boutiques, international restaurants, and lively nightlife. It blends traditional Shikumen architecture with modern design.

History:
Once a residential district of Shikumen houses, Xintiandi was transformed in the early 2000s into a vibrant cultural and commercial hub, preserving its historical charm.

Google Maps Link:
Xintiandi Location

Official Website:
Xintiandi Official Website

Details:
– Ticket Price: Free entry; shopping and dining prices vary.
– Opening Hours: Shops and restaurants are generally open from 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
– Travel Options: Accessible via Metro Line 10 or Line 13 to Xintiandi Station.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Wolfgang’s Steakhouse: Known for premium steaks and sides.
– Din Tai Fung: Famous for soup dumplings and Taiwanese dishes.

Pro Tip: Visit in the evening to enjoy the lively atmosphere and illuminated streets.

15. Fuxing Park

Description:
Fuxing Park is a peaceful green space in the French Concession, featuring beautifully landscaped gardens, fountains, and European-style pathways. It’s a popular spot for tai chi, dancing, and picnics.

History:
Originally a private garden during the Ming Dynasty, Fuxing Park was redesigned by the French in 1909, incorporating European landscaping techniques.

Google Maps Link:
Fuxing Park Location

Official Website:
Not available.

Details:
– Ticket Price: Free entry.
– Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
– Travel Options: Accessible via Metro Line 10 to Xintiandi Station or Line 1 to South Shaanxi Road Station.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– The Nest: Offers Scandinavian-inspired cuisine and craft cocktails.
– Al’s Diner: Known for comfort food and all-day breakfast options.

Pro Tip: Visit in the morning to see locals practicing tai chi and enjoy a serene atmosphere.

16. Shanghai Science and Technology Museum

Description:
The Shanghai Science and Technology Museum is an interactive hub of learning and exploration. With exhibits covering topics like space, robotics, biodiversity, and ancient Chinese inventions, it’s a great destination for families and science enthusiasts.

History:
Opened in 2001, the museum was built to promote science education and innovation in China. It’s one of the largest science museums in the country.

Google Maps Link:
Shanghai Science and Technology Museum Location

Official Website:
Shanghai Science and Technology Museum Official Website

Details:
– Ticket Price: ¥45 ($6.50) for adults; ¥22.5 ($3.25) for children.
– Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:15 PM (Closed on Mondays).
– Travel Options: Accessible via Metro Line 2 to Shanghai Science and Technology Museum Station.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Blue Frog: Known for burgers and cocktails.
– Element Fresh: Famous for healthy salads and wraps.

Pro Tip: Allocate at least half a day to explore the various interactive exhibits and IMAX theaters.

17. Century Park

Description:
Century Park is Shanghai’s largest park, offering expansive green spaces, a boating lake, and themed gardens. It’s an ideal spot for picnics, jogging, or enjoying a leisurely afternoon.

History:
Opened in 2000, Century Park was designed to blend Eastern and Western landscaping styles. It represents modern urban green space in the heart of Shanghai’s Pudong District.

Google Maps Link:
Century Park Location

Official Website:
Not available.

Details:
– Ticket Price: ¥10 ($1.50).
– Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
– Travel Options: Accessible via Metro Line 2 to Century Park Station.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Wagas: Offers fresh salads, pasta, and sandwiches.
– Pudong Kitchen: Known for local Shanghainese cuisine.

Pro Tip: Visit during spring to enjoy the blooming cherry blossoms.

18. Shanghai Jewish Refugees Museum

Description:
This museum commemorates the lives of Jewish refugees who found shelter in Shanghai during World War II. It features exhibits, photographs, and personal stories about the Jewish community’s contributions to the city.

History:
The museum is located in the former Ohel Moshe Synagogue, built in 1927. During the Holocaust, Shanghai accepted over 20,000 Jewish refugees, making it a unique refuge during a time of crisis.

Google Maps Link:
Shanghai Jewish Refugees Museum Location

Official Website:
Shanghai Jewish Refugees Museum Official Website

Details:
– Ticket Price: ¥50 ($7).
– Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
– Travel Options: Accessible via Metro Line 4 to Dalian Road Station, followed by a short walk.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Bella Napoli: Offers authentic Italian cuisine.
– Vanca’s Ribs & BBQ: Known for Western-style comfort food.

Pro Tip: Take a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the exhibits.

19. Chongming Island

Description:
Chongming Island, located in the Yangtze River, is a serene getaway featuring wetlands, lush greenery, and eco-tourism attractions like Dongtan Wetland Park. It’s a perfect retreat for nature lovers.

History:
Formed by sediment deposits from the Yangtze River, Chongming Island has a rich history of agriculture and fishing. In recent years, it has been developed as a center for environmental conservation and tourism.

Google Maps Link:
Chongming Island Location

Official Website:
Not available.

Details:
– Ticket Price: Free entry to most areas; park entry fees vary (around ¥50 or $7).
– Opening Hours: Open 24/7; specific attractions may have varying hours.
– Travel Options: Accessible via a combination of Metro Line 6 and bus, or by car via the Shanghai Yangtze Bridge.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Chongming Organic Restaurant: Known for fresh farm-to-table meals.
– Yangtze River Fish Restaurant: Famous for local seafood dishes.

Pro Tip: Visit Dongtan Wetland Park during sunrise or sunset for spectacular views and birdwatching.

20. Qibao Ancient Town

Description:
Qibao Ancient Town is a charming water town in Shanghai known for its picturesque canals, historic architecture, and delicious street food.

History:
Dating back over 1,000 years, Qibao served as a bustling market town during the Song Dynasty. It has retained much of its historic charm while integrating modern conveniences.

Google Maps Link:
Qibao Ancient Town Location

Official Website:
Not available.

Details:
– Ticket Price: Free entry; fees for specific attractions range from ¥5–¥30 ($1–$5).
– Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM for most attractions.
– Travel Options: Accessible via Metro Line 9 to Qibao Station.
– Nearby Restaurants:
– Qibao Snacks Street: Famous for stinky tofu, crab shell cakes, and sugar-coated hawthorn.
– Xian Qibao Dumpling House: Known for handmade dumplings.

Pro Tip: Visit on weekdays to avoid the crowds and enjoy a leisurely exploration.