(Credit: Riku Lu / Unsplash)
Shanghai is a city that effortlessly blends the ultramodern with the deeply historical – and that’s exactly why I’m beyond excited to plan my trip here. From towering skyscrapers piercing the clouds to tranquil classical gardens tucked amidst the urban buzz, this megacity offers something for every kind of traveller. Love food, shopping, culture, or nightlife? Shanghai has you covered. Often dubbed the “Paris of the East” for its vibrant nightlife and Art Deco architecture, it’s a playground for millennials and Gen Z explorers who crave variety. If you’re wondering what to do in Shanghai, read on – I’ve rounded up the 15 best things to do in Shanghai that I’m seriously considering for my own Shanghai itinerary (and you should too!).
The Bund is top of my Shanghai bucket list – it’s a 1.3-kilometre waterfront promenade along the Huangpu River, lined on one side by grand colonial-era buildings and on the other by Pudong’s futuristic skyline. Strolling here, I’ll soak in views of Gothic and Baroque facades from the city’s past, set against neon-lit skyscrapers that scream its future. It’s an absolute must for first-timers because the contrast of old and new Shanghai is just breathtaking. I plan to visit around sunset to watch the skyline come alive with lights across the river in Pudong – a scene that’s said to be pure magic (and Instagram gold). With the cool breeze off the Huangpu and maybe a coffee in hand, I can’t imagine a better way to kick off my adventure in Shanghai.
Admission: Free
Getting There: Take the Metro Line 2 or 10 to East Nanjing Road Station, then walk about 10 minutes towards the waterfront.
No trip to Shanghai would be complete without wandering the enchanting Yu Garden. This classical Chinese garden dates back to the 16th century (Ming Dynasty) and is often called “a pearl of Shanghai” for its elegant pavilions, koi ponds, and winding pathways. Despite surviving centuries of upheaval – from colonial intrigues to World War II damage – Yu Garden remains an oasis of calm in the Old City, full of ancient ginkgo trees, rockeries and ornate bridges that transport you to another era. As a history lover, I’m fascinated that this garden was once a wealthy family’s private retreat; today it’s a national monument open to everyone.
Right outside the garden is the bustling Yuyuan Bazaar, and you can bet I’ll be indulging in every street food snack I find there. Steaming xiao long bao soup dumplings, anyone? The bazaar’s maze of shops is famous for traditional crafts, teahouses, and local eats. I plan to haggle for some souvenirs and slurp noodles alongside locals for the full experience. It might be touristy and often crowded (insider tip: go on a weekday morning to beat the rush), but the mix of cultural heritage and tasty street food is simply irresistible.
Admission: ~RMB 40 (≈ S$8) in peak season; ~RMB 30 off-season for Yu Garden
Getting There: Take Metro Line 10 to Yuyuan Garden Station – the garden and bazaar are a short walk from Exit 1.
I’m planning to start near People’s Square (maybe pop into the Shanghai Museum first, see #7 below) and then walk east toward The Bund, watching the vibe shift from upscale boutiques to street food vendors. Don’t be surprised if I jump on the little tourist tram that trundles down the pedestrian strip – my feet might need a break from all that retail therapy! Whether you’re after luxury brands or quirky souvenirs, wandering Nanjing Road is one of those classic things to do in Shanghai. Just remember to wear comfy shoes and charge your camera; those giant LED billboards and busy street scenes are mesmerising.
Admission: Free (though your wallet might not be safe from shopping!)
Getting There: Multiple metro stops cover the length of Nanjing Road. For the pedestrian East Nanjing Rd section, take Metro Line 2 or 10 to Nanjing Road East Station.
I have a soft spot for city skylines, so heading up the Oriental Pearl Tower is non-negotiable for me. This skyscraper with its distinctive pink spheres was once the tallest building in Shanghai, and it remains one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks. At 468 metres tall, the Oriental Pearl offers sweeping 360° views from its observation decks. I’m mildly terrified yet thrilled about the glass-bottomed walkway – walking on a transparent floor 259 metres above ground sounds equal parts scary and awesome! There’s even a revolving restaurant up there, and a Shanghai History Museum in the base, so it’s more than just a viewpoint.
Sure, Shanghai now has taller towers (the Shanghai Tower and Jing’an Finance Centre among them), but there’s something iconic about the Pearl Tower’s retro-futuristic design. I might time my visit for late afternoon to catch daylight views and then watch the sunset blur into a dazzling night panorama. And if heights aren’t your thing, you can admire this tower from The Bund – it’s the spiky building that lights up like a purple beacon at night. But as for me, I’ll be up top living my best life among the clouds, thank you very much.
Admission: Tickets range ~RMB 199 – 299 (≈ S$40–60) for full access, depending on package (basic observatory, additional spheres, etc.)
Getting There: Take Metro Line 2 to Lujiazui Station – the tower is right outside exit 1.
Yes, you read that right – Shanghai has its very own Disneyland, and the inner child in me is squealing. Shanghai Disneyland is the first Disney park in mainland China and the sixth in the world. It’s got all the classic Disney magic plus some unique twists you won’t find elsewhere. Fun fact: this park boasts the world’s tallest Disney castle and even an entire pirate-themed land for all you Pirates of the Caribbean fans. As someone who grew up on Disney movies, I can’t wait to explore Treasure Cove, ride the TRON Lightcycle coaster in Tomorrowland, and watch the grand nighttime fireworks over Enchanted Storybook Castle (camera at the ready!).
What I love is that Shanghai Disneyland caters to both kids and adults, so whether I go solo or with friends, we’ll have a blast taking selfies with Mickey, munching on Mickey-shaped treats, and screaming our heads off on roller coasters. It’s a full-day adventure for sure. Just a heads up: plan your visit on a weekday if possible, and buy tickets in advance. Queues can be long, but hey, a little patience is worth it to experience one of the happiest places on Earth.
Admission: ~S$75 for a one-day adult ticket (prices vary by date and season)
Getting There: Take Metro Line 11 to Disney Resort Station – it drops you right at the park gates.
For a dose of serenity and spirituality, I’m adding the Jade Buddha Temple to my itinerary. This active Buddhist monastery is nestled amid downtown Shanghai’s hustle, yet once you step inside, it feels like a world apart. The temple is famous for its two magnificent jade Buddha statues brought from Myanmar (Burma) in the 19th century. The main attraction is a 2-metre tall seated Buddha carved from a single piece of white jade and adorned with semi-precious stones. There’s also a smaller reclining jade Buddha representing Buddha’s peaceful death, which is equally beautiful and revered.
It’s one of the few temples in China that’s still actively worshipped daily, so you might see devotees lighting candles or monks in robes going about their day. The architecture itself is lovely, with classic Chinese curved eaves and bright saffron-colored walls. I plan to visit in the morning for a quieter experience. Even in a modern metropolis, places like Jade Buddha Temple show that tradition is very much alive in Shanghai.
Admission: Free (donations appreciated; some halls may request a small fee for entry or incense)
Getting There: Take Metro Line 13 to Jiangning Road Station, then walk about 5-10 minutes to the temple entrance on Anyuan Road.
Calling all culture vultures – the Shanghai Museum is a must-visit, and I’m definitely pencilling in a few hours for it. Located at People’s Square, this museum is often hailed as one of the best in China. It houses over 120,000 artefacts spanning 5,000 years of Chinese history – from ancient bronze vessels and jade carvings to Ming-era furniture, calligraphy scrolls and ethnic costumes. Basically, if you want to trace China’s civilisation under one roof, this is the place. I’m particularly keen to check out the bronze gallery and the ceramics collection (hello, priceless porcelain!), which are said to be world-class.
One thing that intrigues me is how the museum is organised by theme rather than dynasty. That means I can hop from an exhibit of coins to one of paintings, and see the evolution within that category across eras – a more engaging way to learn, I’d say. The building itself has a unique round dome and square base, reflecting the Chinese concept of “round heaven, square earth.” And did I mention it’s free entry? Just bring your passport for the free ticket issuance. I plan to go early when it opens (9am) to avoid crowds and maybe join a free English tour if available. After filling my brain with knowledge, I might relax in People’s Park next door – perhaps even peek at the weekend “marriage market” there if time allows (Google it – it’s fascinating!).
Admission: Free (foreign visitors need to show a passport at the ticket booth for a free entry ticket)
Getting There: Take Metro Line 1, 2 or 8 to People’s Square Station. The museum is a 5-minute walk from Exit 1 (in the middle of People’s Square).
When I need a break from historical sites, I’ll head to Xintiandi – Shanghai’s chic entertainment district in the heart of the former French Concession. Xintiandi is basically old meets new personified: a trendy upscale area filled with restaurants, cafes, bars, and boutiques, all housed in beautifully restored shikumen (stone gate) buildings. These low-rise brick buildings are relics of 1920s-30s Shanghai, now given new life as a lifestyle hub. The result? A place oozing with quaint European charm and modern vibrancy at the same time.
I’m envisioning an afternoon here sipping coffee at an al fresco cafe beneath shady plane trees, then browsing some designer shops or art galleries tucked in the narrow alleys. By night, Xintiandi turns into one of the city’s hotspots – perfect for dinner and drinks. I might treat myself to some Shanghainese delicacies at a restaurant in Xintiandi, then perhaps grab a craft cocktail at a stylish bar (the nightlife here is popular with expats and tourists, so I won’t feel out of place). It’s also a great area to simply walk around and people-watch – after all, this is the place to see and be seen in Shanghai. Don’t forget to admire the mix of architecture while you’re here; the blending of historical and contemporary design is what makes Xintiandi so unique. I know my camera roll will be full after this stop.
Admission: Free (it’s a public neighbourhood, though individual venues will have their costs)
Getting There: Take Metro Line 10 or 13 to Xintiandi Station. The area is just outside Exit 6, centred around Madang Road and Taicang Road.
What makes Tianzifang fun is the element of surprise – every turn in the narrow alley could reveal a cosy bar, a cute coffee shop, or a vendor frying up some local snacks. In fact, the street food here is part of the experience, and I fully intend to sample whatever looks interesting (grilled squid on a stick? funky-shaped doughnuts on a stick? Bring it on!). Don’t be shocked if you see tourists clutching odd munchies like spiral potatoes or barbecued octopus on sticks – that’s kind of a Tianzifang thing. The area retains its old brick buildings and tangled alley layout, so it hasn’t lost its authentic charm despite the commercial buzz. It can get crowded, especially on weekends, but the atmosphere is so lively. I’ll likely visit in late afternoon and stay into the evening when the alleyways light up with glowing signboards. Tianzifang perfectly blends Shanghai’s ordinary day-to-day life with a pinch of international flair, making it a must-see in my book.
Admission: Free
Getting There: Take Metro Line 9 to Dapuqiao Station and use Exit 1. Tianzifang’s entrance is near Lane 210, Taikang Road.
Time to venture a bit out of the city proper – I’m adding Zhujiajiao Water Town to my Shanghai itinerary for a change of pace. Known as the “Venice of Shanghai,” Zhujiajiao is an ancient water town about 30 km west of downtown, famed for its canals, stone bridges and historic architecture. The town is over 1,700 years old, and wandering its narrow lanes is like stepping back in time. I plan to spend half a day here to unwind from the city frenzy. Think gentle boat rides through canal waterways, arched bridges reflecting on the water, and old Qing dynasty buildings lining the banks. It’s basically a living museum of what Shanghai might have been centuries ago.
I’m most excited to see the Fangsheng Bridge – a long, arched stone bridge built in 1571 that is one of the icons of Zhujiajiao. There’s also a Qing-era post office and some tranquil gardens in town that I might peek into. And of course, I’ll snack my way through the street food stalls (are you sensing a theme with me and food?). Freshly caught river shrimp and lotus root candies are local specialities I’ve heard about. Even though Zhujiajiao can be touristy, it’s still full of charm. Tiny boats glide down the canals, often rowed by straw-hatted boatmen – and yes, you can hire one for a short cruise to see the town from the water. Floating along under ancient bridges like Fangsheng and Lang Bridge is going to be so picturesque. Locals call this place Shanghai’s Venice for good reason, and I can’t wait to capture those romantic canal vibes.
Admission: Free to enter the town (walking around is free). Some individual attractions or a boat ride cost extra (boat rides approximately RMB 80 per boat).
Getting There: The easiest is by bus or driver (around 1 hour). From downtown, you can take a tourist bus from People’s Square, or Metro Line 17 to Zhujiajiao Station and then a short bus/taxi to the old town.
I’ve already planned to walk The Bund (#1), but another way to soak up Shanghai’s epic skyline is by taking a Huangpu River cruise. This is one of those classic Shanghai experiences that I simply can’t skip, especially as a night activity. The Huangpu River winds right through the city, dividing it into the historical west side (Puxi) and the shiny new east side (Pudong). A cruise lets you see both banks in all their glory. Imagine gliding on the water after dusk: on one side, the elegant colonial buildings of the Bund glowing softly, and on the other, the skyscrapers of Lujiazui (like the Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai Tower) sparkling with colourful lights. Talk about a gorgeous East-meets-West panorama!
Most cruises last about 50 minutes to an hour. I’ll probably opt for an evening cruise to catch the full light show – many boats have open decks perfect for snapping photos. Some fancier options even include dinner on board, but I’m content with just the views and vibes (I can always grab late-night street food after!). The audio commentary isn’t crucial for me; I’d rather just soak in the atmosphere and perhaps toast the experience with a drink from the onboard bar. If you go around 7 – 8pm, you’ll likely see the city at peak illumination. Just a tip I picked up: try to arrive a bit early to snag a good seat on the top deck. I might bundle up if it’s breezy by the water, but nothing’s going to stop me from enjoying that breathtaking skyline silhouette. This cruise will be the perfect way to cap off a busy day of sightseeing, giving me a moment to relax and reflect on Shanghai’s contrasts – old vs new, calm river vs buzzing city, all in one beautiful view.
Admission: Approx RMB 120 (≈ S$24) per adult for a standard one-hour cruise (without dining)
Getting There: Most cruise boats depart from docks along The Bund. The popular Shiliupu Wharf is near The Bund’s southern end (closest Metro: Yuyuan Garden Station on Line 10, then a 15-minute walk).
Here’s a hidden gem I’m itching to explore: the Propaganda Poster Art Centre. Tucked in an unassuming apartment basement, this little museum showcases over 5,000 Chinese propaganda posters from the 20th century. It’s like stepping into a time capsule of Mao-era China – the collection spans from the founding of the People’s Republic in 1949 through the Cultural Revolution in the 1970s. As someone who enjoys history (and quirky museums), I find this place incredibly intriguing. The artwork is bold, colourful, and tells the story of China’s political climate in a way history books can’t. You’ll see everything from smiling peasants and soldiers rallying behind Chairman Mao to anti-imperialist cartoons.
I expect it to be an eye-opener, giving insight into how art was used to shape public opinion and morale. It’s also a rare collection – many such posters were destroyed over time, so seeing them preserved is special. I heard the founder is often around to answer questions, which could make the visit even richer. The space is small and doesn’t take long to go through (maybe an hour if you read everything). They even have some replica posters and books you can buy as souvenirs – you know I’ll be grabbing a cool postcard or two. This isn’t a flashy attraction, but it’s definitely one of the more unique things to do in Shanghai for culture nerds like me. After immersing myself in old propaganda, I might lighten the mood by heading to a café nearby for a breather – Changning District, where the museum is located, has plenty of nice coffee shops.
Admission: ~RMB 25 (≈ S$5)
Getting There: Take Metro Line 10 or 11 to Jiaotong University Station. It’s about a 10-minute walk to the museum, which is located in the basement of Huashan Road 868, Building B.
One of the coolest offbeat spots on my list is the 1933 Slaughterhouse, also known as “Old Millfun.” Don’t let the grim name deter you – this former slaughterhouse has been transformed into a hip design centre with cafés, boutiques, and creative studios. You won’t find another building quite like this in Shanghai: it’s an Art Deco industrial masterpiece built in 1933 (hence the name) with an intricate network of concrete ramps, bridges and spiral staircases inside. Walking through it is like being in an Escher drawing! The fact that it was once the municipal slaughterhouse adds to its mystique – if walls could talk, right?
Today, 1933 is a cultural hub where trendy restaurants and shops breathe new life into the old structure. I’m definitely packing my camera for this one; every corner of the building is photogenic with dramatic light and shadows. It’s popular among local wedding photographers and Instagrammers for its striking geometry. I might grab a coffee at one of the artsy cafés inside and imagine what this place was like in its heyday, processing cattle (morbid, but fascinating). Keep an eye out for art installations or events – sometimes there are exhibitions or performances in the central atrium. Even if there’s nothing on, the architectural experience alone is worth it. This is the kind of spot that will make my Shanghai itinerary feel truly unique, and I can’t wait to play urban explorer in this historic maze of concrete.
Admission: Free (costs nothing to wander the building)
Getting There: Take Metro Line 4 to Hailun Road Station. It’s about a 5-10 minute walk from there – located at 611 Liyang Road in Hongkou District.
Okay, this is a bit unconventional as a “thing to do,” but hear me out: Shanghai has the world’s fastest commercial train, and I am absolutely going to ride it. The Shanghai Maglev Train zips from Pudong International Airport to the city in a mind-blowing 7 – 8 minutes by levitating on magnets. Yes, magnets – how do they work? (I won’t try to explain; I’ll just enjoy the ride!). It hits speeds up to 430 km/h. To put that in perspective: that’s over 10 times faster than your typical city metro.
I expect to basically feel like I’m in a sci-fi movie zooming over futuristic tracks – apparently the ride is so smooth you barely notice the insane speed. I’ll definitely snap a photo of the speedometer in the cabin when it hits the maximum velocity (because if you didn’t gram it, did it really happen?). The train seats are aeroplane-style and quite comfy, so this will be a very cosy adrenaline rush. Plus, it will make for a great story: “I went 430km/h on a train in China!” This is one quick and easy experience that perfectly showcases Shanghai’s love of cutting-edge tech.
Admission: ~RMB 50 (≈ S$10) one-way, or RMB 80 (~S$16) round-trip. Discounts if you have a same-day flight ticket.
Getting There: Take Metro Line 2 to Longyang Road Station. The Maglev terminal is connected to that station. Hop on the Maglev towards Pudong Airport – trains depart every 15-20 minutes.
To round out my Shanghai adventure, I’m planning a visit to the M50 Creative Space – a must for art lovers and the creatively curious. M50 (short for 50 Moganshan Road) is basically Shanghai’s version of a hipster art hood: it’s a cluster of old factories and warehouses that have been converted into art galleries, studios, and graffiti-filled lanes. Contemporary artists have taken over this once-abandoned industrial area, turning it into a vibrant community where you can stroll in and out of dozens of galleries for free.
I’m no art expert, but I love checking out modern art and street art for inspiration (and let’s be honest, for cool Instagram backdrops too!). At M50, I expect to see a bit of everything – from avant-garde paintings and photography to quirky sculptures and interactive installations. Many artists’ studios are open to the public, so you can sometimes meet the artists or see works in progress. There’s also plenty of colourful graffiti on the brick walls around the compound, which makes for fun photos. I’ll probably spend an afternoon wandering here at a leisurely pace. It’s a nice contrast to Shanghai’s more historical sights – here you get a taste of the city’s edgy, creative subculture. Who knows, I might even pick up an artwork or souvenir if something strikes me (though my wallet hopes I resist!). Before I leave, I’ll chill at one of the little cafés in the area, reflecting on all the diverse experiences Shanghai offers. From traditional gardens to space-age skylines to underground art scenes – this city truly has it all.
Admission: Free (just walk in; individual galleries are free entry)
Getting There: Take Metro Line 13 to Jiangning Road or Line 3/4 to Shanghai Railway Station, then grab a short taxi or bus to 50 Moganshan Road in the Putuo District.
From iconic attractions to secret spots, Shanghai promises an adventure that’s equal parts thrilling and enlightening. I’ve packed my itinerary with these 15 awesome things to do, and I hope my plans inspire you to craft your own Shanghai journey. Whether you’re cruising down the Huangpu River or munching on soup dumplings in an old lane, the city will leave you in awe with its blend of past and future. Don’t forget to prep for your trip with the right gear – check out our guides on best luggage brands for stylish and sturdy travel bags, best iPhone gimbals to capture your memories smoothly, and all other travelling essentials you’ll need for a hassle-free holiday. Shanghai is calling – and trust me, you’re going to have the time of your life in this dazzling metropolis. Safe travels and have a blast in the Pearl of the Orient!
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