Top Things to Do in Shanghai: Attractions, Food & Day Trips Guide

The Oriental Pearl Tower is Shanghai's most famous landmark, with its unique design and great city views from its observation decks. Visitors travel up and down the Oriental Pearl Tower in double-decker elevators that can hold up to fifty people. It’s a must-visit for first-time travellers to Shanghai.

For breathtaking views of Shanghai, visit the Shanghai Tower's observation deck! You'll see landmarks like the Oriental Pearl Tower and even spot the Huangpu River meeting the East China Sea. It's a great place to admire Shanghai's stunning skyline from 632 meters up.

Head up to Jinmao Tower's 88th-floor observation deck for stunning 360-degree views of Shanghai's skyline - brave visitors can try the thrilling outdoor Skywalk on a glass walkway. At night, the glittering city lights make perfect photo opportunities, while the tower's impressive open atrium offers a unique perspective from inside. This is one of the best spots to admire Shanghai's modern skyline.

The Shanghai World Financial Center is a 492-meter-tall skyscraper with 101 floors. Its unique "bottle opener" shape houses an observation deck on the 100th floor, featuring a 55-meter glass walkway with stunning city views. On clear days, you can see across all of Shanghai from this vantage point.

Shanghai Disney Resort, located in Pudong, is the first Disney theme park in mainland China. Here you can experience many classic attractions of Disneyland, including a larger Disney Castle, a pirate theme park, a longer Disney parade route, and more, and experience the Magic Kingdom in an immersive way.

The Bund is Shanghai’s iconic waterfront promenade, famous for its historic buildings and stunning Huangpu River views. Stretching for 1.6 km, it's a perfect spot for photos and a must-see to experience the interplay of ancient and modern Shanghai. Your trip to Shanghai wouldn't be complete without a visit to the Bund.

Yu Garden is a peaceful Ming Dynasty garden in central Shanghai, with traditional pavilions, stone carvings, and winding paths. Nearby Yuyuan Bazaar is great for souvenirs and antiques, offering a charming escape from the modern city.

Jing'an Temple is the central attraction in Shanghai's trendy Jing'an district. The Buddhist temple complex traces its history as far back as 247 CE. The architectural style of Jing'an Temple draws on Tibetan influence to create something both classic and modern. After dark, the temple is bathed in warm light, emitting a golden glow.

The Shanghai Museum is a large comprehensive museum located on the south side of People's Square. The museum's 10 galleries dedicated to its permanent collection give visitors a broad perspective on the many facets of Chinese history and culture. As one of China's premier historical museums, the Shanghai Museum is a true cultural treasure trove and well worth a visit.

No trip to Shanghai is complete without trying xiaolongbao, the city's famous soup dumplings with delicate skins and juicy fillings. For an authentic experience, visit local favourites like Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant or Jia Jia Tang Bao. These bite-sized delights are best enjoyed dipped in vinegar with a touch of ginger.

Your guide helps you avoid tourist traps and takes you to local-favourite eateries that have been thriving for years. Taste local dishes, sip local drinks, and experience Shanghai’s vibrant nightlife like a true local.

Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street is truly one of the classic landmarks that you must visit in Shanghai. Along this vibrant mile, you'll find street food stalls and proper restaurants serving local favourites like xiaolongbao and crab roe noodles. At night, don’t miss the vibrant neon lights and feel the energy of the streets.

Taking a "Huangpu River Cruise" is one way to enjoy the bustling scene of this city. The west bank of the Huangpu River is home to the famous cosmopolitan buildings of the Bund, while the east bank is the modern Lujiazui financial district. As night falls, the lights on both sides of the river shine brightly, and the scenery is stunning.

Learn about the traditional Chinese Tai Chi that has been passed down for thousands of years. Practice breathing techniques and Tai Chi in the city park to feel the natural relaxation. The host will take you to taste the authentic breakfast of the locals and learn about the local food culture of Shanghai.

Beneath the shimmering city lights, discover Shanghai's soul - where timeless kindness meets breathtaking beauty, and ancient acrobatic traditions undergo a spectacular metamorphosis.