Best Things to Do in Shanghai

The Bund

The Bund is one of Shanghai’s most famous spots, perfect for a stroll or photos. This waterfront area lets you see old colonial buildings on one side and modern skyscrapers like the Oriental Pearl Tower across the river. During the day, you can admire the architecture or take a boat cruise on the Huangpu River. At night, the lights from Pudong’s towers make it magical – great for evening walks or romantic views. Nearby, Nanjing Road offers busy shops and street performers if you want more excitement. For food, try local dishes like dumplings at restaurants near the Bund or visit the trendy bars and cafes in the nearby lanes. If you're looking to stay nearby, hotels near the Bund, such as the Peace Hotel or the Peninsula Shanghai, offer a welcoming atmosphere with historic charm and lovely river views. There are also plenty of mid-range options just a short walk away for a cosy and convenient stay. To get there, take Metro Line 2 or 10 to East Nanjing Road Station and walk 10 minutes. Buses like 33, 55, or 65 also stop nearby. Taxis are easy to find, but traffic can be slow during busy times.

🕘 Opening hours of The Bund: Open all day

⭐ Recommended sightseeing time: 1-3 hours

📍 Address: Zhongshan East Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai (Close to Huangpu River)

Shanghai Disney Resort

Shanghai Disney Resort is a lively spot for families and Disney fans, packed with rides, shows, and magic. The park has themed areas like Tomorrowland and Treasure Cove, where you can zoom on the Tron Lightcycle Power Run or sail with pirates on Pirates of the Caribbean: Battle for the Sunken Treasure. Meet Mickey Mouse or watch colourful parades with floats and dancers – great fun for kids. For food, try Barbossa’s Bounty for hearty meals or grab Mickey-shaped snacks like sweet buns. Nearby, Disneytown offers more choices, from Chinese dishes at Cheesecake Factory to quick bites. Staying over? The Toy Story Hotel is playful and budget-friendly, while the Shanghai Disneyland Hotel has fancy touches and views of the park. Both hotels let you enter the park early. Getting there is easy: take metro Line 11 to Disney Resort Station (about 30 minutes from central Shanghai). Taxis or buses also drop you near the gates. With thrilling rides, tasty food and Disney charm, it’s a full day of smiles.

⭐Recommended sightseeing time: 1–2 days

📍 Address: Shanghai Disney Resort, Chuansha New Town, Pudong New Area, Shanghai

Oriental Pearl Tower

The Oriental Pearl Tower in Shanghai is a must-see for tourists. Standing tall with its unique spheres, the tower offers stunning views from its observation decks. If you like the unobstructed view from the top of the tower, then brave the glass floor! Inside, you’ll find a small museum showcasing Shanghai’s history, perfect for a quick cultural stop. For some fun, take a sightseeing boat cruise along the Huangpu River nearby – the tower looks magical lit up at night from the water. When hunger strikes, head to the lively Lujiazui area just a short walk away. Here, you can try local favourites like xiaolongbao (juicy dumplings) at cosy restaurants. If you’re staying overnight, hotels near the Oriental Pearl Tower like the Grand Hyatt or the Ritz-Carlton offer comfy rooms with fantastic city views. Getting to the tower is easy: take Metro Line 2 to Lujiazui Station, and you’ll spot the iconic structure as soon as you step out. Taxis are plentiful too, or enjoy a stroll from the Bund if you’re up for a 20-minute walk.

⭐ Recommended sightseeing time: 2-3 hours

📍 Address: No. 1 Century Avenue, Lujiazui, Pudong New Area, Shanghai

🚇 By Subway: Take Line 2 to Lujiazui Station and exit at door 1.

📱 Phone: Ticket inquiry：+86-21-58792888

Yu Garden

Yu Garden is a peaceful escape in the heart of Shanghai, offering a glimpse into the city’s Ming Dynasty past. Built in the 16th century, this classical Chinese garden features winding pathways, elegant pavilions, koi-filled ponds, and striking rock formations like the famous Jade Rock. Visitors can stroll through its serene layout, cross the zigzag Nine-Turn Bridge (said to confuse evil spirits), or relax in the Grand Rockery area. The nearby Yuyuan Bazaar buzzes with life, where you’ll find souvenir shops, tea houses, and street food stalls selling local treats like xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) and sweet osmanthus cakes. For a proper meal, try Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant, famous for its dumplings, though be prepared to queue. While there are no hotels inside the park itself, there are comfortable hotels near the Yu Garden. The Fairmont Peace Hotel and Hotel Indigo Shanghai are great choices, offering cosy stays with easy access to the park. To reach Yu Garden, take Metro Line 10 to Yuyuan Garden Station (Exit 3), or hop on buses 11, 64, or 304. Avoid weekends if you dislike crowds, as the area gets busy. Whether you’re admiring ancient architecture, snacking on street food, or simply soaking in the calm, Yu Garden blends history and charm in one of Shanghai’s liveliest districts.

⭐Recommended sightseeing time: 1–2 hours

📍 Address: Shanghai Yuyuan Tourism Business District (the main entrance of Yuyuan Garden on the north side of Huxin Pavilion Jiuqu Bridge

📱 Phone: Ticket inquiry：+86-21-63260830

Shanghai Wild Animal Park

Shanghai Wild Animal Park is a fantastic place for a fun family day out. As you explore the park, you'll have the chance to see a wide range of animals, from cheeky monkeys to graceful giraffes. One of the most exciting activities is the safari bus ride, where you can get up close to lions and tigers in their natural-like habitats. Kids will especially enjoy the petting zoo, where they can feed and touch gentle animals like goats and sheep. Don't miss the lively animal shows featuring talented sea lions and colourful birds. When it's time to eat, the park has several food stalls offering tasty snacks like dumplings and noodles. For a more filling meal, head to nearby Nanhui town, where you can try local dishes such as sweet and sour pork. If you're planning to stay overnight, there are hotels near the park, including the budget-friendly park hotel or the more comfortable Pullman Shanghai South. Getting to the park is easy: take Metro Line 16 to Shanghai Wild Animal Park Station, which is just a short walk from the entrance. Alternatively, a taxi from central Shanghai takes about an hour. With so much to see and do, it's a delightful adventure for everyone.

⭐Recommended sightseeing time: 0.5-1 day

📍 Address: No.178, Nanliu Road, Pudong New Area, Shanghai

📱 Phone: Ticket inquiry：+86-21-58036000