Top 15 Places to Visit in Shanghai – Make Your Shanghai Tour Bucket List

Written by Ivy Dong | Updated August 06,2025

Shanghai is almost always the top destination for visitors traveling to China for the first time. It is most famous for being an international metropolis and an economic center of the western Pacific, however, as you will learn in this article, it is so much more than just that. Millions of people who travel to Shanghai every year have made it one of the most popular tourist destinations in China.

Here are the top 15 places to visit in Shanghai including the impressive skyscrapers you might be looking forward to, historic sites with traces of Shanghai from the past, places you’ll discover the rich culture of China and other fun activities. Mark your places of interest and make your Shanghai bucket list as you read along.

1. The Bund: The Iconic Shanghai Experience

The Bund is definitely one of the top tourist places to go to in Shanghai. It is an iconic walkway along the Huangpu River extending from Waibaidu Bridge to Shiliupu Pier. At 1.5 kilometers, about a mile long, it is an excellent spot for an afternoon or evening walk to have the most unique Shanghai experience.

To the west of the Bund, many historical buildings of old Shanghai remain standing, a total of 33 in different styles. They are what’s left of the former financial and foreign trade center. Across Huangpu River on the other side, you can see the world-famous Shanghai skyline with towering skyscrapers. However, it’s important to note that the Bund can get very crowded on weekend nights or during China public holidays.

Travel Information:

• Opening Hours: all day
• Admission: free
• Nearby Subway Station: Line No. 2 at Nanjing East Station

2. Yu Garden: Famous Historic Heritage of Shanghai

Yu Garden, or Yuyuan, is another must-see place for visitors traveling to Shanghai. It is a classical Chinese garden built during Ming Dynasty, more than 450 years ago. Its exquisite layout and architecture have earned it the title of “the most extraordinary and beautiful garden in southeast China.” You can admire classical Jiangnan architecture with pavilions, rockeries, and water features.

Travel Information:

• Opening Hours: 9am-4:30pm (last entry at 4pm); closed every Monday (except national holidays)
• Admission: RMB 40 during peak season (April 1 – June 30, September 1 – November 30); RMB 30 during off-season (July 1 – August 31, December 1 – March 31)
• Nearby Subway Station: Line No. 10 or 14 at Yuyuan Station

3. Nanjing Road: The Best Shopping Street in Shanghai

Nanjing Road has become one of the top places to visit in Shanghai whether you’re into shopping or not. It is one of the world’s busiest shopping streets and the best place for shopping in Shanghai. It is divided into Nanjing East Road, mainly a fair-price commercial area, and Nanjing West Road, the most expensive fashion commercial block in Shanghai mainly for luxury items.

Travel Information:

• Opening Hours: all day
• Admission: free
• Nearby Subway Station: Line No. 2 or 10 at Nanjing East Road Station

Recommended Shanghai Highlight Tours:

• Shanghai Highlight Day Tour
• 3 Days Classic Private Shanghai City Tour

4. Huangpu River Cruise: Best Night Views of Shanghai

The most beautiful part of your Shanghai tour might take place on Huangpu River, “the mother river of Shanghai.” You can get up close to the Shanghai skyline and the river by boarding a Huangpu River Cruise. It’ll take you past the towering skyscrapers, and at night, you’ll see their dazzling lights reflected in the water. Taking this 50-minute cruise ride is among the top things to do in Shanghai.

Travel Information:

• Opening Hours: 11am-10pm depending on the route
• Admission: RMB 120 for a day tour and RMB 150 for a night tour; extra charge for seating
• Nearby Subway Station: Line No. 10 or 14 at Yuyuan Station

5. Impressive Skyscrapers of Lujiazui

The famous Shanghai skyline is made up of many iconic skyscrapers of the Lujiazui district, which are cool places to visit in Shanghai as well. The most renowned landmark, the Oriental Pearl Tower, is said to define the Shanghai skyline. It takes the center stage in many pictures of Shanghai because of its unique design and appearance.

Another example is Jinmao Tower. There’re many features to explore inside the building like the café, afternoon tea, and the exciting skywalk. You can overlook the city from the observation decks and walk amongst the clouds over the city of Shanghai.

Travel Information:

• Opening Hours: vary across buildings
• Admission: free
• Nearby Subway Station: Line No. 2 and 14 at Lujiazui Station

6. Jade Buddha Temple: The Religious Life of Shanghai

Jade Buddha Temple is another tourist place worth visiting in Shanghai. It is a busy Buddhist temple in the middle of the city, most famous for housing two magnificent statues, the sitting Jade Buddha of 1.95 meters (6.4 feet) tall and the reclining Jade Buddha of 0.96 meters (3.15 feet) tall. You can also walk about the temple to observe the religious scene of Shanghai, Buddhist architecture, and other relics.

Travel Information:

• Opening Hours: 8am-4:30pm
• Admission: free
• Nearby Subway Stations: Line No. 13 at Jiangning Road Station or Line No. 7 at Changshou Road Station

7. Zhujiajiao Water Town: A Timeless Canal Town

Some of the best water towns in China are located near Shanghai. Zhujiajiao Water Town is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Shanghai on the outskirts of the city. It’s an ancient town built on water with narrow alleyways winding through traditional stone residential houses. You’ll discover the simple life of the locals in one of the largest cities in the world.

Travel Information:

• Opening Hours: all day
• Admission: free
• Nearby Subway Station: Line No. 17 at Zhujiajiao Subway Station

Recommended Classic Shanghai Tours:

• One Day Modern Shanghai Tour
• 4 Days Shanghai Private Tour with Zhujiajiao Watertown Tour

8. Xintiandi: The Modern Shanghai Lifestyle

Xintiandi, or the New World, is a fun place to visit in Shanghai, especially popular among expats who live in the city. It is a historic street turned into shopping and dining areas. The traditional Shikumen residences have become stores integrating fashion, leisure, culture, food, shopping, and entertainment. It’s where you’ll find some of the best places to eat and experience the modern Shanghai lifestyle.

Travel Information:

• Opening Hours: all day
• Admission: free
• Nearby Subway Stations: Line No. 10 or 13 at Xintiandi Station or Line No. 1 or 14 at South Huangpi Road Station

9. City God Temple: A Busy Cultural Center of Shanghai

City God Temple, or Chenghuangmiao, is a Taoist temple built during Ming Dynasty. “Chenghuang” refers to the god that protects the city. Today, City God Temple has become one of the most famous tourist places in Shanghai. It’s a great spot for an evening walk when the traditional architecture is lit up with lights. You can find a variety of street snacks while experiencing the culture of Shanghai.

Travel Information:

• Opening Hours: 8:30am-4:30pm
• Admission: RMB 10
• Nearby Subway Station: Line No. 10 or 14 at Yuyuan Station

10. Shanghai Old Street: A Glimpse of Shanghai’s Past

Shanghai old street, also known as “small east gate,” is located in Huangpu district. It starts from Henan South Road to the west and ends at Renmin Road to the east. It preserves the architectural style and business layout from the historical old Shanghai in Ming and Qing dynasties. It’s the best place to visit in Shanghai for the city’s traditional folk culture together with fusions of western culture.

Travel Information:

• Opening Hours: all day
• Admission: free
• Nearby Subway Stations: Line No. 9 at Xiaoximen Station, Line No. 8 at Laoximen Station, or Line No. 10 or 14 at Yuyuan Station

11. Shanghai Disneyland Resort: Fun for the Whole Family

The best place to visit in Shanghai with kids is undoubtedly Shanghai Disneyland Resort. It opened in 2016 as the 6th Disneyland resort in the world with six themed areas including Gardens of Imagination, Fantasyland, Adventure Isle, Treasure Cove, and Tomorrowland. The exciting rides, cool shows and parades, and stunning fireworks will make your Shanghai family tour fun for everyone.

Travel Information:

• Opening Hours: 8:30am-9:30pm
• Admission: starting from RMB 400
• Nearby Subway Station: Line No. 11 at Disney Resort Station

12. The Former French Concession: The Hidden Treasure of Shanghai

After you’ve seen the world-famous skyline and explored the historic scenic spots, the hidden gem of Shanghai lies within the Former French Concession. Characterized by streets lined with trees and old buildings of different architectural styles, the area is a symbol of Shanghai’s past. Walking down the streets, you’ll experience what life is truly like here. It’s also one of the best places to visit at night in Shanghai.

Travel Information:

• Opening Hours: all day
• Admission: free
• Nearby Subway Stations: Line No. 10 or 13 at Xintiandi Station, Line No. 13 at Middle Huaihai Road Station, or Line No. 1, 9, or 11 at Xujiahui Station

13. Tianzifang: Modern and Artistic Vibes

Tianzifang is located in the heart of the Former French Concession. It was once an industrial area and was later turned into an artistic hub. You’ll discover many small, privately-owned, and creative businesses, from vintage jewelry stores to handcrafted goods. It’s a great place to spend the afternoon, have a coffee in the sun, and bring home some creative souvenirs.

Travel Information:

• Opening Hours: all day
• Admission: free
• Nearby Subway Station: Line No. 9 at Dapuqiao Station

Recommended Shanghai Culture Tours:

• One Day Old Shanghai City Tour
• Shanghai Night Food Tour with Huangpu River Cruise

14. Shanghai Museum: Unveiling China’s Art and History

To gain an in-depth understanding of Chinese culture and history, you should visit Shanghai Museum, one of the best museums in China. A massive collection of ancient Chinese artifacts (more than 1,000,000) showcases thousands of years of Chinese history and art. Major collections include bronze, ceramics, paintings, calligraphy, and Chinese furniture.

Travel Information:

• Opening Hours: 9am-5pm with last entry at 4pm for Shanghai Museum on People’s Square (closed on Mondays); 10am-6pm with last entry at 5pm for Shanghai Museum East (closed on Tuesdays)
• Admission: free except for special exhibitions
• Nearby Subway Stations: Line No. 1, 2, or 8 at People’s Square Station for Shanghai Museum on People’s Square; Line No. 2 at Shanghai Technology Museum Station or Line No. 4 or 6 at Pudian Road Station

Related reading: Top 15 Must-Visit Museums in Shanghai

15. Shanghai Circus World: Amazing Acrobatic Shows

Shanghai Circus World is another family-friendly spot for the best Shanghai tour. It is a comprehensive artistic and recreational venue with acrobatic performances every night. The two regular shows are ERA – Intersection of Time and Happy Circus. You and your family will be amazed at the actors’ skills, wonderful music and dance, and excellent stage design.

Travel Information:

• Opening Hours: the shows are usually at 2pm and 7:30pm
• Admission: RMB 130-880 depending on the show and seating
• Nearby Subway Station: Line No. 1 at Shanghai Circus World Station