Top 10 Must-Visit Attractions In Shanghai (2025)

1. The Bund (Waitan) 🌆

Why visit: Historic waterfront with 52 colonial-era buildings facing Pudong’s futuristic skyline.
Pro tip: Visit at dusk for the light show (19:00-22:30) and take the ¥2 ferry to Pudong for epic photos.

2. Oriental Pearl Tower 🏙️

Highlight: Glass-floored observation deck at 259m and VR rollercoaster.
Save money: Opt for the “Two Spheres + History Museum” combo ticket (¥40 cheaper).

3. Yu Garden & City God Temple 🏯

Must-do: Sip tea at Huxinting Teahouse and try nanxiang xiaolongbao (soup dumplings).
Hidden spot: Shoot the Moon Rock in the garden’s inner pavilion.

4. Shanghai Disneyland 🎢

Top rides: Tron Lightcycle Power Run and Soaring Over the Horizon.
Hack: Book “Royal Banquet Hall” to dine with Mickey (reserve 3 days ahead).

5. Nanjing Road 🛍️

Best for: Shopping at century-old stores like Wing On and modern brands.
Avoid: Overpriced “local snacks” at mid-street stalls.

6. Tianzifang 🎨

Unique vibe: Artsy alleys with indie boutiques and smell libraries to craft custom perfumes.
Caution: Skip mass-produced “creative souvenirs”.

7. Zhujiajiao Water Town 🚤

Day trip: 1hr from downtown via Huzhu Express Bus (¥17).
Activity: Boat ride under ancient bridges and tea at Grandma’s Teahouse.

8. Shanghai Museum 🏛️

Treasures: Da Ke Ding bronze vessel and rotating calligraphy exhibits.
Quiet time: Friday evenings for crowd-free visits.

9. Xintiandi 🍸

Chic blend: Shikumen stone houses turned into bars and global dining.
Local flavor: Try lion’s head meatballs at Ye Shanghai.

10. Shanghai Tower ☁️

World’s 2nd-tallest building: Walk the glass skywalk at 384m.
Photography: Visit at 16:00 for sunset + city lights.

Quick Tips for Travelers

Transport: Use Metro Line ²⁄₁₀ to connect major sites (¥3-7/ride).
Avoid scams: Skip the ¥30 Bund sightseeing tunnel.
Food musts: Jianbing (breakfast crepe) and shengjianbao (pan-fried buns).

10 Essential Tips For Foreigners Visiting Shanghai (2025)

Master key Mandarin phrases—locals appreciate it! Ride the Metro; it's fast and cheap. Enjoy street food at busy stalls for hygiene. Set up Alipay or WeChat Pay; cashless is king. Queue patiently; it's cultural politeness. Avoid sketchy vendors to dodge scams. Get a local SIM card for easy internet. Visit highlights like The Bund and Yu Garden. Drink bottled water to stay healthy. Chat with friendly locals for authentic vibes. Embrace the buzz and savor every moment!

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More Travel Planning and Scheduling

How Much Should I Budget Per Day In Shanghai?

Planning a trip to Shanghai and wondering about daily costs? For budget travelers, you can manage on $30-$50 USD per day by staying in hostels ($10-$20), grabbing cheap eats like street noodles ($1-$5), and using the super-efficient metro ($1-$2 per ride). Mid-range options run $60-$100, covering comfy hotels ($30-$60), casual restaurant meals ($8-$15), and entry to cool spots like the Bund. If you’re splurging over $150, expect luxury stays, fine dining, and private tours. Factor in extra for activities and souvenirs, and remember—public transport saves big bucks! With smart choices, you’ll explore Shanghai affordably and soak up all the fun. Read More ➡

How Do I Book Tickets For The ERA: Intersection Of Time Show?

Want to catch the incredible ERA: Intersection Of Time show? It's an immersive performance blending art and tech you'll love. Booking tickets is super easy. Just head to the official ERA website. Browse available dates and times, pick your preferred seats, then pay securely online. Get them early since popular shows can sell out fast. Enjoy the experience with friends or solo—you're in for a treat! Read More ➡

What Is The Best Time Of Year To Visit Shanghai For Pleasant Weather? (Similar To B'S Best Time/Travel Time)

For the absolute best pleasant weather in Shanghai, target **autumn (September to November)**. This is prime time! The intense summer heat and humidity fade, leaving comfortable temperatures (often in the low 70s F / low 20s C), low humidity, plenty of sunshine, and generally clear skies. It's simply ideal for exploring outdoors comfortably. **Spring (March to May)** is another lovely contender, with warming temps and beautiful blooms (like cherry blossoms!). However, be prepared for slightly more frequent rain showers and some humidity creeping back in towards May. **Skip summer (June-August)** if you dislike steamy heat and high humidity – it can be intense. **Winter (Dec-Feb)** is chilly and damp, though less crowded. For reliably comfortable, enjoyable weather, autumn wins hands down. Read More ➡

Shanghai Travel FAQ

Planning your Shanghai trip? Awesome! Here's what you usually ask: * **Visas:** Most travelers *do* need a visa beforehand. Check requirements for your nationality early! * **Language:** English works in tourist areas, hotels, and metros, but have a translation app ready elsewhere. Learning basic Mandarin phrases helps! * **Cash/Cards:** Mobile pay (Alipay/WeChat Pay) is KING, cards work in many big places, carry *some* Yuan cash for smaller spots or markets. * **Getting Around:** Metro is super clean, efficient, and cheap. Taxis & ride-hailing apps (Didi) are plentiful too. Walking is great downtown! * **Best Time:** Spring (April-May) and Autumn (Sept-Nov) offer the nicest weather. Summers get hot and humid, winters chilly. * **Manners:** Tipping isn't expected. Be mindful in queues. Avoid loud public conversations. Relax, it's a fantastic, bustling metropolis! Grab your metro map, have a blast exploring. Read More ➡

Recommend Some Off-The-Beaten-Path Destinations Around Shanghai

Escape Shanghai's buzz with these hidden gems. Zhujiajiao offers ancient canals without Suzhou's crowds – glide under stone bridges past traditional teahouses, way more atmospheric. For fresh air, head to massive Chongming Island. Explore its wetlands teeming with birds by bike or kayak; it's a total nature recharge. Hike up Sheshan for forested trails leading to unexpected churches & pagodas, rewarding you with city-skyline views. Don't miss Fengjing, a quieter water town boasting real local life amid ancient homes and narrow lanes, rich with history. Finally, uncover Jinze, possibly the most authentic, sleepy water town, its iconic arches reflected perfectly in misty canals, a truly tranquil hideaway. Perfect for serene day trips. Read More ➡