What to See in Shanghai: Complete Attractions Guide

From ancient temples to futuristic skyscrapers – a complete guide to Shanghai's attractions with prices, tips, and best routes

Main Attractions of Shanghai

The Bund (Waitan)

The famous waterfront promenade with a view of Pudong's skyscrapers, showcasing the contrast between colonial and modern architecture. Here you'll see the "Oriental Pearl" and Shanghai Tower.

Best time to visit
Evening for the lights
Recommended time
1.5-2 hours
Admission
Free
Highlight
View of Pudong

Things to do on the Bund:

  • Take photos with the Pudong skyscrapers in the background
  • Stroll past historic colonial-era buildings
  • Enjoy a night cruise on the Huangpu River
  • Visit one of the many restaurants and bars

Yu Garden (Yuyuan)

A classical Chinese garden from the Ming Dynasty with elegant pavilions, zigzag bridges, and artificial ponds. One of the finest examples of garden art in China.

Year founded
1559
Area
2 hectares
Entrance fee
40 yuan
Highlight
Traditional architecture

Things to do at Yu Garden:

  • Walk along winding paths and bridges
  • Visit the teahouse in the center of the garden
  • Explore the adjacent Yuyuan Bazaar
  • Try local snacks like xiaolongbao

Shanghai Disneyland

A unique theme park blending Disney magic with Chinese culture. The largest Sleeping Beauty Castle of all Disney parks.

Opened
2016
Area
390 hectares
Ticket price
from 399 yuan
Highlight
Gardens of the Three Sages

Things to do at Shanghai Disneyland:

  • Ride the "Pirates of the Caribbean" attraction
  • Watch the "Cinderella Castle" show
  • Explore the Gardens of the Three Sages
  • Experience Shanghai-exclusive attractions

Historical and Cultural Sites of Shanghai

Jade Buddha Temple

An active Buddhist monastery famous for two Buddha statues carved from whole jade. One of the most revered religious attractions in Shanghai.

Year founded
1882
Entrance fee
20 yuan
Recommended time
1-1.5 hours
Highlight
Jade Buddha statues

Things to do at Jade Buddha Temple:

  • See the two jade Buddha statues
  • Participate in a Buddhist ceremony
  • Try vegetarian food at the temple restaurant
  • Shop for souvenirs at the temple shop

Jing'an Temple

One of the most famous and richly decorated temples in Shanghai, located in a modern business district. Striking contrast between ancient Buddhist architecture and surrounding skyscrapers.

Highlight
Golden pagodas
District
Jing'an
Atmosphere
Oasis of calm

Things to do at Jing'an Temple:

  • Admire the majestic golden pagodas and main hall
  • Observe Buddhist ceremonies
  • Stroll around where traditional architecture meets ultra-modern design

Shanghai Museum

One of China's best museums with a collection of over 120,000 artifacts. The uniquely round building, symbolizing heaven, is located on People's Square, the city's main square.

Collection
120,000+ artifacts
Architecture
"Heaven-Earth" shape
Admission
Free

What to see at Shanghai Museum:

  • Bronze vessels from the Shang and Zhou dynasties
  • Collection of classical Chinese painting and calligraphy
  • Ancient ceramics and jade artifacts
  • Exhibition of Ming and Qing traditional furniture

Hidden Gems of Shanghai: Off-the-Beaten-Path Places

M50 Creative Park

Shanghai's contemporary art hub, located in repurposed factory buildings that now house cutting-edge galleries, artist studios, and cultural events.

French Concession

A charming district with tree-lined streets, cafes, and boutiques. The perfect place for a leisurely walk away from the noise of the main streets.

Tianzifang

A labyrinth of narrow alleys filled with art studios, designer shops, and cozy cafes. Shanghai's own version of Montmartre.

Shanghai Planning Museum

A fascinating museum showcasing the past, present, and future of Shanghai's urban development through interactive exhibits and a massive city model.

Suzhou Creek Area (M50)

An art district in repurposed industrial buildings along Suzhou Creek. Home to numerous independent galleries, street art, and artist studios – Shanghai's main contemporary art hub.

Tianzifang (Tianzifang)

A lane labyrinth in the former French Concession where traditional shikumen houses have been transformed into art studios, designer boutiques, cozy cafes, and bars. An atmospheric place for leisurely strolls.

Suzhou Creek Promenade Walk

A scenic pedestrian or cycling route from the M50 art district past historic buildings such as the Post Office to the confluence with the Huangpu River at Waibaidu Bridge.

French Concession Bike Tour

The perfect way to explore the city's most charming district with its tree-lined streets, European villas, boutiques, and cafes. You can join an organized guided tour.