Discover Shanghai: Your Ultimate Guide to 10 Unforgettable Experiences

As avid travelers, we believe that exploring diverse corners of the world enriches the soul like nothing else. Our passion for discovery has taken us to countless destinations, and there are still so many incredible places on our bucket list, along with favorites we dream of revisiting. While I often get caught up in the adventures themselves, I’m making a conscious effort to share more of our travel experiences with you.

This year, during my son’s spring break, we embarked on an incredible journey to China. Our trip included four captivating days in Beijing, followed by five dynamic days immersing ourselves in Shanghai. Having previously visited Japan, China was a new frontier for us, and it proved to be an absolutely amazing, memorable, and delicious experience. China stands distinct from any country we’ve explored before, and we cherished every moment of soaking in its unique culture. The food was exceptional, the cities sprawling and distinctive, and every activity we undertook left a lasting impression.

Today, I’m thrilled to share our top 10 favorite things to do in Shanghai. As a city home to over 24 million people, Shanghai offers an astounding array of activities, dining options, and cultural sites. While organized tour groups are an option, we prefer the flexibility of independent exploration. We did, however, book a couple of private tours that allowed us to customize our day’s itinerary, which we highly recommend. Services like Tours by Locals are fantastic resources for any city; we’ve used them in Italy, Japan, and China, consistently enjoying excellent experiences.

Before diving into our list, here are a few practical tips for navigating Shanghai. Shanghai Disneyland, for instance, is approximately an hour’s drive from downtown. We opted for a taxi from our hotel, which cost around $40. The subway offers a much more economical alternative, though it might take about 90 minutes during peak hours. We utilized the train for our return journey, finding it convenient and approximately an hour-long ride. For seamless connectivity and unrestricted internet access, I strongly recommend acquiring a Hong Kong SIM card for your phone. This enables you to check train schedules, navigate easily, and crucially, access websites like Facebook, Instagram, and Google, which are typically blocked in mainland China.

Alternatively, consider purchasing a Borderless Wi-Fi Hotspot. This device allows you to buy data and use it globally, providing internet access even if your cell phone doesn’t have service. It was an absolute lifesaver during our trip and proves to be significantly more cost-effective over time than the $10/day per phone charges common in many countries.

Whether you’re planning a trip to China or simply curious about this vibrant metropolis, read on for our curated list of the top 10 things to do in Shanghai!

1. Embark on an Untour Food Tour

For us, food is an indispensable part of the travel experience. Cuisine varies dramatically not just from country to country, but even from region to region and city to city. Taking a food tour is one of our favorite ways to dive deep into local gastronomy and gain cultural insights into the area we’re exploring. We discovered the Untour Food Tour after seeing it featured on YouTube and were immediately intrigued. After researching various tour options, we knew this was the perfect fit. The entire tour is conducted in English, and the groups are intentionally kept small – ours had just three other participants. This intimate setting fostered easy conversation, allowed for abundant questions, and facilitated a genuine understanding of both China and the delicious dishes we sampled.

Shanghai is teeming with countless food stalls and small, local eateries. However, the language barrier can make it challenging to confidently try new items as you walk by. This tour skillfully bypasses that hurdle. We had the opportunity to taste an incredible variety of dishes, sampling about 12 different items in total. Our tour began around 9 AM, offering us a chance to experience traditional breakfast foods alongside lunch items, delectable dumplings, and even local desserts. Our guide’s impeccable English allowed her to answer every question we had, providing rich context for each culinary stop. The company itself was founded by two individuals who shared a profound love for exploring Shanghai’s diverse food scene. They frequented certain local spots repeatedly, and whenever friends or family sought recommendations, these were the places they enthusiastically suggested. Now, they share their passion for authentic Chinese food with visitors, introducing them to the beloved local dishes they’ve discovered over time.

2. Stroll Along The Bund

The Bund, Shanghai’s legendary waterfront promenade, is truly iconic. This mile-long pedestrian walkway stretches along the majestic Huangpu River, offering breathtaking panoramic views. It’s an ideal spot to take a leisurely walk, grab a snack or drink, relax on a bench to admire the scenery, or simply engage in some fascinating people-watching. On one side, you’ll be transported back in time by the grandeur of historic colonial-era buildings, remnants of Shanghai’s beginnings as a treaty port. Directly across the river, on the other side, the futuristic Pudong skyline rises dramatically, a testament to modern Shanghai’s rapid development. This striking contrast makes The Bund a photographer’s dream, and we frequently observed wedding photoshoots taking place during our visits. It’s not just a tourist attraction; The Bund is a cherished landmark for locals too, who often come to enjoy its unique atmosphere and spectacular views, especially as day turns to night and the city lights up.

3. Discover the Tranquility of Yu Garden

Nestled within the bustling Old City of Shanghai, Yu Garden is an expansive and exquisitely designed classical Chinese garden. Its construction began in 1559 during the Ming Dynasty, and to consider its vast scale and intricate design from that era is simply astonishing. From certain vantage points within the garden, you can catch glimpses of the towering skyscrapers and the contemporary urban landscape beyond its ancient walls. Yet, once inside, a profound sense of tranquility and quietude envelops you, creating the impression of stepping into an entirely different world, far removed from the city’s hustle and bustle. The garden features traditional rockeries, serene ponds, elegant pavilions, and winding pathways, all meticulously arranged to create harmonious landscapes.

Just outside the garden’s walls lies a sprawling bazaar, a labyrinth of interconnected streets filled with an endless array of shops, restaurants, and tempting food stalls. It’s incredibly easy to lose yourself amidst the vibrant energy and sheer volume of goods available – from souvenirs and crafts to unique local products. We highly recommend taking your time to wander through these streets, soaking in the atmosphere and admiring the traditional Old City architecture, which perfectly embodies the classic Chinese aesthetic you might envision. This area truly offers a fascinating blend of historical charm and lively commerce, providing a rich cultural experience both inside and outside the garden gates.

4. Day Trip to Picturesque Hangzhou

To experience a different facet of China beyond its massive metropolises, we ventured on a day trip outside Shanghai. After some research, Hangzhou emerged as the perfect choice – a city renowned for its natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, yet less overtly touristy than some other destinations. I had always dreamed of seeing tea plantations growing on rolling hills, and Hangzhou delivered this wish beautifully! To maximize our experience, we booked a private tour, allowing us to hit all the highlights, ask countless questions, and delve deeply into the local area.

Hangzhou’s crowning jewel is undoubtedly West Lake. We enjoyed a serene ride on a small wooden boat across its calm waters. In the center of the lake, a small island is graced by three iconic pagodas, now a primary symbol of West Lake and even featured on the back of the 1 RMB banknote. The lake is encircled by exquisitely manicured gardens, and during our visit, the early spring blossoms were just beginning to burst forth, creating a breathtakingly beautiful and fragrant landscape. The lake’s surroundings have inspired poets and artists for centuries, and it’s easy to see why.

Often referred to as a “small city” in China, Hangzhou boasts a population of approximately 7 million. However, our tour took us to some charming outlying areas that felt far less densely populated. Walking through the tea plantations was a particularly fascinating experience. March marks the beginning of the harvesting season, a meticulous process performed entirely by hand. We visited a quaint tea village, where we learned about the entire journey from leaf to cup – how tea leaves are harvested, processed, and transformed into the various teas enjoyed worldwide. We even had the pleasure of sampling some fresh, high-quality green tea, a truly authentic taste of Hangzhou’s renowned Longjing tea culture. This day trip offered a refreshing contrast to Shanghai’s urban intensity, providing a glimpse into China’s tranquil landscapes and deep-rooted traditions.

5. Marvel at the Pudong Skyscrapers

If you’ve ever seen a photograph of Shanghai, chances are it featured the city’s iconic and futuristic skyline in Pudong. This district is home to an incredible concentration of architectural marvels, including the distinctive Oriental Pearl TV Tower, the striking Shanghai World Financial Center, and numerous other colossal buildings that define the city’s modern identity. Among them, the Shanghai Tower proudly stands as the second-tallest building in the world, soaring to an astonishing 2,073 feet. For those seeking unparalleled views, an observatory near the top offers a truly panoramic perspective. The elevator to this observatory is a marvel in itself, holding the record as the fastest in the world, reaching speeds of up to 46 mph. While we opted to enjoy the magnificent views from our hotel, the Hyatt on the Bund, the experience of ascending to the top of the Shanghai Tower is undoubtedly exhilarating.

Even at street level, simply walking amidst these towering structures is an awe-inspiring experience. Tilting your head back, you’ll struggle to see the very tops of these colossal buildings, feeling dwarfed by their sheer scale. The Park Hyatt, another luxurious hotel, is also located in this area and features a sophisticated bar near the top of its building. This provides an excellent alternative for enjoying breathtaking views with a cocktail in hand, without the need to pay for observatory access. The Pudong area also boasts several high-end shopping malls, offering a plethora of dining options from casual eateries to fine dining establishments, making it a hub for both architectural appreciation and urban leisure.

6. Explore Shanghai’s Rich History and Future at Its Museums

While we aren’t typically avid museum-goers, certain types of museums capture our interest, especially when language barriers can make full comprehension challenging. However, our visits to the Shanghai Museum and the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center proved to be incredibly worthwhile. The Shanghai Museum offers free admission, making it an excellent stop even if you only have an hour to spare. We explored all its floors and exhibits, appreciating the visual aspects despite limited English descriptions. It was fascinating to see the collections, and much of the content was visually intuitive. A calligraphy exhibit, for instance, was exquisitely presented, showcasing the artistry and history of Chinese writing. Another room dedicated to intricately carved furniture from various dynasties over the centuries was truly impressive in its craftsmanship and historical significance.

The Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center, located directly across the street from the Shanghai Museum, offers a different, yet equally engaging, perspective on the city. This museum, which takes about an hour to explore, is not free, but the entrance fee was a modest $10 for our family of three. The absolute highlight of this center is an immense, incredibly detailed scale model of the entire city of Shanghai. Occupying an entire room with a surrounding walkway, its sheer scale is breathtaking. You can easily spot familiar skyscrapers and landmarks, gaining an immediate appreciation for the city’s vastness and intricate layout. This model provides a unique visual insight into Shanghai’s past development and ambitious future plans, making it a truly captivating experience for understanding the dynamics of this mega-city.

7. Experience the Bustle of a Fake Market

China is widely known for its proliferation of replica items. One guide humorously recounted that if you had a favorite pair of jeans, you could take them to a specific market, and a custom replica could be crafted for you in as little as 30 minutes – a testament to the country’s manufacturing capabilities. For an authentic “fake market” experience, head to the metro stop for the Shanghai Science & Technology Museum. Here, you’ll discover hundreds of stalls brimming with everything imaginable, from souvenirs and electronics to shoes, toys, and designer-inspired purses. Be prepared, however, as the sellers are known for their assertive sales tactics and eagerness to make a sale. Showing even a slight interest in an item can lead to persistent attempts to convince you to buy, and vendors might follow you for a short distance.

Bargaining is an absolute must in these markets. When you inquire about a price, expect to hear an outrageously high figure. The customary practice is to negotiate aggressively, aiming to settle around 20% of their initial asking price. For example, if they quote $100, a starting counter-offer of $10 is appropriate, with the goal of ultimately paying somewhere between $20 and $25. All transactions are conducted in local currency, so it’s essential to know the current exchange rate and your maximum desired price before you begin negotiating. While we didn’t spend an extensive amount of time there due to the high-pressure environment, we did purchase a couple of small items. It’s an interesting cultural experience to witness the bargaining dance. Many visitors genuinely enjoy the process and are not intimidated, and if that describes you, you can certainly score some significant deals on a wide range of goods! Even if you don’t buy much, visiting a fake market offers a unique glimpse into a distinct aspect of Chinese commerce.

8. Take a Dazzling Nighttime River Cruise

A nighttime cruise along the Huangpu River is an absolute must when visiting Shanghai. While there are several cruise operators and options to choose from, the experience itself is unparalleled. Shanghai’s skyline truly transforms after dark, becoming an astonishing spectacle of light and color. All the buildings along both sides of the river are brilliantly illuminated, many adorned with vibrant neon colors. A significant number of these modern skyscrapers feature dynamic light displays and changing designs, creating a mesmerizing show that captivates onlookers. Witnessing this illuminated cityscape is an essential part of the Shanghai experience, and a river cruise offers a relaxed and comfortable way to take it all in.

One interesting detail to note is that the dazzling building lights typically switch off promptly at 10 PM. Consequently, most river cruises conclude around 9:30 PM, ensuring you catch the full splendor of the illuminations. This timing makes it a perfect activity that doesn’t stretch too late into the evening, which is especially convenient for families traveling with children. From the tranquil waters of the Huangpu, you gain a unique perspective on the city’s architectural grandeur and its pulsating energy, making for truly unforgettable memories.

9. Experience the Magic of Shanghai Disney Resort

For Disney enthusiasts, a visit to Shanghai Disney Resort is an absolute imperative. As the newest addition to the global Disney park family, having opened its gates in June 2016, it has swiftly gained immense popularity. I plan to dedicate a separate, more detailed post to our experiences at this park soon. Shanghai Disney thoughtfully incorporates many beloved rides and attractions familiar from the US Disney parks, but it also introduces unique rides and thrilling updates to classic experiences that are truly exceptional. For instance, their Pirates of the Caribbean attraction is nothing short of incredible, offering a visually stunning and immersive experience even if you don’t understand the dialogue. Tron Lightcycle Power Run is another standout, a high-speed roller coaster unlike any other we’ve ridden, combining cutting-edge technology with a thrilling ride experience. The park also boasts a wide array of diverse food options, moving beyond typical theme park fare to offer unique culinary delights.

Don’t expect just a carbon copy of classic Disney; Shanghai Disney distinctly features a fascinating Chinese twist in its design, storytelling, and offerings. This cultural integration makes it a fresh and exciting visit, offering something new even for seasoned Disney fans. From its impressive castle, the tallest in any Disney park, to its innovative attractions and unique atmosphere, Shanghai Disney Resort is definitely worth a full day’s exploration, promising magic with an Eastern flair.

10. Explore the Vibrant Nanjing Road

Nanjing Road stands as one of Shanghai’s premier and most bustling shopping streets. Conveniently located just over a mile from our hotel, we easily reached it on foot. The street is a captivating blend of high-end boutiques, luxury brand stores, and several multi-story shopping malls. As you venture further down, the road transitions into a pedestrian-only zone, which truly comes alive at night, bathed in a dazzling glow of neon lights and digital billboards. This section becomes a major hub for both locals and tourists, offering a vibrant atmosphere for evening strolls and people-watching.

Along Nanjing Road, you’ll find hundreds of shops and stalls catering to every imaginable need and desire. From souvenir shops brimming with unique mementos to various food stalls offering delicious local snacks, there’s no shortage of options. We particularly enjoyed exploring a large grocery store here, which provided a fascinating glimpse into local life. The first floor was a vibrant display of prepared and packaged foods, an enticing selection of fresh pastries, a myriad of snacks, and various beverages. As we ascended to higher floors, the offerings became increasingly traditional Chinese, featuring live fish, an assortment of meats, and unique ingredients we had never encountered before. The store also housed a bustling food court area, serving a wide array of authentic local dishes. Walking through Nanjing Road, and especially this unique grocery store, was an incredibly fun and immersive cultural experience, showcasing the diverse flavors and vibrant daily life of Shanghai.

With such an incredible array of activities and sights, Shanghai offers an unforgettable travel experience. Our five nights here were absolutely perfect, allowing us to delve into the city’s rich history, modern marvels, and dynamic culture!

Pin the image below to remember these 10 amazing things to do in Shanghai!