What to do in Shanghai

Activities, attractions and tours

Shanghai showing heritage elements and a temple or place of worship
Shanghai showing heritage elements and a temple or place of worship
Yuyuan Bazaar
Shanghai
Shanghai

Places to Visit in Shanghai

Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Let Expedia.co.nz help you find the most exciting and fun things to do in Shanghai, China while also allowing you to save a ton on travel arrangements. Regardless of whether you’re an urban explorer or an intrepid outdoor enthusiast, we can help you decide exactly what to do and see during your time in town.

Our thorough travel guides offer you an insider’s perspective on all of the best Shanghai attractions from NZ$4, making it easy for you to decide which places to visit and when. And by using Expedia.co.nz to set your sightseeing schedule, you can take in more of the enchanting attractions this area is famous for.

From group Shanghai tours and must-see landmarks to personal guides who take you off-the-beaten track, Expedia.co.nz offers you over 503 of the most popular events, activities, and attractions in this corner of the world. So whether you’re travelling alone, alongside a loved one, or with the whole family in tow, be sure to browse through our extensive travel guides prior to your plane touching down in this spectacular Shanghai. We even have a massive selection of flights, car hires, and accommodation for you to choose from. So what are you waiting for? Start your search today, and you’ll be having the time of your life before you know it.

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Top places to visit

1. The Bund

As you stroll along The Bund, a 1.5 kilometre long promenade along the west bank of the Huangpu River, you’ll discover the rich international influences that have shaped Shanghai’s modern history. In the late 19th century, what was once a narrow towpath along the water’s edge became the political, commercial and financial hub of this port city. Thanks to a recent restoration programme, it has become a top attraction for locals and visitors alike.
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China, Shanghai, The Bund, The Customs House

2. People's Square

People's Square, or Renmin Square, is Shanghai’s massive central square. This popular public gathering place is home to the Shanghai Museum, the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall and the Grand Theater, among other attractions. Admire the towering modern buildings that surround the square and watch local residents chatting and flying ornate kites over the grassy lawn areas.
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Shanghai, China - July 25, 2014: Downtown of Shanghai from the People's Square

3. Nanjing Road Shopping District

The Nanjing Road Shopping District, one of the city’s busiest shopping areas, has a history stretching back more than 100 years. The district is now a mix of towering department stores and colonial-era buildings along a pedestrian mall. Find luxury brands, international fast-food chains, and shops selling silk and jade.
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Nanjing Road Shopping District which includes central business district, signage and a city

4. Oriental Pearl Tower

The Oriental Pearl Radio & TV Tower is the most recognisable landmark in the Shanghai skyline, thanks to the distinctive spheres, or pearls, that feature in its design. Whilst it is a fully functioning transmission tower, it is also home to a multitude of attractions, including a museum, shops, restaurants and observation decks.
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Oriental Pearl Tower

5. Former French Concession

In contrast to the rest of the city, the French Concession is a peaceful district, with wide avenues lined with plane trees. It was established as a French settlement in the mid-19th century by agreement between the French Consul to Shanghai and the Governor. Although it was formally returned to Shanghai following the Second World War, this area retains a distinctly elegant atmosphere and has become a magnet for upmarket boutiques and restaurants.
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A residential area of Shanghai once designated for the French, the French Concession is now very popular with tourists and expats, and appreciated for its cafes, bars and tree-lined avenues, and tudor houses.

6. Xintiandi Style Shopping Centre

Xintiandi is a highly-fashionable pedestrianized district in the heart of the city, which combines historic architecture with modern living. Behind the traditional stone building façades, you’ll discover high-end boutiques, art galleries, restaurants and bars. Spend a few hours exploring this fascinating redevelopment site to see how the old and the new fuse to create a vibrant 21st century city identity.
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Xintiandi Style Shoppping Centre

7. Jing'an Temple

Jing’an Temple is one of Shanghai’s most famous places of worship. It lives up to its name, which translates as “Temple of Peace and Tranquillity”, providing a space for calm reflection away from the frenetic pace of modern city life. Although the current building has undergone recent reconstruction, there are still many significant historic artefacts to be discovered within.
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Jing An Temple featuring a temple or place of worship and a city

8. Yu Garden

The classical Yu Yuan Garden in the heart of the Old Town is one of the highlights of any visit to Shanghai. Originally conceived in the 1500s by a government officer of the Ming Dynasty as a peaceful retreat for his ageing parents, this exquisitely-designed space with its streams and ponds, pavilions and courtyards, provides a welcome oasis of calm in the bustling city.
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Yu Garden

Recommended things to do in Shanghai

Number of things to do
503
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Shanghai: Roaming China Internet with eSIM Mobile Data Plan: NZ$4
Top 5 things to do
Half-day tours
With kids

What to do in Shanghai

Discover the most popular places to visit in Shanghai

Miner's beach and Miner's Castle on Lake Superior. Using the Roam Inn in Munising, MI as your home base, kayak to Grand Island, hike through the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, and eat at Johnny Dogs. #upperpeninsula #lifeatexpedia

Shanghai Disneyland©

Enjoy the excitement at Shanghai Disneyland© and see why people love this theme park in Shanghai. Wander through the picturesque gardens and riverfront in this vibrant area.

Shanghai Disneyland©
The Bund which includes a city and flowers

The Bund

Join the fashionable crowds as they wander along this world-famous riverside boulevard, where the opulent buildings tell of Shanghai’s international trading history.

The Bund
People\'s Square which includes flowers and a park

People's Square

To see the modern heart of Shanghai, visit this square, a vast green space surrounded by museums and a grand theater.

People's Square
Nanjing Road Shopping District which includes central business district, signage and a city

Nanjing Road Shopping District

Experience the bustling energy of Shanghai’s most famous commercial street, with a pedestrian mall surrounded by traditional and luxury shopping opportunities.

Nanjing Road Shopping District
Oriental Pearl Tower which includes modern architecture, a river or creek and a city

Oriental Pearl Tower

This iconic Shanghai landmark is home to a wealth of entertainment for the whole family, with shopping, fine dining and breathtaking panoramic views.

Oriental Pearl Tower
French Concession showing a city and street scenes

Former French Concession

Wander the chic streets of this former European enclave, now a fashionable shopping and entertainment district.

Former French Concession
Xintiandi featuring a bar, street scenes and café scenes

Xintiandi Style Shopping Centre

Explore this beautifully-preserved historic district that offers all the entertainment options you could wish for in a modern city.

Xintiandi Style Shopping Centre
Jing An Temple featuring a temple or place of worship and a city

Jing'an Temple

Discover priceless Buddhist relics and historical artefacts in this traditional temple, located in the heart of central Shanghai.

Jing'an Temple
Yu Garden

Yu Garden

Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of this centuries-old garden, showcasing the exquisite design for which the Ming Dynasty was famed.

Yu Garden

Explore areas of Shanghai

Xintiandi featuring a bar, street scenes and café scenes

Downtown Shanghai

5/5(8 area reviews)

Known for its beautiful gardens and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Downtown Shanghai. Check out top attractions like Three on the Bund and Jinling East Road Ferry Wharf, and jump on the metro at East Nanjing Road Station or Yuyuan Garden Station to see more of the city.

Downtown Shanghai
Oriental Pearl Tower which includes modern architecture, a river or creek and a city

Pudong

4/5(77 area reviews)

Shanghai Disneyland© and Shanghai Wild Animal Park are top sights in Pudong, and you should be sure to explore the popular shops. Hop aboard the metro at Huinan Station or Safari Park Station to see more sights in the area.

Pudong
Jing An Temple which includes a temple or place of worship and religious aspects

Jing'an

4.5/5(30 area reviews)

Travellers choose Jing'an for its ample dining options. Hop aboard the metro at Yanchang Road Station or Circus World Station and check out top sights like Daning Lingshi Park.

Jing'an
Shanghai Museum which includes modern architecture

Huangpu

4.5/5(125 area reviews)

Known for its beautiful gardens and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Huangpu. Check out top attractions like Old Chinese City and Yuyuan Bazaar, and jump on the metro at Yuyuan Garden Station or East Nanjing Road Station to see more of the city.

Huangpu
St. Ignatius Cathedral, also called Xujiahui Cathedral, a Neo-Gothic cathedral, located in Xujiahui district, Shanghai, The church is overlooking a nice ornamental garden.

Xuhui

4.5/5(4 area reviews)

Travellers choose Xuhui for its abundant dining options. Hop aboard the metro at Stadium Station or Xujiahui Station and check out top sights like Shanghai Stadium.

Xuhui
Lujiazui

Lujiazui

Climb the innovative towers in this financial district for unobstructed views of Shanghai’s mesmerizing cityscape and stroll along the riverside.

Lujiazui

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Day trip destinations from Shanghai

Urban environment of Nantong Central Business District, Jiangsu Province

Nantong

Humble Administrator\'s Garden showing a bridge and a pond

Suzhou

Jiaxing which includes heritage architecture and street scenes

Jiaxing

Frequently asked questions

Is Shanghai worth visiting?
Renowned for its views and history, discovering cool things to do in Shanghai is a breeze. Be sure to add Former French Concession to your itinerary when here.
How do I spend a day in Shanghai?
Kick-start your day with a visit to Former French Concession and Shanghai Tower. Then, check out other areas of Shanghai for local restaurants and some retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Shanghai?
You can't go home without exploring Former French Concession, rated the top tourist attraction in Shanghai.
Is three days enough to stay in Shanghai?
You can easily visit leading sights like Former French Concession, Shanghai Tower and Shanghai Museum with a three-day getaway in Shanghai. On average, many travellers book three days here. There's plenty to see and do nearby too, so stay a while longer and check out Pengpu.
Is Shanghai a walkable city?
With popular neighbourhoods and major attractions within walking distance of the city centre, Shanghai is a great destination to see on foot. Have fun wandering between Former French Concession and Shanghai Tower. Then take a stroll around Huangpu, located 2 kilometres from the centre, and Lujiazui, which is about 3 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Shanghai with kids?
Deciding what to do in Shanghai with kids has never been so simple. Whether you're getting away with toddlers or teenagers, there's a range of family-friendly sights to keep them busy here.

What to do in Shanghai for adults?
Three on the Bund and Xianxia Road are just a couple of the things to do in Shanghai. With lots of activities available, there's something here for everyone to experience.
Are there free things to do in Shanghai?
From enjoying parks to wandering around hip neighbourhoods, it's a breeze to discover free things to do in Shanghai. If you need inspiration, ask a local tour guide for some tips. Former French Concession is a great spot for anyone wanting to save on their travel adventures.

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