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Shanghai, China
Photo made by Peng LIU on Pexels.com
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Must-include attractions sorted by popularity
Most popular attractions in Shanghai, China
1. The Bund
Iconic waterfront with colonial facades and Shanghai skyline views. Stroll the promenade, photograph the skyline at sunrise or watch the Bund light up at night.
2. Shanghai Tower
Ascend China's tallest tower for sweeping panoramic views from one of the world's highest observation decks. Ride a record-fast elevator to glass-floored viewpoints and skyline vistas.
Book a FREE walking tour in Shanghai, China
The best way to experience a city with a local tour guide.
Tip: We strongly recommend a free walking tour on your first day to get to know the city with a local guide. They usually cover all main attractions and you can ask for personal recommendations based on your interests for the next days. Book early as spaces fill up fast!
4. Yu Garden
6. Shanghai Museum
7. Jade Buddha Temple
Things to Do in Shanghai, China
Popular activities and local experiences recommended by travelers
Traditional Sweet Dishes
Tangyuan
Glutinous rice balls often filled with black sesame or sweet red bean are a staple in Shanghai for Lantern Festival and family celebrations, symbolizing reunion and togetherness.
Eight-Treasure Rice
Known as ba bao fan, this colorful sticky rice pudding made with candied fruits and nuts is traditionally served at Chinese New Year and weddings, and reflects Shanghai's Jiangnan festive cuisine.
Sachima
A crunchy, sweet fried pastry made from strands of fried dough bound with syrup, sachima is widely enjoyed in Shanghai bakeries and markets, showing the city's embrace of regional snacks.
Traditional Savory Dishes
Xiaolongbao
These delicate soup dumplings filled with savory broth and pork originated near Shanghai and are internationally famous as a must-try local specialty, especially from Nanxiang in the old city.
Shengjianbao
Pan-fried pork buns with a crisp bottom and juicy interior are a beloved Shanghai street food, traditionally served for breakfast and still sold fresh from large steel pans in markets.
Red Braised Pork
Hong shao rou, a melt-in-your-mouth pork belly braised in soy sauce and sugar, epitomizes Shanghai's preference for richly flavored, slightly sweet dishes that come from Jiangnan culinary traditions.
Traditional Beverages
Soy Milk
Fresh soy milk is a common Shanghai breakfast beverage, often enjoyed hot with fried dough sticks, and reflects the everyday comfort foods of the city.
Huangjiu
This traditional fermented yellow rice wine, sometimes served warm, is used for cooking and celebrations in Shanghai, linking the city's cuisine to wider east China wine-making traditions.
Osmanthus Tea
Osmanthus-scented tea and sweet osmanthus confections are popular in Shanghai, with the floral aroma celebrated across Jiangnan for both everyday enjoyment and festive treats.
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Day trips
Suzhou
Classical gardens, canals, silk history, UNESCO sites.
Google MapsHangzhou
West Lake scenery, tea terraces, temples, historic streets.
Google MapsZhujiajiao Water Town
Ancient canal town with stone bridges and waterways.
Google MapsNanjing
Historic capital, temples, mausoleums, river scenery.
Google MapsComments (8)
Avoid restaurants on the Bund, walk two blocks inland for real prices and better food, locals queue late at night for gems.
Not as friendly as I hoped, scammers on the tourist strip and cold winters made it less fun for me.
Buy a Shanghai Public Transport card at the airport, reloadable and saves time, much cheaper than single tickets for multiple days.
Three days felt rushed, four to five is ideal if you want museums, day trips and some late nights.
Shanghai blew me away, neon skyline at night is unreal, food is incredible but expect crowds and humid summers.
Getting there
Airports
Train stations
Beijing-Shanghai HSR, Hangzhou, Nanjing, Suzhou high-speed lines
Conventional and some high-speed services to northern and western China
From Pudong take the Maglev or airport express to the city; from Hongqiao use metro Line 2 or a taxi.
Click to get eSim for Shanghai, China
The easiest and most affordable way to get mobile internet wherever you travel.