Best 9 Places to Visit in Shanghai

A city that tempts, dazzles, and never slows down, Shanghai, nicknamed as “Paris of the East,” sits on the central coast of China right where the East China Sea and the Huangpu River meet.

From the colonial charm of the French Concession to the futuristic splendor of the Oriental Pearl Tower, this thrilled charged cityscape has much to offer beyond skyscrapers and shopping streets. If you're a history enthusiast, food lover, art connoisseur, or thrill-seeking adventurer, Shanghai delivers a rich tapestry of experiences at every corner you take. In this guide, we will explore the 9 best places to visit in Shanghai, so let’s kick things off.  

The Bund is an iconic stretch that embodies the shining spirit of Shanghai, a historical waterfront that combines elite old-world elegance with futuristic glamour across the Huangpu River. By night, the view is bathed in brilliant lights, echoing Shanghai's cosmopolitan vibe.  

Nanjing Road is a legendary shopping street, stretching over 5 kilometers, making it among the world’s busiest commercial streets. Pulling in more than a million visitors, this road features high-end boutiques, historic department stores, and traditional Chinese stores. As you meander through the street brimming with endless activities, you'll come across street performers captivating visitors, vendors calling out, and the delicious smell of fried delicacies wafting through the air.

Dating back to the 16th century, Yu Garden is the most appreciated respite and one of the best places to visit in Shanghai. This classical Chinese garden is where large stone paths lead you through perfectly manicured greenery, lovely pavilions, and tranquil koi-filled ponds. Sometimes referred to as the "Mountains and Forest in the City," Yu Garden has a constant stream of visitors but retains its tranquil charm. Stroll through the garden while admiring the elegant and intricately designed Ming Dynasty architecture, or visit some of the popular sites, such as the grand Heralding Spring Hall, a refined jade hall, and a peaceful lotus pool. As you exit the garden, a bustling market lies just around the corner, where you can find traditional crafts, handmade souvenirs, and delectable street food representative of old Shanghai flavors.

Located approximately 48 kilometers west of downtown, Zhujiajiao Ancient Town is an astonishingly well-preserved water town, often referred to as the "Venice of Shanghai" for its idyllic canals. Strolling through the narrow alleyways and stone-cobbled lanes, you will come across historic buildings, gracefully arched bridges, and lovely waterfront homes. There are small tea houses, artisan shops, and temples from a different era tucked away in quiet corners.

One of the more celebrated features of Zhujiajiao is the Fangsheng Bridge, a beautiful stone bridge adorned with dragon sculptures and sweeping views of the town's waterways. Equally as enjoyable is Kezhi Gardens, a dark green space filled with pavilions, rock formations, lily ponds, and age-old trees. Moreover, you can enjoy a boat tour around the canals too, making it one of the best Shanghai tourist attractions.

The Oriental Pearl Tower may not be the tallest of Shanghai's three significant towers, but this beautiful tower rises proudly among Shanghai's spectacular skyline. Once you step through the door, you’ll come across quaint cafés, exciting exhibits, unique boutique shops, and spectacular displays.

You can even dine at Asia's largest revolving restaurant atop this tower. If that isn't enough height for you, you could take the elevator up to the Space Capsule at 351m. From here, look down at the dancing Huangpu River, with the unique Bund. Or you could go to the Sightseeing Galleria at 263m and experience 360-degree views of the skyline.

Shanghai Disneyland is where the magic of Disney comes to life with heart-racing roller coasters, joyful live performances, stunning parades filled with beloved Disney characters, music, and magical experiences like character meet-and-greets and photo ops with your favorite heroes and princesses.

Experience the spiritual tranquility of Shanghai's Jade Buddha Temple, a cultural treasure filled with history and beauty. The temple is named after the two jade Buddha statues housed within it, offering visitors an exciting intersection of ancient Chinese architecture and Shanghai's contemporary skyline.

Inside the temple lie two figures: a sitting Buddha in a tranquil demeanor and a portrait of a Reclining Buddha. The jade figures were delivered from Burma by a dedicated monk over a century ago.

Wander through the tree-lined streets and historical architecture of Shanghai's French Concession, a district once marked by European colonial influence. This area is far away from the steel-and-glass skyline of modern Shanghai, blending charming colonial architecture with trendy cafés and boutique shops.

The French Concession was established in 1849, and by the turn of the twentieth century, it was the largest and most affluent French settlement in China, reflecting elite Shanghai society in the 1920s. Although the French concession zone closed in 1943, this area still draws visitors and history lovers with its attractive streets and cultural residue.

Located in the dynamic downtown Shanghai, the Xintiandi District is where history meets modernity. Walk along its stylish pedestrian streets, where traditional Shikumen Houses nestle alongside modern street fronts, creating a vibrant mix of 1920s nostalgia and contemporary urban style. Savor gourmet meals at high-end restaurants, explore high-end shops in the sleek South Block, marvel at the preserved Shikumen in the North Block, or, once the sun sets, embrace the buzz of the many outdoor bars and chic lounges with a European twist.