20 Best Things to Do in Shanghai 2025
Shanghai is an international metropolis that combines historical charm with fashion. Its tourism resources are abundant, representing the collision between history and modernity, as well as the integration of nature and humanity. Whether it's historical architecture, cuisine, or shopping experiences, this city caters to the needs of diverse tourists. Below are the top 20 things to do in Shanghai during your Shanghai tours, ranging from iconic landmarks to hidden gems.
Unique Things to Do in Shanghai
1.Uncover the Charm of Zhujiajiao Ancient Town
Touring Zhujiajiao Water Town is among the top things to do around Shanghai. As one of the four major well-preserved ancient towns in Shanghai, it features Ming and Qing Dynasty architectures, slate-paved roads, a unique Apo tea culture, as well as stone arch bridges and black-awning boats. You can take a paddleboat to navigate through the river channels, savor the fragrant tea at Apo Teahouse, and experience the slow pace of life.
>> Recommended 4-day Shanghai Tour Package with Zhujiajiao
2. Admire the Classical Yu Garden
Yu Garden is one of the most famous classical gardens in the region south of the Yangtze River. Admiring this garden is also one of the best things to do in Shanghai. It was first built during the Ming Dynasty. The layout of the garden is exquisite, with winding paths leading to secluded spots. The lantern shows at Yu Garden at night are a must-see, especially during the Lantern Festival, when thousands of lanterns decorate the garden into a fantastical world.
Romantic Things to Do in Shanghai
3. Stroll along the Bund in Shanghai
Regarding the top things to do and see in Shanghai, taking a stroll along the Bund should be covered. The Bund is home to 52 classically revived buildings of various styles, earning it the reputation of being the "Exhibition of International Architectures". As night falls and the lights come on, these buildings intertwine with the neon lights on the opposite shore, outlining a romantic night scene. You can walk from Chen Yi Square to the Waitan Bridge, enjoying the hourly chimes of the Customs House during your Shanghai tours.
4.T ake a Night Cruise on the Huangpu River
Wondering what to see in Shanghai at night? Huangpu River’s night view is undoubtedly a must-see. Going on a night cruise tour on the Huangpu River is one of the most romantic things to do in Shanghai. It sets sail from Shipu, and the skyscraper cluster of the Lujiazui Financial District comes into view. Subsequently, you will see the impressive Yangpu Bridge, the historic Waitan Bridge, and the historic architecture on the Bund. As the night fully descends, colorful lights flicker around you, like a dreamy world of intertwining light and shadow.
>> Recommended 3-Day Shanghai Highlights Tour including Huangpu River Cruise
Fun Things to Do in Shanghai
5. Have Fun in Shanghai Disneyland
As the first Disneyland theme park in mainland China, Shanghai Disneyland is a place where both adults and children can find happiness. Having fun there is one of the greatest things to do in Shanghai with kids in April, and some other months. The Tron Lightcycle Power Run in Tomorrowland is thrilling, the fireworks show in front of the Enchanted Storybook Castle is romantic, and the Battle for the Sunken Treasure in Treasure Cove takes you on a pirate adventure. Visiting there, you’ll have a unique and fantastic experience during your travel to Shanghai.
>> Recommended 5-Day Shanghai Family Tour with Shanghai Disneyland
6. Embark on a Fantastic Journey to Shanghai Haichang Ocean Park
Shanghai Haichang Ocean Park, located by Dishui Lake, is a large-scale ocean theme park integrating marine life displays, amusement, and science popularization. Taking a tour there is also one of the fun things to do in Shanghai. There are six themed areas such as the romantic Mermaid Bay and the mysterious Submarine Wonderland. Throughout the four seasons, there are various festive activities, which cannot be missed during your tour to Shanghai.
Unusual Things to Do in Shanghai
7. Explore Buddhist Temples in Shanghai
As for things to see and do in Shanghai in spring or autumn, the various temples are worth visiting. Shanghai conceals 168 temples, ranging from millennium-old monasteries with glorious golden roofs to secluded small temples imbued with Zen ambiance. You can hear the morning and evening bells of Longhua Temple, admire the Burmese Jade Buddha of the Jade Buddha Temple, and appreciate the Yuan Dynasty wooden structures of Zhenru Temple.8. Taste the Local Delicious Food
In addition to its captivating night views and revitalized streets, Shanghai is also renowned for its mouthwatering cuisine. From food stalls in the alleys to upscale restaurants, from soup-filled xiaolongbao (steamed pork buns) to crispy shengjian (fried pork buns), the food of Shanghai will leave you with lingering flavors. By the way, sampling Shanghai cuisine is also one of the best things to do in Shanghai Airport during your Shanghai layover.
>> Read more about Shanghai food and restaurants
Adventurous Things to Do in Shanghai
9. Walk on the Glass Skywalk of the Oriental Pearl TV Tower
When it comes to what to do in Shanghai for those with a dash of adventure, you can challenge yourself to walk on the 259-meter-high suspended glass skywalk of the Oriental Pearl TV Tower. Located on the bank of the Huangpu River, its fully transparent design allows you to enjoy the beautiful scenery on both sides of the Huangpu River from all angles. Stepping onto this glass skywalk, you may feel as if you are walking in the air.
10. Ascend Shanghai Tower for an Unbelievable View
One of the most adventurous things to do in Shanghai is to overlook the city's skyline from the 384-meter observation deck of Shanghai Tower, which is located on the 118th floor, with a height of over 500 meters. You can first experience the ultra-high speed of 18 meters per second in the sky-rocket elevator and then capture the beauty of the sunset and the twinkling lights on the observation deck. Beneath your feet are the bustling streets, and in the distance are the continuous clusters of city buildings.
Cool Things to Do in Shanghai
11.Take the Maglev Train to Experience Shanghai's Speed
The Shanghai Maglev Train Demonstration Operation Line is the first maglev line in China, representing a perfect combination of speed and technology. Taking the Maglev Train is also among the top things to do in Shanghai. As part of the Shanghai Metro, it connects Longyang Road and Pudong International Airport and can reach its destination in just ten minutes. Sitting on the train and looking out the window, you can visually perceive the afterimage of acceleration.
12. Watch the Shanghai Acrobatic Shows at Shanghai Circus World
Shanghai Circus World enjoys the reputation of being the "First Circus World in China", and watching Shanghai Acrobatic Shows here will definitely add fun to your trip to Shanghai. You can enjoy performances of "Happy Circus", which features animal performances with a clown star as the clue. It is fun and is considered one of the ideal things to do in Shanghai with kids. On the other hand, "ERA—Journey Through Time and Space" is a spectacular show that combines acrobatics, dance, drama, and music, suitable for audiences of all ages.
Free Things to Do in Shanghai
13. Indulge in the Historical Journey at Shanghai Museum
As one of China's top museums, the Shanghai Museum is one of the top places to visit in Shanghai. It houses over 1.02 million cultural relics, particularly renowned for its collection of bronze ware, ceramics, calligraphy, and paintings. The "Da Ke Ding" is one of the most treasured artifacts in this museum. It boasts a magnificent and heavy appearance, with exquisite and solemn decorations. If you are interested in history, this is the perfect place for you.
14. Pay a Visit to the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center
Visiting the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center is also one of the free things to do in Shanghai. It not only displays the past and present of this city but also predicts its blueprint for the future. The new exhibition center brings an ultimate immersive interactive experience as it integrates cutting-edge technologies such as VR, AR, and holography. In addition, the 8K large screen and the world's largest 5D digital city sand table vividly present Shanghai's future planning.Non-Touristy Things to Do in Shanghai
15. Have a Wander Along Wukang Road
Wukang Road is one of the most artistic streets in this city, and visiting there is a non-touristy thing to do in Shanghai, especially in November. Over 200 plane trees shade 37 historic buildings, including the Renaissance-style Wukang Mansion, the Baroque-style Romeo Balcony, and Spanish-style residences. Each building tells a different story. As you stroll along, you can step into a café by the roadside, order a latte, and sit in an outdoor seat to feel the serenity of old Shanghai.
16. Experience Shanghai's Alley Culture at Tianzifang
Tianzifang, transformed from old alleys, is a vivid example of Shanghai's alley culture, and exploring Tianzifang is among the best things to do in Shanghai in spring and autumn. In the narrow lanes, Shikumen residences are intertwined with creative boutiques, art studios, and cafés, forming a unique "mix and match" style. Here, you can see old tailors working diligently at sewing machines and also appreciate installation art by emerging artists.
>> Recommended 4-Day Shanghai Tour for Women including Tianzifang
Cheap Things to Do in Shanghai
17. Go Birdwatching at Chongming East Beach Wetland
If you are seeking interesting things to see and do in Shanghai in October or November, go birdwatching at Chongming East Beach Wetland. It’s an important stopover on the East Asian-Australasian Flyway for migratory birds, and it's a good place for birdwatching in Shanghai for free. In the early morning or at dusk, standing on the birdwatching tower and gazing out, you can see birds like white egrets and herons gracefully gliding over the water.
>> Recommended 10 Days Affordable China Tour
18. Go Cycling in Shanghai Dongping National Forest Park
Dongping National Forest Park on Chongming Island is renowned for its cycling experience. Spanning 5,400 acres, the park features a 15-kilometer cycling path that winds through metasequoia forests, cherry blossom groves, and wetland landscapes. Going cycling there is one of the top free things to do in Shanghai for a cheap China tour.
All you need to do is rent a bicycle to embark on a forest adventure. As you ride deeper into the forest, you may occasionally encounter hydropotes or rabbits stopping, adding fun to your experience.
Luxury Things to Do in Shanghai
19. Go Shopping at Nanjing Road
Nanjing Road is known as "China's First Commercial Street" and is one of the top 10 Shopping Streets in China. Shopping there is one of the luxury things to do in Shanghai alone or with friends. There are various department stores and numerous international and domestic famous brand shops, offering a comprehensive range of goods. Whether it's high-end products or luxury brands, you can find them all here.
20. Embrace the Luxurious Nightlife in Shanghai
Indulging in a nightclub is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Shanghai at night. Huaihai Middle Road, one of Shanghai's most renowned nightclub and bar streets, houses many large nightclubs. Hengshan Road is the largest bar street in Shanghai and boasts numerous bars with diverse styles. If you prefer high-end nightclubs to experience the desirable nightlife in Shanghai, visit TAXX, LINX, Bund Victory Nightclub, or Colorful Era Nightclub.
>> Recommended 11-day luxury China tour to Shanghai
Plan Your Shanghai Tour with ETC
There are many things to do in Shanghai and a wealth of attractions for you to explore. Consider planning your Shanghai tour with Easy Tour China, a professional travel agency dedicated to providing high-quality tourism services to our clients. We specialize in tailor-made itineraries according to your preferences. Below are some of our highlighted China tours that include Shanghai.
Contact us if you require a customized tour of Shanghai. We guarantee you an unforgettable experience.
