Forget about endless scrolling on Xiaohongshu for the best things to see, eat and do in Shanghai. We’ve got you covered with our ultimate guide from a first-time visitor’s POV.
I last visited China as a bright-eyed 11-year-old – back when my eye bags were far less visible. Now in my mid-20s, I finally made my long-awaited return. This time, my destination was Shanghai, a bustling financial hub known for its stunning architectural icons and vibrant city life. With so many things to do, see and eat in Shanghai, planning the perfect itinerary can feel overwhelming. Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered with this ultimate guide to experiencing Shanghai through the eyes of a first-time visitor!
Top things to do in Shanghai, China: Best attractions
1. Nanjing Road
Meet Shanghai’s version of Orchard Road. This 5.5km shopping street is one of the busiest in the world, with more than 600 shops (from luxury brands to boutiques), food stalls, restaurants and more. Split into two sections, Nanjing East Road is where tourists typically go while Nanjing West Road is a luxurious commercial street.
We suggest setting aside at least two hours for a thorough exploration. Must-visit spots include the Popmart Global Flagship Store (the world’s largest with four floors and a facade that’s impossible to miss), as well as the world’s first Miniso Land store – a 2,000sqm store selling lifestyle essentials, collectibles and knick-knacks.
When the hunger pangs hit, get your fix of soup dumplings, scallion oil pancakes or savoury noodles at one of the street food stores, food courts, or restaurants. Looking for souvenirs? Head to Shanghai First Foodhall to bag home local specialties and heritage snacks like flaky butterfly pastry, almond cookies and White Rabbit candy.
Tip: get off at People’s Square Station (exit 7 or 19), work your way through Nanjing Road and end at The Bund, an iconic waterfront area with gorgeous colonial-era buildings.
Price: Free entry
Opening hours: Daily, open 24 hours; selected stores and attractions may vary
Address: Nanjing Road, Nanjing East Road & Nanjing West Road, Huangpu District & Jing’an District, Shanghai
2. The Bund
Take a trip down history at this gorgeous waterfront area along the west bank of Huangpu River. Reminiscent of old Shanghai, the stunning buildings showcase a mix of colonial-era architecture, including Art Deco, Neoclassical and Beaux-Art styles. It’s almost like walking down an outdoor museum of architecture!
After snapping enough photos against the buildings, head to the riverbank that sits across the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower. You may spot some photographers around the waterfront area for whom you can pay a small fee to get professional camera shots.
Another tourist favourite is The Bund Sightseeing Tunnel. Spanning over 600m, the tunnel is a futuristic, multi-media ride that’ll take you from the Bund area to Pudong district. Enjoy a light and sound extravaganza with fantastical displays and you’ll be across the river in 10 minutes, tops.
Price: Free entry; selected attractions are ticketed
Opening hours: Daily, open 24 hours; selected attractions may vary
Address: The Bund, Zhongshan East 1st Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai, China, 200002
3. Oriental Pearl Tower
You’ll spot this iconic landmark right across the Huangpu River. Located in Lujiazui, Pudong New Area, the 468m tower is China’s second tallest building. By day, it stands out with its imposing stature; by night, it captivates with magnificent brilliance against the dark sky. This famous skyscraper is home to several observation decks, a revolving restaurant and a glass-bottomed skywalk for daredevils.
Wanna admire the Oriental Pearl Tower away from the crowds? Make your way to the luxurious J Hotel Shanghai Tower and head up 120 floors to Heavenly Jin Restaurant. Here’s where you can enjoy a sumptuous spread of Chinese cuisine or sip a bevvy, while soaking in glorious views of the city from a whopping 556m above ground level. Tried and tested by me, the views are truly unbeatable.
Price: Varies by attraction
Opening hours: Daily, 9am to 9pm
Address: Oriental Pearl Tower, No. 1, Century Avenue, Pudong New Area, Shanghai, China, 200120
4. Tian Zi Fang
If winding alleys with boutiques, cute cafes and art galleries sound like your idea of fun, here’s your sign to spend a day at Tian Zi Fang. Nestled in the historic French Concession, this artsy enclave is perfect if you have one or two hours to spare. Browse quirky stores, pick up handicraft and vintage pieces, or grab a coffee while admiring the colourful street art and charming old architecture. Psst: some locals still live in the area so be mindful when exploring the alleyways!
Price: Free entry
Opening hours: Daily, open 24 hours; selected stores may vary
Address: Tian Zi Fang, Lane 210, Taikang Road, French Concession, Shanghai, China, 200023
5. Shanghai Disneyland
Disney fan or not, you can’t go on a trip to Shanghai without a visit to Asia’s biggest Disney resort. Shanghai Disneyland boasts eight themed lands, including Fantasyland (home to the iconic Enchanted Storybook Castle), the futuristic Tomorrowland, and the first and only Zootopia land in the world.
If you’re coming without an express pass, here are the rides we recommend you prioritise: the kid-friendly Seven Dwarfs Mine Train; the electrifying Tron Lightcycle Power Run with thrilling twists and turns; and Zootopia’s Hot Pursuit for a wild and fun-filled police chase. Disney-themed food is a must, too. Sink your teeth into juicy, giant turkey legs, freshly made orange egg tarts, and crispy Pooh-shaped toast.
To maximise your time, be sure to come in bright and early. The park opens at 8.30am daily, with early park entry pass holders allowed up to one hour before opening.
Price: Day passes from $113 per adult and $91 per child
Opening hours: Daily, 8.30am to 9.30pm
Address: Shanghai Disneyland, 310 Huangzhao Road, Pudong, Shanghai, China, 201205
6. Xintiandi
This chic, stylish pedestrian area is where you’ll find Shanghai’s youngsters. A blend of old and new, the street retains historic Shikumen architecture with large, ornate stone doorways and brick-and-stone construction, while injecting a touch of modernity.
A buzzing destination of high-end restaurants, bars, cafes and boutiques, it comes alive especially after the sun sets. Check out crowd-favourite stores such as Harmay, a warehouse-style cosmetic store with wallet-friendly prices; China’s first Le Labo store with a bakery and cafe; as well as the Gentle Monster flagship store.
Price: Free entry
Opening hours: Daily, 10.30am to 10.30pm
Address: Xintiandi, 181 Taicang Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai, China, 200021
7. Yuyuan Old Street and Yu Garden
Ever wanted to step inside a traditional Chinese garden with intricate ponds, pavilions and gorgeous animal-themed lanterns? Bookmark this attraction in Shanghai. There are two areas to check out: Yuyuan Old Street, a vibrant marketplace that’s free to enter; and Yu Garden, one of the city’s most known and beautifully preserved classical Chinese gardens with ticketed entry.
Yuyuan Old Street is lined with narrow streets and stores selling handicrafts, souvenirs and antiques. You’ll also spot food stores like Shen Dacheng Snacks known for chewy rice cakes and juicy pork mooncakes, as well as Nanxiang Mantou Dian for savoury steamed buns. You can easily spend half a day with plenty of things to do, see and eat.
Meanwhile, Yu Garden is where most tourists happily flock to for a glimpse into a Ming Dynasty garden. Built over 400 years ago, this garden boasts intricate landscaping and traditional architectural features like koi-filled ponds and lush greenery. After marvelling at the stunning architecture, stroll across the Nine Turn bridge and head to Huxinting Teahouse for a traditional Chinese tea-tasting experience.
Price: Free entry (Yuyuan Old Street); tickets to Yu Garden from $5 per pax (may vary by season)
Opening hours: Daily, 10am to 10pm (Yuyuan Old Street); Tuesday to Sunday, 9am to 4.30pm (Yu Garden)
Address: Yu Garden, 218 Anren Street, Huangpu District, Shanghai, China, 200010
8. Jing’an Temple
China is home to countless temples, and if you only have time for one, we recommend Jing’an Temple. Centrally located on Nanjing West Road, this Buddhist temple boasts a history of more than 780 years and has undergone several rebuilds to incorporate modern amenities.
Its most prominent features are the seven-storey bronze pagoda plated with gold leaf; the three main halls; and Bell Tower that houses a bronze bell dating back to the Ming Dynasty. For a quick bite, grab a meal at the vegetarian restaurant serving plant-based noodles and steamed dumplings.
Price: Admission from $9 per pax (may vary by season)
Opening hours: Daily, 7.30am to 5pm
Address: Jing’an Temple, 1686 Nanjing West Road, Jing’an District, Shanghai, China, 200041
9. Wukang Road
Add Wukang Road to the list of historic streets not to be missed. This scenic stretch in the Xuhui District is known for its European-style villas, cafes and heritage architecture that dates back to the early 20th century. A leisurely stroll here will almost feel like you’re been whisked away to Europe.
A must-see is the Wukang Mansion. Built in 1924 and designed by a Hungarian architect, it’s one of Shanghai’s most famous heritage buildings. It features a French Renaissance-style facade and a distinct flat-iron shape that’s immediately recognisable. Today, the building is a private residence not open to the public, but tourists are welcome to snap photos of the gorgeous exterior.
Price: Free entry
Opening hours: Daily, open 24 hours
Address: Wukang Road, 1850 Huaihai Middle Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, China, 200031
10. Zhujiajiao Ancient Town
Looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle? A day trip to one of China’s ancient trips will rejuvenate you. Zhujiajiao Ancient Town is a popular pick that’s about an hour’s drive from the Puxi District. Fondly referred to as the Venice of Shanghai, this picturesque town boasts tranquil canals, stone bridges and traditional architecture.
Must-sees include Fangsheng Bridge, the largest stone arch bridge in the town; and Kezhi Garden, a Qing Dynasty-era garden with classical pavilions and a lotus pond. When it’s time to rest your feet, hop on a traditional wooden boat and ride through the canals. Don’t forget to try local delicacies like sticky rice dumplings and smoked fish, and pick up some souvenirs before leaving.
Price: Free entry; selected attractions are ticketed
Opening hours: Daily, 8.30am to 4.30pm
Address: Zhujiajiao Ancient Town, Qingpu District, Shanghai, China, 201713
Top things to do in Shanghai, China: Best places to eat
11. Yang’s Dumplings
Ask me about a must-try dish in Shanghai, and I’ll say sheng jian bao (pan-fried buns filled with pork) with zero hesitation. Each indulgent dumpling is golden brown and crisp on the bottom, while the top remains soft and fluffy. Once you bite into one, it bursts open with a rich broth and savoury minced pork. Trust me, it’s hard to stop at just one.
Yang’s Dumplings, a chain restaurant with over 140 outlets in Shanghai, is a go-to place loved by locals and tourists alike. And I can see why. Besides the classic pork version, I got the shrimp dumplings with natural seafood sweetness. They also have mains like hot and sour noodles and chicken noodles, but I recommend sticking with the dumplings that can quickly fill you up.
Must-try dishes: Sheng jian bao with pork; sheng jian bao with shrimp
Address: Yang’s Dumplings, multiple locations including Huanghe Road and Yuyuan Road
12. Song Yue Lou
Have a vegetarian in your travel crew, or craving a meat-free feast? Either way, this vegan restaurant at Yuyuan Old Street will be a crowd-pleaser. You’ll spot popular local dishes like soup dumplings and sweet and sour pork on the menu, but rest assured they’re all made with plant-based ingredients.
The vegetarian sheng jian bao and xiao long bao were strong contenders to the typical pork-filled dumplings, while the sauerkraut ‘fish’ soup had the right tanginess and came with a generous amount of mock fish slices. The star of the meal turned out to be the wok hei-ladened truffle fried rice that had me shovelling spoonful after spoonful. Spoiler: I didn’t miss my meat at all.
Must-try dishes: Truffle fried rice; sauerkraut ‘fish’ soup; vegetarian sheng jian bao
Address: Song Yue Lou, 23 Bailin Road, Chenghuang Temple, Shanghai, China
13. Pado
I’m always on the lookout for chic, new restaurants when travelling and this Korean-style bistro ticked all my boxes. Once I stepped inside, I was warmly ushered up a spiral staircase towards a dimly lit dining area decked out in wooden furniture, nature-inspired decor and eye-catching light fixtures. Perfect for a date night or a cosy family dinner.
A quick browse of the menu showed classic Korean dishes with modern reinventions and a local twist. Think crispy and cheesy potato pancake paired with a tangy soy sauce, Chinese-style jjamppong (spicy seafood noodles), and tender pork slices served Korean BBQ-style with lettuce and perilla leaves. After a hearty meal, savour a refreshing and zesty non-alcoholic shot to cleanse your palate.
Must-try dishes: Potato cheese pancake; jjamppong; BBQ pork slices; pumpkin corn soup
Address: Pado, 1107 Yuyuan Road, No. 5, Changning, Shanghai, China, 200050
14. Apoli Itabakery
Bread lovers, here’s a haven you’ll fall head over heels with. Rows after rows of freshly baked goodies and pastries line the walls of this dreamy Italian bakery. From sweet and savoury croissants to thick toasts and brioche buns, it’s easy to be spoilt for choice.
My top picks? The perfectly flaky egg tarts, the raspberry bun filled with light, fluffy cream, and the truffle ham thick toast generously topped with cheese. Coupled with the charming, rustic interiors, I enjoyed spending my morning chilling in the homely space.
Must-try dishes: Egg tart; raspberry cream bun; truffle ham and cheese thick toast
Address: Apoli Itabakery, No. 380, Xingguo Road, Changning District, Shanghai, China, 200031
15. Xie Xiao Man
You’ve probably seen this glorious crab roe dish all over TikTok. A viscous mixture of crab roe and meat is generously poured over noodles or rice, creating an umami-rich delicacy. I found the flavours lighter than expected but it was still an overall hearty and comforting meal. Each set comes with a few savoury side dishes and is worth every dollar.
Must-try dishes: Crab roe noodles set
Address: Xie Xiao Man, multiple locations including Huangpu Road and Nanjing East Road
How to get to Shanghai from Singapore
Book a direct flight from Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) to Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG). Airlines like Singapore Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, Jetstar Asia and Scoot offer direct flights, with a flight time between five to six hours.
Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA) is mainly for domestic flights to other cities within China, such as Beijing, Guangzhou, Chengdu and Shenzhen. For travel between cities, the China Railway High-speed (CRH) is a popular and convenient option.
How to get around Shanghai
By car: Taxis and private-hire cars are easily available and affordably priced. Private-hire cars can be booked via the Didi Chuxing, WeChat and Alipay mobile apps. Car rentals are not recommended due to Shanghai’s dense traffic and tricky parking.
By public transport: Public transport via buses and the Shanghai Metro are convenient ways to get around the city. The Metro offers single-ride tickets, or you can use a Shanghai Public Transportation Card to get around on both.
Things to know before visiting China
1. Navigation
As Google Maps isn’t fully functional in the country due to the Great Firewall of China, real-time traffic updates and detailed street-level navigation may be limited. Download alternative map apps like Baidu Maps (available in English and Mandarin), Amap (English version available) and Tencent Maps (mostly in Mandarin).
2. Payment
Digital payments are widely accepted in China, with most stores accepting orders and payments through a QR code. But cash is still accepted at some retailers and F&B stores so it doesn’t hurt to carry some!
We recommend downloading either of these mobile apps before your trip: WeChat and Alipay. Both apps allow you to link your bank account or credit card to make payments; you can either scan a QR code or display your code for the merchant to scan. Tip: the apps require identification verification for foreigners so download them ahead of time to be safe.
3. Internet connection
The Great Firewall of China restricts and blocks certain websites and services, such as Google, Facebook and WhatsApp. Common solutions include installing a VPN from services like NordVPN and Surfshark, or getting a global eSIM card that can bypass these restrictions.
From the showstopping Oriental Pearl Tower to historic streets brimming with life, these are the best attractions, landmarks, restaurants and cafes in Shanghai. Ready for your adventure in China’s vibrant city?
