Top 10 must-visit tourist attractions in Shanghai

Shanghai, this bustling international metropolis, attracts tourists from all over the world with its unique charm.

As China's center for economy, finance, trade, and shipping, Shanghai not only boasts a modern urban landscape, but also carries a rich historical and cultural heritage.

Here, you can experience the fusion of Eastern and Western cultures and enjoy a distinctive travel experience.

Here are 10 must-visit tourist attractions in Shanghai:

1. The Bund

Recommendation Level: ★★★★★

Known as the "Exhibition of International Architecture," the Bund is an important historical site and representative architecture of modern China, and one of Shanghai's landmarks. Here, you can enjoy the night views of both sides of the Huangpu River and experience the international atmosphere of Shanghai.

Opening Hours: All day, but the lights of the architectural complex are turned off at 10 p.m.

Address: Zhongshan Road East No. 1, Huangpu District, Shanghai (along the Huangpu River)

Transportation: Take Bus No. 71 to Yan'an East Road Bund Station or Metro Line 2 to Nanjing Road East Station, and walk to the destination.

2. Shanghai City God Temple (Chenghuangmiao)

Recommendation Level: ★★★★★

The temple complex, along with its surrounding attractions such as the Taoist observatory, traditional snacks at Old City God Temple, Lotus Pond, Pavilion in the Lake, and the Nine-Curves Bridge, forms a unique cultural tourism card of Shanghai's "Old City" area. Here, visitors can explore the charming ancient architecture and bustling commercial streets while savoring authentic Shanghai snacks.

Opening Hours: 8:30–16:30 (6:00–16:30 on the first and fifteenth days of the lunar month)

Address: No. 249 Fangbang Middle Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai

Transportation: Take Metro Line 10 to Yuyuan Station.

3. Yuyuan Garden

Recommendation Level: ★★★★★

Yuyuan Garden (豫园, Yù Yuán) is a beautifully preserved classical Chinese garden located in the heart of Shanghai's Old City. Originally built during the Ming Dynasty in 1559, it is over 400 years old and spans an area of about 5 acres. The garden is renowned for its exquisite layout, beautiful scenery, and traditional Chinese architecture.

Yuyuan Garden is not only a historical treasure but also a serene escape from the bustling city, offering visitors a glimpse into traditional Chinese culture and garden design. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Yuyuan Garden is a must-visit destination in Shanghai.

Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM (last entry at 5:00 PM). Admission is 40 CNY (April-October) and 30 CNY (November-March)

Address: 218 Anren Street, Huangpu District, Shanghai

Transportation: Take Metro Line 10 to Yuyuan Garden Station, Exit 1

4. Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street

Recommendation Level: ★★★★

One of the most bustling commercial streets in China, Nanjing Road is known as the "No. 1 Commercial Street in China" and is a great place for shopping and trying delicious food.

Opening Hours: Open 24 hours, but Most shops are open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Address: Located in Huangpu District, Shanghai, starting from West Zhongshan Road and ending at East Zhongshan Road (The Bund)

Transportation: Take Metro Line 10 to Nanjing Road East Station.

5. Lujiazui CBD

Recommendation Level: ★★★★

Lujiazui is Shanghai's iconic financial district, located on the east bank of the Huangpu River and directly across from the historic Bund. Since its development began in the early 1990s, Lujiazui has emerged as one of the most important financial centers in China and a symbol of Shanghai's modernization. Lujiazui is home to several iconic skyscrapers, including the Shanghai Tower (China's tallest building at 632 meters), Jin Mao Tower, and the Oriental Pearl TV Tower. These structures not only define the city's skyline but also serve as major tourist attractions.

Opening Hours: Open 24 hours

Transportation: Take Metro Line 14 or 2 to Lujiazui Station, exit 5 or 6

6. Shanghai Disney Resort

Recommendation Level: ★★★★

Whether you are an adults or kid, a visit to Disney always brings a sense of magic and wonder, allowing you to relive the carefree joy of childhood. Shanghai Disney Resort features several themed areas, including Mickey Avenue, Gardens of Imagination, Adventure Isle, Treasure Cove, Tomorrowland, Fantasyland, and Disney-Pixar Toy Story Land. The park also offers iconic attractions such as the Disney Castle, Marvel Super Heroes Headquarters, and Buzz Lightyear Planet Rescue.

Ticket Prices: Starting from 475 RMB. It is recommended to purchase discounted tickets in advance.

Opening Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Address: No. 310 Huangzhao Road, Chuansha Town, Pudong New District, Shanghai.

Transportation: Take Metro Line 11 to the terminal station, Disney Station. Alternatively, you can take buses Pudong 50, Pudong 51, or Pudong 52 to the South PTH Bus Hub and then transfer to the resort shuttle bus to reach the Disney Resort. Self-driving is also an option.

7.  Xintiandi

Recommendation Level: ★★★

Xintiandi is a modern urban destination that blends Chinese and Western cultures. It is based on the traditional Shikumen (stone-gate) neighborhoods, which have been transformed into a stylish leisure center. Strolling through Xintiandi feels like stepping back into Shanghai in the 1920s and 1930s. The blue brick walkways, red and blue brick walls, black lacquered doors, and Baroque-style door lintels all exude a sense of historical charm. However, once inside the buildings, you'll find modern comforts such as central air conditioning, European furniture, and Chinese restaurants, all harmoniously coexisting to showcase the cultural blend of old and new.

Xintiandi offers visitors a unique experience of the perfect integration of history and modernity, capturing the essence of Shanghai's distinctive character.

Opening Hours: Open 24 hours, but shops and restaurants have different opening hours.

Address: Lane 181 Taicang Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai.

Transportation:

● By Bus: Take Bus No. 146 or Daqiao Line 1 to Huangpi South Road - Fuxing Middle Road Station.

● By Bus: Take Bus No. 932 or 109 to Huangpi South Road - Huaihai Middle Road Station.

● By Metro: Take Line 10 to Xintiandi Station or Line 1 to Huangpi South Road Station.

8.  Jing'an Temple

Recommendation Level: ★★★

Jing'an Temple is one of the most expensive temples in China, with a construction cost as high as 2.8 billion RMB. It is located in the prime downtown area of Shanghai, where land is extremely valuable. When the sunlight shines on the golden roof of Jing'an Temple, it truly looks resplendent and magnificent! Standing on the overpass, you can capture the temple alongside the surrounding skyscrapers, bustling traffic, and a blend of ancient and modern elements in the same frame! At night, when the lights are turned on, the scene is incredibly stunning.

Ticket Prices: 50 RMB.

Opening Hours: 7:30 a.m. to 17:00 p.m.

Address: 1686 West Nanjing Road, Jing'an District, Shanghai.

Transportation: Take Metro Line 2 to the Jiang‘an Temple Station, exit 1

9.  Sinan Road

Recommendation Level: ★★★

Sinan Road was constructed during the third expansion of the French Concession in Shanghai and has witnessed the historical changes of modern Shanghai. The street is lined with numerous historical buildings, including the former residence of Sun Yat-sen, the Zhou Residence, and Sun Yat-sen's former home. These buildings not only hold historical significance but also reflect the social context and cultural atmosphere of the time.

Sinan Road is also a center for modern cultural and commercial activities. The street is dotted with many cafes, bookstores, and gourmet shops, such as the Sinan Bookstore Poetry Shop and Antique Garden Café, offering visitors a rich cultural experience and a variety of culinary delights.

Opening Hours: Open 24 hours, but shops and restaurants have different opening hours.

Transportation: Take Metro Line 13 to Huaihai Middle Road Station or Metro Line 9 to Dapu Bridge Station.

10.  Zhujiajiao Water Town

Recommendation Level: ★★★★

Zhujiajiao Ancient Town, located in the western part of Shanghai, is a renowned water town in the Jiangnan region. It is often described as the "Venice of Shanghai" due to its picturesque canals, ancient stone bridges, and well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture. Visitors can enjoy traditional snacks like rice dumplings and spring rolls, explore quaint shops, and experience the charm of a bygone era. The town's unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage makes it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history and culture of Jiangnan

Ticket price: Admission to the main areas of Zhujiajiao Ancient Town is free, but entry to some specific attractions requires a fee, ranging from 40-60 RMB.

Opening Hours: Open 24 hours, but shops and restaurants have different opening hours.

Transportation: The ancient town is located far from the city center and is not accessible by metro. It is recommended to travel by car.