Shanghai Attractions 2026: Top Places to Vist

Planning a trip to Shanghai means preparing for a city of incredible contrasts, where futuristic skyscrapers meet classical Chinese gardens. This guide is designed for families, couples, and solo explorers alike, highlighting the very best Shanghai attractions for an unforgettable journey.

Shanghai's Must-See Attractions at a Glance

1. The Bund

The Bund is Shanghai's iconic waterfront promenade, famous for its stunning collection of historic architecture and breathtaking views of the Pudong skyline across the Huangpu River. It's a perfect spot for photography, leisurely walks, and soaking in the dynamic atmosphere, especially as the skyscrapers light up at night.

✨ Why we recommend: The Bund offers an unparalleled visual experience, contrasting historic European-style buildings with the modern towers of Lujiazui. Its 24-hour accessibility makes it a flexible addition to any itinerary, whether for a morning stroll or a dazzling night view.

• 👥 Best for: Photographers, history buffs, couples, and anyone looking to experience Shanghai's most famous view.
• 📍 Address / Area: Zhongshan East Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai (Close to Huangpu River)
• 🕒 Opening hours: 24/7
• 🚆 How to get there: Take Metro Line 2 or 10 to East Nanjing Road Station, Taxi is convenient.

✅ Best things to do here

• Walk along the riverside
• Take skyline photos
• Enjoy a night river cruise

🗺️ Nearby places

• Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street
• Huangpu River Cruise Pier
• Lujiazui

2. Shanghai Disney Resort

Experience the magic at Shanghai Disney Resort, a world-class theme park that brings beloved stories to life. Home to the iconic Enchanted Storybook Castle, the resort offers a full day of family-friendly entertainment, thrilling rides, and spectacular parades. 

It's a place where imagination runs wild, making it an essential stop for families and Disney fans visiting Shanghai. The dazzling fireworks night show is a perfect end to a memorable day.

✨ Why we recommend: This resort delivers the classic Disney experience with unique Chinese cultural elements. From character meet-and-greets to high-tech rides, it provides endless fun and entertainment for visitors of all ages.

• 👥 Best for: Families with kids, theme park enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a day of magical entertainment.
• 📍 Address / Area: Shanghai Disney Resort, Chuansha New Town, Pudong New Area, Shanghai
• 🕒 Opening hours: 08:30–21:30
• 🚆 How to get there: Take Metro Line 11 to Disney Resort Station, and taxi or shuttle bus is available.

✅ Best things to do here

• Enjoy theme rides and parades
• Watch the evening fireworks
• Meet Disney characters

🗺️ Nearby places

• Disneytown
• Wishing Star Park
• Chuansha Ancient Town

3. Shanghai Museum

Located in the heart of the city at People's Square, the Shanghai Museum is a cultural landmark renowned for its vast collection of ancient Chinese art. The museum's exhibits feature exquisite bronze works, delicate ceramics, and other priceless artifacts that tell the story of China's rich history. 

✨ Why we recommend: As a premier institution for Chinese art, the museum offers a deep and educational dive into the nation's cultural heritage. It's an ideal destination for those looking to appreciate fine art and learn more about China's dynasties, all within a beautifully organized and accessible space. Best of all, admission is free.

• 👥 Best for: History enthusiasts, art lovers, and curious travelers seeking a cultural experience.
• 📍 Address / Area: 201 Renmin Avenue, Huangpu District, Shanghai
• 🕒 Opening hours: Tuesday-Sunday: 09:00–17:00(Latest entry time:16:00); Monday: Close
• 🚆 How to get there: Take Metro Line 1, 2 or 8 to People’s Square Station. Taxi is also available.

✅ Best things to do here

• Explore exhibitions
• Learn about Chinese history
• Appreciate traditional art

🗺️ Nearby places

• People’s Square
• Nanjing Road
• Shanghai Grand Theatre

4. Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower

An iconic landmark of Shanghai's skyline, the Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower is a must-visit for its panoramic city views. The tower features multiple observation decks, including a thrilling glass-floor platform that offers a dizzying perspective of the city below. Its unique, futuristic design of spheres and columns makes it one of the most recognizable structures in Lujiazui.

✨ Why we recommend: The tower provides one of the best vantage points for appreciating Shanghai's sprawling cityscape. The glass floor experience is an unforgettable thrill, while the upper decks offer stunning photo opportunities of The Bund and the surrounding financial district.

• 👥 Best for: First-time visitors, photographers, and thrill-seekers.
• 📍 Address / Area: No. 1 Century Avenue, Lujiazui, Pudong New Area, Shanghai
• 🕒 Opening hours: 09:00–21:00(Latest entry time:20:30)
• 🚆 How to get there: Take Metro Line 2 to Lujiazui Station, or have a short taxi ride.

✅ Best things to do here

• Visit the observation deck
• Experience the glass floor
• Take cityscape photos

🗺️ Nearby places

• Shanghai Tower
• Shanghai Ocean Aquarium
• Lujiazui

5. Yu Garden

Step back in time at Yu Garden, a stunning example of a classical Chinese garden with roots in the Ming Dynasty. This tranquil oasis in the heart of the bustling old town features traditional architecture, intricate rockeries, serene ponds, and elegant pavilions. It's a place of beauty and history, offering a peaceful escape and a glimpse into ancient Chinese landscape design.

✨ Why we recommend: Yu Garden is a masterpiece of classical garden design, providing a serene cultural experience amidst the city's energy. Its proximity to the Yuyuan Bazaar and Shanghai City God Temple allows visitors to immerse themselves in the historic atmosphere of old Shanghai for a full day of exploration.

• 👥 Best for: Culture lovers, history buffs, and anyone seeking a moment of tranquility.
• 📍 Address / Area: Shanghai Yuyuan Tourism Business District (the main entrance of Yuyuan Garden on the north side of Huxin Pavilion Jiuqu Bridge)
• 🕒 Opening hours: 09:00–16:30(Latest entry time:16:00)
• 🚆 How to get there: Take Metro Line 10 to Yuyuan Garden Station.

✅ Best things to do here

• Walk through the garden paths
• Explore traditional architecture
• Take cultural photos

🗺️ Nearby places

• Shanghai City God Temple
• Yuyuan Bazaar
• The Bund

6. Shanghai Haichang Ocean Park

Dive into a world of aquatic wonders at Shanghai Haichang Ocean Park. The park features impressive polar animal exhibits, spectacular marine animal shows, and a variety of family-oriented attractions and rides. It's an engaging and educational destination where visitors can get up close with fascinating sea creatures.

✨ Why we recommend: With its diverse range of marine life and entertaining shows, this park offers a fun-filled experience for all ages. It combines the excitement of a theme park with the educational value of an aquarium.

• 👥 Best for: Families with children, animal lovers, and marine life enthusiasts.
• 📍 Address / Area: No.166 Yinfei Road, Nanhui New Town, Pudong New District, Shanghai
• 🕒 Opening hours: Monday-Friday: 09:30–17:00(Latest entry time:16:00); Saturday-Sunday: 09:30–20:30(Latest entry time:19:30)
• 🚆 How to get there: Take Metro Line 16 to Dishui Lake Station, then transfer by taxi or shuttle bus.

✅ Best things to do here

• Watch marine animal shows
• Enjoy themed rides
• Explore with family

🗺️ Nearby places

• Dishui Lake
• Shanghai Disneyland
• Lingang Area

7. Lujiazui

Lujiazui is Shanghai's modern financial district, a dazzling showcase of futuristic skyscrapers and architectural marvels. This area in Pudong is home to some of the world's tallest buildings, including the Shanghai Tower and the Oriental Pearl Tower. Beyond its impressive skyline, Lujiazui is also a hub for luxury shopping and high-end dining, with rooftop bars offering spectacular views.

✨ Why we recommend: Lujiazui represents the incredible speed of Shanghai's development and its status as a global financial hub. Walking among its towering structures is an awe-inspiring experience, and the views from the top are simply unmatched.

• 👥 Best for: Architecture enthusiasts, luxury shoppers, and anyone wanting to experience the city's modern pulse.
• 📍 Address / Area: Shanghai Pudong New Area
• 🕒 Opening hours: 24/7
• 🚆 How to get there: Take Metro Line 2 to Lujiazui Station, Taxi available

✅ Best things to do here

• Enjoy skyline views
• Shop at luxury malls
• Dine in high-rise restaurants

🗺️ Nearby places

• Shanghai Tower
• Oriental Pearl Tower
• IFC Mall

8. Shanghai Wild Animal Park

Embark on a safari adventure at the Shanghai Wild Animal Park, a large-scale wildlife park offering a unique, safari-style experience. The park is home to a diverse range of animals from around the world, which can be observed in spacious, naturalistic habitats. Visitors can take a safari bus tour through areas with free-roaming animals or explore walking sections for closer encounters.

✨ Why we recommend: This park provides a fantastic opportunity for family-friendly outdoor activities and animal encounters. The safari bus tour is a highlight, offering a safe way to see majestic creatures up close. It's an educational and exciting day out for nature and animal lovers.

• 👥 Best for: Families, animal enthusiasts, and those looking for an outdoor adventure.
• 📍 Address / Area: No.178, Nanliu Road, Pudong New Area, Shanghai
• 🕒 Opening hours: Monday-Friday: 09:00–17:00(Latest entry time:16:00); Saturday-Sunday: 08:30–18:00(Latest entry time:16:00)
• 🚆 How to get there: Take Metro Line 16 to Huinan East Station, continue by taxi or shuttle bus.

✅ Best things to do here

• Join a safari bus tour
• Feed animals at designated areas
• Enjoy outdoor family activities

🗺️ Nearby places

• Pudong New Area
• Shanghai Disneyland
• Dishui Lake

9. Shanghai City God Temple

Located in the historic old town area, the Shanghai City God Temple is a center of local folk culture and traditional Taoist worship. The temple complex is a lively space filled with the scent of incense, intricate carvings, and devoted locals. Surrounding the temple is a bazaar where you can find traditional snacks, souvenirs, and crafts, making it a feast for the senses.

✨ Why we recommend: A visit to the City God Temple offers an authentic glimpse into local religious practices and Shanghai's rich folk culture. 

• 👥 Best for: Cultural explorers, history buffs, and foodies interested in local snacks.
• 📍 Address / Area: No. 249 Fangzhu Middle Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai
• 🕒 Opening hours: 24/7
• 🚆 How to get there: Take Metro Line 10 to Yuyuan Garden Station.

✅ Best things to do here

• Visit the temple
• Try local street snacks
• Experience traditional culture

🗺️ Nearby places

• Yu Garden
• Yuyuan Bazaar
• Huangpu River

10. Shanghai Tower

Soaring high above the Lujiazui skyline, the Shanghai Tower is China's tallest skyscraper and an icon of modern architecture. Visitors are whisked to the sky observation deck on one of the world's fastest elevators, where they are rewarded with a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of the city. The tower's unique twisting form is not just visually striking but also an engineering marvel.

✨ Why we recommend: The view from the top of the Shanghai Tower is simply unparalleled, offering a bird's-eye perspective of the entire metropolis. It's the ultimate observation deck experience in the city.

• 👥 Best for: Sightseers, photographers, and architecture aficionados.
• 📍 Address / Area: No. 501, Yincheng Middle Road, Lujiazu i, Pudong New Area
• 🕒 Opening hours: 08:30–22:00(Latest entry time:21:30)
• 🚆 How to get there: Take Metro Line 2 to Lujiazui Station.

✅ Best things to do here

• Visit the observation deck
• View the city panorama
• Take sunset photos

🗺️ Nearby places

• Jin Mao Tower
• Shanghai World Financial Center
• Oriental Pearl Tower

11. Huangpu River

The Huangpu River is Shanghai's iconic waterway, acting as a dividing line between the historic Puxi side and the modern Pudong side. A cruise along the river is one of the best ways to appreciate the city's famous skyline. The scenery is equally stunning by day and by night.

✨ Why we recommend: The river provides a unique perspective on the dual identity. Whether you're taking a relaxing cruise or simply enjoying a walk along its riverside promenades, the Huangpu River is central to the Shanghai experience.

• 👥 Best for: Everyone, especially first-time visitors, couples, and photographers.
• 📍 Address / Area: Huangpu District
• 🕒 Opening hours: 24/7

✅ Best things to do here

• Take a river cruise
• Enjoy night photography
• Walk along the river

🗺️ Nearby places

• The Bund
• Lujiazui
• Riverside Promenades

12. Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street

Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street is Shanghai's premier shopping destination, a vibrant thoroughfare that buzzes with energy day and night. This famous street offers a mix of historic retailers and modern flagship stores, alongside a wide array of restaurants and food stalls. It's a fantastic place for shopping, dining, and people-watching, capturing the dynamic city atmosphere.

✨ Why we recommend: As one of the world's busiest shopping streets, Nanjing Road is an experience in itself. The lively, neon-lit environment, especially at night, is a quintessential part of modern Shanghai. It's conveniently located, connecting People's Square with The Bund, making it easy to explore.

• 👥 Best for: Shoppers, foodies, and anyone wanting to experience the vibrant heart of the city.
• 📍 Address / Area: Henan Middle Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai.
• 🕒 Opening hours: 24/7
• 🚆 How to get there: Take Metro Line 2 or 10 to East Nanjing Road Station, Taxi available.

✅ Best things to do here

• Shop and dine
• Enjoy street views
• Walk around at night

🗺️ Nearby places

• The Bund
• People’s Square
• Shanghai Museum

Your Ultimate Shanghai Itinerary Awaits

Shanghai offers a remarkable blend of old and new, ensuring there's something to captivate every traveler. From the historic waterfront of The Bund to the magical realms of Shanghai Disney Resort, the city is packed with world-class sights. We hope this guide helps you plan a seamless and exciting trip.

• Best for first-timers: The Bund
• Best for families: Shanghai Disney Resort
• Best budget-friendly: Shanghai Museum
• Best splurge / most iconic: Shanghai Tower