Top Experiences & Travel Essentials in Shanghai

Shanghai is a dynamic global metropolis known for its striking skyline, blending historic colonial architecture with cutting-edge skyscrapers. As China's largest city, it offers a rich cultural tapestry, with bustling markets, world-class shopping, and diverse culinary experiences. The city's vibrant districts, such as The Bund and the French Concession, highlight its unique fusion of Eastern and Western influences.
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Your guide to Shanghai

Here are our top picks for must-visit destinations and activities in Shanghai:


1. Shanghai Disneyland Resort: As the first Disney resort in mainland China, Shanghai Disneyland offers a unique blend of Disney magic with Chinese cultural elements. The resort features themed lands such as Adventure Isle, Treasure Cove, and Tomorrowland, along with exclusive attractions like TRON Lightcycle Power Run. Visitors can enjoy parades, shows, and seasonal events, making it a must-visit for families and Disney fans.


2. Xiaolongbao Making Experience: Participate in a hands-on culinary class where you learn to make Xiaolongbao, Shanghai's famous soup dumplings, guided by a five-star chef.


3. Song Dynasty Tea-making Experience: Discover the art of traditional Chinese tea-making, recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, with techniques dating back to the Song Dynasty.


4. Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower: Visit this iconic Shanghai landmark for panoramic views of the city from its observation decks, and explore its museum showcasing the city's history.


5. Yu Garden: A classic Chinese garden in the heart of Shanghai, known for its beautiful pavilions, rockeries, and serene ponds, offering a glimpse into Ming Dynasty garden design.


6. Shanghai Film Park: Step into the world of Chinese cinema at this film set and theme park, where you can explore replicas of old Shanghai streets, watch live film shoots, and learn about the history of Chinese filmmaking.


6. Huangpu River Cruise (Shiliupu Pier): Experience Shanghai's stunning skyline from the water, with cruises offering views of The Bund and Pudong's modern skyscrapers.


7. Shanghai Era Theatre Acrobatic Show: Enjoy a breathtaking acrobatic performance that combines traditional Chinese acrobatics with modern staging and technology.


8. Shanghai Zhujiajiao Water Town Day Tour: Explore this ancient water town, known for its charming canals, historic bridges, and traditional architecture.


9. Shanghai Happy Valley: A large amusement park offering a variety of rides and attractions, suitable for visitors of all ages.


10. Jinmao Tower Observation Deck: Visit the observation deck of this architectural marvel for spectacular views of Shanghai and beyond.


11. Shanghai Breakfast and Culture Tour: Embark on a culinary journey sampling 10 dishes at 5 different eateries, while learning about local culture and history.


12. Shanghai L+SNOW Indoor Skiing Theme Resort: Enjoy skiing and snowboarding indoors, regardless of the season, at this state-of-the-art facility.


13. The Huangpu River Cruise: Another opportunity to explore Shanghai's waterfront, offering different perspectives of the city's iconic landmarks.


14. Shanghai · Sleep No More: Experience this immersive theatre production, where audience members explore a multi-story set and interact with performers in a unique, non-traditional format.

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Reviews/Trip Moments

Reviews: Shanghai Palace Banquet: Immersive experience of a royal feast thousands of years ago (fine Food and Beverages+ dance performance + Qin Dynasty historical and cultural experience + optional Clothes & Accessories and makeup)
Guest User2026-05-04
Great dinner experience, except the location is very far from our hotel where located at the Shanghai railway station. The dinner venue is at Songjiang area. Food and performance were excellent.
Reviews: "Shanghai ERA Acrobatic Show Tickets | Circus World"-Instant E-ticket Booking via QR Code
Guest User2026-04-10
The experience is 100% recommendable. It is a charming show, the acrobats are impeccable. You don't need to pick up tickets, just show the QR from the Trip voucher. It is a very convenient location too, just about 200 meters away from tge subway station "Shanghai Circus World", line 1.
Reviews: Shanghai Circus World Tickets: ERA2 - Spirit of Shanghai Extravaganza E-ticket
Guest User2026-05-07
We enjoyed the show. The circus itself, where the show takes place, is small. Every seat was taken, but everyone had a good view. The performers did a great job. We were amazed by their hard work and the capabilities of the human body. The audience was grateful. All the acts were excellent. Well done.
Reviews: Shanghai Palace Banquet: An Immersive Experience of a Han Dynasty Court Feast
Guest User2026-04-03
Unfortunately I had to attend the palace banquet alone as my friend couldn’t make it, and I initially thought I wouldn’t be able to capture any nice photos of myself in the Han attire. However, Sister Mao (店长)truly made my experience exceptional. She was incredibly attentive and noticed that I was on my own. She kindly offered to help take photos for me. Her photography skills are superb — she took so many beautiful pictures that I will truly cherish. In addition, some of the staff were all very warm, friendly, and welcoming, which made the entire experience even more enjoyable despite being alone. Their hospitality really stood out. Overall, I had a wonderful experience and would highly recommend this place to anyone looking for a memorable and heartfelt experience.
Reviews: Shanghai Shu Yan Fu • Immerse Yourself in a Royal Feast from a Thousand Years Ago (Imperial Enjoyment + Palace Feast + Ethnic Dance Performance + Optional Ancient Costume Experience)
Guest User2026-04-24
Amazing! Beautiful performances and lots of delicious food! I got an SVIP seat, which is the middle of the first row. VIP is the first row. See the entrance in the photo.
Reviews: Shanghai Xuyan - Ancient Immersive Palace Banquet (Tang Dynasty)|Dining + Hanfu Experience + Imperial Performance [Makeup/Photography/Vintage Portraits Available] - Ode to Chang'an
Guest User2026-04-22
Overall a very fun dress up/dining/ show experience! It felt a bit rushed as we had showed up at 9:45 and started hair, makeup and costumes and immediately went into photography (what it doesn’t tell you is, you get only 3 photos as part of the photo package) and trying to select ones you liked were difficult and our group paid for the extra photos we liked. We missed out on participating in the activities before the lunch experience (from what we could see it was playing games, making fans, and satchets, etc) as we wanted the opportunity to take our own photos. The story telling lunch experience was very fun to watch and the food was very filling and tasty. My parents also participated in the costume portion with the meal experience. A little pricey but overall, it was a fun experience to partake in!
iF Design Award 2026
iF Design Award 2026
Best Contact Center 2024 - Bronze
Best Contact Center 2024 - Bronze