Ready to start planning your next trip for the holidays? Why not head to China’s largest and most prosperous city — Shanghai? Here are 18 of the best things to do in the Pearl of Asia!
All that XiaoHongShu and DouYin got you thinking about eating xiao long bao while marvelling at ancient water towns? Then there’s no better time to visit Shanghai! Make the most of your experience with this extensive guide on the best things to do in Shanghai – including food, tourist hotspots, and hidden gems!
💜 Stay Up To Date:
– GXS Bank Vs Trust Bank Singapore Comparison 2024
– How To Send Money To Philippines From Singapore
– How To Send Money To The USA From Singapore
Overview of the best things to do in Shanghai:
- Ride the Maglev
- Shanghai Tower
- Xiao long baos at Guyi Garden Restaurant
- Yu Garden
- Steamed hairy crabs at Wang Bao He
- Huangpu River Cruise
- Shanghai Breakfast Street Food tours
- Shanghai Circus World
- Shanghai Disneyland
- The Bund
- M50 Creative Park (hidden gem)
- Tianzifang
- Longhua Temple
- XinTianDi
- Pan-fried buns at Shu Cai Ji (hidden gem)
- Zhang Yuan (hidden gem)
- Zhu Jia Jiao Water Town
- Shanghai Museum
1. Ride the Maglev
Image credits: Global Times
Immediately from the airport, you can already ride this engineering marvel, the Maglev. Considered the fastest train in the world, travellers can experience a sheer record-breaking speed of up to 431 km/hour from Pudong International Airport to Longyang Road Station.
Covering a distance of 30 km in eight minutes, you will definitely be amazed by the Maglev’s performance. Not only is it extremely environmentally friendly, but it is also a cheaper mode of transport into the city. Passengers with a flight ticket can even purchase a one-way ticket on the same day with a 20% discount and children under the height of 130 cm can travel ticket-free.
Operating Hours: 9 AM – 5:30 PM
Address: 2100 Longyang Road, Pudong, Shanghai, China, 201204
Ticket Prices:
| Type | Validity | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Single Trip | 1 single trip of the day | CNY 50 |
| Round Trip | 7 days ordinary round trip ticket | CNY 80 |
| Single Trip with same-day air ticket presented | Single trip for passengers who have arrived in Shanghai on the same day | CNY 40 |
18 Things To Do In Shanghai 2024 (Top Attractions, Local Food): Here’s how you can add your YouTrip card to WeChat Pay for seamless payments
2. Enjoy a bird’s eye view from the Shanghai Tower
Image credits: @Rnazz on Pintrest
Sitting at 128 storeys, the Shanghai Tower is the tallest building in China and the world’s third-tallest building at 632 meters tall. Take a ride on the world’s fastest elevator to the 119th floor, which houses the world’s second-highest observation deck just right after the deck of Burj Kalifa.
From this very deck, you can experience a 360-degree view of Shanghai. Standing by the windows, visitors can enjoy magnificent views of the city and the historic buildings with different architectural styles along the Bund and the Oriental Pearl Tower.
If you’re blessed to visit during fine weather, you can even see the view of the Suzhou River flowing into the Huangpu River and the estuary of the Huangpu River at the Yellow Sea.
Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 10 PM
Address: 501 Yincheng Middle Road, Lujiazui, Pudong, Shanghai, China 200120
Entry Fee: CNY 180 ( from S$33.30)
Protip: Book tickets online via Trip.com on YouTrip Perks to skip the queues while getting up to 7% cashback!
18 Things To Do In Shanghai 2024 (Top Attractions, Local Food): Here’s how you can add your YouTrip card to Alipay for seamless payments
3. Slurp soup dumplings aka Xiao Long Baos
Image credits: Thatsmags.com
We all know a trip to Shanghai isn’t complete without tasting some delicious XLBs (or Xiao Long Bao) but do you know where the best ones are at? Known as soup dumplings, Xiao Long Bao are thinly wrapped Shanghainese parcels of minced meat and hot soup delivered in a wooden basket.
Image credits: Nomfluence
Traditionally eaten with vinegar and ginger, the best soup dumplings in town have got to be at Guyi Garden Restaurant. Known to be the place where xiao long bao originated, the store specialises in handmade made-to-order dumplings with several different fillings including pure minced pork and crab roe with minced pork.
Located in Nanxiang, Guyi Garden Restaurant is for purists and unlike the modern Xiao Long Bao with its thin skin, the dumplings from this restaurant are thick, doughy, and chewy. For those who aren’t full after their meal, check out the myriad of vendors peddling the streets nearby for more variations of the dumpling!
Opening Hours: 10 AM – 9:30 PM
Address: 218 Huyi Hwy, Jiading District, Shanghai, China 201802
18 Things To Do In Shanghai 2024 (Top Attractions, Local Food): Here are the best things to do in Guangzhou, China
4. Travel back to the Ming Dynasty in Yu Garden
Image credits: Viator
Believed to have been built in the Ming Dynasty more than 400 years ago, Yu Garden stands tall in the centre of Shanghai’s Old City. Once a private garden to the Pan family, Yu Garden comprises 6 scenic areas — Sansui Hall, Wanhua Chamber, Dianchun Hall, Huijing Hall, Yuhua Hall, and the Inner Garden.
You can take a nice long stroll across all six areas and enjoy classical Chinese architecture, exquisite sculptures, and carvings. Don’t forget to walk across the Jiu Qu Bridge (the Nine-Turn Bridge), a spot that’s believed to bring people good luck as they cross from one side to another!
Opening Hours: 9 AM – 4:30 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Address: 279 Yu Yuan Lao Jie, Huang Pu Qu, Shanghai Shi, China 200000
Entrance Fee:
Peak season (April – June, September): CNY 40 (~S$7.40)
Off-peak season (July – August, December): CNY 30 (~S$5.60)
18 Things To Do In Shanghai 2024 (Top Attractions, Local Food): Check out this guide for the best things to do in Beijing
5. Try steamed hairy crabs at Wang Bao He
Image credits: Culture Trip
When autumn hits Shanghai in late September and early October, the entire city will be in a daze with the arrival of this scarce delicacy from nearby Yangcheng Lake. Although hairy crabs might be an acquired taste for some, no one can disagree that the roe of these crustaceans is simply out of this world.
Unlike your typical crabs, the hairy crab does not have much meat but instead boasts a large amount of delicious buttery roe — enough to make any crab connoisseur an addict. At Wang Bao He, the crabs are poached in water rather than steamed. This is to prevent the roe from overflowing out of the crab during the process.
Don’t fancy a hairy steamed crab by itself? Wang Bao He offers multiple dishes incorporating this lovely crustacean from mung noodles with crab to crab sesame buns!
Opening Hours: 11 AM – 1:30 PM, 5 PM – 9 PM
Address: Wang Bao He Central Hotel, 555 Jiujiang Road, Shanghai
18 Things To Do In Shanghai 2024 (Top Attractions, Local Food): Heading to Beijing? Here’s a Beijing subway guide to subway lines, ticket prices, and key stops
6. Take in the city at night with the Huangpu River Cruise
Image credits: Klook
A must-try attraction for any tourist, the Huangpu River cruise packs 45 minutes of mesmerising views of the city’s famous skyline featuring the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, Shanghai Tower, and The Bund.
Huangpu River is the largest river passing through the city of Shanghai and is honoured as the Mother River of Shanghai. Stretching across 113 km with a depth of 9 m, the river divides the city into two sections — Pudong in the east and Puxi in the west. As the cruise travels up and down the river, stop and take a few scenic photographs and selfies with your loved ones together with the glimmering lights of Shanghai.
You can pick your cruise options from 30 minutes to three-and-a-half hours with varying boat sizes, including a trendy cruise with a modern-style bar. There are also dinner options as well, but do note that those have to be booked in advance prior to your visit.
Address: 291 Zhongshan Dong Er Lu, Shanghai, China
Price: From CNY 150 (~S$27.80)
18 Things To Do In Shanghai 2024 (Top Attractions, Local Food): Heading to Japan? Here’s a Japan ATM withdrawal guide
7. Enjoy a traditional breakfast on the streets
Image credits: Nomfuence
When you’re in Shanghai, trust me when I say ditch that fancy intercontinental breakfast platter and head out to the streets for the best Chinese breakfast ever.
Since you can find street food vendors in every street of the city in the morning, head down and grab yourself a few local delicacies. The first dish you must try is the Jianbing or Chinese crepes. These savoury pancakes are made from wheat and mung bean flour and filled with eggs, coriander, scallions, pickles, chilli, and bean sauce. You can even choose to add a deep-fried dough fritter called You Tiao into it as well.
Image credits: Taste Cooking
Another breakfast item you have to try is the fried dough stick and soy milk combo (Dou Jiang You Tiao). As a staple for breakfast street food, the dough stick is dipped into the warm soy milk — making it a hearty yet simple breakfast for those who can’t stomach heavy foods in the morning. Lastly, you have to try Cong You Bing or Scallion Pancakes. Possibly the most famous street food in Shanghai, the Scallion Pancakes are pan-fried with oil and scallions. They are crispy, flaky, chewy, and oily with a hint of freshness.
For those who are concerned about navigating the streets in the morning, you can try out one of the many Shanghai breakfast street food tours provided by UnTour. These three-hour public tours will take you to some of the best vendors for tastings and you can even visit the wet market afterwards! Price for food tour:
- 525 Yuan per adult,
- 395 Yuan per child
Address: Near Shaanxi Road (South) Metro
18 Things To Do In Shanghai 2024 (Top Attractions, Local Food): Looking to send money overseas from Singapore? Check out this guide!
8. Marvel at the wonders of acrobatics in Shanghai Circus World
Image credits: Expedia
Combining martial arts, gymnastics, acrobatics, and Chinese culture, the ERA Intersection of Time Acrobatic show in Shanghai Circus World will be bound to keep you on the edge of your seats.
Known for its wild circus performances, the Time Acrobatics show showcases backflips on stilts, and daredevils riding motorcycles in a tiny sphere and many more. It is truly a one-of-a-kind performance and a great night out in the city for couples, family, and friends.
Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – 9 PM
Address: ERA Castle, 2801 Gong He Xin Road, Shanghai
Entrance Fee: From CNY 380 per adult (~S$70.40)
18 Things To Do In Shanghai 2024 (Top Attractions, Local Food): Here’s a Singapore public holiday 2025 guide for how to stack your annual leaves
9. Shanghai Disneyland
Image credits: TripSavvy
For new and veteran Disneyland goers, trust me when I say that there is no other park like Shanghai Disneyland. As the second biggest Disney park in the world, there is something for everyone in the happiest place on Earth.
Based on being a futuristic city, Shanghai Disneyland offers a maglev train across the entire park instead of a monorail. Unlike its American counterpart, the park has fewer lands as areas such as New Orleans Square and Frontierland have no context in China. For visitors who are nervous about visiting a Chinese theme park, don’t fret as all cast members converse fluently in English and Mandarin.
Image Credits: KKday
While most have commented that they are able to finish the park in a day, it should be noted that families with little kids should opt to split the experience into two separate days to fully enjoy all of the attractions and performances.
Opening Hours: 9 AM – 9 PM
Address: 4MV5+945, Pu Dong Xin Qu, Shanghai Shi, China, 201205
Entrance Fee: From CNY 475 (~S$88). Ticket prices differ by type and season check the official website for more details
18 Things To Do In Shanghai 2024 (Top Attractions, Local Food): Here’s the ultimate Universal Studios Japan (USJ) guide to prep you for Japan
10. Walk along The Bund
Image credits: Freepik
Y’know stock images that appear when you search for Shanghai? This is THE spot to take that iconic photo of Shanghai’s skyline. The Bund is an iconic waterfront where you can witness the contrast of colonial against futuristic architecture. Across the Huangpu river, are skyscrapers characteristic of Pudong, like the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, Shanghai Tower, and more. The side of The Bund itself is lined with colonial-era buildings, built around the late 19th – early 20th century, a time when Shanghai was a key international trade port and under complex colonial rule.
Strolling along the promenade, you can find many notable landmarks such as the Customs House, with its iconic clock tower, and the Peace Hotel, rich with stories of opulence and history. You can also opt to take a river cruise for a better view of the city, more explained in the next to-do!
Address: Zhongshan Rd (E-1), Waitan, Huangpu, Shanghai, China, 200002
18 Things To Do In Shanghai 2024 (Top Attractions, Local Food): Check out this 4-day Jeju itinerary for the best things to do in Jeju
11. M50 Creative Park (Hidden Gem)
Image credits: Shanghai Observer
Art lovers should make a trip to the M50 Creative Park, a hub of contemporary art housed in repurposed factory buildings. This vibrant space features galleries, artist studios, and street art that provide insight into Shanghai’s modern art scene. Explore installations by local and international artists, or purchase unique pieces to take home. Admission is free, but consider joining a guided tour for a better understanding of the exhibits.
Address: 50 Moganshan Rd, Putuo, Shanghai, China, 200071
Price: Free
18 Things To Do In Shanghai 2024 (Top Attractions, Local Food): Check out the best things to do in Nagoya City (hidden gems included)
12. Tianzifang
Image credits: CultureTrip
Tucked away in the former French Concession, Tianzifang (田子坊) is a charming maze of narrow alleyways filled with independent boutiques, art studios, and cosy cafes. It’s an ideal spot for souvenir shopping or discovering local art and crafts. Don’t miss out on indulging in street food here that offers a mix of traditional Shanghai snacks and international flavours. Arrive early to enjoy a quieter and more leisurely exploration.
Address: 210 Taikang Rd, Huangpu, China, 200023
18 Things To Do In Shanghai 2024 (Top Attractions, Local Food): Here ar 27 things to do in JB for your next weekend getaway
13. Longhua Temple
Image credits: Stefan Fussan on Wikipedia Commons
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city at Longhua Temple (龙华寺), Shanghai’s oldest and largest Buddhist temple. Known for its seven-story pagoda, the temple features stunning halls, intricate wood carvings, magnificent golden statues and serene courtyards. Visit during the temple’s annual Longhua Temple Fair for a chance to witness traditional Chinese performances and cultural festivities. Remember to dress modestly as it’s an active place of worship.
Price: CNY 10 (S$1.85 )
Address: 2853 Longhua Rd, Xuhui District, Shanghai, China, 200232
18 Things To Do In Shanghai 2024 (Top Attractions, Local Food): Here are top 12 Taipei hotels from S$35/night
14. XinTianDi
Image credits: Shanghai Tours
Xintiandi (新天地）is a chic, car-friendly district that has breathed new life into a historical area. This pedestrian-friendly district is famous for its restored Shikumen houses, which now host trendy boutiques, chic cafes, and fine-dining restaurants. FYI, Shikumen is a traditional Shanghainese architectural style combining Western and Chinese elements.
History buffs can visit the Site of the First National Congress of the Chinese Communist Party, located here. It’s an excellent spot to relax after a day of sightseeing. Be sure to sample local delicacies or sip on craft cocktails at one of the rooftop bars. It is also a host location for art events like Shanghai Fashion Week and Shanghai Lighting Festival.
Price: Free to enter (costs vary by activity)
Address: Lane 181, Taicang Road, Huangpu, Shanghai
18 Things To Do In Shanghai 2024 (Top Attractions, Local Food): Here are 15 things to do in Phuket, Thailand right now
15. Eat pan-fried buns at Shu Cai Ji (Hidden Gem)
Image credits: Nomfluence
Relish the mouthwatering delicacy that is Shengjian Bao (生煎包), or pan-fried buns at Shu Cai Ji (舒蔡记). This popular street food is famous for its crispy, golden exterior that bursts open to reveal a savoury, juicy steaming pork filling. Served hot, these buns are a must-try for street food enthusiasts visiting Shanghai. This shop is a longstanding establishment that is often frequented by locals. It can get very crowded at peak meal times.
Address: 146 Yunnan Zhong Lu, near Shantou Lu, Huangpu District 云南中路142-146号, 近汕头路, 邮政编码: 200003
18 Things To Do In Shanghai 2024 (Top Attractions, Local Food): Here are 10 affordable leisure farmstays in Taiwan
16. Zhang Yuan (Hidden Gem)
Image credits: International Services Shanghai
Step into the cultural revival of Zhang Yuan (张园), a historic neighbourhood over 140 years old, transformed into the heart of Shanghai’s creative scene. Once a colonial-era residential area, it now hosts contemporary art exhibits, luxury brand boutiques, cafes, galleries and many other varieties of vibrant shops. The area of Zhang Yuan offers a fresh perspective on Shanghai’s evolving artistic identity.
Address: ZhangYuan, Lane 588, Weihai Road, Jing ‘an District, Shanghai
18 Things To Do In Shanghai 2024 (Top Attractions, Local Food): Check out this guide for the best things to do in Fukuoka, Japan
17. Zhu Jia Jiao Water Town
Image credits: Zhu Jia Jiao
Step back in time to Zhu Jia Jiao(朱家角), a picturesque water town founded over 1,700 years ago. Often called the “Venice of Shanghai,” it’s renowned for its arched stone bridges, lush gardens, and preserved buildings dating back to the Ming and Qing Dynasties. Stroll along cobblestone streets or take a gondola ride through the serene canals. Don’t miss the opportunity to savour local delicacies at its bustling open-air markets.
Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 5 PM
Address: No. 180, Xinxi Road, Zhujiajiao Town, Qingpu District, Shanghai
Price: Entrance is free but certain buildings/sites may charge. Prices for boat rides differ.
18 Things To Do In Shanghai 2024 (Top Attractions, Local Food): Here are 21 things to do in Chiang Mai
18. Shanghai Museum
Image credits: China Daily
Located in People’s Square, the museum features an extensive collection of over 120,000 artefacts, including exquisite jade carvings, traditional Chinese paintings, and intricate bronzes. Its comprehensive displays span from ancient dynasties to modern times, offering a profound insight into China’s artistic heritage. A must-see for history and art enthusiasts!
Opening Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM. Closed on Tuesdays
Address: 201 Renmin Ave, People’s Square, Huangpu District, Shanghai, China
Price: Free entry
18 Things To Do In Shanghai 2024 (Top Attractions, Local Food): Check out this guide for the best things to do in Melbourne
Explore the Pearl of Asia to your heart’s content
Now that you have a list of the best things to do in Shanghai in the palm of your hands, you’re ready to explore the Pearl of Asia! Don’t forget to book your flight tickets and accommodations with your YouTrip card via YouTrip Perks for extra cashback and discounts!
As Singapore’s favourite multi-currency wallet, we aim to get those pesky fees out of the way and help you save on your travels. With the best foreign exchange rates, no longer will you have to deal with those long queues at money changers! So if you’re looking for a go-to travel card, sign up for your complimentary YouTrip card today with <YTBLOG5> and get FREE S$5 in your account! For more great tips and articles like this, join our Telegram (@YouTripSG) and subscribe to our free weekly newsletter here or down below.
And while you’re at it, why not join the conversation with thousands of #YouTroopers in our very own Community Telegram Group @YouTripSquad? Get tips and tricks to everything YouTrip including exclusive invites to exciting events and experiences, & be part of the #YouTripSquad! 💜
Safe Travels!
Related Articles
China’s Reopening For Travel: Hot Spots To Visit
Japan’s Reopened For Travel: Hot Spots To Visit
Building Our South Korea Itinerary With YouTroopers
