Shanghai, China - Travel Guide
By MupDay - the planner that does the research for you.
Updated: 2026-08-06
Shanghai is a futuristic metropolis blending rich history with dizzying modernity, offering an exceptional cultural and culinary experience. Come and discover the magic of a city that never sleeps, with glittering skyscrapers, traditional gardens, and vibrant street markets.
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Top things to do in Shanghai
The must-see places in Shanghai include The Bund, Shanghai Disneyland Park, Oriental Pearl TV Tower, Shanghai Tower, Shanghai World Financial Center and more. Here is the full list, with a short note on each:
- The Bund · Huangpu
An iconic waterfront promenade along the Huangpu River, offering breathtaking views of the Pudong skyline and impressive colonial architecture.
- Shanghai Disneyland Park · Pudong
A massive theme park offering thrilling attractions, spectacular shows, and beloved Disney characters, a perfect experience for families.
- Oriental Pearl TV Tower · Pudong
One of Shanghai's most famous landmarks, offering stunning panoramic city views and an exciting glass floor.
- Shanghai Tower · Pudong
The world's second-tallest building, offering the world's highest observation deck with breathtaking 360-degree views.
- Shanghai World Financial Center · Pudong
An impressive skyscraper with an observation deck at 474 meters, offering breathtaking views of Shanghai's skyline.
- Yu Garden · Huangpu
A beautiful classical Chinese garden with ponds, pavilions, rocks, and trees, offering an oasis of tranquility in the bustling city center.
- Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street · Huangpu
One of the world's busiest and most famous shopping streets, with department stores, boutiques, restaurants, and dazzling neon lights.
- Xintiandi · Huangpu
An upscale entertainment complex blending traditional 'Shikumen' architecture with modern restaurants, bars, and fashion boutiques.
- Shanghai Museum · Huangpu
A museum of ancient Chinese art showcasing a vast collection of bronzes, ceramics, paintings, calligraphy, and more.
- Tianzifang · Huangpu
A charming arts district with narrow alleyways, cafes, galleries, boutique shops, and restaurants, offering a bohemian atmosphere.
- Statue of Chen Yi
- Shanghai Railways Museum
- Jade Buddha Temple · Putuo
An active Buddhist temple famous for its two jade Buddha statues, one of which is particularly rare and impressive.
- Rockbund Art Museum
- Long Museum West Bund
Frequently asked questions
What are the must-see places in Shanghai?
The Bund, Shanghai Disneyland Park, Oriental Pearl TV Tower, Shanghai Tower, Shanghai World Financial Center, Yu Garden
When is the best time to visit Shanghai?
Any season works - MupDay plans around opening hours and the weather, and rebuilds your days as you add or remove places.
How do I plan an itinerary for Shanghai?
Pick places in MupDay and it auto-builds a day-by-day route with no zig-zag, weather-aware.