Things To Do
in Shanghai
Shanghai, China, is an international metropolis that brilliantly blends modernity with deep-rooted cultural heritage, famous for its towering skyline led by the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower and the Shanghai Tower. This city is a hub for finance, innovation, and transportation, pulsating with a vibrant economy and bustling urban life, offering an array of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
With a rich historical tapestry, Shanghai showcases a unique blend of colonial architecture along the Bund, traditional Yu Garden, and cutting-edge developments, making it a captivating destination for both tourists and business travelers.
- "Ni hao" - Hello
- "Xie xie" - Thank you
- "Zao an" - Good morning
- "Zai jian" - Goodbye
- "Shen me" - What?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower for panoramic views of the city. Stroll along the Bund to soak in the blend of historic and modern architecture.
Visit the Shanghai Museum to explore ancient Chinese art and culture. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely lunch in People’s Square, surrounded by lush gardens.
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Nanjing Road, known for shopping and street food. End your day with a stunning Huangpu River cruise, taking in the glittering skyline.
Visit the Yuyuan Garden, a classical Chinese garden filled with rockeries, ponds, and pavilions. Explore the nearby Yuyuan Bazaar for local handicrafts and snacks.
Head to the Jade Buddha Temple to admire its serene atmosphere and beautiful statues. Enjoy lunch at a nearby teahouse, sampling traditional dumplings.
Discover the French Concession area, known for its tree-lined streets and charming cafes. Enjoy a dinner at a boutique restaurant, relishing international cuisines.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant economy and job opportunities in various sectors.
- Rich cultural heritage and a blend of traditional and modern architecture.
- Excellent public transportation system, making commuting easy.
- Diverse culinary scene with a wide array of international cuisines.
- Strong educational institutions, including renowned universities.
- Bustling entertainment and nightlife options.
- High cost of living, especially in housing.
- Heavy pollution and environmental issues.
- Crowded urban areas leading to congestion.
- Language barrier for non-Mandarin speakers.
- Strict government regulations and limited freedoms.
- Risk of natural disasters such as typhoons and floods.
Best Activities in Shanghai
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a leisurely walk along the waterfront and take in the beautiful view of Shanghai's skyline.
Explore the ancient water town with traditional architecture and scenic canals, located a short distance from Shanghai.
Embark on a hiking adventure at Sheshan National Forest Park to enjoy nature and picturesque views of the surroundings.
Rent a bike and cycle around the picturesque landscape of Chongming Island, known for its natural beauty.
Tours
Uncover the best of Shanghai with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Shanghai
Visit one of these nice places.
A waterfront area in central Shanghai with iconic skyline views and historical architecture.
One of the tallest buildings in the world, offering panoramic views of the city from its observation deck.
A classical Chinese garden with picturesque pavilions, ponds, and traditional architecture.
A public park located in the Lujiazui financial district, providing great views of skyscrapers and cityscapes.
Another skyscraper offering observation decks for stunning views of Shanghai's skyline.
Food in Shanghai
Shanghai Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Steamed soup dumplings filled with pork or crab meat, traditionally found at Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant or Jia Jia Tang Bao.
Must-Try!
Pan-fried pork dumplings with a crispy bottom, best enjoyed at Jia Jia Le or Yang's Fry Dumplings.
Giant pork meatballs stewed in soy sauce, a specialty of Fu 1039 or Old Jesse.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Shanghai better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A historic market offering various street food such as scallion pancakes, tangyuan, and stinky tofu.
A vibrant night market with a wide array of local snacks like grilled skewers, spicy noodles, and fried dumplings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Shanghai, it is important to use formal greetings, such as a slight bow or nod, when meeting someone for the first time or greeting an elder.
Shanghainese people value personal space and often maintain a greater distance when communicating. It is important to be mindful of this cultural norm and avoid standing too close.
Respect for elders is highly valued in Shanghai. It is important to demonstrate deference and politeness when interacting with older individuals.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Shanghai with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Shanghai
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Shanghai, China. It is not expected in restaurants, hotels, or for most services.
In Shanghai, China, cash is widely used for small transactions, while major hotels, restaurants, and stores accept credit and debit cards. Mobile payment apps such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are also popular for making transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Shanghai.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is one of the best times to visit Shanghai, with mild temperatures and blooming cherry blossoms. It's a popular time for tourists and you can expect some crowds, but the pleasant weather and beautiful scenery make it worth a visit.
Autumn is also a great time to visit Shanghai, with comfortable temperatures and colorful foliage. It's less crowded compared to spring, and you can enjoy outdoor activities such as strolling along the Bund or exploring the city's parks.
Summer in Shanghai can be hot and humid, with occasional heavy rains. It's peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. However, there are many festivals and events during this time, offering a lively atmosphere.
Winter in Shanghai can be cold and damp, but it's the least crowded season, making it a good time to visit if you prefer a quieter experience. You can also experience traditional Chinese New Year celebrations in late January or early February.
Shanghai at Night
Hiking in Shanghai
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located in the suburbs of Shanghai, Xushi Park offers a range of trails surrounded by lush greenery, making it a popular spot for hiking and outdoor activities.
The highest peak in Shanghai, Sheshan Mountain features several hiking trails, stunning views, and historical sites such as the Sheshan Basilica.
This mountain offers various hiking routes and scenic views of the Yangtze River, ideal for both beginners and experienced hikers.
While known for its historical canals and bridges, the surrounding areas offer picturesque hiking paths that allow visitors to enjoy nature and local culture.
A scenic route perfect for walking and hiking, the Kangqiao Greenway winds through parks and residential areas, providing a peaceful escape from the city.
Located on Chongming Island, this park features various hiking trails amid forests and wetlands, suitable for a full day of exploration.
Although primarily an art and shopping area, the nearby parks and trails provide excellent short hikes amidst the vibrant atmosphere of Shanghai.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Shanghai through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Shanghai by plane.
The primary international airport serving Shanghai, located about 30 kilometers east of downtown.
An international airport located in the western part of Shanghai, serving mainly domestic flights with limited international operations.
Located in Nanjing, approximately 300 kilometers west of Shanghai, it serves as a major international airport in Jiangsu Province.
Situated about 180 kilometers southwest of Shanghai, it is one of the largest airports in Zhejiang Province.
Located in Suzhou, approximately 100 kilometers northwest of Shanghai, it is a smaller airport catering to domestic flights and some international services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group, comprising about 90% of Shanghai's population.
A local dialect group of Han Chinese with distinct cultural and linguistic characteristics.
Includes diverse groups such as Americans, Europeans, and Australians residing in the city for work or study.
Includes groups like Hui, Manchu, and Tibetan who have smaller communities in the city.
A significant population from other provinces in China, working in various industries in Shanghai.
The Soul of Shanghai
Discover the essence of Shanghai through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is immensely popular in Shanghai, with numerous local leagues and events. The city has hosted numerous international tournaments, and many youth engage in the sport.
Soccer has a strong following in Shanghai, home to both amateur and professional teams. The Shanghai SIPG, a club in the Chinese Super League, garners significant support.
Badminton is widely played in local communities and schools. There are many clubs and facilities dedicated to the sport, making it accessible for people of all ages.
Table tennis is a national pastime in China, and Shanghai is no exception. The city boasts numerous table tennis clubs and venues for enthusiasts of all skill levels.
Swimming is a popular recreational activity in Shanghai, with many public pools and swimming competitions throughout the year. The city also has numerous beaches within a short travel distance.
Running has become increasingly popular in Shanghai, with organized marathons and local running clubs. Many parks and scenic areas are used by runners for training and events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Shanghai.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Several establishments in Shanghai, such as WUJIE and Godly Vegetarian, offer a variety of meat-free dishes with vegan options available.
While gluten-free awareness is growing, it's essential to communicate specific dietary needs to chefs or look for international eateries and health food stores for gluten-free options.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Shanghai with these cultural adventures.