Discover Shanghai: A Guide to the City's Top Attractions

Shanghai, the bustling metropolis and China's largest city, is a blend of modern and historic attractions. With over 24 million residents, it offers tranquil historic districts amidst its contemporary tourist spots. As a major port at the Yangtze River's mouth, Shanghai also invites waterway explorations along the coast and inland.

Visitors can enjoy world-class museums like the Shanghai Museum, stroll through beautiful gardens, shop in luxury boutiques at the "New World" pedestrian area, or explore ancient temples and pagodas.

For a comprehensive guide to Shanghai's most exciting attractions, click here.

Also, find the best accommodations at Where to Stay in Shanghai.

1. The Bund: Shanghai's Famous Waterfront

The Bund, or Wàitan, is a European-style promenade with 52 unique buildings showcasing Gothic, Romanesque, Baroque, Neoclassical, and Art Deco architecture. Notable structures include the former Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation and the old Peace Hotel. Huangpu Park, the oldest public park in China, sits at the Bund's north end, featuring a museum about the area's history. The Bund is also a starting point for river sightseeing tours.

2. Yu Garden: A Historic Green Oasis

Yu Garden, or Yù Yuán, is a 16th-century garden divided into an outer and inner section. The Outer Garden features the Sansui Tang hall, while the Inner Garden, dating back to 1709, offers a classical Chinese writer's garden experience with pavilions, decorative stones, and miniature landscapes.

Exclusive tours in Shanghai

3. Jade Buddha Temple: A Sanctuary of Serenity

The Jade Buddha Temple, home to two precious Shakyamuni statues from Burma, is a spiritual haven with impressive halls and courtyards. The Hall of the Kings of Heaven and the Hall of the Great Hero are among its highlights.

4. Shanghai Museum: A Cultural Treasure Trove

The Shanghai Museum, a premier institution for classical Chinese art, showcases bronzes, ceramics, calligraphy, and art from ethnic minorities. It also features jade, coins, and Ming and Qing period furnishings.

5. Longhua Temple and Pagoda: Ancient Architectural Marvels

The Longhua Temple, one of China's oldest religious sites, is accompanied by a 40-meter-tall pagoda. The temple complex includes several large halls and a historic bell from 1382.

6. Oriental Pearl Tower: Panoramic Views of Shanghai

The 468-meter-tall Oriental Pearl Tower offers stunning views from its observation levels and a revolving restaurant. At night, the tower is part of a mesmerizing light show.

7. Nanjing Road: Shanghai's Premier Shopping Street

Nanjing Road is the city's main shopping street, lined with vendors, boutiques, and large malls. It's also a hub for entertainment and street performances, especially during festivals.

8. People's Square: The Heart of the City

People's Square, once a racecourse, is now a central public space housing the Shanghai City Hall, Shanghai Museum, and Grand Theatre. The Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center is also a must-see.

9. Tianzifang: A Charming Arts and Crafts Enclave

Tianzifang, set in the former French Concession, is a labyrinth of alleys filled with galleries, craft shops, and eateries. Nearby Fuxing Park offers a taste of French-inspired landscaping.

10. Xujiahui Cathedral and Sheshan Basilica: Architectural Splendors

Xujiahui Cathedral, a Neo-Romanesque structure, and Sheshan Basilica, a hilltop church, are important Catholic sites in Shanghai with rich histories and beautiful settings.

11. Shanghai Science and Technology Museum: A World of Discovery

The Shanghai Science and Technology Museum, China's largest, entertains with interactive exhibits, a collection of regional animals, and a focus on scientific achievements and space travel.

12. China Art Museum: A Modern Art Haven

The China Art Museum, Asia's largest art gallery, is housed in the striking China Pavilion from Expo 2010. It features modern Chinese art and exhibits on Shanghai's cultural evolution.

13. Shanghai Disney Resort: A Magical Destination

Shanghai Disney Resort, opened in 2016, includes themed hotels, Disneytown, and the Shanghai Disneyland Park with its iconic attractions and entertainment.

14. Jin Mao Tower and Skywalk: A Towering Experience

The Jin Mao Tower, a 93-story skyscraper, offers a Skywalk on the 88th floor with breathtaking views. The tower's interior, looking down to the Grand Hyatt Shanghai Hotel, is equally impressive.

15. Shanghai Natural History Museum: A Journey Through Time

The Shanghai Natural History Museum showcases over 240,000 artifacts, including rare specimens and animatronic dinosaurs, in a modern facility within Jing'an Sculpture Park.

For accommodation options, sightseeing tours, and day trips from Shanghai, visit hotels-scanner.com and excurzilla.com.

Explore more of China with day trips to Hangzhou, Beijing, Chengdu, and the Li River. For further travel inspiration, check out tripates.com.