Best 24 Things to Do in Shanghai: Ultimate First-Timer’s Guide

Looking for the best things to do in Shanghai, China? You’re in the right place. After living and studying here, and recently spending a few more weeks rediscovering our favorite city, we’ve put together our personal list of 24 must-see spots and unique experiences you don’t want to miss on your first visit.

Shanghai, or the city of lights of the East. This high-paced place has everything to offer that you can expect from a dynamic metropolis. From stunning architecture, breathtaking skylines, mouth-watering food, energetic nightlife, and ancient water towns. You name it, this city has it. As one of China’s biggest cities, there are so many amazing things to do in Shanghai. You will stumble upon some spectacular modern skyscrapers as well as traditional Chinese architecture. Shanghai truly is a beautiful contrast of old meets new.

Shanghai is a city that never stands still. Its dynamic energy and ever-evolving landscape offer an abundance of activities for all types of travelers. Whether you’re into history, culture, food, or shopping, there’s no shortage of things to do in Shanghai. Every traveler will find something unique to enjoy, but certain spots should definitely be on your list, especially if it’s your first time visiting. We lived in Shanghai as students for a while, so we got to know the city inside and out. It quickly became our favorite place in the world, and we hope you’ll love it just as much! From must-see landmarks to hidden gems, here’s our curated travel guide to the best things to do in Shanghai.

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Practical Tips for Visiting Shanghai

How to Get Around Shanghai

Walking – We always recommend walking whenever you can. It’s the best way to soak up the vibe of a new city. Shanghai has plenty of pedestrian-friendly areas and wide sidewalks, making it easy to explore on foot. We can highly recommend downloading AMap or Baidu Maps for getting around. We still check Google Maps, but these apps are more accurate in China.

Biking – One of our favorite things to do in Shanghai is simply biking around the city. You can cover almost everything by bike, but the most photogenic and relaxing area is definitely the French Concession, with its tree-lined streets, cafés, food stops, and trendy boutiques. Getting started is super easy: download either Alipay (for the light-blue bikes) or Meituan (for the yellow bikes), scan the QR code, the bike unlocks, and off you go. It’s cheap, convenient, and honestly one of the most fun ways to explore different neighborhoods.

Metro – Shanghai is massive, so for longer distances between neighborhoods, the metro is your best bet. Shanghai’s metro system is super cheap, reliable, and easy to use. Download the free Shanghai Metro App, it’s in English and helps you plan your route, showing which lines to take and how long the trip will be. You can buy tickets at the kiosks using cash. If you’re staying a bit longer, get a Metro card at the counter. The card costs 20 RMB (refundable) and you can top it up as needed. A typical ride in the city center will cost between 4-6 RMB.

Cab – Didi is China’s version of Uber, and it’s super convenient. The Didi app has an auto-translate feature, so communicating with drivers isn’t a problem. You can pay with a card, cash, or even through Alipay.

TRAVEL TIP | Good news! Foreigners can now use Alipay without a Chinese bank account. Simply download the Alipay app, connect it to your bank, and install the transport section. It takes a bit of time to set up (you’ll need your passport), but once done, you can scan your phone to enter the metro. It’s super easy! You’ll also notice that many people in China use their phones to pay for everything, so having Alipay is a game-changer.

Get a VPN to Stay Connected

As you probably know, many social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, WhatsApp, and Google apps are blocked in China. To keep using them, make sure to download a VPN before you arrive. We used ExpressVPN during our time in China, and it was a lifesaver! It keeps you connected to blocked sites while protecting your IP and location. It’s also handy for streaming Netflix from other countries or finding better travel deals online. We’ve trusted ExpressVPN for years, and they offer 3 months free when you sign up for a 12-month plan using our link. Just remember, you must download your VPN before you arrive in China.

Get a SIM Card or e-SIM for Internet Connection

We usually grab a local SIM card as soon as we land at the airport. It’s the easiest way to stay connected. But recently, we’ve switched to using e-SIMs from Airalo, which are super convenient. You can install them on your eSIM-compatible phone before you even leave home. No more switching out SIM cards! If you’re new to Airalo, use our promo code NEWTOAIRALO15 for 15% off your first eSIM purchase. Returning users can use AIRALOESIM10 for 10% off.

Where to stay in Shanghai?

If you’re wondering where to stay in Shanghai, the best districts for first-timers are Jing’an, Huangpu, and the most central part of Xuhui. After staying in different parts of the city, our personal recommendation is to look for accommodation within the French concession, the area bordered by Huashan Road (west), Xizang Road (east), Fuxing Road (south), and Beijing Road (north).

The streets between Changle Road, Huaihai Zhong Road, and South Shaanxi Road are especially great as they are walkable, bike-friendly, full of cafés and restaurants, and close to several metro lines. For us, being near a metro station always makes a huge difference, so we suggest finding something in that zone that fits your budget.

If you’re looking for a splurge, you can go for a hotel along the Bund, such as The St.Regis on the Bund, where you get incredible skyline views right from your room.

On the more affordable side, we’ve stayed several times at MoYu Movie Hotel, which has a great price-quality ratio. It’s in the lovely French Concession, close to great neighborhoods, so perfect for biking and exploring, and multiple metro lines are within reach.

For booking accommodation in China, we recommend checking Trip.com, since it lists far more local options than Booking.com or Agoda, though you can always cross-reference for the best price.

The best 24 Things to do in Shanghai for first-timers

These 24 things to do in Shanghai are the perfect way to prepare for your first visit to this vibrant city. Luckily, the city’s transport system is highly efficient and can get you to the other side of town in no time. This way you can enjoy your stay and its sights to the fullest.

1. Be in awe of the iconic skyline at the Bund

The Bund or Waitan, this iconic landmark is without a doubt at the top of every tourist’s ‘Things to do in Shanghai’ list. When you stroll along the riverside promenade, you can enjoy the colonial-era architecture at the waterfront. Across the Huangpu River on the other side, you will marvel at the impressive Pudong skyline. 

The best time to visit this spectacle is probably around sunset when the lights are starting to come on. You will have the most magical view as soon as the whole skyline is lit up and flashing with vibrant colors. Just be prepared for the enormous crowds of tourists that will be joining you.

TIP | Early bird? Go at sunrise and join the small groups of pensioners for some morning tai chi while enjoying this beautiful backdrop.

Enjoy the Bund Light Show – A new must-see!

During our most recent visit to Shanghai, we stumbled upon something new: a full light show projected onto the Pudong skyscrapers! It’s absolutely stunning and honestly one of the most magical nighttime activities in the city.

The Bund lights switch on around 6 pm or 7 pm, depending on the season, and starting from 7:30 pm, the skyline comes to life with a synchronized show every 30 minutes on the dot. We were so obsessed that we went multiple times, each time choosing a new spot to watch from.

2. Find a quiet escape at North Bund Green Land

This newer area became one of our favorite finds. North Bund Green Land offers a side-view perspective of the iconic Pudong skyline without the overwhelming crowds. The boardwalk along the Huangpu River is perfect for watching the city light up at sunset.

The new green spaces are gorgeous, think landscaped flower beds, small parks, viewing platforms, and even a shiny silver sphere photo spot you’ve probably seen online. There’s also a bridge and an open-air gym integrated into the greenery.

If you need a caffeine fix with a view, there’s a tiny Manner Coffee kiosk right on the boardwalk. It’s always packed (Manner is beloved in Shanghai), but don’t worry, there are branches everywhere in the city.

Food Tip Nearby | From the main road on the other side of the green land, walk over to Shanghai Baiyulan Plaza, a cluster of modern buildings full of great restaurants. There’s high-end dining, plenty of Western options, and if you head to the B-levels, a surprisingly good food court with tons of choices.

3. Take in the city from The Stage Observatory

If you’re after a unique aerial view of the skyline, one that includes all the Pudong skyscrapers and The Bund, head to the newest addition to the city: The Stage Observatory.

Built on top of a helipad (similar to the one in Chongqing), this observatory is more like an experience than just a viewpoint. The price is a bit higher, but we thought it was absolutely worth it. Upon arrival, you get fun little gadgets (we got a fan and sunglasses), plus a complimentary drink. We sipped Aperol Spritzes while a live DJ played chilled lounge music; honestly, such a vibe.

Best Time to Visit | Go right before sunset so you can watch the city shift from golden hour to neon glow. It’s spectacular.

Booking Tip | Reserve ahead via Trip.com, they often offer discounts & tickets can be limited as they limit the number of visitors and work with timed entries.

4. Explore Shanghai’s Old Town

The Old Town must be the best place to get a feeling of what traditional China would have been like. With its amazing ancient-looking architecture, small alleys, temples, and pavilions. Street food stalls serve everything from pan-fried buns to huge Xiao Long Bao, and wandering around the alleys is an experience in itself.

On our latest visit, we noticed the entire area got a makeover. The buildings are now painted deep red (instead of the more wooden, brown tones from 2019). One pavilion is even fully gilded in gold! The atmosphere has definitely changed: more commercial shops, fewer traditional handicraft stalls, and many narrow-alley street vendors are gone.

That said, the area is still very charming, especially after dark when the lanterns and tea houses light up.

Souvenir Tip | Skip the shops inside Old Town as prices are higher for the exact same items you’ll find just outside the gates. Or head to Tianzifang for more unique gifts.

Don’t forget to make a stop at the City God Temple, a Taoist temple right in the Old Town. If you decide to stick around until the evening falls, you will get to experience all the colorful illuminated lanterns. Most of the buildings such as the tea houses are lit up, and the area is really cozy to walk around!

5. Unwind in the Yuyuan Gardens

If you are already in the Old Town, you should definitely stop by the Yuyuan Gardens. The entrance is right in the center of the Old Town, across from the famous Huxinting Teahouse. This garden is the best example of a traditional Ming Dynasty garden with its decorated ponds, bridges, and colorful pavilions. The place is more than 400 years old and covers 6 scenic areas. It’s a popular place though, so don’t expect to have the gardens all to yourself. However, you might still find small, serene corners.

In my first week in Shanghai, I spent a full afternoon at the Yuyuan Gardens. I really enjoyed taking my time here and finding my way through all the small paths. Soaking up all the beauty of this place while being accompanied by some traditional music in the background.

6. Step Inside the Jing’an Temple

Standing in front of Jing’an Temple is like looking at Shanghai’s essence: old meets new. The golden Buddhist temple contrasts sharply with the modern shopping malls and chaos of West Nanjing Road. The temple’s history goes back to the War of the Three Kingdoms in the 2nd century AD. However, the complex you see today dates back to the Song Dynasty and was rebuilt again in the 1980s, when the pagoda was also added.

As soon as you walk in, you’ll notice several halls to explore. The most notable ones are the Mahavira Hall, the Hall of the Heavenly Kings, and the Hall of the Three Saints. You will likely see visitors throwing coins into the openings of the pagodas to make a wish. Since Jing’an Temple is an active place of worship, monks can often be seen praying in the halls or quietly walking through the courtyards.

You can wander around the temple both at ground level and on the upper gate level. From there you get a closer look at the two towers near the entrance. The pagoda sits at the very back, although it isn’t accessible from inside the temple. It is best viewed from the outside, where you can take in its full height.

However… the entrance fee has increased to 50 RMB, and in our opinion, it’s not the best value. We personally prefer the Jade Buddha Temple, which has a calmer atmosphere and beautiful inner courtyards, and it’s free. Still, because of its central location, Jing’an Temple remains a popular stop for first-time visitors.

7. Explore More of the Jing’an District

Jing’an isn’t just about the temple! Stick around, because the area is full of great food, shopping, and heritage pockets.

From the temple, wander toward Wujian Road and the Zhangyuan district. Wujian Road has always been lively, but now it’s buzzing with bubble tea shops, bakeries, and street snacks. Shanghai really nails the “cute coffee shop” aesthetic.

Continue south toward Zhangyuan, where beautifully restored Shikumen buildings line photogenic plazas. Big brands have moved into the old lane houses, giving them a Parisian flair. Afterward, head to West Nanjing Road to peek inside the Starbucks Reserve Roastery, one of the largest in the world.

But the star of the area is the new Louis Vuitton flagship, shaped like a giant ship and fully monogrammed. It draws a constant crowd as it’s surreal and very, very Shanghai.

8. Bike or Walk Through the French Concession

Want to experience some European kind of flair while being in Shanghai? Then head over to the trendy French Concession. Due to its colonial past, this neighborhood is full of leafy boulevards, European-style mansions, teahouses, boutiques, and (not exaggerating) some of the best bakeries we’ve ever tried, even compared to Europe.

During our last trip, we spent most of our time here and fell in love with the area all over again. It’s best explored by bike using the rental system through Alipay.

What to Explore

• Huaihai Road for stores like Gentle Monster, Muji, Adidas,…
  
• The charming side streets which are endlessly photogenic
  
• Sinan Mansions, a beautifully restored area of historic mansions housing fun events, boutique shops and cozy cafés
  
• Fuxing Park to watch elderly locals doing Tai Chi & enjoy some greenery
  
• Anfu Road, Wuyuan Road & Wukang Road for boutiques and cafés
  

The famous Wukang Mansion has turned into a full-blown Instagram spectacle, complete with girls in dresses hiring photographers on the spot. Fun fact, hiring a photographer at big sights has become a huge thing in China, you will see it everywhere! Honestly, the people-watching is more entertaining than the building itself.

9. Visit Xintiandi & Nearby Laoximen

In the former French Concession part of the city, Xintiandi gives the best example of local stone-gate houses or Shikumen architecture. For a glimpse of Shanghai’s architectural past, visit Laoximen, one of the last large historic neighborhoods of the old walled city. Here, you can see shikumen houses, where locals still live and run small shops. As you walk through Laoximen, you’ll eventually cross into Xintiandi, a stylish modern, pedestrian-friendly area filled with trendy cafés, fine dining restaurants, and upscale boutiques. It’s an interesting contrast to see the old alongside the new.

Xintiandi has a special place in China’s history as the birthplace of the Communist Party, so it’s not just a pretty neighborhood but also holds major historic significance. Even though the area has been modernized, the exterior of the shikumen houses has been preserved, giving the place a unique feel. At times, it might feel like you’re walking through Paris, but this is very much Shanghai! The area is part of the French Concession, and you’ll notice the French influence everywhere. Visit in the evening when the street lights come on, and the area comes alive with people and music. It’s definitely one of the top things to do in Shanghai!

10. Get lost in the narrow alleyways of Tianzifang

In this part of the town, you can also find Tianzifang, a vibrant shopping neighborhood. Tianzifang is known for its traditional shikumen architecture and charming narrow alleys. It is mainly an arts and crafts district, filled with a bunch of boutique gift shops, art galleries, and clothing shops. In the past, it was more of a residential area, and a lot of the old character remains thanks to the small lanes and well-preserved houses. It’s the perfect counterpart to the big shopping malls and intimidating skyscrapers. We mostly enjoyed this area at night, since it contains a bunch of restaurants, numerous food stalls with delicious street food, cozy cafés, and music bars.

The neighborhood has changed a bit over the years: more commercial brands have moved in (like the White Rabbit store or Qingzhi hand cream, which you’ll see everywhere). But it’s still very much worth visiting, because there are plenty of independent, creative shops you won’t find anywhere else.

You can buy things like hand-painted fans, tiny painted glass vials, or – our favorite – the finger-painted Chinese landscapes made by a lovely lady who has been doing them for decades. Some food stalls we remembered are gone, but Tianzifang still has its charm. It honestly surprises me that it’s not mentioned more often on “things to do in Shanghai” lists.

11. See the Pudong skyscrapers up close in Lujiazui District

When Shanghai comes to mind, the image that inevitably pops up is one of towering skyscrapers and dazzling city lights. To truly appreciate these iconic landmarks, make your way to Lujiazui, the bustling financial district accessible via the efficient, speedy, and budget-friendly Shanghai metro system. Ascend to the skywalk, where you’ll find yourself close to these majestic skyscrapers. Amid the impressive skyline, the distinctive Oriental Pearl Tower stands out with its unique shape and vibrant colors.

Take a leisurely stroll along the riverside in the afternoon, and afterward, make your way up to one of the towering structures. Treat your eyes to the breathtaking panoramic view that unfolds across the entire city. Stay a while to witness the city transform as the sun sets, and the real spectacle begins when the city lights up in every direction. For an unparalleled experience, we recommend ascending either the Shanghai Tower or the Shanghai World Financial Tower. From these vantage points, you’ll have the highest and most optimal spot to immerse yourself in the beauty that surrounds you.

Did you know? The Pudong area, with the current skyline we know today, was just a fishing village before the nineties? The Oriental Pearl Tower was the first skyscraper to be built in the famous waterfront area in 1994.

12. Enjoy a cocktail at a rooftop bar

If you want skyline views but don’t feel like paying for a tower ticket, head to one of Shanghai’s many rooftop bars. During our last trip, we visited The Edition, right off Nanjing Road. The sunset view over The Bund and Pudong skyline was incredible.

Other fancy popular rooftop bars are: ‘Char’ at Hotel Indigo (one of our favorites in Bangkok as well!), Flair Shanghai, Bar rouge (more party vibe), or we also loved Mr & Mrs Bund terrace for a serene drink.

For a more laidback & affordable option, head to Captain Bar, which was a student favorite of ours when we were on a tighter budget. The bar isn’t as high, but you still get a nice view of the skyline. 

TIP | Many rooftop bars require reservations or have dress codes. Some prime spots have minimum spend requirements.

13. Walk down Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street

Nanjing Road or Nánjing Lù, Shanghai’s most famous pedestrian shopping road. It attracts crowds of tourists, but a must-visit to witness the neon light signs. There will be no escaping anyway since this road leads you right up onto the famous Bund. The street has been a commercial hub since the early 20th century and is best visited in the evening, when the lights and crowds give it a lively atmosphere. Along this long road, you will find all types of shops ranging from more exclusive boutiques on the Westside to souvenirs and gadgets on the Eastside.

Along the way, you’ll pass what was once the biggest department store in Asia, the Shanghai No. 1 Department Store, which dates back to 1936. You can also stop by the Shanghai No. 1 Food Store, a long-running spot for local snacks ranging from cured meats to hot pot bases, glutinous rice balls, and the traditional White Rabbit candy. Nearby, the Shanghai No. 1 Dispensary offers Chinese medicines and herbs. Beyond these historic shops, the rest of the street is lined with modern malls and major brands such as Huawei, Uniqlo, Miniso, and Pop Mart.

While wandering around, you will also be treated to some entertainment and street performances. You can even take a small train ride down the street to soak it all in.

TRAVEL TIP | Stop by the Bund Food Terminal on East Nanjing Road: Feeling hungry as you head towards the Bund? You can’t miss the Bund Food Terminal with its neon lights and lively atmosphere. This huge food court even extends underground, offering pretty much every type of cuisine you can think of. Whether you’re craving dumplings, noodle soups, or scallion pancakes, you’ll find something delicious here. If you’re in the mood for a sweet treat, check out the fresh juices, Taiyaki, or bubble waffles. And it’s not just about the food – the whole place feels like an arcade, making it a fun stop for anyone!

14. Try Xiaolongbao at Huanghe Road Food Market

If you’re on the hunt for authentic Shanghai flavors, head to Huanghe Road, especially if it’s around breakfast time. This popular food street is where locals go for favorites like xiaolongbao – our personal favorite! (soup dumplings), jianbing (savory crepes), and noodles – all at reasonable prices. If you’re a dumpling lover, be sure to stop by No. 90 Jiajiatangbao, Lai Lai Xiao Long Bao or No. 97 Yang’s Dumplings, which are famous for good reason.

To get here, take Metro Line 1, 2, or 8 to People’s Square Station, and from there, it’s just a short walk to Huanghe Road.

15. Enjoy Shanghai’s café culture & bakery treats

Between all the sightseeing, one of the nicest things to do in Shanghai is taking a break with a good tea, coffee, or something from one of the many bakeries. If you didn’t know, Shanghai has a huge bakery & coffee culture, with the most coffee shops in the world! We often grab pastries for breakfast and pair them with a coffee to-go.

Our favorite coffee spot was Manner Coffee, a homegrown franchise that’s now everywhere in the city. For Matcha lattes, bubble tea, or fruit teas, we loved Hey Tea, which became our go-to throughout China. For classic milk tea, Chagee is always a solid choice.

As for bakeries, you’ll have no trouble finding great ones! The variety and quality honestly surprised us, some of the best we ever had abroad (and we say that as Europeans who are usually quite proud of our pastries).

16. People’s Square – A Classic Stop in the City Center

When continuing West of Nanjing Road, you will eventually end up in the heart of the city at People’s Square (Rénmín Guangchang). It’s the city’s main public green space and the host to several museums. You can find the Shanghai Museum, Shanghai City Hall, Grand Theatre, and Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center here. We can recommend the last one if you are interested in seeing how the city has evolved over the years and what the future plans are. The park is a tranquil getaway, but at the same time, it’s always active. Many elderly gather here to play games, practice music or Tai Chi, and perform Chinese line dancing in groups.

TIP | If you visit People Square during the weekend, you will be surprised by the famous Shanghai Marriage Market. This is a matchmaking event where parents gather to find a suitable partner for their child. Colorful umbrellas are being displayed throughout the park, with attached biographies of their children. Fun/ sad fact: a lot of times, the children don’t even know their parents are trying to hook them up with somebody. And who knows, you might just get matched ;p.

Shanghai Museum

If there is one museum you need to put on your ‘Things to do in Shanghai’ list, it’s the Shanghai Museum. It’s the best way to get a better perspective on Chinese history and it gives you a broad overview of Chinese art. The modern-looking museum is located right in People’s Square, so you can’t miss it. The museum features various exhibitions and collections, showing ancient bronze sculptures & relics, ceramics, calligraphy & paintings. One of our favorite parts is the one showcasing the arts of Ethnic Minority groups. The exhibition is on the top floor and displays dresses, artifacts like masks, and furniture.

17. Visit the Shanghai Greenhouse at Expo Park

Since our last visit six years ago, Shanghai has changed a lot, and one of the most interesting new additions is the Shanghai Greenhouse in the Expo Cultural Park. If you have more than a couple of days in the city, this is a great activity.

If you’ve been to Singapore’s Cloud Forest and Flower Dome, this place will feel familiar. The greenhouse complex opened in late 2024 and includes a Cloud Forest section that’s very similar to the one at Gardens by the Bay, with misty walkways, lush greenery, and tall rock structures. If you haven’t visited Singapore’s version yet, you’ll definitely enjoy this one. And even though we had already seen the one in Singapore (which was absolutely magical), we still really liked this one in Shanghai.

The entire site is made up of three separate greenhouses, each with its own theme:

• Sand Mirage Pavilion — simulating the ecological environment of arid regions with cacti, palms, baobabs, and other drought-resistant plants from places like Madagascar.
  
• Cloud Forest Pavilion — tropical rainforest vegetation, similar to Singapore’s.
  
• Vertical Flower Pavilion — filled with orchids and rotating exhibitions, with canopy walkways that let you wander above the gardens. You can walk along bridges, platforms that take you through a gorge and valley.

18. Find serenity at the Jade Buddha Temple

Another must-see temple when you are in Shanghai is the Jade Buddha Temple. This one is located north of the Jing’an district. This former Buddhist monastery was originally founded in 1882 and was built in the traditional Song Dynasty style. The temple is instantly recognizable by its bright yellow walls and symmetrical layout surrounding a central courtyard.

Inside, the main attraction is the two-meter sitting Buddha statue from Myanmar. The statue was carved from pure white Burmese jade and decorated with a robe made of precious gems. There are many other Buddhist relics and statues to admire as you walk through the halls.

The Jade Buddha Temple is a bit removed from other major attractions. However, it is absolutely worth visiting. The atmosphere is calmer and more reflective than at Jing’an Temple, and it feels far more peaceful despite its central location. Entrance is free, which is another welcome contrast to the more touristy spots. Personally, we preferred the Jade Buddha Temple for its serenity and authenticity.

19. Explore the M50 art district

Looking for a more edgy and hip area to hang out for an afternoon? Then the contemporary art district of M50 (short for Moganshan 50) is the way to go. This industrial complex is home to the city’s best art galleries and is often compared to New York’s Soho. It showcases upcoming local artists and commercial prints next to more sophisticated, provocative pieces. Next to being a very photogenic spot, it also offers some cozy coffee bars to sit back and enjoy the neighborhood’s atmosphere.

20. Check out the insane 1001 Trees Shopping Mall

Right near the M50 art district, you’ll find the trending 1001 Trees mall. The architecture went viral online and I did see it under construction back in 2019! The building itself is worth stopping by for photos, and the surrounding area along Suzhou Creek is lovely in the afternoon. However, the mall interior is still fairly empty and lacks atmosphere. Think of it more as a “cool building to see” than a must-do attraction.

We made a post with an overview of all the hip & trendy Shanghai photo spots, often Instagram famous. Some of them are cool to see, others are overrated in our opinion, and have gotten out of hand as photo spots. 

21. Wander through Building 1933 & Hongkou District

This one doesn’t make it often on the ‘Best things to do in Shanghai’ lists, which is truly a pity. 1933 is a former slaughterhouse that has been transformed into an industrial-looking shopping complex that hosts creative spaces, shops, and bars. The most interesting part though, is the labyrinth of bridges and the photogenic angles of the place. The surrounding area of the Hongkou district makes the trip even more worth it. The district is characterized by small water streams featuring shikumen houses and traditional Shanghai-style buildings along the side. It’s an upcoming hip neighborhood and less crowded since it’s not that well-known yet by tourists. I think from all the areas we visited, we were most pleasantly surprised by this part of the city. Truly a hidden gem!

22. Take a day trip to a nearby Water Town

We saved one of our personal favorites for last. Depending on your itinerary, we highly recommend adding one day to visit a nearby water town near Shanghai. They are located outside the city center, where Qibao and Zhujiajiao are only a 1-hour metro ride away. You can get a glimpse of the true traditional Shanghai during the old Chinese dynasty.

These water towns consist of small water streams, with cozy alleyways and bridges, wooden-style houses, and a lot of street food stalls. Zhujiajiao is one of those ancient water villages where it will feel like you have been transported back in time. Discover Zhujiajiao with this personalized private tour from Shanghai. Embark on a boat journey along the town’s charming small canals and explore the serene KeZhi Garden alongside your dedicated guide.

Another option is Qibao, which is a bit on a smaller scale, but perfect if you only have an afternoon to spare.  It’s an old residential area filled with pavilions and traditional tea houses along the water lanes.

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