Discover the Best Shanghai Tourist Places:
A Complete Travel Guide
Shanghai is a city with history and a city with the future, a city that offers the traveler a once in a lifetime experience. Shanghai is China’s largest and most cosmopolitan city, bursting with iconic landmarks, cultural treasures, bohemian neighborhoods, and jaw-dropping skyscrapers. If you are heading to visit this electric city, great, this is your ultimate guide about the most famous places in Shanghai, the best Shanghai tourist places, and when you should visit for the best getaway.
Best Time to Visit Shanghai tourist spots
Before diving into the top attractions, let’s talk about timing. The best time to visit Shanghai is usually in spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). These are mild and comfortable months, which is good weather for sightseeing. During spring, the cities are filled with life and the flowers bloom, while during autumn the crisp air fills the city with golden landscapes everywhere. Shanghai is a China tourist attraction city which glitters particularly during these seasons when the city life of Shanghai and its scenic beauty shine at their best. Don’t come during the height of summer (June to August), it can get hot and humid. The coldest time is from December to February (winter), but fewer people visit at this time, making it ideal for budget travellers.
Top Shanghai Tourist Places You Can’t Miss
1. The Bund (Waitan)
One of the most iconic Shanghai tourist spots, The Bund, is an obligatory stroll for anyone going to Shanghai. The Bund is the western bank of Huangpu River, looking across to Pudong’s futuristic skyline. Rows of colonial-era buildings from Shanghai’s past as a major international port can be seen on the western side. Book a flight to Shanghai and dive into the experience of this beautiful mix of history and modernity in real life. Do try to go at night when the bright lights make for a picture-perfect moment.
- Tip: The best views are from the Huangpu River night cruise.
2. Oriental Pearl Tower
The tower is arguably one of the best-known structures of China, and among the famous Shanghai tourist places. It is worth a visit in the Lujiazui area of Pudong. This space-age tower is much more than pretty. It is crammed full of observatories, one of which has a glass floor enabling you to see thrilling views of the city while dangling up in the air.
A small museum inside even shows the history of the city, thus making it a good educational and entertainment place.
- Timings: 8:00 AM – 9:30 PM (last entry at 9:00 PM)
- Entry Fee: ¥160 – ¥220 (varies by level access)
3. Yu Garden (Yuyuan Garden)
If you’re seeking a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle, Yu Garden is one of the most serene places to go in Shanghai. Dating back to the Ming Dynasty, this classic Chinese garden is filled with koi ponds, stone bridges, and intricately designed pavilions. Right outside the garden is the bustling Yuyuan Bazaar, perfect for buying souvenirs and tasting local snacks.
- Must-try: Xiao Long Bao (soup dumplings) from a nearby food stall.
- Timing: 8:45 AM – 4:45 PM (last entry at 4:20 PM)
- Entry Fee: ¥30 – ¥40 (~$4 – $5.50), varies by season
4. Shanghai Tower
If you are looking for the top that gives you the most, or if you want to ride high, you will find that the Shanghai Tower also does this. Being the second-tallest building in the world, it stands at 632 meters. It has the best observation deck in the city and all around. However, it is a relatively new addition and it has already made it to the top of the must visit’s Shanghai tourist places.
- Bonus: The highest elevator of the world is included as a bonus.
- Timing: 8:30 AM – 10:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Observation deck (118th floor) has an entry fee of ¥180 (~$25).
5. Tianzifang – A Creative Hub
A twisting labyrinth of narrow lanes filled with art studios and whimsical shops is what Tianzifang is like. Although it is now one of the hippest Shanghai tourist spots, attracting mostly young travelers and art lovers, it has built its character by blending the traditional Shikumen architecture and the creativity of the present day.
- Don’t Miss: Local handcrafted artworks and photography also exhibit.
6. Jade Buddha Temple
For a more cultural experience, visit the Jade Buddha Temple, possibly the most spiritual, peaceful places to go in Shanghai. Erected in the year 1882, the temple contains two jade Buddha statues, which came from Burma. Here, the place is tranquil and reverent, and one can sense the religious life of the city.
- Tip: For a quieter experience, visit during early morning prayers.
- Timings: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Entry Fee: ¥20 (for the temple), ¥10 (additional for the sight of Jade Buddha)
7. Nanjing Road – For Shopping and People-Watching
One of the busiest retail streets in the world, shopping here is an experience by itself. It runs along the Bund up to Jing’an Temple, with a sprinkling of luxury boutiques among traditional stores. Walking, absorbing the atmosphere of boisterous energy, flashing neon signs, and street performers. Book a car ahead of time for convenience, as you may want to explore more of the city, or may even have a lot of shopping bags.
- Tip: Nanjing Road East serves high-end fashion, while the western part has malls and department stores for the best bargains.
8. French Concession – Colonial Charm
The French Concession is arguably the strangest in terms of Shanghai tourist places. Leafy boulevards, European-style architecture, and a laid-back vibe define it, making it excellent as an area for a lazy day walk, a cup of coffee in a sidewalk café, or a meal at a trendy restaurant.
- Highlight: Top things to do in the park with inexpensive locals- Tai Chi and dancing.
Conclusion
Shanghai is a city that never stays still. It has historical sites, modern creations, shopping havens, and artistic corners to visit.
There is no end to the compelling Shanghai tourist spots with which the city surprises a visitor. From The Bund with its panoramic view of the skyline to the cultural dive into the Jade Buddha Temple to sipping on some coffee in a quiet cafe in the French Concession, all showcase why Shanghai is one of the most exciting places in Asia.
So if you are searching for the sightseeing delights and Shanghai tourist places that most people visit, or even if you need inspiration for where to go for your next travel trip, this city has it all. Best to let European Travel assist you in drawing together a perfect China holiday package incorporating major sights with all the hidden gems, so start planning right away: Shanghai is calling!
