10 Best Things to do in Shanghai, China

Planning a trip to Shanghai? You’re in the right place!

Shanghai is one of those cities that sweeps you off your feet the moment you arrive. Between the glittering skyline of the Bund, the winding alleyways filled with sizzling street food, and the peaceful water towns just outside the city, there’s truly something for every type of traveler. 

When we first explored Shanghai, what struck us most was the balance of old and new. One moment, we were cycling past colonial architecture, the next, we were tasting dumplings that felt like a centuries-old tradition. To help you make the most of your time, we’ve rounded up ten of the best tours and experiences.

Your Shanghai adventure starts here!

Things to do in Shanghai, China

1. Taste your way around Shanghai on a food tour

There’s no better way to understand Shanghai than through its food! This guided tour takes you beyond the tourist spots and straight into the bustling heart of the city’s culinary scene, where every bite tells a story. From morning tastings to late-night adventures, it’s a delicious crash course in Shanghai’s flavors and traditions.

You’ll stroll down Huangpi Road with a guide, slipping into hidden eateries that most visitors would walk right past. Think steaming bowls of scallion oil noodles, pillowy buns fresh from the basket, and soup dumplings dipped in black vinegar—staples that showcase Shanghai’s comfort food at its best. Along the way, your guide shares stories of how these dishes fit into the city’s history and everyday life, adding depth to every bite.

By the end, you’ll leave both full and inspired, with a much deeper appreciation for how food shapes the rhythm of Shanghai. It’s not just a tasting—it’s an introduction to the city through its kitchens and street stalls.

This tour is perfect for food lovers, first-time visitors, or anyone who wants to see the city through its kitchens and street stalls. With small groups, flexible start times, and plenty of tastings included, it’s an easy and tasty way to dive into local culture.

2. Explore Zhujiajiao Water Town and Shanghai City with a private guide

If you only have one full day in Shanghai, this private tour is the best way to see both the city highlights and the charming water town of Zhujiajiao. You won’t have to worry about transport or tickets, everything is taken care of, so you can focus on soaking up the sights and stories along the way.

We spent the morning wandering the canals of Zhujiajiao, which felt like stepping back in time. Snow, our wonderful guide, shared little anecdotes about the town’s history as we drifted along by boat and then walked its narrow lanes. Lunch was a highlight in itself, with local dishes that gave us a real taste of the region’s flavors.

In the afternoon, we returned to Shanghai, starting at the tranquil Yuyuan Garden before heading to the Bund for that classic skyline view. Snow’s commentary made the history of the Bund come alive, especially as she pointed out the different architectural styles. We wrapped up the day at Shanghai Tower, watching the city stretch out beneath us from above, truly breathtaking!

This tour is ideal if you want to see a mix of old and new Shanghai without any of the planning stress. With a private guide tailoring the day to your interests, it feels both personal and seamless. It was our absolute favorite tour in Shanghai, and we’re clearly not alone—just check out the glowing five-star reviews here from other travelers who loved it too!

3. Take a day trip to Suzhou

Known as the “Venice of the East,” Suzhou is packed with winding canals, elegant gardens, and centuries of history, and this full-day private tour makes it easy to explore without stress. With hotel pickup, fast train travel, and an all-inclusive ticket that covers lunch, garden entry, and a canal boat ride, everything is arranged so you can simply enjoy the experience.

We met Annie, our fantastic guide, in the morning and caught the bullet train from Shanghai, just 30 minutes later we were stepping into Suzhou. Our first stop was the UNESCO-listed Humble Administrator’s Garden, where Annie pointed out the rockeries, pavilions, and even bonsai trees that have been cared for over generations. Strolling through its shaded paths felt like walking inside a living painting.

From there, we wandered along Pingjiang Road with its stone-paved lanes and lantern-lit canals before stopping for a delicious local lunch. Annie ordered a spread of Suzhou specialties that we never would have known to try on our own. In the afternoon, we explored Tiger Hill and then took a peaceful boat ride along the Grand Canal, gliding past historic streets and lively waterfronts.

This tour is ideal if you want to discover Suzhou in comfort with everything included. With a private guide like Annie tailoring the day to your pace and interests, you’ll come away with a true appreciation for this historic city.

4. Bicycle around Old Shanghai

Exploring Shanghai by bike is one of the most fun ways to see the city’s hidden corners. On this small-group bicycle tour, you’ll cycle through Old Town and the Former French Concession, weaving past leafy streets, parks, and temples while getting a real feel for everyday life.

The morning begins with a warm welcome (and even a hot coffee) at the tour base before setting off on vintage bikes. The first stop is Fuxing Park, where visitors often find locals practicing tai chi or dancing—a lively and unexpected scene right in the middle of the city.

Next, the ride continues to Fazang Temple. Whether Buddhist or Taoist, the visit offers a thoughtful introduction to China’s spiritual traditions, with guides explaining the rituals in a way that’s easy to follow.

One of the highlights is pedaling into the narrow alleys of Old Town. It feels like stepping into a different era, far removed from the skyscrapers and bustle of modern Shanghai. Stops at traditional wet markets add even more color and energy, giving a glimpse into daily life through food and ingredients.

This half-day tour is a great choice if you want to mix sightseeing with light activity. It’s easy-paced, includes tasty local treats, and with just eight people per group, it’s personal and relaxed.

5. Take an evening cruise on the Huangpu River

Shanghai really comes alive at night, and this evening tour combines two highlights into one seamless experience: a river cruise along the Huangpu and a hearty Xinjiang-style dinner. With private transport and a knowledgeable guide by your side, it’s the perfect way to enjoy the city without worrying about logistics.

The evening typically begins with hotel pickup and a short drive to the cruise terminal. Once aboard, you can head up to the top deck to take in the views. On one side, the grand colonial buildings of the Bund glow softly, including landmarks like the Peace Hotel and Shanghai Pudong Development Bank. On the other, Pudong’s futuristic skyline lights up with the Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai Tower, creating a magical contrast across the river.

After the cruise, you’ll sit down to dinner at a popular Xinjiang restaurant in Pudong. Plates of fragrant Dapanji (a big plate of chicken with noodles and potatoes), freshly grilled lamb kebabs, warm naan bread, and tangy Xinjiang yogurt are all on the menu. Some evenings even include live music and dancing, which makes the experience feel even more festive.

This evening tour is a fantastic choice if you want a mix of sightseeing and culture in just a few hours. With everything included, from river tickets to dinner and transport, it’s an effortless and memorable night out in Shanghai.

Related Read: Wondering how to plan your days? Our ideal Shanghai itinerary is full of ideas on how to spend 1 to 5 days here!

6. Experience temples, tea tastings, and a lake on a Hangzhou day trip

Hangzhou is often described as one of China’s most beautiful cities, and it’s easy to see why. With serene temples, rolling tea fields, and the famous West Lake, it feels like a peaceful escape from Shanghai’s fast-paced energy. This private day trip makes the journey super simple with bullet train transfers, a local guide, and an itinerary that can be completely customized!

Our guide met us at the hotel in Shanghai, and within an hour on the bullet train, we were stepping into Hangzhou. The day started at West Lake, where we boarded a boat for a leisurely ride across the calm water. With willow trees dipping into the shoreline and pagodas peeking through the mist, it felt almost dreamlike.

Next, we headed into the Longjing tea fields. After wandering among the tea terraces, we sat down to a fresh local lunch paired with fragrant cups of green tea, a highlight of the day for us. 

In the afternoon, we explored Lingyin Temple, one of the most important Buddhist temples in China. The carvings, incense, and peaceful courtyards made it a memorable stop, though our guide mentioned we could swap it out for other attractions if we preferred.

This day trip is perfect if you’re looking for nature, culture, and great food all wrapped into one. With everything from train tickets to lunch included, it’s an easy and rewarding escape from Shanghai.

7. See the famous Shanghai Acrobatics Show

Looking for an evening in Shanghai that will leave you absolutely amazed? This Shanghai acrobatics show at Circus World’s ERA Theatre is one of those experiences you’ll be talking about long after the curtain falls. It combines centuries-old acrobatic traditions with modern staging, music, and special effects, a mix that had us glued to our seats from start to finish.

We took our seats in Section A, and from the very first act, we were hooked. Performers spun plates with impossible precision, stacked themselves into towers, and balanced on chairs that seemed like they’d topple at any second. 

The energy built throughout the show until the motorcycles roared into the arena, circling inside a metal sphere with heart-stopping speed, we were on the edge of our seats! The lighting, music, and stage effects elevated the performance into something truly world-class.

What we loved most, though, was how the show felt both distinctly Chinese and universal. The mix of traditional music and modern choreography made it easy to appreciate the cultural roots while still being dazzled by the spectacle. Families with kids around us were just as wide-eyed as we were, proving this is one of those rare experiences that captivates every age group.

If you’re looking for an evening of entertainment in Shanghai that goes beyond sightseeing, this is a must. The show is easy to book, seats are comfortable, and with free cancellation, it’s stress-free to add to your itinerary.

8. Learn about the architecture, culture, and history of the Former French Concession

Shanghai’s Former French Concession is one of the city’s most fascinating neighborhoods, with leafy boulevards, Art Deco architecture, and layers of history tucked behind every corner. On this private walking tour, you’ll uncover stories that you’d easily miss on your own, all with the insight of a local guide.

With a guide leading the way, you’ll explore landmarks like the Lanxin Theater, the elegant Cathay Mansion, and the Okura Garden Hotel, once the French Club, where the interiors still echo with old-world glamour. A highlight for many is the former residence of Dr. Sun Yat-Sen, which brings Shanghai’s revolutionary past vividly to life.

As you walk, you’ll also slip into quieter courtyards and tucked-away residential lanes. It feels like peeling back the layers of the city to reveal hidden corners that most visitors overlook. The tour often wraps up in Fuxing Park, where you can watch locals practicing tai chi under shady trees or gathering for lively card games—a perfect glimpse of daily life.

This tour is a wonderful choice if you want to combine architecture, history, and culture into a relaxed few hours. With your guide tailoring the pace and focus to your interests, it’s like walking the city with a friend who knows all its secrets!

9. See the Southern Great Wall 

Did you know you don’t have to travel all the way to Beijing to walk the Great Wall of China? The Southern Great Wall in Linhai, Zhejiang province, offers an incredible alternative, and this full-day private tour makes it easy to get there by bullet train from Shanghai.

We met our guide, Summer, early in the morning and boarded the high-speed train for a smooth ride into Linhai. After a hearty buffet lunch of local specialties (the dumplings were our favorite), we started exploring. First up was East Lake Garden, where peaceful lakes and traditional pavilions set the tone for the day. It was such a relaxing spot, and Summer pointed out details in the architecture and landscaping we would have missed on our own.

The real highlight, of course, was walking the Southern Great Wall itself. Stretching across the hills for miles, it felt both familiar and unique, built by the same designer as Beijing’s Badaling Wall but far less crowded. 

With Summer sharing stories about its history, we had plenty of time to enjoy the views and soak up the atmosphere. Later, we wandered through Ziyang Old Street, where restored buildings, shops, and food stalls gave us a glimpse of local life.

This tour is a fantastic option if you’re eager to see the Great Wall without venturing to Beijing. With comfortable transport, a knowledgeable guide like Summer, and a mix of history and culture, it’s an unforgettable day trip.

10. Learn Chinese Calligraphy

Sometimes the best souvenirs aren’t bought, they’re created! This two-hour calligraphy workshop gives you the chance to learn one of China’s oldest art forms and bring home a piece of your own work. Guided by a local artist, you’ll dive into the techniques and traditions that have shaped Chinese calligraphy for centuries.

The class begins with a relaxed introduction to the history of calligraphy over tea. You’ll hear the stories behind some of the most famous works and gain a deeper appreciation for how this art is woven into Chinese culture. From there, the artist introduces the traditional tools—brushes, ink, and rice paper—and shows you the basics of brush strokes.

Once you’ve had some warm-up practice, you’ll move on to your final project: creating a folding fan decorated with a Chinese character of your choice. It’s both challenging and fun to focus on each brush movement, and at the end, holding up your finished fan feels like a true accomplishment.

This experience is ideal if you want to slow down and connect with Shanghai in a creative way. It’s easy-going, beginner-friendly, and you leave with a one-of-a-kind keepsake.

Where to Stay in Shanghai

Shanghai has no shortage of great places to stay—whether you’re after a luxurious getaway with skyline views, a mid-range hotel close to the action, or a budget-friendly base that still delivers comfort. From Bund-side towers with rooftop bars to modern stays in lively neighborhoods, there’s something here for every style and budget.

To help narrow it down, we’ve highlighted three of the best options across different price ranges. Hotels here book up quickly, so if you find one that fits your travel dates, it’s smart to reserve early!

The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai – $$$

If skyline views top your list, The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai is a standout. Steps from the Oriental Pearl Tower, it blends Art Deco elegance with modern luxuries like spa-style bathrooms and B&O sound systems. Guests rave about the spa, 24-hour gym, and dining—from Italian at Scena to Cantonese at Jin Xuan. Don’t miss Flair, China’s highest rooftop bar, with unbeatable Bund views.

Rooms typically run $350–$500 USD per night. Check your dates and book your stay on Booking.com!

Radisson Blu New World – $$

The Radisson Blu New World is ideal for convenience, set across from People’s Square and steps from East Nanjing Road. Spacious rooms feature warm lighting, wood accents, and bathtubs—great after a day of sightseeing. Guests love the 47th-floor revolving restaurant with panoramic city views, plus the Sky Dome Bar for evening drinks. With a spa, pool, and fitness room, there’s plenty to enjoy on-site too.

Rooms average about $150 USD per night. See current rates and reserve your stay on Booking.com today!

Novotel Atlantis Shanghai – $

Novotel Atlantis Shanghai offers skyline views in Pudong without the hefty price tag. Located in the Lujiazui district, it’s a short walk to the metro and about 15 minutes by car to the Bund or Nanjing Road. Rooms are modern and comfortable, with city views right from your window. Guests love the ART50 revolving restaurant on the 50th floor, where you can enjoy Chinese and Western dishes with a 360-degree panorama.

Rooms cost about $100 USD per night. Browse options and secure your room on Booking.com!

For even more great choices, check out all Shanghai’s hotels listed here!

Related Read: For a full breakdown of the best neighborhoods and even more hotel options, don’t miss our detailed blog on where to stay in Shanghai here!

Thanks for reading!

Shanghai is the kind of city that lingers long after you’ve left—whether you’re watching the skyline glow from the Bund, weaving through dumpling stalls and lantern-lit lanes, or drifting past ancient bridges in nearby water towns. We hope this guide helps you plan a trip that’s as delicious, dynamic, and memorable as Shanghai deserves.

We’ve explored more beyond Shanghai, too. For extra tips, itineraries, and hidden-gem ideas, browse our other China blogs here—they’re packed with smart planning advice and real-deal experiences. For even more inspiration, here are a few of our most popular guides to get you started:

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