For first-time visitors to Shanghai, the iconic landmarks are mostly concentrated along both banks of the Huangpu River , connecting the bustling Puxi and Pudong areas. On the east bank, the futuristic skyline is dominated by the famous “Four Must-Climb Towers” of Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower district, creating one of the most dazzling cityscapes in the world.
On the west bank, the historic Bund , Nanjing Road , Yuyuan Garden , and Chenghuang Temple form an almost continuous line of classic attractions. Since its opening, Shanghai Disneyland has become a new symbol of the city.
This guide will introduce you to the essential highlights you simply cannot miss when visiting Shanghai.
Classic Riverside Attractions: The Bund to the Oriental Pearl
Explore the Best of Puxi: The Bund, Nanjing Road, and Yuyuan Garden
If it’s your first time in Shanghai, don’t miss the iconic trio on the west bank of the Huangpu River—The Bund (Waitan), Nanjing Road, and Chenghuangmiao (City God Temple) with the famous Yuyuan Garden. This area captures the essence of “Old Shanghai,” where East meets West. From colonial-era architecture to local favorites like shengjian bao and xiaolongbao (pan-fried and soup dumplings), you can experience it all in half a day to a full day.
The Bund (外滩, Wàitān)
They say “The story of the Bund is the story of Shanghai.” The Bund’s highlight is its famed riverside promenade lined with 52 historic buildings in a variety of architectural styles, often called the “Museum of International Architecture.” Here you’ll find neoclassical, baroque, gothic, and art deco designs—all surprisingly harmonious despite being built in different eras by architects from different countries.
Notable landmarks include the former HSBC Building, the Peace Hotel, the Customs House, and the Bank of China Building. Together, they recall the grandeur of the city’s days as the “Wall Street of the Far East.” Whether you stroll or just take in the view, you’ll feel the powerful, elegant aura of the city.
- Location : Zhongshan East 1st Road (中山东一路), from Waibaidu Bridge to Jinling East Road, about 1.5 km long
- Admission : Free; Bund Sightseeing Tunnel: ¥50/person
- Opening Hours : Open 24/7
Crossing the Huangpu River
- Ferry Ride : Though no longer a main transport option, the ferry still offers a charming way to cross the river. The Dongjin Line runs from Jinling East Road Ferry Pier (on the Bund) to Dongchang Road Ferry Terminal in Pudong from 7:00 AM to 6:30 PM. For night views, take the Dongfu Line from Fuxing East Road Ferry Terminal to Dongchang Road (7:00 AM – 9:00 PM). Fare: ¥2. Great for viewing Shanghai’s “Three Giants” skyline.
- Bund Sightseeing Tunnel : This quirky pedestrian tunnel runs under the river, connecting the Bund with the Oriental Pearl Tower in just a few minutes via automated cars and sound-light displays.
- Huangpu River Cruise : The standard 50-minute river cruise departs from Shiliupu Wharf and passes landmarks like Binjiang Avenue, Lujiazui, and Waibaidu Bridge. Tickets can be purchased at several locations along the Bund.
Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street (南京路步行街)
Every first-time visitor ends up here—Shanghai’s most famous shopping street and a showcase for old-school brands. Historic department stores like Shanghai First Department Store (formerly Daxin), Yongan, Shanghai Fashion Company (formerly Sincere), and First Food Hall (formerly Xinxin) tell the story of the street’s past and present.
Walk from Henan Road all the way to the Bund, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into 1930s Shanghai. Narrow alleys, towering buildings, gray-brick facades, and old-fashioned shutters—the atmosphere is steeped in nostalgia.
Shanghai Museum (上海博物馆, Shànghǎi Bówùguǎn)
Located near Nanjing Road, the Shanghai Museum is one of China’s premier national museums, with nearly a million items showcasing the country’s ancient art. It has four floors, 11 permanent galleries, and 3 rotating exhibition halls featuring both domestic and international exhibits.
- 1st Floor :
Bronze Gallery – The pride of the museum, with 400+ bronze artifacts from the Shang and Zhou Dynasties. The Western Zhou Dynasty’s Da Ke Ding is a national treasure that never leaves China.
Sculpture Gallery – Featuring over 120 stone sculptures from the Warring States to the Ming Dynasty, especially renowned for its Buddhist figures.
- 2nd Floor :
Ceramics Gallery – A concise history of Chinese ceramics, from Neolithic painted pottery to Tang sancai and Ming–Qing imperial kiln pieces.
- 3rd Floor :
Calligraphy and Painting Galleries – Rotating displays of masterpieces from the Tang to Qing dynasties.
Seal Gallery – The first specialized exhibition of Chinese seals, including Warring States, Han dynasty official seals, and literati-style seals from the Ming–Qing periods.
- 4th Floor :
Ming–Qing Furniture – Over 100 pieces displayed in mock study rooms and bedrooms.
Jade Gallery – Stunning jade pieces shown under special fiber-optic lighting.
Currency Gallery – Over 3,000 years of Chinese monetary history.
Ethnic Minority Crafts – Traditional costumes, embroidery, metalwork, and masks from China’s ethnic groups.
- Opening Hours : Closed Mondays; Open Tuesday–Sunday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM). Daily visitor cap: 8,000
- Admission : Free; no ID required; free baggage storage available at North and South gates
- Guide Options : Rent an audio guide, join a volunteer tour, or use the official Shanghai Museum app for QR code-based explanations
Tip : Nanjing Road has two sections—East and West. The pedestrian street typically refers to East Nanjing Road. West Nanjing Road, along with Huaihai Road, is known for luxury shopping. You can easily access Lujiazui in Pudong from either end of Nanjing Road via metro.
Chenghuangmiao (City God Temple)
Most visitors come to Chenghuangmiao for three things: to admire the temple’s traditional Taoist architecture, to explore Yuyuan Garden, and to sample the local street food.
Dating back to the Yongle reign of the Ming Dynasty (1403–1424), the temple was built by magistrate Zhang Shouyue by converting a former shrine to the deity of Jinshan. The temple honors three historic city gods: Huo Guang, Qin Yubo, and Chen Huacheng—figures revered for protecting the city.
- Location : 249 Fangbang Middle Road, Huangpu District
- Admission : ¥10 (called a "fragrance donation ticket")
- Hours : 9:00 AM–4:30 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM)
- How to Book : Follow the temple’s official WeChat account for booking
Yuyuan Garden (豫园, Yùyuán)
Yuyuan is a classic Ming-era garden in the heart of old Shanghai, renowned for its rockeries, pavilions, and serene water features. Known as the “Urban Forest” and praised for its elegance, it also includes several lively shopping streets at the entrance.
Highlights include:
- Nine-Bend Bridge (九曲桥) and Mid-Lake Pavilion – Ideal for tea, chess, or people-watching while enjoying the zigzag bridge.
- Yanshan Hall (仰山堂) – The best spot to admire the grand artificial mountain.
Fun Fact : Despite its name, Nine-Bend Bridge has more than nine turns. Each bend has a seasonal flower carved into the stone slab—January narcissus, February apricot blossoms, all the way to December wintersweet. The ends of the bridge feature lotus carvings—see if you can spot them!
- Location : 168 Fuyou Road, inside the Chenghuangmiao tourist area
- Admission : ¥40 peak season (Apr 1–Jun 30, Sep 1–Nov 30), ¥30 off-season
- Hours : 9:00 AM–4:30 PM
- More Info : Follow the official Yuyuan Garden WeChat account
Skyscraping Views in Pudong: The Famous "Big Four"
When people talk about the “magic” of Shanghai, nothing captures it quite like the ever-evolving skyline of Pudong. The four tallest towers in Lujiazui have each, at one point, held the title of Shanghai 's tallest building. All stand proudly in Shanghai’s most prestigious financial district, clustered at the very tip of Pudong. For those seeking that “top of the world” feeling, a visit to one of these observation decks is a must.
Oriental Pearl Tower (东方明珠广播电视塔, Dōngfāng Míngzhū)
The Oriental Pearl Tower is a symbol of Shanghai and one of its most recognizable cultural landmarks. Located right on the bank of the Huangpu River in Lujiazui, this futuristic tower forms a dramatic contrast to the classical European-style buildings on the Bund.
Highlights :
- Space Module at 351m
- Main Observation Deck at 263m
- Glass Skywalk at 259m
- High-altitude VR Roller Coaster
- Kart Racing at Karting No. 9
- Shanghai History Museum
- Multimedia Ring Show
Most visitors opt for the 263m observation deck , which offers a panoramic view of the city through a fully transparent glass platform. If you're into cosmic vibes and space-themed design, check out the Space Module at 351m.
Don’t miss the VR Roller Coaster , China’s first and highest indoor ride of its kind. It simulates a thrilling flight over Shanghai’s cityscape using immersive virtual reality tech.
The Shanghai History Museum at the base showcases the city’s development from the mid-19th century to 1949—a must-visit spot for history lovers and photo seekers. Nearby, there’s a Coca-Cola-themed restaurant perfect for a fun photo-op.
Tickets :
- Bund Cruise + Pearl Tower Combo: ¥209
- Peak Admission: ¥210
- Combo + Revolving Restaurant: ¥368
- Opening Hours : 8:00–21:30
Shanghai World Financial Center (上海环球金融中心, Shànghǎi Huánqiú Jīnróng Zhōngxīn)
The Shanghai World Financial Center was once the fifth tallest building in the world. Its Sky Walk 100 at 474 meters feels like walking among the clouds, offering unobstructed views of both sides of the Huangpu River.
The observation levels are located on floors 94, 97, and 100 , reached in just 66 seconds by high-speed elevator.
- Floor 94 (423m): A massive 760㎡ space ideal for exhibitions and panoramic views.
- Floor 97 : A suspended “Sky Bridge” that gives you the surreal sense of floating in midair.
- Floor 100 (474m): A 55-meter-long transparent glass corridor where you can look straight down at tiny pedestrians and cars below—pure adrenaline!
Tickets :
- 97F + 100F Combo: ¥121 (Adult), ¥80 (Student), ¥70 (Child), ¥85 (Senior)
- Opening Hours : 8:00–23:00
Shanghai Tower – Top of Shanghai Observatory (上海中心·上海之巅观光厅, Shànghǎi Zhōngxīn)
Welcome to the current tallest building in Shanghai! The Top of Shanghai Observatory sits on the 118th floor , at a dizzying height of 546 meters. You’ll get a 360-degree bird’s-eye view of the city, admiring famous landmarks and the changing weather patterns from the clouds.
You can even send a postcard from the Sky Postbox , complete with a Shanghai Tower-exclusive stamp!
Down on B1 level , the interactive Top of Shanghai Exhibition Hall introduces you to the tower’s innovative design through immersive multimedia displays.
Tickets :
- Adult: ¥180
- Student: ¥160
- Opening Hours : 8:30–22:00
Jin Mao Tower – 88th Floor Observatory (金茂大厦, Jīnmào Dàshà)
The 88th-floor observatory of Jin Mao Tower sits at 340.1 meters and offers 1,520㎡ of spacious viewing area.
For the adventurous, try the Skywalk —a 60-meter-long open-air glass walkway without handrails, just 1.2 meters wide, and 340.6 meters above the ground. It's a breathtaking way to soak in the cityscape.
Also on the 88th floor is the “Stronger Than Gold” Love Post Office , recognized as the world’s highest romantic-themed post office —perfect for sending heartfelt messages from the clouds.
Tickets :
- Adult: ¥120
- Child: ¥60
- Opening Hours : 9:00–20:30
Window into the Former French Concession: Xintiandi & Tianzifang
Xintiandi: A Stylish Landmark in the Lanes
Nestled within the lanes of Shanghai’s former French Concession, Xintiandi is a charming pedestrian street built upon the city’s iconic Shikumen (石库门, shíkùmén) architecture. It blends Shanghai’s historical charm with modern elegance. The Site of the First National Congress of the Communist Party of China is also located here, adding cultural and historical depth to the area.
The South Block features sleek contemporary buildings, while the North Block preserves traditional Shikumen houses with their red brick walls and grey roof tiles. Walking through, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a time tunnel back to the 1920s. Inside these old buildings are international galleries, boutique fashion stores, global restaurants, and stylish bars—making Xintiandi one of Shanghai’s most tasteful lifestyle destinations.
- Address : Lane 181, Taicang Road, North Block of Xintiandi, Huangpu District (near Madang Road)
- Opening Hours : Open all day
- Getting There : South Huangpi Road Station (Line 1), or Xintiandi Station (Line 10)
Tianzifang: Artsy Alleys Full of Local Flavor
If Xintiandi shows Shanghai’s polished and chic side, Tianzifang reveals its cozy, vibrant, and creative soul. Located in a maze-like cluster of old residential lanes, Tianzifang is filled with narrow alleyways lined with quirky art studios, craft shops, teahouses, and street-side cafés. Here, surprises await around every corner.
From open-air restaurants and independent art galleries to handmade souvenirs and local design studios, Tianzifang is a haven for anyone seeking a more intimate and artsy Shanghai experience. It’s where the city's artistic spirit and everyday warmth come to life.
- Address : Lane 274–210, Taikang Road, Huangpu District (near Ruijin No. 2 Road)
- Opening Hours : Open all day
Shanghai Disneyland: The Crown Jewel of China's Theme Parks
Since its grand opening, Shanghai Disneyland has quickly become one of the city’s top attractions and a must-visit for families, couples, and Disney fans alike. While it retains the signature magic of classic Disney parks around the world, Shanghai's version adds a special local twist—with Chinese cultural elements in shows, seasonal events, and food.
The park is also home to TRON Lightcycle Run , the fastest roller coaster among all Disney parks globally —a high-speed thrill ride that has become a fan favorite.
Though the park is vast, it’s possible to hit the highlights in one full day with good planning. For a more relaxed experience, consider staying overnight at one of the themed hotels in the Disney Resort area , which also includes Wishing Star Park and the Disneytown shopping and dining district—each offering its own unique, storybook vibe.
Helpful Tips:
- Download the official Disney Resort App to buy tickets, make ride reservations, check real-time wait times, show schedules, and get Disney Premier Access directly in-app.
- Ticket prices range from ¥399 to ¥699 depending on crowd levels and season.
For a full guide to all the rides, shows, dining, and insider tips, check out our [Complete Guide to Shanghai Disneyland].
Museum of Art Pudong: A Poetic Masterpiece by Jean Nouvel
Designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Jean Nouvel , the Museum of Art Pudong (MAP) opened its doors in July 2021 and has quickly become a cultural landmark in Shanghai. Set against the glittering skyline of Lujiazui , this minimalist yet poetic building features layers of translucent glass, offering a quiet elegance amid the city's fast pace.
The museum launched with an impressive lineup, including works from the Tate Gallery , Fundació Joan Miró , and Cai Guo-Qiang’s retrospective “Odyssey and Homecoming.” From the architecture to the curatorial vision, MAP is a feast for both the eyes and the soul.
Inside, you'll find an immersive viewing experience , where natural light, curated angles, and interactive designs blend seamlessly with the art. Whether you're an art lover or a casual visitor, the unique spatial design and tranquil atmosphere make it worth a dedicated visit—even a special trip from out of town.
Visitor Info
- Name: Museum of Art Pudong (MAP)
- Address: 2777 Binjiang Avenue, Pudong New Area, Shanghai
- Getting there: Exit 2, Lujiazui Station, Metro Line 2
- Opening Hours: Mon, Wed, Thu: 10:00–18:00 (Last entry 17:00) Fri–Sun & Holidays: 10:00–21:00 (Last entry 20:00)
- Tickets: ¥100 for standard weekday entry; combo passes also available
Tips for Visiting
- Reservations are essential! Use the official “浦东美术馆MAP” WeChat Mini Program to book your entry slot before purchasing a ticket.
- Entry quotas: 1,600 visitors per session (10:00–13:00 & 13:00–17:00), and spots fill up fast—especially during peak travel seasons.
- Tickets can be purchased online or at self-service kiosks inside the museum, but we highly recommend booking online in advance.
- Want to take your time with the exhibits? Morning sessions are best , giving you a full day to explore without feeling rushed.
- Starting September, the museum stays open until 9 PM on Sundays—perfect for a relaxed evening visit.
Shanghai Astronomy Museum: A New Must-Visit Spot for Travelers
As the world’s largest astronomy museum , the Shanghai Astronomy Museum officially opened on July 18, 2021. Beyond its striking, futuristic architecture, the museum offers breathtaking exhibition halls and displays. Here, visitors can explore comprehensive astronomy knowledge and marvel at hyper-realistic models of planets and the universe.
One of the museum’s standout features is its highly interactive exhibits , allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the wonders of astronomy. Whether you’re an astronomy enthusiast or visiting with kids, this is a highly recommended destination.
Museum Layout and Highlights
- Main Exhibition Halls (3): Homeland, Universe, Journey
- Special Zones (3): Chinese Sky, Curious Planet, Mars Expedition
- Experience Attractions (6):
Planetarium (Homeland)
Fly Through the Galaxy Theater (Homeland)
“What If” Theater (Universe)
VR Moonwalk (Journey, with weight restrictions)
Curious Planet
Xihe Solar Tower (Special Zone)
Visiting Tips
- Recommended Route: Entrance with circular skylight → Homeland (1st floor) → Universe (2nd floor) → Journey (2nd floor) → Inverted Dome (3rd floor) → Foucault Pendulum (1st floor lobby) → Chinese Sky (1st floor) → Gift Shop (1st floor) → Astronomy Garden (outdoor)
- Each show has scheduled times. Be sure to pick up a visitor guide at the entrance to plan your visit efficiently!
- Exploring the whole museum takes about 2–3 hours, but because of the distance and queues for attractions, it’s best to allocate a full day. There is a simple café and free drinking water available on site.
Practical Information
- Ticket Prices: Adults: ¥30/Children: ¥15/ Seniors (60–69 years): ¥25/ Free for children under 1.3m / under 6 years old / seniors over 70/ Dome theater: ¥40
- Booking: Tickets must be booked in advance with real-name verification on the official WeChat account “上海天文馆,” available 7 days ahead (including the day of visit).
- Opening Hours: 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM (Last admission at 3:00 PM), closed on Mondays.
How to Get There
The museum is located quite far from downtown Shanghai, so driving is recommended :
- By Car: Navigate to 380 Lingang Avenue, Pudong New Area. The nearest parking is at Starry Sky Park, about 500 meters from the museum. Other options include Shanghai High School parking lot, Edelweiss Road parking, and underground parking at Zishan Road.
- By Metro: Take Metro Line 16 to Dishui Lake Station, Exit 1, then walk 1.4 km (approx. 15 minutes) or bike 6 minutes.
- By Bus: Routes Shēngǎng 1, 1009, 1135, and others serve the area.