Shanghai Tour Guide 2026: Best Attractions, Itineraries & Tips
If you're planning a trip to Shanghai soon, understanding some basic information about the city before you go will make your trip smoother. Start your Shanghai Tour now!
See all flights
Top Shanghai Tour Attractions & Famous Landmarks
Oriental Pearl Radio & Television Tower
Shanghai is a city steeped in history. It boasts both modern skyscrapers and ancient temples. This city has something for everyone. Here are some must-see attractions in Shanghai:
- The Bund (Waitan): Don't miss it! This is Shanghai's most famous waterfront area. A stroll along the riverfront offers stunning views of Pudong's skyline. Looking across the river, you can see historic colonial-era buildings. If you're in Shanghai, you absolutely must visit this place!
- Yu Garden (Yuyuan Garden): If you enjoy taking photos and experiencing traditional Chinese architecture, then you should definitely not miss Yu Garden, a classic Chinese garden located in the old city.
- Shanghai Tower: Shanghai Tower is the tallest building in China and the second tallest in the world. Take the high-speed elevator to the observation deck. Enjoy a panoramic view of the whole city. A must-see for architecture lovers.
- Shanghai Disney Resort: Shanghai Disneyland is pure magic! Rides, shows, and parades await. Meet Disney characters. Watch fireworks light up the sky. Enjoy themed food and shopping. Perfect for families, couples, and Disney fans.
- Jade Buddha Temple: A quiet escape in busy Shanghai. The temple has two beautiful jade Buddha statues. Learn about local Buddhist practices and enjoy a peaceful visit.
- Xintiandi: Xintiandi is a trendy street with old Shikumen houses, cafes, and boutique shops. It’s great for food lovers and nightlife fans. It mixes old Shanghai charm with modern vibes.
- Shanghai Museum: Located in People’s Square, Shanghai Museum shows Chinese art from ancient ceramics to calligraphy. It’s perfect for culture lovers or a rainy-day visit.
- Tianzifang: Tianzifang is a creative arts neighborhood. Narrow alleys are filled with street art, hidden cafes, and souvenir shops. A favorite for travelers wanting local culture beyond main attractions.
The Bund
The Bund is a must-see attraction in Shanghai, famous for its river views and historic buildings. Enjoy classic architecture, modern skyline views, and beautiful night scenery along the Huangpu River.
Yu Garden
Located in Shanghai’s Old City, Yu Garden features classic Ming-style design, winding paths, stone bridges, and peaceful koi ponds. It’s a perfect place to experience traditional Chinese garden beauty.
Shanghai Tower
Shanghai Tower is China’s tallest building and a must-see in Shanghai. Take the super-fast elevator to the observation deck. Enjoy amazing city views and the stunning skyline. Perfect for photos and architecture lovers.
Shanghai Disney Resort
Step into Shanghai Disneyland! Ride thrilling attractions, watch parades and fireworks, and meet Disney characters. Taste themed food and shop unique souvenirs. Perfect for families, couples, and Disney fans!
Jade Buddha Temple
Escape the hustle of Shanghai at this serene temple. See two stunning jade Buddha statues. Discover local Buddhist culture and enjoy a calm, peaceful visit.
Xintiandi
Come explore Xintiandi – where old Shanghai meets modern life. Enjoy a coffee or meal in a cozy Shikumen cafe. Walk the streets full of boutique shops. Stay until night to see the lively nightlife.
Shanghai Museum
Come curious to Shanghai – a city full of history. Shanghai Museum showcases Chinese art from ancient ceramics to delicate calligraphy. It’s perfect for culture lovers and an ideal spot for a rainy-day visit.
Tianzifang
If you love art and culture, Tianzifang will charm you. Stroll through its narrow alleys filled with street art and cozy cafes. Shop for unique souvenirs and enjoy the local vibe around every corner.
Do I need a visa to travel to Shanghai?
Yes, almost everyone needs a tourist visa to come to Shanghai (or any other region in China). The following is key information:
- Apply for your visa online by completing the form on the Chinese embassy’s official website for your country.
- Bring your passport (6+ months valid), completed visa form with photo, tickets, hotel bookings, and itinerary. If invited, add the invitation letter and ID.
- Visa processing usually takes 4–5 business days. Need it faster? Expedited service cuts it to 2–3 days for an extra fee.
- Check the Chinese Embassy or Consulate website for the latest updates. Rules can change, so stay informed before your trip.
Types of Shanghai Tour Packages: Choosing the Right Shanghai Tour for Your Trip
26 Years of Growth: Shanghai Then and Now - The Atlantic
Looking for the best Shanghai tour? Pick your style and enjoy Shanghai your way!
Shanghai Tour: Private Shanghai Tours
- Pick your favorite sights like The Bund, Yu Garden, Shanghai Tower, and Jing’an Temple. Your private guide will share tips and stories just for you. Transportation is included, so no stress.
- Great for families, couples, or VIP travelers who want a smooth, personalized Shanghai experience.
Shanghai Tour: Group Tours
- Group tours are great for travelers who like a set schedule and meeting new people. Follow fixed itineraries to top Shanghai sights. Enjoy affordable prices with shared costs. Make friends and share experiences with fellow travelers from around the world.
- Great for solo travelers, budget-conscious visitors, or first-timers who want stress-free sightseeing.
Shanghai Tour: Self-Guided Tours
- Self-guided tours are perfect for travelers who love freedom and flexibility. Explore Shanghai at your own pace. Skip the crowds and linger at the sights you enjoy.
- Great for independent travelers seeking a personal and memorable trip.
Top Shanghai Tour Packages & Reviews
Shanghai Era Theatre Acrobatic Show Ticket with car
4.8/5
29 reviewsMy reservation on another website was suddenly cancelled, so I rebooked through trip.com. I was worried that this one might also be cancelled, but the voucher arrived on the day of the show, and I was overjoyed! The acrobatic show was exciting, artistic, and absolutely fantastic. It was the best part of my Shanghai trip. Thank you!
Shanghai Huangpu River night cruise ticket, including buffet dinner, with optional Dragon Boat or Crystal Princess departing from Shiliupu Pier 3
4.1/5
11 reviewsIf you're visiting Shanghai, a night cruise on the Huangpu River is something you simply shouldn't miss. My partner and I booked the evening cruise with buffet dinner, and it turned out to be one of the highlights of our time in the city. From the moment we boarded at Pier 3, Shiliupu, the experience felt special. As the ship pulled away from the dock, Shanghai's skyline began to light up around us. Seeing the illuminated skyscrapers of Pudong on one side and the historic buildings of the Bund on the other created a stunning contrast between old and new Shanghai. We spent much of the cruise on the outdoor deck taking photos and admiring the views. The city looks completely different at night, with colourful lights reflecting across the river and famous landmarks glowing against the skyline. It was easily one of the most impressive urban views we experienced anywhere in China. The buffet dinner was a welcome addition to the trip. There was a good variety of dishes available, allowing us
Shanghai Disney Resort 1-Day Ticket + 8-Premier Access (Zootopia) + Dedicated Language Concierge
5/5
2 reviewsThis is my family’s first time trying a new way to visit Disney through Trip.com, and I believe it won’t be the last. We met our lovely Disneyland guide, Joyce, who was very professional and made the day wonderful for me and my family. Joyce was amazing with my children — her kindness and assistance made them love her. I would like to say that if Joyce is your guide, you will surely have a great and memorable day.
Shanghai Yu Garden + City God Temple traditional culture experience: Confucianism, Buddhism and Taoism cultural exploration with optional Chinese tea
4.8/5
44 reviewsI had the best time on this tour! It was both informative and fun from start to finish. The tour guide and assistant were incredibly friendly, attentive, and professional. They constantly made sure everyone was comfortable, safe, and never left behind and answered our questions patiently.
The explanations were very detailed, and I learned so much about Yu Garden, the City Temple, and Chinese history in general. The tea ceremony was very fun as well as we got to try a lot of different type of tea.
I would absolutely recommend this tour to anyone visiting Shanghai. It was a wonderful experience and one of the highlights of my trip!
Must-see "ERA Intersection of Time" Acrobatic Show Admission Ticket in Shanghai
4.7/5
33 reviewsThey sent us the QR code with the tickets and directions that same day. The show was incredible! Time flew by! If you can go, I highly recommend it!
Best Things to Do in Shanghai: Tours & Experiences
Experience Shanghai like never before. Stroll along the Bund and soak in the iconic skyline. Sip tea in a traditional teahouse and feel the local culture. Wander hidden alleys filled with street art and boutique shops. Enjoy a night cruise on the Huangpu River or catch a dazzling acrobatic show. Every corner reveals something unique—Shanghai is full of surprises waiting for you.
Shanghai Tour: Huangpu River Night Cruise
Step aboard the Huangpu River Night Cruise! Feel the city come alive as lights sparkle on the water.
- Marvel at the illuminated Bund, historic buildings, and futuristic skyscrapers across Pudong.
- Capture Instagram-worthy photos as neon lights reflect on the water.
- Enjoy onboard commentary about the city’s history and architecture.
- Sip a cocktail or local drink while soaking in the breathtaking views.
- Choose themed cruises or dinner options for a special night out.
- Perfect for couples, families, and photographers—every cruise reveals a new side of Shanghai.
4.5/5
399 reviews
4/5
Nice walk along both banks of the bund
5/5
Great experience with fabulous views
5/5
We had a awesome time. We paid the Extra 200 RMB to have a table for four but we only had the two of us. I would recommend as it is nice on the top deck and to be able to sit and have some drinks while you take in the view is awesome.
4/5
We do it too early. Better to take the boat at 18.30
5/5
You need to be physically and mentally prepared to reach the top of the wall (there's no tour; it's a challenging, independent hike). The transfer itself was comfortable, and the lunch was fantastic (a huge selection of both familiar and authentic Chinese dishes). Thank you so much for the wonderful organization and engaging accompaniment!
Shanghai Tour: Cultural Experiences
Shanghai is full of culture waiting to be explored.
- Join a traditional tea ceremony and savor authentic Shanghai flavors.
- Slip into Hanfu and wander historic alleys for photos and immersive experiences.
- Try calligraphy, paper-cutting, or art workshops to practice local crafts hands-on.
- Explore hidden temples and old neighborhoods to discover the city’s rich history.
- Sample local snacks while chatting with friendly vendors in bustling markets.
- Watch cultural performances like acrobatics, folk music, or traditional theater for unforgettable evenings.
Shanghai Tour: Local Specialty Activities
Discover the flavors and fun only Shanghai can offer.
- Stroll through vibrant local markets and taste street snacks like xiao long bao, shengjian buns, and tangyuan.
- Join a dumpling-making or cooking class to learn authentic recipes hands-on.
- Explore craft workshops and pick up unique souvenirs made by local artisans.
- Visit trendy cafes, rooftop bars, and hidden boutique streets for shopping and Instagram-worthy photos.
- Try local experiences like tea tastings, fruit picking, or seasonal festivals for extra fun.
*Prices are approximate and vary by season, availability, and ticket type. All prices in USD.
Getting Around Shanghai on a Shanghai Tour
Shanghai is huge, but getting around is easy. The following is the best way to get around Shanghai:
- Take the Shanghai metro for super fast, easy access to all the top attractions—lines reach everywhere in the city.
- Experience the Shanghai Maglev Train for an exciting high-speed ride between Pudong Airport and downtown.
- Hop in a taxi or use ride-hailing apps like Didi for quick, hassle-free door-to-door travel.
- Explore historic neighborhoods on foot or by bike and uncover hidden gems around every corner.
- Consider comfortable, stress-free shuttle buses or private transfers for family or group travel.
How Much Does a Shanghai Tour Cost?
Shanghai offers experiences for every budget. Here’s a detailed introduction:
Category | Typical Cost | Tips |
Accommodation | $30–$200 per night | Budget hostels start around $30; 4–5★ hotels in Bund or Pudong cost $120–$200. Book early for deals. |
Meals | $2–$25 per meal | Street food is cheap and delicious; restaurants cost more. Must-try: xiao long bao (~$3–5). |
Transportation | $0.50–$10 per trip | Metro is cheap and fast; taxis/ride-hailing cost more. Maglev train ~$8 one-way. |
Attractions | $5–$50 per ticket | Popular sights like Shanghai Tower or Yu Garden charge entrance fees; some temples and parks are free. |
🎈Tips to save:
- Buy tickets online in advance for discounts.
- Use public transport for short trips.
- Visit free attractions like Bund and Nanjing Road during daytime.
What to Prepare for a Shanghai Tour？
Getting ready for Shanghai is easy. Here’s what to pack and plan:
- Passport & Visa: Always carry your passport and visa if needed.
- Cash & Cards: Credit cards work, but keep small cash for street food and markets.
- Clothing: Check the weather. Bring comfortable shoes for walking.
- Health & Safety: Masks, hand sanitizer, and basic medicine. Travel insurance is a plus.
- Phone & Power: Carry a charger and power bank. Consider local SIM or portable Wi-Fi.
✅Need internet to use overseas apps (X/ins/YT etc.) in China? I've found the best China eSIM plans at cheap prices - very fast & reliable data!
See all attractions
545270 booked
When is the Best Time for a Shanghai Tour?
Season & Months | Weather & Highlights | Shanghai Tour Tips | Peak / Crowd Info |
Spring (Mar – May) | Mild weather, blooming gardens, fresh greenery | Ideal for sightseeing and photography | Moderate crowds |
Fall (Sep – Nov) | Clear skies, colorful foliage, pleasant temperatures | Best time for walking tours and city exploration | Peak: Golden Week (early Oct) |
Summer (Jun – Aug) | Hot, humid, occasional rain | Suitable for festival lovers, carry water & umbrella | Crowded attractions |
Winter (Dec – Feb) | Cold, average 4°C | Fewer tourists, indoor activities like museums & temples | Low crowds, shorter lines |
💡 Pro Tips for Shanghai Tour:
- Start your day early. This helps you avoid long lines at popular spots like The Bund, Yu Garden, and Shanghai Tower.
- Check local festivals before your trip. Some events can bring large crowds.
- Spring and fall offer the best weather. These seasons have mild temperatures and fewer crowds, making your Shanghai Tour more enjoyable.
[10% Off] Shanghai Hotel Recommendations
Grab 10% off hotel counpon, and choose one of these Shanghai hotels for your cozy stay!
See All Hotels
China Entry Requirements & Things to Prepare
- 24/240 China Visa-Free Transit: US citizens can enjoy a 240-hour (10-day) visa-free transit when traveling through 24 Chinese provinces, provided they hold a confirmed onward ticket to a third country or region.
- China Plug & Power: China plug uses Type A/C/F (220V). Bring a Type A/C adapter (US plugs sometimes work, but bring a universal adapter for safety).
- Internet Access in China: You need a China VPN for Google/Ins/YT/X, etc. But you can also use a China eSIM with built-in access to overseas apps!
Getting Around & Top Destinations in China
- China Metro Guides: Shanghai Metro | Beijing Metro | Guangzhou Metro | HK Metro
- China Airport Guides: Shanghai Airport | Beijing Airport | Guangzhou Airport | HK Airport Express
- China City Maps: Beijing Map | Guangzhou Map | Shanghai Map | HK Map
- Top Destinations in China: Shanghai Attractions (Disneyland, Bund) | Beijing Attractions (Forbidden City, Great Wall) | HK Attractions (HK Disneyland)
Must-Have Apps in China
- China Map App: I love to use Gaode Map (English supported) or Baidu Map (limited English) for real-time transit and traffic. Or you can still use Google Maps in China, but some data may be outdated.
- China Transport App: Use DiDi (China's Uber) for English address input and cashless payment. I recommend using the DiDi mini-program in Alipay for more convenience.
- China Payment App: Use Alipay or WeChat Pay (link foreign cards before arrival).
- China Booking App: Trip.com for high-speed trains (China HSR Guide), China hotels/flights. Use Trip.com promo codes for USA users.
FAQ about Shanghai Tour
-
How many days are sufficient in Shanghai?
-
Is Shanghai worth visiting as a tourist?
-
Which month is the best to go to Shanghai?
-
Is Shanghai a walkable city?
-
What is the top 5 city in China?
Disclaimer: This article has been provided by an individual contributor or third party platform. If there is any discrepancy regarding the copyright, please contact us directly and we will delete the content immediately.
Trending Searches
-
Popular flight routes
-
Top-rated stays
-
Getting around
-
Popular attractions
-
eSIM/SIM card
- Flights from Chengdu to Shanghai
- Return flights from Tokyo to Shanghai
- Cheap flights from Guangzhou to Shanghai
- Cheap flights from Bangkok to Shanghai
- Flights from Taipei to Shanghai
- Return flights from Beijing to Shanghai
- Flights from Zhangjiajie to Shanghai
- Return flights from San Francisco to Shanghai
- Cheap flights from Chongqing to Shanghai
- Flights from New York to Shanghai
- Flights from Xi'an to Shanghai
- Flights from Seoul to Shanghai
- Cheap flights from Shenzhen to Shanghai
- Cheap flights from Hong Kong to Shanghai
- Flights from Los Angeles to Shanghai
- Renaissance Shanghai Yu Garden Hotel on the Bund by Nanjing Road
- Dihang Boutique Hotel (Shanghai Pudong Airport)
- Da Zhong Airport Hotel
- The Bund Puyan Hotel, Shanghai
- Jinjiang Metropolo Shanghai Xintiandi Hotel
- Atour Hotel Nanjing East Road, Shanghai on the Bund
- Shanghai People's Square Nanjing East Road Pedestrian Street Treasury Hotel
- Toy Story Hotel
- Yitel Premium (Shanghai people's Square Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street)
- Radisson Collection Hyland Shanghai
- Holiday Inn Express SHANGHAI PUDONG AIRPORT by IHG
- Holiday Inn SHANGHAI PUDONG AIRPORT by IHG
- Rezen Meta Tree Hotel (City Center & The Bund, Shanghai)
- Dayin International Youth Hostel（East Nanjing Road & The Bund）
- Hotel Chalet Shanghai
- Grand Hyatt Shanghai
- Shanghai Elong Hotel
- Meta Tree Hotel, People's Square, City Center In Shanghai
- Ramada Encore by Wyndham Shanghai Pudong Airport
- Crowne Plaza SHANGHAI NANJING ROAD by IHG
- SHIBUYA SKY Ticket
- Shanghai Disneyland Tickets
- Shanghai Tower Tickets
- Shanghai Disneyland Early Entry
- Universal Studios Japan Tickets
- Universal Studios Singapore
- Great Wall of China
- Sphere Tickets
- Universal Studios Hollywood Early Entry
- Universal Studios Hollywood Tickets
- Chengdu Panda
- Beijing studio minisite
- Oriental Pearl Tower
- N Seoul Tower Tickets
- Tokyo DisneySea Tickets
- Taiwan eSIM
- Canada eSIM
- eSIM Hong Kong
- eSIM South Korea
- eSIM Europe
- American Airlines Check in Time
- Guiyang Weather
- Europe Travel
- Sphere Tickets
- what is the oldest religion
- Hotels in Guilin
- Things to do in Cancun
- Universal Studios Hollywood Early Entry
- Universal Studios Hollywood Tickets
- Songkran Festival Thailand