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An oriental pearl at its best, Shanghai may not be China’s capital city, but it is surely the largest and the most populous one. A bustling port city wrapped in the utmost charm, exuding a fascinating blend of modern skyscrapers and historic allure, visiting Shanghai is all it takes to truly fire up all your senses. Buzzing with a constant and consistent vibrancy, Shanghai offers you a whirlwind of the most captivating attractions that are worth exploring. From must-visit sights to hidden gems, the various places to visit in Shanghai have something for every kind of traveller. Often dubbed as the ‘Paris of the East’, from art deco architecture to a thriving nightlife, the modern metropolis that Shanghai is, this city is known to seamlessly blend in the past with the future. A city that is modern and untamed while also exhibiting an exotic and traditional charm, here are some of the best things to do in Shanghai to explore the best of what the city has to offer.
Explore Shanghai at its best with these top things to do while there
1. The Bund
Among the most iconic Shanghai things to see, The Bund is where the old world elegance meets futuristic ambition. A waterfront promenade located along the Huangpu River, this place to visit in Shanghai offers you the most stunning views of the futuristic skyscrapers of Pudong, along with the Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai Tower and the Shanghai World Financial Centre. A structure that is symbolic of China’s economic rise, the views of the sci-fi skyline of Lujiazui are further juxtaposed against the colonial era buildings that whisper tales of the city’s past and heritage. Witness the city lights shimmering across the Huangpu River during the time of sunset, which is sure to turn your simple visit to The Bund into a cinematic experience.
2. Wukang Building
A historic structure and among the favourite spots to visit in the city for all the architecture enthusiasts and photographers out there, visiting the Wukang Building is among the major things in Shanghai that is worth exploring. Located on the popular Wukang Road, this structure is among the most recognisable buildings in the city of Shanghai’s French Concession. Boasting of French Renaissance style architecture, this is Shanghai’s oldest veranda-style apartment building.
3. Nanjing Pedestrian Street
A shopping paradise in Shanghai, the Nanjing Pedestrian Street is a beloved spot in the city that is brimming with stores of all kinds, along with dining spaces offering lip-smacking Chinese cuisine and places for entertainment. With exciting stuff to do in Shanghai at the Nanjing Pedestrian Street, this is among the most bustling centres of the metropolis, boasting of neon lights in the evening and a vibrant atmosphere throughout the day. Among the thrilling things to see in Shanghai, just being present in this area of the city lets you fully immerse yourself in Chinese culture.
4. Shanghai Tower
Known as the world’s second-tallest building, the Shanghai Tower also boasts the world’s fastest elevator that takes you high up to its sky-high observatory. Among the major Shanghai things to see, visiting the Shanghai Tower offers you the most panoramic views of the city’s skyline. With jaw-dropping skylines that take you a step forward to the future, beneath you lies the sprawling grounds of the city, which is an equally fascinating sight to witness.
For the uninitiated, the tallest happens to be Burj Khalifa in Dubai. If you're headed to the UAE, make sure to check out this nifty guide to Dubai.
5. Yu Garden
Among all the list of things in Shanghai, your visit is surely incomplete if you do not visit the Yu Garden. A beautiful classical garden that dates back to the time of the Ming Dynasty, this Shanghai thing to see features lush landscapes, intricate rockeries and ponds filled with koi fish. Among the major things to see in Shanghai that offer you a peaceful retreat away from the busyness of the city, Yu Garden is also the city’s most important cultural treasure and most visited attraction. The perfect place to find serenity amidst the street hustles, Yu Garden is a truly wonderful spot in the city.
6. Huangpu River Ferry
Forget tourist cruises, taking a ride on the public ferry and gliding through the heart of the city is definitely among the most fun things to do in Shanghai. An exciting way to explore Shanghai in the local way, with just a few yuan, you get to witness both the historic side as well as the modern skyscrapers of the city.
7. Yuyuan Old Street
Among the top Shanghai things to see if you want to experience authentic Chinese culture, visiting the Yuyuan Old Street is an absolute must! A street in the city that offers you a glimpse into the Chinese traditions, this neighbourhood with its historic districts, narrow alleyways, intricate rooflines and buildings provides a striking contrast to the city as compared to the modern skyscrapers, which are a part of the rest of Shanghai.