Shanghai is a bustling metropolis with a rich history and culture waiting to be explored. From visiting world-famous museums to strolling through picturesque gardens, there are endless things to do in this vibrant city. To help you make the most of your Shanghai holiday, we’ve put together a list of five unforgettable experiences that you won’t want to miss.
Visit the Shanghai Museum
No trip to Shanghai would be complete without a visit to the city’s renowned museum. Housed in a beautiful building inspired by ancient Chinese architecture, the Shanghai Museum is home to an impressive collection of Art, Antiquities, and Ceramics from across China. Whether you’re a history buff or simply appreciate good art, spending a few hours at the Shanghai Museum is a must-do on your list.
Stroll Through Yu Garden
Located in the heart of old Shanghai, Yu Garden is a tranquil oasis amidst the hustle and bustle of the city. Originally built in 1559, this Ming Dynasty-style garden is filled with beautiful pavilions, bridges, and ponds that make for a perfect afternoon stroll. Be sure to stop by one of the nearby tea houses for a traditional cup of Chinese tea before you leave.
Take a Cruise on the Huangpu River
For stunning views of Shanghai’s skyline, hop aboard a cruise ship and sail down the Huangpu River. You’ll see some of the city’s most iconic landmarks from the water including The Bund, Peoples Square, and the Oriental Pearl TV Tower. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of China’s famous “bottlenose” dolphins!
Shop Till You Drop at Nanjing Road
If shopping is more your thing, then you’ll definitely want to head to Nanjing Road—Shanghai’s most famous shopping street. Spanning over five kilometers (three miles), Nanjing Road is lined with hundreds of stores selling everything from souvenirs to designer clothes. There’s also no shortage of restaurants and cafes if you need to rest your feet (and your wallet) after all that shopping!
Experience Traditional Chinese Culture at Tianzifang
For a taste of traditional Chinese culture, pay a visit to Tianzifang—a quaint alleyway in the French Concession district filled with cafes, shops, and art galleries. This lively area is also home to many artists’ studios where you can watch them at work or purchase one of their pieces as a souvenir. It’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon exploring!
There are endless things to do in Shanghai—you could easily spend months here and still not see everything this incredible city has to offer! We hope our list has given you some inspiration for planning your trip and that you have an amazing time exploring all that Shanghai has to offer.
If you have any other suggestions for things to do in Shanghai, be sure to share them in the comments below. And don’t forget to share this post with your friends and family—let them know about all the fun they can have in one of the world’s most exciting cities!
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