The Best things to do in Shanghai

The real magic of Shanghai isn’t found on those must-see attraction checklists—it’s hidden in the corners you might otherwise miss.

The true Shanghai is in the scent of freshly fried shengjianbao wafting from a wutong-shaded side street. It’s the river breeze hitting your face during a 2 RMB ferry ride across the Huangpu. It’s the vibrant energy of uncles and aunties dancing to morning music in the park.

This is a city where futuristic skyscrapers race toward the sky right beside century-old villas holding stories in their walls. It’s both modern and nostalgic, deeply international yet brimming with local life. To really get it, you need to slow down, set the guidebook aside, and feel it with your heart. That’s why I’m sharing these 20 must-do experiences in Shanghai—so you can explore it like a local and taste the real flavor of this incredible city.

1、Get that classic shot of the 'Old Shanghai Bund' on Waibaidu Bridge.

Walk across the historic Garden Bridge where Suzhou Creek meets the Huangpu River, and recreate that legendary “Shanghai Bund” photograph.

2、Cruise the Huangpu River for just 2 RMB

Take the local ferry from Jinling East Road to Dongchang Road and enjoy stunning river views of both colonial and modern Shanghai.

Tips：

For the best night views of the Huangpu, make a beeline for the top deck once you’re on the ferry.

3、Join the queue for the Park Hotel's famous butterfly cookies

There’s always a queue outside its bakery in People’s Square. This sweet, flaky treat is the taste of Shanghai.

4、Start your day with Shanghai's classic "breakfast quartet"

Find a local streetside joint and order the full set—da bing (flatbread), youtiao (fried dough sticks), doujiang (soy milk), and cifangao (fried rice cakes). It’s the authentic taste of a Shanghai morning.

5、Suzhou Creek walk

Begin your exploration at the powerful Sihang Warehouse and follow the river’s curve. Discover the city’s creative pulse in the post-industrial spaces turned art hubs and cafes – it’s a visual feast.

6、A Bike Ride along the Pudong Riverside

Start at the cool MIFA complex and hit the dedicated bike lane. Feel the cool breeze as you glide between two eras: the grand history of The Bund and the bold future of Pudong’s art district. It’s a ride you won’t forget.

7、North Bund Sunset Viewing

The North Bund offers a less crowded yet equally stunning vantage point. As dusk settles, watch the setting sun cast a golden glow over the iconic skyline of the Bund and Lujiazui—far more serene than the packed Bund, with absolutely spectacular views!

8、Sip a cocktail 258 meters up at Flair Rooftop Bar

Look down to sweeping views of the Huangpu River, and look up to find the Oriental Pearl Tower right beside you. Raise a glass to the twilight—it’s the perfect romantic evening.

9、Stay in a Shikumen-Style Heritage Home

For a true taste of old Shanghai, book a night in a beautifully preserved Shikumen residence. Tucked away in historic alleyways where laundry flutters from bamboo poles, these century-old homes offer an authentic glimpse into the city’s past. It’s more than a stay—it’s a night spent in a living museum.

Hey! I’m Yolanda, a traveler with adventure in my blood and taste buds forever hunting for the next feast.

I want to share all my experiences and hard-earned practical knowledge with you, to help you discover the wonders of this ancient yet vibrantly alive country.