Shanghai China – Top–10 Most Thrilling Things to Do

There is an abundance of things to do in Shanghai – the only problem is deciding what to do in your allotted time. If you’re into culture and history, the city offers numerous ancient temples and museums to explore. If you’re more interested in eating, head over People’s Square. If you’re travelling with your children, make sure to head over to Shanghai Disneyland.

Here are some activities you shouldn’t miss out on:

10. The Bund Sight-Seeing Tunnel

Cost: 30- 50 RMB

A trip to Shanghai wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the famous Bund. This tunnel provides an exciting way of travel- merging transport and sight-seeing into one! It’s over 600 meters long, and runs under the Huangpu River, linking the Pudong and Bund areas. Visual effects and background music provide an alternative way to travel.

When?
9:00-21:30. It takes 5 minutes to get across.
Where?
300 Zhongshan East Road (Puxi side); 2789 Bingjiang road (Pudong side)

9. Shanghai Circus World

Cost: 80-150 RMB.

Something for the kids. Named the best in China, it’s architectural style is jaw-dropping and it can seat over 1600. With high-tech lighting and sound systems, it’s host to various dance, acrobatic, and singing performances. The “ERA Intersection of Time” has been performed there since it opened, and will immediately remind you of Broadway. It’s a beautiful show of acrobatics, combining both traditional Chinese and modern styles.
Go See: Mirror Mirage, Bowl Balancing, Space Motorcycle. We really enjoyed the variety, and a welcome break from all the historical stuff many attractions provide.

When?
Weekends& public holidays, starting at 14:00. It last about 100 minutes.
Where?
No. 2266, Gonghe Xin Road, Zhabei District

8. Kung Fu Comedy Club

Cost: 50-70RMB for local headliners, from 150 RMB for celebrity headliners.

Housed in a cosy setting with only 100 seats, enjoy side-splitting stand up and improv acts by some of Shanghai’s most renowned comedians, with emphasis on local talent. Comedy nights are hosted by Shanghai’s Storm Xu and the material will have both Chinese and foreign audiences in stiches.
We loved the Open Mic night, which happens on Wednesdays and Sundays. These are free for entry but get there early to find a seat. Drinks are reasonably priced.

When?
Open Mic on Wednesday and Sunday, headliners on Friday and Saturday.
Where?
4/F, 1 Xiangyang Bei Road

7. Mr X Mystery House

Cost: 120RMB off peak, 150 during peak hours

This is really something off the beaten track and is sure to be a hit with the kids. Visitors are challenged by being locked in a room- you need to use your brain power and intuition to escape each room in the building! The challenges vary in difficulty, so it’s suitable for everyone. Also great for team building, or a fun evening out with friends.

When?
Everyday from 10:00-15:00.
Where?
550 Jumen Road Huangpu District

6. Linterest

Cost: varies, from 200 RMB.

Chinese love their food. Linterest serves to celebrate that. It’s mostly described as a cooking class, but it is so much more than that, coming with rave reviews. They offer various kinds of cooking classes, with a tour through a local food market.
An incredibly knowledgeable Chinese chef will take you for a tour of China’s remarkable foodscape, teaching you how to prepare some delicious Chinese dishes. Be warned- it’s very hands-on, so get ready to cook! A popular class is “Kitchen by the Garden”.

When?
Everyday, but ensure you make a booking. It lasts for about 4 hours.
Where?
Room 2, Block 8, 696 Henshang Road, Xuhui

5. Secret Garden Spa (Nanjing East Road)

Cost: From 150RMB.

This spa is found in a beautiful garden, and it’s a perfect place for a couple’s visit. The staff are friendly, and perform their art incredibly well. It’s been called the best spa in Shanghai, go there to indulge in a luxurious masseuse, and foot and full body massages in a private room.

When?
Daily, 9:00-21:00.
Where?
5F No.479 Nanjing East Road, Huangpu District

4. Go for a bike tour!

Cost: from 1 RMB!

Many visitors will be surprised to know Shanghai is very eco-friendly. You can rent a bike (1 RMB) from every corner. Travel to one of the touristy areas, pick up a bike and explore at your own leisure! We rode along the Bund, and it was great to experience the beauty of the place by ourselves, avoiding the big tour groups.
You can also choose to follow a guide: experience a ride through the Old Town, Chongming Island, or a general “highlights tour” to the most popular attractions.

When?
Any time.
Where?
Anywhere you like. Avoid areas with heavy traffic though.

3. Shanghai Ocean Aquarium

Cost: 110RMB (kids), 160 RMB for adults.

After being saturated with history and culture, your children are probably looking for something a little more exciting. Enter, one the biggest aquariums in the world, also home to the longest submarine tunnel!
It’s home to various ocean creatures from all over the world (including China- see the Yangtze alligator and Chinese sturgeon). Gaze at monstrous sharks, jellyfish and penguins! A clearly marked walk-through takes you to all the best exhibits, including the submarine tunnel (a must-see!)

When?
9:00-18:00. It gets busy, so plan your time wisely. You’ll need at least one hour.
Where?
Lujiazui Station on line 2 from the Metro. It’s very centrally located.

2. Nanjing Road

Cost: Depends on how much fun you want to have!

The biggest, best shopping street in all of China! It was the first British Concession in Shanghai, and the wares for sale are truly international. It’s simply a must-see: one of China’s top tourist destinations.
See stores toting the latest fashions (Tiffany, Dunhill) and tons of other specialty stores. While it’s truly a global scene, one can also find many traditional local stores, selling things like jade and silk. Sit at an outside bar, enjoying the dulcet tones of local musicians late at night.

When?
Stores generally open at 8:00. For something different, go there at sunrise and watch some old Chinese ladies perform traditional dances! Its nightlife is terrific.
Where?
Nanjing Road, hop off the subway’s People’s Square station.

1. Shanghai Disneyland

Cost: from 370 RMB.

For the kids, and those young at heart. It offers everything you’d expect from Disneyland, intertwined with uniquely Chinese elements. It boasts the tallest theme tower in the world, and there various attractions inside.

Notably, Mickey Avenue: be welcomed in by the mouse and his friends and snap a photo with them. Grab a snack if you’re hungry.
Adventure Isle: Explore a recently discovered ancient tribe- become awestruck by the creepy authenticity whilst floating down the Roaring Rapids.
Fantasy Land: the largest park in the resort. Take a walk through the most advanced and interactive Disney Castle in the world.
Of course, there are tons of awesome rides, too, and Various shops and restaurants.
Buy tickets online to avoid a queue. It’s very popular- download their handy app to save time.

When?
Opens at 8:00- late.
Where?
Chuansha New Town, Pudong

Bonus. Former French Concession

Cost: Free to enter, bring some extra cash to enjoy what it has to offer.

This was once an area designated specifically to the French, created by colonial officers in 1849 after the Opium War.
Today, this is an incredibly popular place for foreigners. It has beautiful streets that are lined by huge trees, ideal for an afternoon stroll. It’s known for it’s funky cafés, bars, restaurants and boutique galleries.
Walk down Wukang Lu to experience quaint outdoor cafés, various art stores and a fantastic little Belgian bistro called Belga.
Go to Huaihai Lu for some of the best shopping in China! Try some of the Chinese restaurants for local Chinese food. Visit Fuxing Park for an outdoor experience.

When?
Shops open at 8.
Where?
It’s long- but get off the metro at Xujiahui Station.

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Overall, there’re tons to do in Shanghai both for kids, parents, or solo travellers. The attractions can get very crowded so be smart about your timings. Don’t rely on Google Maps to find them- Google is banned in China.