Free Things to Do in Shanghai

THE 10 BEST Free Things to Do in Shanghai

Best Free Things to Do in Shanghai

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    Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.
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    Highest rated attractions on Tripadvisor, based on traveler reviews.
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What travelers are saying

  • Kiwifruit Deeply Customized Travel
    Shanghai, China15 contributions
    This is a great place, you can feel the modern magic city. The Huangpu rive divided Shanghai into two parts and goes into the sea.
    Written February 23, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • chrislaw9300
    Slate Hill, NY5 contributions
    If you ever find yourself in the South Bund Fabric Market, the tailor you want to see is JoJo. When my wife and I visited Shanghai in July, 2018, we were advised to visit JoJo’s store, and once we did, my tailoring needs were solved forever. I bought more than six suits, a couple of blazers, a dozen or more shirts, working pants and a winter coat on that trip. Wisely, I decided to inquire about staying in touch because I was so enamored with Jojo’s tailoring, and she hooked me up with the WeChat App. That was a game changer. Still to this day, I continue to communicate withJojo, who has continued to make my clothes. I have bought so many suits, shirts and pants from her since then. In fact, I just ordered five pants last week and can’t wait to wear them. Even though I consider myself a humble person, I can’t help but feel self conscious when people stop me and rave about my outfits. Simply put, they were made by one of the greatest tailors in the South Bund Fabric Market, Jojo. If I have to travel to Shanghai for my measurements in the future, I will gladly do so, as long as Jojo is there. Shop at Jojo’s - it's worth the money!!!!
    Written March 6, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Sjakie S
    Hoorn, The Netherlands661 contributions
    The museum has free entrance, and if you know what's inside! But you have to wait in the queue for 1 hour. The audio guide is well worth the price. I think you can spend a whole day here.
    Written May 18, 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Peter
    Canberra, Australia13 contributions
    This is an absolutely a fantastic hotel, very old Shanghai style. Thanks for the hospitality by Zoe, Tom, Tony, Hattie and Figo, I appreciate your food and outstanding service. Every time when I get back to Shanghai, peace hotel is my first and only choice. Love you guys and have a great holiday :)!
    Written May 1, 2020
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Kiwifruit Deeply Customized Travel
    Shanghai, China15 contributions
    This road is famous for its nice design, and most of them are shops and restaurants. Some International shopping malls are also found here. You can have a quick walk through it to the Bund.
    Written February 24, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Azita-1
    Princeton Junction, NJ32 contributions
    It is only an hour drive from Pudong, an old water town worth visiting. There were many cute little local cafes as well as western ones. We were glad to see the streets an bridges after sunset especially decorated for the new year.
    Written January 8, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Stephen C
    Singapore, Singapore1,080 contributions
    This attraction is best done on foot. Depending on how far and what you want to cover, it could be as long as 7 kilometers.

    The main draw for me was the old architecture, which is remnants from the French concession period. The local government has done a good job of preserving the buildings so that you can still get a flavor of how locals many decades ago.

    There are plenty of eateries and coffee shops along the way. There are also shops selling paintings and other creative items.
    The famous Xintiadi and Tianzifang are also part of this area.
    Written February 5, 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Kristine K
    119 contributions
    Electric. Fun. Fascinating. Ever changing. Versatile. Busy. Big business. Shopping. Tourists. Numerous restaurants & dining opportunities. Several museums in the immediate area. Can be a little congested at times. Take public transportation if possible. Glorious views of The Bund area. Can pick-up a hop on / hop off bus from this area. All towers within walking distance. Very western feel, new & modern, sleek. Majority of people in this area speak some English. The night experience much different than day time so walk around & visit the area both times of day. Holidays the area will be busy so be prepared. The time you spend in the area will depend on your purpose could be an hour could be all day. You decide! Enjoy.
    Written October 20, 2020
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • FellowTraveler777811
    Brisbane, Australia21 contributions
    River Cruise while all of the buildings were lit was amazing. Very colourful and alot of the images on the buildings were moving. Well worth the trip.
    Written May 7, 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • LoganLoganLogan
    Shanghai, China3 contributions
    This place is a maze, if you have an afternoon to stroll about and pick up knick knacks and small bites this charming area is for you. Lots of different vendors and shops selling mostly the same things but it's still a fun and easy experience.
    Written February 14, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • bcheong
    Shanghai, China26,209 contributions
    Nice area to visit. They are still constructing after 15 years. Many of the hip restaurants have moved out, but you have others like Lady M or Din tai fung moving in. Lots of shops between luxury to streetwear
    Written March 6, 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Kiwifruit Deeply Customized Travel
    Shanghai, China15 contributions
    This is a part of the Bund, you will find many different buildings which look like European styles. I suggest spending about one hour taking a view at this.
    Written February 24, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • DaNesha M
    1 contribution
    Lucy is the best, understands styles and has really affordable pricing even for those with eyes as wonky as mine! Great experience, truly.
    Written February 3, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • C0ppola
    Oulu, Finland270 contributions
    Very nicely designed buildings.

    It is a good idea to set aside time to tour the area without rushing.

    Stalls selling souvenirs and small shops in the area.

    Overall a great looking place.
    Written March 18, 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Karen H
    Los Angeles, CA5 contributions
    Nice green park in the middle of the Former French concession. Perfect place for a picnic and some yoga. Many local people are coming here to dance and do exercise. Highly recommend!
    Written May 18, 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.