Your ultimate guide to unique experiences, hidden gems, food adventures & nightlife in China’s most vibrant city.

Shanghai isn’t just a city of impressive skyscrapers — it’s a place where modern excitement meets deep cultural roots. One moment you’re cruising along the Huangpu River, the next you’re learning to fold delicate soup dumplings, exploring creative art alleys, sipping cocktails on sky-high terraces, or dancing till sunrise at the city’s newest nightlife destination.

This list goes beyond “places” — it highlights 15 real, meaningful activities so you know exactly what to do, what to experience, and how to make the most of your trip. Whether you're coming for food, culture, photography, nightlife, or local exploration, these are the top things to do in Shanghai in 2025.

01. Take a Huangpu River Cruise (Best for First-Time Visitors)

A river cruise is the perfect way to understand the heart of Shanghai. As you sail between the historic Bund and the futuristic skyline of Pudong, you’ll see how the city blends East and West, past and future.

What you’ll do

• Glide along the Huangpu River separating the two iconic districts

• Capture stunning photos of illuminated skyscrapers

• Enjoy onboard commentary about the landmarks

• Experience breathtaking sunset or night-time views

A river cruise is one of the must-do things in Shanghai, especially for first-time visitors.

 

02. Experience Shanghai’s Ultimate Nightlife at INS LAND (Top Night Activity)

Located inside Fuxing Park, INS LAND is not just nightlife — it’s an activity-packed evening experience loved by locals and global travelers. This modern entertainment universe lets you explore different atmospheres, music styles, and food options without ever leaving the building.

What you can do here

• Party in multiple themed nightclubs (EDM, hip-hop, techno, K-pop, live shows)

• Enjoy international DJ nights & immersive performances

• Dine across 20+ restaurants & lounges (sushi, grill, cocktails, bakeries)

• Capture neon-lit, Instagrammable photos

• Bar-hop effortlessly within the same complex

If you're wondering what to do in Shanghai at night, INS LAND is the answer.
It combines dinner + clubbing + art + shows + late-night food — all in one unforgettable destination.

Experience INS LAND — Shanghai’s #1 Nightlife Destination

👉 Book Tickets Now

 

03. Explore Tianzifang & Join a Local Craft or Art Workshop

Tianzifang is a creative maze of narrow alleys filled with studios, workshops, cafés, and boutique shops. It’s not just a place to walk — it’s a place to participate.

Activities you can try

• Pottery workshops

• Painting or sketching classes

• Traditional calligraphy lessons

• Handmade craft shopping

• Taste local snacks like scallion oil noodles

A perfect half-day activity for art lovers and culture seekers.

 

04. Learn to Make Xiao Long Bao (Soup Dumpling Cooking Class)

Shanghai’s famous soup dumplings are a culinary masterpiece — and learning how to make them is both fun and delicious.

What you’ll do

• Learn traditional folding techniques

• Watch how gelatin turns into soup when steamed

• Prepare dumplings step-by-step with a chef

• Eat unlimited dumplings you made yourself
  
  

A cooking class is a cultural activity + food adventure combined — ideal for families and couples.

 

05. Take a Night Walk on the Bund & Enjoy Street Performances

The Bund transforms after dark, making it one of the best free activities in Shanghai.

During your walk, you can

• Watch the skyline light show

• Listen to talented street musicians

• Capture amazing group or couple photos

• Buy snacks, coffee, or ice cream from vendors

The atmosphere is lively, romantic, and perfect for night-time strolls.

 

06. Explore the French Concession by Bicycle or E-Scooter

Instead of walking, exploring this beautiful neighbourhood on wheels makes the experience more immersive.

What you’ll do

• Rent a shared bike or e-scooter

• Glide through tree-lined lanes

• Stop at cafés, galleries, and boutiques

• Discover hidden bakeries & concept stores

A relaxing way to enjoy the charm and elegance of old Shanghai.

 

07. Ride China’s Fastest Maglev Train (Unique Travel Experience)

Even if you’re not heading to the airport, the Maglev ride is worth trying just for the thrill.

What you’ll experience

• Travel at 431 km/h

• Feel the smooth floating sensation of magnetic levitation

• Watch the speed display climb rapidly

• Enjoy a futuristic, once-in-a-lifetime ride

Perfect for tech enthusiasts and families.

 

08. Explore Shanghai’s Street Food on a Guided Night Food Tour

Shanghai’s food scene comes alive at night. A guided food tour lets you explore hidden alleys safely while tasting dishes you might never find alone.

What you’ll do

• Try 8–12 dishes

• Taste local favourites: Sheng Jian Bao, BBQ skewers, rice rolls, pancakes

• Discover late-night markets

• Learn the stories behind Shanghainese cuisine

Ideal for food lovers and adventurous travelers.

 

09. Visit M50 Art District & Join a Photo Walk

M50 is Shanghai’s hub for contemporary art housed inside old industrial warehouses.

Activities include

• Photograph graffiti walls and murals

• Attend meetups or photo walks

• Watch artists paint in their studios

• Explore hidden coffee shops

A hotspot for photographers, designers, and creative travellers.

 

10. Enjoy a Skyline Dinner at a Rooftop Restaurant

Shanghai is one of the best cities in Asia for rooftop dining.

What you’ll do

• Try modern Shanghainese and fusion cuisine

• Enjoy handcrafted cocktails

• Watch the skyline glow as the sun sets

• Capture beautiful dining photos

Golden hour or nighttime offers the best ambience.

11. Attend a Chinese Acrobatics or Martial Arts Show

Shanghai hosts some of the most stunning acrobatics and performance shows in China.

What you’ll experience

• High-flying stunts

• Contortion acts

• Martial arts demonstrations

• Visual illusions and storytelling

This is a family-friendly cultural activity worth adding to your itinerary.

 

12. Enjoy Live Jazz, Indie Bands or Open-Mic Nights

Shanghai’s music scene goes beyond clubs. The city has a rich culture of live music.

What you can enjoy

• Smooth jazz in intimate lounges

• Indie band performances in livehouses

• Poetry and music open-mic nights

• Fusion and experimental music

Wonderful for travelers who love local creativity.

 

13. Join a Tea Ceremony & Learn the Psychology of Tea Culture

Chinese tea culture is deeply meaningful and surprisingly meditative.

What you’ll do

• Learn proper brewing techniques

• Analyse aromas, flavours & textures

• Practice mindfulness through slow tea tasting

• Understand the symbolism of tea rituals

A calm and culturally rich activity ideal for mindful travelers.

14. Take a Water Town Day Trip & Go on a Canal Boat Ride

Zhujiajiao, Qibao, and Fengjing Water Towns offer a peaceful contrast to the modern city.

What you’ll do

• Ride a wooden canal boat

• Feed koi fish

• Explore ancient bridges, alleys, and temples

• Enjoy local snacks and traditional desserts

A refreshing and relaxing getaway from the fast-paced city.

 

15. Do a Morning Tai-Chi Session in Fuxing Park

Start your day like a local with a wholesome Tai-Chi session.

What you’ll do

• Join locals practicing Tai-Chi

• Learn simple movements and breathing exercises

• Observe seniors playing music, dancing, or doing calligraphy

• End your morning with coffee in the nearby French Concession

A meaningful cultural moment that balances your entire day.

 

Conclusion

Shanghai offers an incredible mix of cultural, culinary, artistic, and nightlife experiences — all in one city. From dumpling-making classes and night food tours to canal boat rides and live performances, every traveler can create their own version of Shanghai.

And when the sun sets, INS LAND stands out as the city’s most innovative nightlife experience — combining clubs, dining, art, and entertainment under one roof.
Use this list to plan your perfect day-and-night itinerary and discover why Shanghai is one of the most exciting cities in the world.