Budget-Friendly Things to Do in Shanghai

THE 10 BEST Cheap Things to Do in Shanghai

Best Budget-Friendly 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 traveller reviews.
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150 places sorted by traveller favourites
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What travellers are saying

  • Edson
    San Francisco, CA255 contributions
    The bund was an amazing experience, a cluster of European style historical buildings very well preserved. I do remember seeing pictures of the bund before and I have to say they didn’t do any justice. I got the chance to visit it for the first time at night and the lightning in the buildings is breathtaking, plenty of spots to take pictures and right amount of people without feeling overwhelmed. Walking distance to other attractions and just across the street to see the Shanghai modern skyline.
    Written 20 September 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Tony W
    1 contribution
    There are more than 300 different shops in the whole market, and the choice is very wide, and the cost is very good. I selected and purchased four suits at number 235 on the second floor. The boss's service was very warm and his suggestions were very professional.
    Written 22 September 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • SB01
    Krakow, Poland796 contributions
    Sitting amongst all the high rise and neon is this beautiful walled garden in traditional Chinese style, being full of waterways, conifers, rockeries and statues. But garden is a misnomer as there are temples, halls, boathouses and even a theatre in traditional styles that elevate the gardens to remarkable heights. It is a lovely, relaxing place to enjoy outside peak times. During peak times it’s absolutely rammed! Like almost everywhere you need Alipay for your tickets so come prepared. Decent washrooms. IMO a must see in Shanghai.
    Shanghai old streets are just behind, but they seem to either be about to be knocked down or more optimistically restored. If the former grab a view now.
    Written 29 September 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • TaherAlbaghliJulian
    Kuwait City, Kuwait1,976 contributions
    is a busy road in Shanghai and it the main shopping district of Shanghai
    road. It is nice place for walking ,eat local food and drink fresh juice. Beware of scammers. They may offer you to buy dollars at an attractive price, play gambling, or buy counterfeit goods for international brands. Do not go into alleys or basements, as you may be exposed to harm or have your money stolen.

    Written 8 September 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Martian_Mike
    Shanghai, China12 contributions
    just noticed to everybody, the museum has been built 25 years, and now it is making over. But still a good place to take shot and Nanjing road is not far away from it. Walk on the Nanjing road to East direction,you could be to Shanghai BUND.
    Written 4 September 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Hannah
    Prague, Czech Republic2 contributions
    The Propaganda Poster Museum is a very special place. I never thought there would be a place that conserved chinese history so well. There are a lot of explanations alongside the posters and you can really feel that the owners put a lot of thought into the display. At the end of my visit I got the chance to talk to the owner who was very kind and gave me some deeper explanations on the posters and Chinese as well as Shanghainese history.
    If you’re interested in Chinese history and want to understand their view on the world more you should definitely visit this place!
    Written 27 September 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Stephen C
    Singapore, Singapore1,082 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 5 February 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Edson
    San Francisco, CA255 contributions
    Take your Shanghai pictures memories here, the world famous views of pudong can be take. Here. Plenty of good spots to admire the shanghai skyline, take the rivers cruises and walking distance from many touristy places like the bund, Nanjing street and upscale restaurants. It’s a must while you visit Shangai and never regret.
    Written 20 September 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • TaherAlbaghliJulian
    Kuwait City, Kuwait1,976 contributions
    Huangpu River, also known as Huangxiepu or Chunshen River, is a landmark of Shanghai, separating the city into two parts, Pudong and Puxi. With a total length of 113 km. It is nice place to walk especially at night.
    Written 10 September 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Gaurav Agrawal
    Kathmandu, Nepal4 contributions
    I recently visited the Ancient Town at Zhujiajiao as a solo traveler, and I had a great time! The town is absolutely beautiful, with its narrow streets, traditional Chinese architecture, and canals. I really enjoyed exploring the town and learning about its history.

    The only downside was that it was quite crowded, especially on weekends. This made it difficult to get around at times, and it was also hard to find a quiet spot to sit and relax. However, the crowds didn't detract from my overall enjoyment of the visit.

    Overall, I would definitely recommend visiting the Ancient Town at Zhujiajiao. It's a great place to spend a day exploring and learning about Chinese culture. Just be sure to go during the week if you want to avoid the crowds.

    Tips:

    1. Visit during the week to avoid the crowds.
    2. Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
    3. Bring a camera to capture all the beautiful sights.
    4. Be sure to try some of the local food.
    Written 2 July 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • C0ppola
    Oulu, Finland279 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 18 March 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • France
    11 contributions
    Lucy is super nice. She provides great service and good pricing. We got 2 pairs of glasses. If you ever want a new pair of good glasses, Lucy is your expert.
    Written 20 September 2023
    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 14 February 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • TaherAlbaghliJulian
    Kuwait City, Kuwait1,976 contributions
    There are many western unique building in China. But,I like this building I used to walk along bund to see the beautiful building The entrances, the lobbies, the grandeur of the buildings. Just wonderful to see them repurposed in many cases or continue to provide the purpose from a century ago.

    Written 10 September 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • TaherAlbaghliJulian
    Kuwait City, Kuwait1,976 contributions
    Pudong is a district of Shanghai located east of the Huangpu, the river which flows through central Shanghai. It is modern area. Easy to walk or take a taxi or metro. very clean. nice to discover all the corners. Moreover, there are many new building and shopping mall.
    Written 10 September 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.