Shanghai may be known for its futuristic skyline, but beyond the skyscrapers lies a city filled with cultural charm and wallet-friendly fun. Whether you’re exploring with curious kids or travelling with parents who appreciate a slower pace, these seven experiences combine history, nature, and local flavour—all comfortably under S$100 per person. From serene temples to lively bazaars and sky-high views, here’s some of the best things to do in Shanghai that delights every generation.
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1. Yu Garden & Old City area
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Step back into the Ming Dynasty with winding walkways, koi-filled ponds, and rockeries. A haven of tranquility right in the heart of Shanghai, Yu Garden is paired with bustling bazaars just outside for souvenir hunting and snacking.
Tip: Consider getting the Shanghai Sightseeing Bus Pass – it stops at major attractions like The Bund, Yu Garden, and the French Concession, making it easy for families and seniors to explore comfortably
2. The Bund (Huangpu River waterfront promenade)
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This world-famous waterfront stretches along the Huangpu River with colonial-era buildings on one side and futuristic Pudong towers on the other. Best enjoyed at sunset or evening when the skyline lights up.
3. Jin Mao Tower 88th Floor Observation Deck (360° city views from a skyscraper)
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Whisk up 88 floors in under a minute to take in a jaw-dropping 360° view of Shanghai’s skyline. The deck is indoors and climate-controlled, making it a great all-weather spot.
Get tickets to Jin Mao Tower here from S$10!
4. Century Park
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Shanghai’s largest urban park is a breath of fresh air, with playgrounds, lakes, bike rentals, and walking paths.
5. Shanghai Museum
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Shanghai Museum offers a journey through 5 floors of Chinese history, with over 120,000 treasures from ancient bronzes to calligraphy. Its unique round-top, square-base architecture reflects traditional cosmology and is just as impressive as the artefacts inside. With elevators, seating areas, and eye-catching exhibits, it’s the perfect cultural stop for both kids and grandparents.
Some special exhibitions may have a small ticket fee (~CNY 30–60), but the main galleries are always free.
6. Tianzifang & the French Concession neighbourhood
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Explore cozy alleyways filled with artisan boutiques, indie cafés, and galleries. Great for a leisurely cultural stroll with plenty of places to rest and snack.
7. Shanghai Wild Animal Park
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More than a zoo, this park offers safari-style zones with zebras, tigers, giraffes, and more. Some areas are accessible by bus only, where visitors get a closer look at the animals in their free-to-roam habitat.
Shanghai Wild Animal Park ticket prices are approximately:
Adult: CNY165 ≈ SGD $31.35
Child (6–18) / Senior (65+): CNY82.5 ≈ SGD $15.68
Child under 1.3m: Free
Want to see more of Shanghai at your own pace? The Shanghai Sightseeing Bus offers hop-on hop-off routes that cover the city’s top attractions which is ideal for first-time visitors and families. You can choose either a 24-hour ticket or a 48-hour ticket to make the most out of your trip!
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