Best Places to See the City Skyline in Shanghai, China
1. Shanghai Tower Observation Deck
Enjoy breathtaking views from the world's second tallest building. Catch a glimpse of the entire city from its 118th-floor observation deck. Perfect for those wanting an indoor viewing experience without weather concerns.
- Ticket Convenience: Tickets can be pre-purchased online.
- Weather Shielding: Indoor space provides shelter from rain.
- Elevation Access: High-speed elevators minimize wait times.
- Visibility: Clear daily views offer stunning panoramas.
- Accessibility: Located in Lujiazui, close to other attractions.
2. The Bund
Take a stroll along this waterfront area to see colonial-era buildings with the modern skyline as a backdrop. It's perfect for travelers who prefer an outdoor experience with historical context. The mix of old and new buildings offers a unique reflection of Shanghai's growth.
- Free Entry: No cost required to enjoy the view.
- Historical Insight: Provides a glimpse into Shanghai's colonial past.
- Photo Opportunities: Excellent spot for cityscape photos.
- Accessibility: Easily reachable by taxi or metro.
- Evening Lighting: Night illumination enhances the view.
3. Oriental Pearl Tower
Climb the iconic TV tower for a 360-degree view of Shanghai. This location offers a different perspective with its rotating restaurant and transparent glass floor. Ideal for families looking to add excitement to their skyline viewing.
- Unique Dining: Rotating restaurant provides panoramic dining.
- Thrilling Experience: Glass floor adds excitement.
- Accessibility: Centrally located in Pudong.
- Iconic Landmark: Recognizable structure improves photo context.
- Interactive Exhibits: Offers additional attractions like museum exhibits.
4. Jin Mao Tower Skywalk
Experience walking on a transparent walkway outside one of Shanghai's tallest skyscrapers. It solves the challenge of adding adventure to skyline viewing. No handrails add an adrenaline rush for thrill-seekers.
- Adrenaline Factor: Open-air skywalk adds excitement.
- Exclusive Access: Limited ticket availability ensures a premium experience.
- Height: Ranks among the tallest structures for views.
- Safety: Secured with harnesses for safety.
- Novelty: Unique experience separates it from typical observatories.
5. Shanghai World Financial Center
Visit the highest observation deck in Shanghai offering unique vistas through transparent floors. Known as the "bottle opener," it provides a different skyline perspective. It's an ideal option for architecture enthusiasts.
- Architectural Interest: Design appeals to architecture fans.
- Ticket Packages: Combination tickets offer savings.
- Elevation: One of the highest views available.
- Modern Design: Offers a sleek and modern viewing environment.
- Night Visits: Open late for night skyline viewing.
6. Hyatt on the Bund VUE Bar
Take in stunning city views while enjoying a cocktail from a rooftop bar. Unique for its open-air Jacuzzi, it offers relaxation with scenery. Perfect for those seeking a luxurious evening experience.
- Luxurious Setting: Rooftop bar offers relaxation with views.
- Evening Access: Provides sunset and night views.
- Exclusivity: Limited entrance prevents overcrowding.
- Social: Ideal for gatherings and meet-ups.
- Comfort: Comfortable seating enhances experience.
7. Lujiazui Central Green Space
Enjoy a peaceful park setting with the skyline surrounding you. It's perfect for those who prefer a quiet environment away from crowds. The park offers an immersive nature experience in an urban setting.
- Green Space: Combines nature and architecture.
- Free Access: Enjoy the views without cost.
- Family Friendly: Suitable for picnics and relaxation.
- Proximity: Close to iconic skyscrapers.
- Tranquility: Offers a peaceful atmosphere.
8. Houtan Park
This revamped post-industrial site offers unique skyline views from gardens and wetlands. Perfect for eco-friendly travelers who seek sustainable tourism options. The park merges nature with urban vistas.
- Eco-Friendly: Promotes sustainable practices.
- Unique Setting: Former industrial site offers distinct views.
- Photographic Opportunities: Nature and city elements combine for photos.
- Accessibility: Accessible walkway trails.
- Peaceful Environment: Avoids urban noise.
9. Red Town Sculpture Garden
This artsy spot offers skyline views set against contemporary sculptures. Ideal for art lovers who enjoy fusion of art and architecture. It provides a culturally rich experience within the city.
- Artistic Flair: Combines art with cityscape views.
- No Cost: Free access to garden space.
- Cultural Insight: Reflects local art scene.
- Creative Environment: Stimulates imagination.
- Accessibility: Located within the city center.
10. Yangpu Bridge
Get a unique angle of the skyline from this long suspension bridge. Ideal for photographers who want to capture the cityscape over the Huangpu River. It’s less crowded, offering a more relaxed viewing experience.
- Unique Perspective: Offers a less common viewpoint.
- River Views: Adds river scenery to skyline photos.
- Free Access: No fee for bridge crossing.
- Traffic Noise: Background sound can affect recordings.
- Weather Impact: Views can be affected by weather conditions.
11. Century Park
Relax in Shanghai's largest park while viewing the skyline from a distance. It's perfect for those seeking a leisurely spot with ample green space. The mix of nature and urban views offers a tranquil experience.
- Spacious Area: Provides plenty of space for recreation.
- Affordable: Low-cost entry for international visitors.
- Family Oriented: Ideal for family activities and picnics.
- Wide Varieties of Flora: Offers botanical interests.
- Quiet: Offers a retreat from city noise.
12. Longhua Pagoda
This historic pagoda offers an unusual combination of cultural history and city views. Perfect for those wanting a cultural angle with their skyline experience. The surrounding temple complex adds historical depth.
- Historical Context: Provides cultural and historical insights.
- Entry Fee: Modest fee for pagoda entry.
- Spiritual Environment: Adds a reflective atmosphere.
- Unique Architecture: Offers distinctive photographic angles.
- Accessibility: Located in the city, reachable by metro.
13. 100 Century Avenue Restaurant
Located in the Shanghai World Financial Center, this restaurant offers skyline views over fine dining. The expansive window design enhances the dining experience. Perfect for those looking to combine gourmet meals with iconic views.
- Culinary Excellence: Offers high-end dining.
- Prime Location: Views from a high elevation enhance experience.
- Window Design: Expansive windows maximize viewing.
- Reservation Requirement: Demand for tables can require planning.
- Evening Experience: Enhanced by city lights at night.
14. Shanghai Ocean Aquarium Rooftop
Offers a dual experience of marine life exhibits and cityscape views from the roof. Ideal for families looking for a kid-friendly skyline viewing spot. It combines education with visual delight.
- Family Friendly: Attractions for all ages.
- Scenic Rooftop Views: Adds perspective post-visit.
- Modest Fee: Ticket charges apply for entry.
- Educational Component: Aquarium exhibits teach about marine life.
- Central Location: Easily accessible by public transit.
15. People's Square
Provides a central vantage point amid Shanghai’s bustling urban environment. Ideal for those needing a break from shopping or museums with a convenient city view. It's an open area easily accessible by public transport.
- Central Hub: Near many attractions and amenities.
- Metro Access: Easily reachable by city transit lines.
- Open Space: Offers unrestrictive views.
- Cultural Nearby Sites: Proximity to museums adds variety.
- Active Environment: Bustling space with dynamic city feel.
16. The Cool Docks
A riverside development area with boutique shops and eateries provides skyline vistas over the Huangpu River. Perfect for younger travelers looking for trendy spots and leisure activities. It offers a chic atmosphere alongside the view.
- Trendy Spot: Appeals to younger demographics.
- Riverfront Viewing: Adds scenic river views.
- Shopping and Dining: Combination of leisure activities.
- Modest Crowds: Less crowded than The Bund.
- Evening Experience: Night views enhanced with dining options.
17. Binjiang Avenue
Enjoy expansive views of the Lujiazui skyline from this riverside stretch. It’s great for joggers and walkers wanting an unobstructed view while exercising. The wide promenade offers plenty of space to enjoy the scenery without congestion.
- Exercise Friendly: Ideal for walking or jogging with views.
- Spacious Walkway: Offers a wide area for movement.
- Cityscape and River Combo: Combines urban and natural views.
- Free Entry: No costs for public access.
- Long Strolls: Extends for a length providing varied perspectives.
18. The Ritz-Carlton Rooftop Bar
Sip on craft cocktails while overlooking the Shanghai skyline from this luxurious rooftop venue. Ideal for romantic evenings or special celebrations with impressive views. The upscale environment enhances the experience.
- Exclusive Venue: Offers a luxury viewing environment.
- Craft Cocktails: Adds a gourmet drink experience.
- Evening Hours: Best visited during night for city lights.
- Reservation Requirement: Booking needed for space.
- High Altitude: Elevation adds to panoramic effect.
19. Shanghai Jinjiang Amusement Park Ferris Wheel
Offers a fun skyline view while riding one of the city's tallest Ferris wheels. Perfect for families and amusement park fans wanting views with entertainment. It provides a leisurely and fun skyline experience.
- Amusement Component: Combines fun with viewing.
- Seasonal Appeal: Offers seasonal events as attractions.
- Enclosed Gondolas: Offers weather protection.
- Reasonable Cost: Moderately priced tickets.
- Unique Height: Among tallest Ferris wheels for city views.
20. East Bund Park
Provides unique viewing angles of both old and modern Shanghai while offering ample space for relaxation. It attracts travelers interested in exploring developing areas of the city with skyline views. The site changes with ongoing urban development.
- Developing Space: Offers views with urban development insights.
- Riverside Access: Combines park with water views.
- Free Entry: No cost requirement.
- Variety: Offers evolving landscapes with construction.
- Recreational Park: Ample space for leisure activities.