Things to do in Shanghai

What to expect in Shanghai

The things to do catalogue in Shanghai is led by Theme parks, then Tours, Observation decks, Zoos & aquariums and Parks & gardens, offering everything from family-focused attractions to guided city experiences and green spaces for a quieter visit. That spread means travellers can mix high-energy days at larger attractions with budget-friendly parks or mid-range guided tours. Demand peaks in May, while the quietest month is July, so expect attractions to be busiest in May and noticeably calmer in July.

How to choose what to book

The main decision is whether you want a family-focused spectacle or a flexible city experience — Theme parks sit at the top end of typical spending, typically around PHP 4,638, while Tours offer the widest range with a typical price of PHP 1,962 and both entry-level and premium options. Parks & gardens are the most affordable way in for filling gaps and usually sit at PHP 357, a straightforward low-cost option for casual visits.

If you care about predictable pricing, Parks & gardens and Observation decks have narrow ranges so shopping around gains little, whereas Tours have the broadest spread from entry-level to upper-end, letting you choose budget or premium experiences. Zoos & aquariums and Observation decks fall into the mid-range where what’s included varies most, so compare offerings rather than just prices.

When travellers from the Philippines book

Most travellers book at the last minute: the typical lead time is 6 days ahead, while the earliest planners book about 13 days out. Plan on booking one week ahead for routine flexibility, and add a little cushion if you’ll travel in May, when demand is highest.

How prices compare

The table below shows how Shanghai’s top categories compare on price so you can place a budget before you choose.

Typical price is the median paid on Klook; the usual range covers the middle half of bookings, so cheaper and pricier options exist outside it; prices are shown with their currency code. Based on Klook booking data, August 2025 – July 2026.