
5 Fun and Free Things to Do in Shanghai
Today’s guest post is by a very talented travel blogger named Jess! She’s blogging at Tripelio.com and has been traveling to all different parts of the world. She especially loves traveling in China and has five insider tips on what to do in Shanghai for absolutely free!
“Shanghai is truly a city like no other. One day you can explore the vibrant skyscrapers and famous financial district of Shanghai, and the next you can explore the old streets of the French Concession. It’s this mixture of old and new that make this city so intriguing. However, many travelers fear that Shanghai will empty their bank account. While it is easy to spend money in Shanghai, it is also easy to explore this city on a budget. Here are 5 free and fun things to do in Shanghai:
1. 50 Moganshan Road Art Gallery
Shanghai has a thriving contemporary art scene that can be found along the Suzhou Creek. If you want to see the newest and most cutting edge art you will find it at 50 Monganshan Road, or ShanghaiM50 Art Community. For free, you can experience the hip and edgy side of Shanghai, and wander through the many cutting edge art galleries.
2. Explore Shanghai’s Parks
Most of the parks in Shanghai are free, making them a great place to spend a budget friendly afternoon. Parks in Shanghai are not just a place to have a picnic, but a cultural center. You will find people sword dancing, practicing tai chi, or listening to music. Shanghai has many parks to choose from, and each one offers a little something different.
3. Shanghai Museum
The Shanghai Museum is one of the most popular free museums in all of Shanghai. It features an amazing collection of over 120,000 pieces and ancient Chinese artifacts including calligraphy, ancient coins, sculptures, and much more.
4. Wander through the French Concession
The French Concession is one of the last colonial districts of Shanghai. You will be transported back in time as you wander the French Concession streets. As you walk down the streetsyou will have the chance to admire old mansions, galleries, cute boutiques, the historic Cathay Theatre, and much more. It is easy to get lost in the charm and beauty of the French Concession.
5. People Watching
One can people watch for free in any city, but Shanghai may be one of the most interesting cities in the world to partake in this timeless activity. Shanghai has a great metro system that can help you get to almost any part of the city. Try using a map app like Explore Shanghai or Google Maps to help you get around the city. However, China does have very strict internet restrictions (one of many interesting facts about China). If you are not able to access the map of your choice, try using a VPN to help you get around any censorships.
Some of the more interesting people watching destinations include along the Bund, in People’s Square, or at Xintiandi. In People’s Park you can find what is now known as the “matchmaking market.” Parents come with their single adult children in hopes of finding them a partner. This is just one of the many interesting and unique sights you may come across while exploring the streets of Shanghai.
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Totally agree with the list and many of them are on my list of things I like about the city. 🙂
great! How have you been? 🙂
Glad you liked it Eileen! I love Shanghai – one of my favorite places 🙂