Shanghai may feel like an expensive city, but you can see and do a lot even on a shoestring. From scenic riverside strolls to tasty street snacks, many of the city’s best spots cost little or nothing. Explore historic sites, lush parks, and local markets without breaking the bank – we’ll show you how.

Shanghai Bund Shanghai’s Bund waterfront offers free panoramic views of the iconic Pudong skyline. This historic riverfront promenade is a must-see landmark and completely free to visit.

Must-See Landmarks (Free or Low-Cost)

  • The Bund (外滩) – Shanghai’s famous riverside promenade. Walk along the Huangpu River for unbeatable skyline views of Pudong’s skyscrapers – it’s free. The Bund’s colonial-era buildings lit up at night are a classic Shanghai sight.
  • Shanghai Museum (上海博物馆) – China’s premier art and history museum, located in People’s Square. Entry is free (no tickets needed). The museum’s rich collection of bronzes, ceramics and calligraphy spans thousands of years of Chinese culture.
  • Yu Garden & Old City (豫园) – A tranquil Ming-era garden (~¥30–¥40) surrounded by the bustling Old City God Temple Bazaar. Wander the picturesque stone bridges and pavilions of Yu Garden, then browse nearby street stalls (free to stroll).
  • Jade Buddha Temple (玉佛寺) – A peaceful Buddhist monastery famous for its giant jade Buddha statues. Small admission fee (~¥20) plus optional ¥10 to see the precious statues.
  • French Concession – Stroll the tree-lined avenues of the former French Concession and admire well-preserved Shikumen (stone-gate) houses. Free to explore on foot; don’t miss Xintiandi and Tianzifang.
  • People’s Park & People’s Square (人民广场) – Central plaza with gardens, fountains and locals practicing tai chi. Free entry. On weekends, check out the quirky marriage market.

Culture & History on a Dime

  • Shanghai Jewish Refugees Museum – Interesting WWII museum (free admission).
  • Longhua Temple (龙华寺) – Oldest Buddhist temple in Shanghai (~¥10). Attend morning prayers or see the giant bell.
  • City God Temple (城隍庙) – In the old city, small entrance fee (~¥5–10), but Old Street is free to explore.
  • Shanghai Propaganda Poster Art Centre – Quirky museum (~¥30) filled with vintage Chinese posters.
  • Shikumen architecture – Wander historic lanes like Wukang Road to see traditional houses – free.

Jing'an Temple Jing’an Temple is a historic Buddhist temple in downtown Shanghai (entry fee ~¥15). It’s set in modern skyscrapers, offering a peaceful break.

Parks & Green Spaces

  • Zhongshan Park (中山公园) – Popular for tai chi and dancing. Free.
  • Jing’an Park (静安公园) – Small landscaped park in the heart of the city. Free.
  • Century Park (世纪公园) – Largest park in Pudong (~¥30). Great for picnics and bike rides.
  • People’s Park (人民公园) – Free entry, cultural activities, and marriage market.
  • Fuxing Park (复兴公园) – French-style garden park, free entry.

Street Food & Cheap Eats

  • Scallion Pancake (葱油饼) – Crispy fried dough pancake (~¥3–4).
  • Jianbing (煎饼) – Egg and batter crepe (~¥4).
  • Xiaolongbao (小笼包) – Soup dumplings (~¥10 for 6).
  • Shengjianbao (生煎包) – Pan-fried buns (~¥6 for 4).
  • Grilled Lamb Skewers (羊肉串) – Juicy skewers (~¥3–5).
  • Youtiao (油条) & Tea Eggs (茶叶蛋) – Classic snacks (~¥1.5 each).

Getting Around (Transport Tips)

  • Metro/Subway: Fares start at ¥3. English signage available.
  • Transport Card: ¥100 initial load (¥20 deposit + ¥80 credit). Works on metro, buses, ferries, taxis.
  • Buses: Cheap fares (¥2–3). Slower but cover areas metro doesn’t.
  • Taxis: Start at ~¥14–16 for first 3 km. Use the meter.
  • Bike-Share: ¥1–¥2 per half hour.
  • Walking: Easy in downtown neighborhoods.

Hidden Gems & Local Favorites

  • M50 Art District (50 Moganshan Rd) – Free art galleries in converted warehouses.
  • Tianzifang & Xintiandi – Charming alleys of Shikumen houses, free to wander.
  • Zhujiajiao Water Town (朱家角) – Free to stroll canals, boat rides extra.
  • South Bund Riverside Greenbelt – Waterfront park with sunset views, free.
  • Local Markets: Browse Dongtai Antique Market or Fabric Market.
  • Festivals: Free light shows, cultural fairs, and open-air performances.

Tips:
Use the metro card, snack on cheap eats, and enjoy free cultural spots. With these tips, your Shanghai trip will be authentic and affordable. 欢迎来上海! (Welcome to Shanghai!)