Best Things to Do at Night in Shanghai
Updated September 2026 · 9 min read
Shanghai comes alive at night! From the iconic Bund skyline to lively night markets and rooftop bars, here are the best evening activities in Shanghai, recommended by our local team at Shanghai Private Transfers.
🌆 Top 10 Night Activities in Shanghai
1. The Bund (Waitan) Night View
Time needed: 30-60 min · Cost: Free
The #1 thing to do in Shanghai at night. The Pudong skyline lights up at 7pm — it's breathtaking. Best spot: along the Bund promenade.
Tip: Go around 7:30pm when the lights are on but it's not too late.
2. Huangpu River Cruise
Time needed: 1 hour · Cost: ¥120-200
See both sides of the river from the water. Perfect for a romantic evening or family outing.
Tip: Book the 8pm cruise for the best light show.
3. Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street
Time needed: 1-2 hours · Cost: Free
Bright neon lights, busy crowds, and endless shopping. Fun to wander around at night.
4. Rooftop Bar (The Bund / French Concession)
Time needed: 1-2 hours · Cost: ¥150-300 per person
Great views + cocktails. Popular spots: The Capitol, Bar Rouge, Rocket Bar. Perfect for date night or after-work drinks.
5. Shanghai Disneyland (Evening)
Time needed: 4-6 hours · Cost: ¥439+
Disney at night is magical — fireworks at 8:30pm! Perfect for families.
6. Acrobatic Show
Time needed: 1.5 hours · Cost: ¥180-380
Traditional Chinese acrobatics — juggling, contortion, bike stunts. Very impressive! Shows at Shanghai Circus World.
7. French Concession Evening Stroll
Time needed: 1-2 hours · Cost: Free
Tree-lined streets lit up warmly. Great cafes, bars, and boutique shops. Anfu Road and Wukang Road are the best.
8. Night Food Market
Time needed: 1-2 hours · Cost: ¥50-100 per person
Street food under the lights. Try stinky tofu, grilled skewers, and local snacks. Yuyuan Garden area has a great night market.
Night Tour by Private Car
We'll drive you to all the best night spots and wait for you. Perfect for groups and families.
Book Night Tour🗺️ Perfect 3-Hour Evening Itinerary
7:00 PM — Dinner at a local restaurant (try Peking duck or Shanghai xiaolongbao)
8:30 PM — Walk along The Bund and see the light show
9:15 PM — Huangpu River cruise (45 min)
10:15 PM — Drinks at a rooftop bar with skyline view
Safety Tips for Nighttime in Shanghai
- 🛡️ Shanghai is very safe — one of the safest major cities in the world. You can walk around at night without worry.
- 🚇 Metro runs until 10-11pm — after that, use taxi or DiDi.
- 💴 Carry some cash — street food vendors and small shops don't take cards.
- 📱 Keep phone charged — you'll use it for maps and DiDi.
More Shanghai travel guides: travel blog