Welcome to Shanghai! This exciting city mixes ancient culture with modern energy, making it one of the top places to visit in China.
If you’re wondering How to Book Tickets for Top Attractions and Museums in Shanghai, you’re in the right place. As a foreign visitor, planning ahead helps you skip long lines and avoid confusion. Many of Shanghai’s popular spots now require online reservations, especially during busy travel seasons.
In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to book tickets for Shanghai’s top attractions. We’ll also cover payment options, booking platforms, and local tips to help you avoid stress and save time. From famous sites that need early reservations to free spots you can visit anytime, we’ve got you covered.
So whether you’re here for a weekend or planning a longer stay, this guide will help you understand how to reserve tickets for attractions in Shanghai without stress.
1. What Foreign Visitors Should Know Before Booking Shanghai Attraction Tickets
Before you learn how to book Shanghai attraction tickets, it helps to know a few key tips. Shanghai offers both online and on-site ticket options, but booking ahead is often the smarter move.
We strongly recommend that foreign travelers buy the tickets for top attractions and museums in Shanghai online in advance. It saves time, avoids long lines, and sometimes includes discounts or fast-track entry. During holidays, some sites may even stop selling walk-in tickets.
Attractions fall into four categories:
- Must-reserve sites like the Shanghai Museum.
- Recommended to book early ones like Disney and the Oriental Pearl Tower.
- Walk-in friendly places like parks or water towns.
- Free-entry spots like the Bund.
For payments, most sites now accept Visa, Mastercard, or even cash. Locals mostly use Alipay or WeChat Pay. You can also use the Shanghai Pass, a prepaid tourist card available at airports, for transport and tickets.
Language may be a barrier, as not all info is in English. Translation apps or hotel staff can help. Also, remember that names vary—Yu Garden, not “Yuyuan.”
👉 Check out All Shanghai Tours & Excursions
During major holidays, stricter booking rules apply. Some places also use time-slot reservations, so plan your visit time carefully.
2: Must-Reserve Attractions in Shanghai – Especially Museums!
If you’re wondering how to reserve tickets for museums in Shanghai, here’s the key: many of Shanghai’s top museums require reservations. Even though many are free, most won’t let you walk in without an advance booking. Especially on weekends or holidays, you’ll need to plan ahead to secure your spot.
Here’s a roundup of must-reserve places that are absolutely worth your time:
🏛️ 1. Shanghai Museum (People’s Square) 上海博物馆（人民广场馆）
How to Reserve
Official English Website (WeChat Not Required)
Visit the Shanghai Museum’s English reservation page → Register using your email address → Enter your passport details and select your visit date → After successful booking, a QR code will be sent to your email.
ID Requirements:
You must bring your original passport and reservation QR code for entry verification.
Reservation Window:
Reservations can be made up to 14 days in advance (including the current day). New slots are released daily at 12:00 noon.
Opening Hours:
Tuesday to Sunday: 9:00–17:00 (last entry at 16:00)
Closed on Mondays (except public holidays)
This is one of China’s top museums, with over 120,000 cultural treasures—bronze, calligraphy, ceramics, coins, and more. It’s like a walk through 5,000 years of Chinese history. It’s free but super popular, so reserve early to avoid long lines.
🎨 2. Rockbund Art Museum 上海外滩美术馆
How to reserve: Free but requires online reservation
Official WeChat Mini Program Reservation (Recommended): Search for and open the “RAM Shanghai Rockbund Art Museum” (“RAM上海外滩美术馆”) mini program in WeChat → Tap “Reservation for Entry” → Select your preferred date and time slot → Fill in your personal information (foreign visitors must register using their passport number) → A reservation code will be generated (show this code at the entrance).
Note: You need a local phone number for verification.
Language Support:
The mini program is in Chinese by default, but WeChat allows you to switch the system language (e.g., to English). Some parts of the interface may auto-translate.
Hours: Tue–Sun, 10:00–18:00
Location: 20 Huqiu Road, Huangpu District
Enquiry: 021-33109985, 021-632133523
Official Website: Rockbund Art Museum 上海外滩美术馆 (No Booking System)
Housed in a historic building, this museum regularly hosts contemporary international art exhibitions. Art lovers will enjoy the stylish space and rooftop views over the Bund. Don’t miss the photo ops!
☁️📖 3. Duoyun Bookstore (Shanghai Tower Flagship) 上海中心朵云书院旗舰店
📱 Reservation Method (Recommended)
Use the WeChat public account “世纪朵云” (Duoyun Century). It supports passport info and is the easiest option for foreigners.
🔹 Step-by-Step Guide
- Open WeChat → Search and follow “世纪朵云”.
- Tap “我的朵云 (My Duoyun)” → “朵云门店 (Duoyun Stores)” → “门店预约 (Store Reservation)”.
- Select “朵云书院旗舰店” (Shanghai Tower).
- Fill in:
- Name: As shown in your passport
- Phone: Use any 11-digit number (e.g., 11111111111)
- ID: Enter your passport number
- Choose a visit time (07:00–19:00), up to 7 days ahead
- Submit and get a dynamic QR code (must be shown in WeChat, not a screenshot)
📌 Important Tips
- Bring your original passport for entry
- Children under 14 and seniors over 70 don’t need their own booking
- Each WeChat account can book once per day
- For walk-ins, try weekdays at Shanghai Tower Gate 2 (South Gate)
🕒 Hours
Tue–Sun, 10:30–19:00 (entry by reservation slot). Closed Mondays.
📍Address: Floor 52, Shanghai Tower, 501 Yincheng Middle Rd, Pudong
☕ On-site café + skyline view included!
3. Top Shanghai Attractions You Should Book in Advance
👉 Check out All Shanghai Tours & Excursions
Some of Shanghai’s most iconic attractions allow walk-in tickets—but don’t be fooled. Due to long lines and huge crowds, especially on weekends and holidays, it’s highly recommended to buy Shanghai attraction tickets online in advance. Doing so not only saves time, but you might also enjoy discounts and fast-track entry.
🗼1.Oriental Pearl TV Tower 东方明珠电视塔
1)📱On-site Booking Method
You can buy tickets at the entrance. However, booking your tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during holidays and weekends
2) Use the official WeChat public account “东方明珠” (Oriental Pearl).
- Search and follow the account in WeChat
- Tap “Ticket Mall” → “Official Ticketing”
- Enter your passport number, choose your ticket type and date
3) Book your entrance ticket through Viator (User-friendly for foreigners)
👉 Oriental Pearl Tower Ticket – Optional Tower Ticket or Buffet
🚇 Location: 5-min walk from Lujiazui Station, Metro Line 2, Exit 3
For more travel information about Oriental Pearl TV Tower, Please check out Oriental Pearl Tower Shanghai: Tickets, Highlights & Travel Tips for more infiormation.
The Oriental Pearl Tower is one of Shanghai’s most famous landmarks. Its glass observatory gives you stunning 360° views. Although tickets are sold on-site, queues can stretch over an hour. By booking online, you can choose a time slot and get up to 5% off. Even better, the “Shanghai Pass” lets you enter faster and includes free gifts like coffee or ice cream.
🏰2. Shanghai Disneyland 上海迪士尼乐园
- How to reserve: Official app or partner platforms (Viator, Trip.com, Klook)
- Hours: 08:30–21:30 (varies by day)
- Address: 310 Huangzhao Road, Pudong
Book your Disneyland Tour through Viator (User-friendly for foreigners)
👉 Shanghai Disneyland Tours and Tickets
Shanghai Disney is always packed. Without a reservation, you may wait 1–2 hours just to buy a ticket. So it’s best to buy Shanghai attraction tickets online before your visit. Opt for a fixed-date ticket—it’s about 10% cheaper than an open-date one. The official site accepts international credit cards and has an English interface. Just scan your QR code to enter!
🚢3. Huangpu River Cruise 黄浦江游览船
How to book tickets
Tickets are also easy to purchase at the ticket office at each terminal, except during national holidays when demand is high.
It is recommended to book tickets in advance through official channels or online travel platforms to avoid long queues at the ticket booth during the tourist peak season.
You can check and book tickets through platforms like Viator, and some cruises also offer meal-inclusive packages, which are suitable for travelers looking to enjoy additional services.
👉 Huangpu River Tours and Tickets
- Hours: 11:00–21:30 (check daily schedule)
- Address: Shiliupu Wharf, Zhongshan East 2nd Road
Cruising the Huangpu River is a must-do, especially at night. Book tickets through the app to choose from daytime or evening cruises. You can compare ship styles and departure times before booking. After payment, you’ll get a QR code—just scan and board. No need to wait in line at the pier.
For more information, please check out Shanghai Huangpu River Cruise: Routes, Prices and Tickets for more information.
🌆4. Shanghai Tower Observation Deck 上海中心大厦观光厅
📱 1) On-site Booking Method
You can buy tickets at the entrance. However, booking your Shanghai Tower tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during holidays and weekends
2) Use the official WeChat account “上海中心 SHTower”.
- Follow the account in WeChat
- Tap “Observation Ticketing 观光购票 ” → “Online Purchase 线上购票” → “Ticket Reservation 门票预订”
- Fill in your passport name, choose “Passport” as ID type, and enter your passport number
💳 Payment Options: Supports Visa, Mastercard, and WeChat Pay
3) Book your entrance ticket through Viator (User-friendly for foreigners)
👉 Shanghai Tower (The Top of Shanghai) Ticket Booking
Check out Shanghai Tower Tickets and Travel Guide for more information.
On the 118th floor of the world’s second-tallest building, you’ll get jaw-dropping views of the skyline. Entry uses a time-slot reservation system, and walk-in tickets are often more expensive—or sold out. Online booking is around 10% cheaper, and international cards are accepted. After booking, your ticket arrives by email as a QR code.
🌿5. Yu Garden 豫园
You can buy tickets at the entrance. However, booking your Yu Garden tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during holidays and weekends.
1) Official Channel (Recommended)
WeChat Mini Program “Shanghai Yuyuan” (微信小程序“上海豫园”):
Search for the mini program → Select “Individual Ticket Purchase” (散客购票)→
Choose “Passport” (护照) as ID type → Enter your full English name and passport number →
Select your visit date and time slot (选择日期及时段)→ Complete payment to confirm your booking (支付完成预约)
2) Book your entrance ticket through Viator (User-friendly for foreigners)
👉 Shanghai Yu Garden Admission Ticket Booking
- Hours: 08:45–16:45
- Address: 218 Anren Street, Huangpu District
For more information about Yu Gaerden, please check Out Yu Garden Tickets and Travel Guide for more information.
Yu Garden is a classic Chinese garden full of pavilions, bridges, and koi ponds. It’s incredibly popular, especially during festivals. To avoid long queues or even being turned away due to crowd limits, it’s best to reserve your tickets online in advance.
🎪6. ERA Acrobatic Show at Shanghai Circus World 上海马戏城 ERA时空之旅
You can buy tickets at the entrance. However, booking your ERA Acrobatic Show Tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during holidays and weekends.
1) Visit the Official Website Booking Page:
Select your showtime → Choose “Passport” as the ID type → Enter your passport information accurately → Pay with an international credit card.
2) Book your entrance ticket through Viator (User-friendly for foreigners)
👉 Book your Shanghai ERA Theatre Acrobatics Ticket
- Hours: Most shows run 19:30–21:00
- Address: 2266 Gonghexin Road, Jing’an District
For more information about Shanghai ERA Theatre Acrobatics, please check out Shanghai Acrobatic Show Tickets: A Visitor’s Guide for more information.
This thrilling show mixes acrobatics, dance, and multimedia in a 60-minute performance. During Chinese New Year, you can even get half-price tickets—but only if you book early! Most platforms support foreign cards, and it’s family-friendly too.
🏯7. Jing’an Temple 静安寺
You can buy tickets at the entrance. However, booking your tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during holidays and weekends.
- How to reserve: WeChat public account “Jing’an Temple” or “Fuhui Baishi” mini program
- Hours: 07:30–17:00
- Address: 1686 West Nanjing Road, Jing’an District
Check out Jing’an Temple: 1,700 Years of Zen in the Heart of Shanghai for more information.
This ancient temple sits right in the city center. It’s a peaceful escape, with rich Buddhist history and stunning architecture. You can’t get a refund once you book, but you can change the date once if needed. It’s especially popular on the 1st and 15th of lunar months.
🙏8. Jade Buddha Temple 玉佛禅寺
Entry Process for Foreign Visitors
General Visit:
Simply bring your original passport and enter through 170 Anyuan Road.
No reservation or ticket is required—entry is free.
Getting There:
Take Metro Line 13 to Jiangning Road Station, Exit 1. Walk 500 meters.
- Hours: 08:00–16:30
- Address: 170 Anyuan Road, Putuo District
Famous for its serene atmosphere and a jade Buddha from Myanmar, this temple is a calm spiritual spot. Entry to most areas is free, but the main hall requires a ticket.
5. Free Shanghai Attractions You Can Visit Without a Reservation
👉 Check out All Shanghai Tours & Excursions in 2025
Not all of Shanghai’s best sights require tickets! In fact, many top spots are completely free and don’t require advance booking. You can visit anytime to enjoy historic charm, modern art, and local culture—all without spending a cent.
🌉 1) The Bund
- Reservation: Not required
- Opening Hours: 24 hours
- Address: Zhongshan East 1st Road, Huangpu District
Check out How to Visit the Bund in Shanghai – A Complete Guide for more information.
Stroll this iconic promenade to see 52 grand buildings in different styles. It’s stunning by day and magical at night. Walk north to Waibaidu Bridge for a perfect skyline photo.
🎨 2) Tianzifang
- Reservation: Not required
- Opening Hours: 10:00–22:00
- Address: Lane 210, Taikang Road, Huangpu District
Check out Tianzifang: Breathing in Shanghai’s Soul for more information.
A maze of old alleyways turned art zone. Enjoy cafés, handmade goods, and galleries. Most areas are free, though some art spaces charge a small entry fee.
🛍️ 3) Xintiandi
- Reservation: Not required
- Opening Hours: 10:00–22:00
- Address: Madang Road, Huangpu District
Check out Xintiandi Travel Guide: Map, Sights, Food, Shopping & Hotels for more information.
Xintiandi blends historic stone houses with modern shops and nightlife. North Block feels historic, South Block is sleek and new. It’s perfect for a sunset stroll and dinner.
🖼️ 4) Rockbund Art District
- Reservation: Free entry, Rockbund Art Museum requires online booking
- Opening Hours: Most shops and galleries open 11:00–20:00
- Address: Huqiu Road and Yuanmingyuan Road, Huangpu District
This artistic riverside area has galleries, boutiques, and street exhibitions. From May 2025, the museum is free—but still needs an online reservation. Expect frequent cultural events outdoors.
🌆 5) Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street
- Reservation: Not required
- Opening Hours: Shops usually open 10:00–22:00
- Address: From People’s Square to the Bund, Huangpu District
Check out Nanjing Road, Shanghai: Map, Shopping, Food, Hotols and Attractions for more information.
This lively street is packed with shops, neon lights, and historic buildings. It’s perfect for people-watching and soaking in the city vibe—especially after dark.
🏭 6) 1933 Old Millfun
- Reservation: Not required
- Opening Hours: 10:00–21:00
- Address: 611 Liyang Road, Hongkou District
Check out 1933 Old Millfun: A Hidden Gem in Shanghai for more infortmation.
A former slaughterhouse turned creative park. Its spiral ramps and concrete bridges are architectural wonders. Entry is free, and photo ops are everywhere.
🖌️ 7) M50 Creative Park
- Reservation: Not required
- Opening Hours: 10:00–18:00
- Address: 50 Moganshan Road, Putuo District
Set in old factory buildings, M50 is full of galleries, murals, and studios. The art changes often, so there’s always something new. It’s a favorite for street photographers and creatives.
🏞 8) Zhujiajiao Ancient Town
- Reservation: Not required
- Hours: 08:30–17:00
- Address: Zhujiajiao, Qingpu District
Check out Zhujiajiao Water Town Travel Guide: Map, Sights, Food & Hotels for more information.
Entry to the town is free. You can explore freely and then buy a combo ticket at the entrance if you want to visit paid attractions like gardens and temples.
🍡 9) Qibao Ancient Town
- Reservation: Not required
- Hours: 09:00–17:30
- Address: Minhang District, near Qibao Metro Station
Famous for snacks and street food, Qibao is perfect for foodies. Walk through the old streets, then grab tickets on-site if you want to enter museums or galleries.
6. Ticket Booking Platforms and Payment Methods
There are several ways to book Shanghai attraction tickets, and choosing the right one can save you time and stress. Foreign visitors should know the pros and cons of each option, including payment methods and language support.
✅ Official Channels
Most major attractions sell tickets through their official websites, WeChat accounts, or mini-programs. For example:
- Shanghai Disneyland: via the official app and website
- Oriental Pearl & Shanghai Tower: through the WeChat app
- Shanghai Museum: via WeChat official account
- Huangpu River Cruise: also bookable on WeChat Account
Official platforms are reliable, with clear pricing and refund policies. However, many only support Chinese and local payment methods. Some do now accept Visa and Mastercard, but not all.
🌍 International Travel Platforms
Websites like Viator, Klook and Trip.com are user-friendly for foreigners. They offer English interfaces and support international credit cards. These platforms often bundle tickets with transport or offer discounts for multi-attraction passes. Just check entry rules, as some require in-person ticket collection.
💳 Shanghai Pass
This prepaid card (up to ¥1000) is great for visitors unfamiliar with China’s mobile payments. You can buy it at Pudong or Hongqiao airports and use it for transport and many top attractions.
💡 Payment Tips:
- Let your bank know you’ll use your card in China.
- Keep ¥100–200 cash on hand.
- Shanghai Pass works well for multi-attraction trips.
- Alipay’s TourPass lets you preload funds for mobile use.
- Always screenshot your payment QR codes and tickets for backup.
7. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can foreign tourists use Alipay or WeChat Pay to buy attraction tickets?
A: Yes, but you’ll need a Chinese bank card or use Alipay’s TourPass. For an easier option, try the Shanghai Pass card with preloaded cash.
Q: Can I buy attraction tickets on the same day?
A: Some attractions allow same-day tickets. However, for popular spots like Disney or the Oriental Pearl Tower, it’s best to book 1–3 days in advance. During holidays, book even earlier.
Q: Can I cancel or change my ticket?
A: Discounted tickets are usually non-refundable. Full-price tickets from official channels often allow changes if done 1–3 days before your visit. Check each platform’s rules carefully.
Q: Do students get discounts?
A: Yes. Most attractions accept the ISIC international student card. You must show the original card at the entrance.
Q: Are there discounts for children and seniors?
A: Yes. Children under 1.2–1.3 meters often enter free. Some sites admit kids under 6 for free with a passport. Seniors over 65 also get discounts—ID is required.
Q: Can I store luggage at attractions?
A: Major sites like museums and observation decks offer paid lockers. Smaller spots may not have storage.
Q: Which is the best observation deck in Shanghai?
A: Shanghai Tower is the tallest, while the Oriental Pearl has stronger landmark appeal. Both offer unique views—choose based on your interests.
If you’re ever unsure How to Book Tickets for Top Attractions and Museums in Shanghai, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Shanghai is a global city, and hotel staff, attraction employees, and even friendly locals are often happy to assist. Additionally, using translation apps or international travel platforms makes the process easier.
Stay flexible and keep an open mind. Even if your schedule changes or a ticket plan doesn’t go as expected, it could lead to a new adventure. With good preparation and the right tools, booking tickets for top attractions and museums in Shanghai becomes simple—and your trip becomes unforgettable.
Safe travels and enjoy every moment in this amazing city!
📌 Further Reading
How to Book Tickets for the Top Attractions in Beijing
How to Book Tickets for the Top Attractions in Xi’an
How to Book Tickets for the Top Attractions in Suzhou
