Walking through the streets of Shanghai, you can sense its vibrancy and openness. However, from several hundred meters above, one can observe its immense scale and diversity. These observation decks provide a unique perspective of Shanghai from a lofty vantage point.

Sky Fantasia

The 546-meter-tall observatory, located on the 118th level of Shanghai Tower – the city's tallest structure – offers a panoramic view of the city. But you can reach higher when a new glass observation deck on the 121st floor opens soon.

At 561 meters, the Sky Fantasia, also known as the "glass box," will provide a range of activities, fine dining and breathtaking city vistas. When it opens, it will surpass the 555-meter-tall Burj Khalifa's secondary observation deck to become the highest observation deck in the world.

Until the end of August, a package for four to six people is available for 5,888 yuan, down from 6,888 yuan (approximately US$959). It includes a VIP guide service to the observatory on the 118th floor, access to the 126th floor where you can explore the mysteries of the thousand-ton damper and a light show, as well as fine food and views at the new space on the 121st floor.

Compared to At The Top Sky on the Burj Khalifa, where a ticket can cost up to US$150, the 118th-floor observatory costs 90 yuan for children and 180 yuan for adults.

If you go

Opening hours: 8:30am-10pm (last entry at 9:30pm)

Address: 501 Yincheng Rd M., Pudong New Area

浦东新区银城中路501号

The Stage

At 320 meters above Magnolia Plaza, The Stage provides visitors with a 360-degree view of downtown Shanghai. This vantage point showcases iconic landmarks such as the Bund and the Lujiazui skyscrapers, highlighting the city's architectural beauty and dynamic urban landscape.

Since its opening on April 15, The Stage has quickly become a favored destination for tourists, attracting both travelers and social media content creators.

Admission costs 110 yuan for children and 288 yuan for adults. There are also package deals available: 290 yuan for one adult and one child, and 480 yuan for two adults and one child.

If you go

Opening hours: 10am-10pm (last entry at 9:15pm)

Address: 501 Dongdaming Rd, Hongkou District

虹口区东大名路501号

Shanghai World Financial Center

The Shanghai World Financial Center has reopened its observation deck on the 100th floor, which features a glass walkway that stands 474 meters high.

From now until the end of November, visitors can access the deck to enjoy breathtaking views of both sides of the Huangpu River, highlighting the modern skyscrapers of Lujiazui alongside the historic buildings of the Bund. It costs 135 yuan for adults and 70 yuan for children.

If you go

Opening hours: 10am-10pm (last entry at 9:30pm)

Address: 100 Century Ave, Pudong New Area

浦东新区世纪大道100号

CPIC Xintiandi Commercial Center

The Observation Hall on the 55th floor of the CPIC Xintiandi Commercial Center is a striking new landmark in Shanghai. Visitors can enjoy 360-degree views of the city from 250 meters above ground. This vantage point allows guests to take in the Xintiandi neighborhood, a stylish pedestrian area characterized by a blend of traditional shikumen (stone-gated) houses and contemporary architecture, showcasing how effectively Shanghai has merged historical preservation with modern development.

Three ticket packages are available, each including a VR experience. Adult tickets start at 115 yuan, while children's tickets are priced at 75 yuan.

If you go

Opening hours: 3pm-8:30pm (Ticket sales ends at 8pm.)

Address: 111 Ji'an Rd, Huangpu District

黄浦区吉安路111号

Shanghai Global Harbor

The 52nd-floor observation deck of the twin towers at Shanghai Global Harbor opened to the public earlier this year.

At a height of 258 meters, it provides panoramic views of downtown Shanghai, including Suzhou Creek and the surrounding neighborhoods for 30 yuan.

If you go

Opening hours: 10am-10pm

Address: 3300 Zhongshan Rd N., Putuo District

普陀区中山北路3300号

Shanghai Long Beach Tower

This observation tower, the tallest building in northern Shanghai, has opened several areas to the public. One of the highlights is the One-Step Garden cafe on the 15th to 18th floors, where visitors can dine while admiring the mighty Yangtze River. The 15th floor is also pet-friendly. Admission to the tower is free.

If you go

Opening hours: 10am-9pm

Address: 59 Yunhai Rd, Baoshan District

宝山区云海路59号