In such a big city like Shanghai, I was pleasantly surprised to find so many beautiful, well-designed places for photos that are completely free! Sure, there are paid attractions, but who doesn’t love those “hidden gems” where you can get amazing shots just by strolling around? Today, I’ve gathered some spots that I think are particularly worth recommending, and they're all open for free! Whether they’re lesser-known or trending, these spots are great for snapping pics that will fill up your social media feed!
I absolutely love the Mahler Villa! It's a European-style building that feels like stepping back into old Shanghai from the last century—perfect for photos! The exterior is a unique brick red, with arched windows that exude a French romantic vibe. Even if you just stand around casually, a quick snap looks stunning! This place isn’t too crowded, so the atmosphere is super peaceful.
Tip: Mahler Villa is completely free! Just pick out your photo poses ahead of time. I recommend wearing a summer dress or a vintage suit that matches the French architecture.
Honestly, I never thought a hotel could be such a great place for photos. The outdoor area of the Garden Hotel is perfect for capturing scenes, with greenery and touches of old Shanghai everywhere—each spot is like a natural backdrop! If you go in the evening, when the lights come on, the ambiance is even better, giving you that “leisurely luxury” vibe.
Photography Tip: The hotel is pretty accommodating, but when taking pictures, it’s best to keep it low-key to avoid disturbing others. If you love night views, don’t forget to bring a light source!
You’ve got to go to this spot at dusk! The Xiepu Road Ferry Terminal by the Huangpu River is super quiet, and the sunset shimmering on the water is just so soothing. You can also capture the shadow of the old ferry, making it a fabulous environment for portrait photography, giving off that "on the road" vibe.
Recommended Outfit: A casual trench coat would harmonize perfectly with the whole scene.
As a super nature-friendly little forest, Gongqing Forest Park is the kind of place where you can snap pictures while taking a walk. There’s a big lake, lawns, and sometimes you might spot some little critters. It's perfect for clearing your mind on the weekend and coming back with some Japan-style forest photos.
Tip: The ground can be muddy, so wear comfortable shoes, and bringing some light-colored outfits will make your photos look fresher.
We can’t forget about Guangfulin! It blends ancient architecture with modern greenery, making it a fantastic spot for photos. Whether it's bamboo groves, stone paths, or lakeside views, everything looks great on camera. This is a place where you can take your time to stroll and snap photos—when the flowers bloom in spring, it’s like a paradise on Earth.
Flower wall fans definitely can’t miss these two spots.
Important reminder: Choose the right season! The flowers are beautifully in bloom for just a few months, and they might not look as good out of season.
The design of the North Bund Egg is so avant-garde! It’s perfect for capturing large scenes, and when you get close, no matter what angle you shoot from, it gives off a cinematic feel, especially with the blue sky and white clouds. If you love architectural shots, this is a must-visit!
Even though this place is called the “Seine Riverbank,” it’s not related to France at all. Haha! But this spot is very peaceful, with a comfy little path by the river that’s not crowded, making it ideal for walking with friends while shooting casual vlogs or static shots.
Lastly, I have to recommend this stunning café—“The People's Coffee Shop with a View.” Though the name is a bit long, it’s truly not misleading! The view outside is beautiful, the coffee is delicious, and just pretending to take a sip for a photo will instantly create beautiful shots (laughs).
I’ve checked out these spots countless times, and these free photo locations in Shanghai are totally worth it. You don’t have to spend a dime, and you can easily pull off amazing looks—so why not save this list and give them a try!
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