Surface?enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is an important spectroscopic method with the advantages of high sensitivity, simplicity, fast detection and good selectivity. The performance of SERS is highly dependent on the properties of the enhanced substrate. Cellulose is one kind of the most abundant biopolymer in the world, which is inexpensive, readily available, renewable and environmental friendly. Therefore, cellulosic materials are usually employed to prepare SERS substrate. In this review, the enhancement mechanism of SERS was firstly disscussed, and then the fabrication of cellulose SERS substrates were introduced. The applications of cellulose SERS substrates were reviewed in biological analysis, water quality assessment, food safety and environmental pollution, and dye identification.