Asia · China
Shanghai
Shanghai blends futuristic skyscrapers with historic neighborhoods, offering vibrant food, culture and riverfront drama.
2–4 days
Chinese yuan 300–800
Best in spring and autumn for mild weather, clearer skies and comfortable walking conditions with fewer summer storms.
PVG
Why visit Shanghai?
Shanghai is a vast, fast-paced metropolis where neon towers meet narrow historic lanes. Ideal for urban explorers seeking bold architecture, rich food culture and accessible museums for a short city break.
Shanghai stands out for its striking contrast of ultra-modern skyscrapers along the Pudong skyline and evocative old neighborhoods like the Bund and the Former French Concession. The city suits travelers who enjoy dynamic urban experiences: varied dining from street dumplings to fine dining, easily reached museums and galleries, riverside promenades, and efficient transport that makes short stays productive. Shanghai is good for culture-seekers, food lovers and weekend trippers who want a compact but diverse taste of contemporary China.
Quick overview
24183300
Chinese yuan
Mandarin Chinese
April, May, September, October
Medium
Is Shanghai right for you?
Choose Shanghai if you want
- You enjoy metropolitan skylines, rich dining scenes and efficient transport that make short urban breaks satisfying.
- You want a mix of modern architecture and preserved historic neighborhoods with museums and galleries nearby.
Consider another city if you want
- If you prefer quiet natural landscapes or extensive wilderness, Shanghai’s urban density may feel overwhelming.
- Travelers seeking budget travel with very low daily costs may find Shanghai pricier than smaller Chinese cities.
City ratings
Top things to do in Shanghai
The Bund
Historic riverside promenade with iconic colonial-era facades and sweeping views of Pudong’s futuristic skyline, perfect for morning walks and evening light shows.
Shanghai Tower
China’s tallest skyscraper offers panoramic observation decks and striking architecture, illustrating the city’s rapid modern development and providing unbeatable city vistas.
Yu Garden and Old City
A beautifully preserved classical Chinese garden tucked among lively markets and narrow alleys, offering atmosphere, snacks and traditional crafts to explore.
Shanghai Museum
World-class museum of Chinese art and antiquities with clear exhibits on ceramics, bronzes and calligraphy, ideal for a concise cultural overview.
Where to stay
The Bund / Huangpu
Central riverside area suited to first-time visitors wanting easy access to major sights, luxury hotels and iconic skyline views; convenient for walking and taxis.
Former French Concession
Tree-lined boulevards with cafes, boutiques and historic villas; ideal for foodies and couples who prefer a relaxed, local-feeling neighborhood with nightlife nearby.
What to eat in Shanghai
Xiaolongbao (soup dumplings)
Steamed buns filled with hot broth and pork, best enjoyed fresh from traditional teahouses; a Shanghai culinary emblem and must-try snack.
Shengjianbao (pan-fried buns)
Crisp-bottomed, juicy pan-fried buns often served for breakfast or street snacks, combining crunchy exterior with savory, soupy filling.
Hongshao rou (red-braised pork)
Slow-braised, sweet-savory pork belly lacquered in soy and sugar, a comforting classic of Shanghainese home-style cooking.
Getting there and around
Getting to Shanghai
Shanghai is served by two main airports: Pudong International (PVG) handles most international flights, while Hongqiao (SHA) is closer for regional connections. High-speed rail links connect Shanghai to other Chinese cities via Shanghai Hongqiao station, and long-distance buses serve nearby provinces. Expect airport transfers by maglev, metro, taxi or shuttle taking 30–60 minutes from Pudong depending on traffic.
Getting around Shanghai
Shanghai has an extensive, easy-to-use metro network covering most tourist areas alongside frequent buses and taxis. Central districts are very walkable; bike-share options handle short trips. Driving is not recommended because traffic, parking and navigation are challenging for visitors.
A two-day itinerary
Day 1: Start at the Bund for morning skyline views, then walk through the Old City to Yu Garden and the nearby bazaar for snacks. Afternoon at the Shanghai Museum and People’s Square, then evening drinks along Xintiandi or the Bund.
Day 2: Morning in the Former French Concession exploring streets and cafés, lunch at a local dumpling shop, then cross to Pudong to visit Shanghai Tower or Shanghai World Financial Center observation decks and finish with a river cruise at sunset.
Best day trip
Suzhou
Suzhou’s classical gardens, canals and silk heritage make it a rewarding day trip; high-speed trains take about 25–40 minutes each way, letting you see top gardens and old streets in a single day.
Similar cities
Singapore
Seoul
Not sure Shanghai is right for you?
Discover another destination based on your budget, weather and travel style.