Shanghai - Discovering China

Travelling to Shanghai

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Shanghai, a pretty good destination in China (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Shanghai and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Shanghai, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through China, here's everything to know about Shanghai for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Shanghai

Shanghai is the largest city in China with a population of over 24 million people. It is located in the eastern region of the country, at the mouth of the Yangtze River. The city is a major global financial center and boasts a rich cultural heritage, with a mix of traditional Chinese and modern Western architecture. Shanghai is also known for its bustling streets, vibrant nightlife, world-class shopping, and delicious cuisine. Popular tourist attractions include the Bund, Yuyuan Garden, Shanghai Tower, and the French Concession.

What to visit in Shanghai

Sure, here are some of the top tourist attractions of Shanghai with brief information about each: 1. The Bund - A waterfront promenade on the Huangpu River in the heart of Shanghai with colonial-era buildings on one side and modern skyscrapers on the other.
2. Yu Garden - A classical Chinese garden featuring rock formations, ponds, zigzagging bridges and pavilions built in 16th century.
3. Oriental Pearl Tower - An iconic 468-meter-high tower in Pudong district, offering observation decks, indoor and outdoor sights, restaurants and a museum of Shanghai history.
4. Shanghai World Financial Center - A 492-meter-high skyscraper in Pudong District with an observation deck on the 100th floor, offering panoramic views of the city.
5. Shanghai Tower - The tallest building in China and the second tallest in the world, also located in Pudong, with observation decks on the 118th and 119th floors and a museum on the ground floor.
6. Jade Buddha Temple - A Buddhist temple in the city center that features two exquisite jade Buddha statues brought from Burma.
7. French Concession - A part of the city with a distinct European feel, characterized by tree-lined streets, boutiques, cafes, and renovated lane houses.
8. Shanghai Museum - A museum located in People's Square, exhibiting over 120,000 pieces of ancient Chinese art, including bronze, jade, ceramics, paintings and calligraphy.
9. Nanjing Road - A shopping street with a mix of traditional and modern stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues, ideal for tourists to buy souvenirs.
10. Tianzifang - An arts and crafts enclave with a maze of narrow alleyways, featuring shops and galleries showcasing local handcrafted goods and souvenirs.
Overall, Shanghai offers a perfect blend of modern and ancient architecture, rich cultural history and shopping experience, and is a must-visit destination for any travel enthusiast!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in China, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Shanghai.

When to go on holiday to Shanghai

The best time to visit Shanghai is generally in the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) months. During these times, the weather is pleasant, with mild temperatures and little rainfall, making it perfect for exploring the city's many attractions. The summer months (June to August) can be quite hot and humid, while the winter months (December to February) can be chilly and damp. However, there are still plenty of indoor activities to enjoy during these seasons, such as museums and shopping malls. It's also worth noting that the Chinese New Year holiday in January or February can bring crowds, so it's important to plan accordingly if you want to visit during this time.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Shanghai

There are several ways to get to Shanghai, China: 1. By Air: Shanghai Pudong International Airport and Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport are the two main airports in Shanghai. Many major airlines offer direct flights to Shanghai from most major cities around the world.
2. By Train: If you are traveling from Beijing or other major cities in China, you can take a high-speed train to Shanghai. The train ride takes about 5-6 hours.
3. By Bus: You can take a long-distance bus from nearby cities like Hangzhou or Suzhou, which are about 1-2 hours away from Shanghai by bus.
4. By Car: If you are traveling from nearby cities, you can also opt to drive to Shanghai. However, be aware that traffic can be congested during peak hours.
5. By Cruise: Many international cruise lines include Shanghai as a port of call or as a starting point for their Asian itineraries.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Shanghai, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Shanghai

Sure, here are some typical foods of Shanghai with a short description for each: 1. Xiao Long Bao: This is a famous Shanghai dumpling that's filled with pork and soup. It's usually served hot, and the soup in the dumpling is bursting with flavor.
2. Shanghai Fried Rice Cake: This is a popular breakfast food in Shanghai, and it's made from sticky rice and fried until it's crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. It's a savory dish that's often served with soy sauce and vegetables.
3. Sheng Jian Bao: This is another famous Shanghai dumpling, but it's fried instead of steamed. It's filled with pork and soup, and the outside is crunchy while the inside is soft.
4. Lion's Head Meatball: This is a large meatball made from pork that's usually served in a savory sauce with vegetables. The meatball is fluffy and tender, and it gets its name from its resemblance to a lion's head.
5. Crab Shell Cake: This is a popular street food in Shanghai that's made from crab meat and shell, as well as some other ingredients like vegetables and spices. It's fried until it's crispy and is usually eaten with a dipping sauce.
You can find general info about typical foods in China here.

Is Shanghai an expensive destination for tourists?

Shanghai can be an expensive destination for tourists, especially compared to other cities in China. However, the cost of a trip to Shanghai depends on several factors such as the type of accommodations, activities, and entertainment you choose. Generally, accommodation, food, and transportation can be quite expensive in the city center, but you can find affordable options outside of the city center. It's recommended that you do some research and plan your budget accordingly before visiting.

Where to find accomodation in Shanghai

There are several areas in Shanghai that are great for finding accommodation depending on your preferences and interests. 1. The Bund - This is a popular area with many luxury hotels and apartments, offering spectacular views of the Huangpu River and the city skyline. 2. People's Square - Located in the heart of the city, this area is ideal for those interested in exploring Shanghai's museums, theaters, and cultural institutions. 3. Jing'an - Known for its shopping, trendy boutiques, and diverse dining options, Jing'an is a great area for those looking for a lively urban experience. 4. Xintiandi - A historic district with charming alleys and traditional Shikumen houses, Xintiandi is popular among tourists for its restaurants, cafes, and nightlife options. 5. Pudong - This area is mainly used by business travelers, but also has some upscale hotels and stunning views of the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai Tower. Ultimately, the best area to stay in depends on your preferences and interests while visiting Shanghai.
You can check hotel prices at Shanghai here:
Booking.com

Is Shanghai a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Shanghai is generally a safe place for tourists. However, like any major city, it's important to practice common sense safety precautions. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas, and keep an eye on your belongings to prevent theft. It's also a good idea to avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuable items with you. Overall, Shanghai is considered a relatively safe destination for visitors.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in China here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Shanghai.

What type of travelers will enjoy Shanghai the most?

Shanghai is a city that has something to offer for everyone! For couples, the city has charming streets and neighborhoods, such as the former French Concession area, that are perfect for romantic walks. Additionally, there are several high-end restaurants, rooftop bars, and theaters that offer excellent entertainment.
Young people can enjoy the vibrant nightlife scene of Shanghai. There are plenty of clubs, bars, and street food stalls that offer a fun and exciting experience.
Families can explore the various attractions that cater to children, such as the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum, the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium, and the Disneyland Park.
Overall, Shanghai is suitable for any type of traveler, as long as they are open-minded and curious about the Chinese culture and way of life.

How to get around Shanghai

There are various options for transportation in Shanghai. The most common ones are: 1. Metro: Shanghai has an extensive and reliable metro system that connects most of the city. It is affordable and fast, with signs and announcements in both English and Chinese.
2. Taxis: Taxis are plentiful and relatively inexpensive in Shanghai. However, be aware that traffic can be heavy during peak hours and the drivers may not speak English.
3. Bus: Bus is another option for getting around Shanghai, but it can be crowded and confusing for non-Chinese speakers.
4. Bicycle: Shanghai has a few bike-sharing services that offer affordable and convenient transportation. However, the roads can be busy and dangerous for cyclists.
5. Walk: Depending on where you are staying, walking can be a nice way to explore the city and discover hidden gems.

What to see around Shanghai

Sure, here are some beautiful places you can visit in a day trip from Shanghai: 1. Suzhou: known as the "Venice of the East' for its water canals and beautiful gardens.
2. Hangzhou: famous for its picturesque West Lake and legendary Longjing tea plantations.
3. Zhouzhuang: a stunning ancient water town with more than 900 years of history.
4. Nanjing: known for its historical landmarks like the Ming Dynasty City Wall and the famous Confucius Temple.
5. Wuzhen: a town located at the southern end of the Grand Canal with traditional Chinese architecture and beautiful canals.
6. Qiandao Lake: located in Chun'an County, West Zhejiang, it's one of the most beautiful artificial fresh-water lakes in the world.
7. Huangshan (Yellow Mountain): a beautiful scenic area with stunning mountains, hot springs, and lush forests.
These are just a few of the many beautiful destinations you can visit on a day trip from Shanghai.
For every travel information about China you can click here.

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