Overview
Shanghai is China’s largest city and global financial hub. The city seamlessly blends colonial-era architecture along the Bund with ultramodern skyscrapers in Pudong, creating a unique urban landscape.
Top Attractions
The Bund
- Iconic waterfront promenade
- 52 historical buildings
- Best at night when lit
- Free to walk
Oriental Pearl Tower
- 468m TV tower
- Observation decks
- Shanghai History Museum inside
- Night light show
Yu Garden
- Classical Chinese garden
- 400+ years old
- Peaceful in early morning
- Yuyuan Bazaar nearby
Nanjing Road
- World’s busiest shopping street
- 5.5 km of retail
- Pedestrian section
- Great for souvenirs
Getting Around Shanghai
Metro
- 18+ lines
- Very clean and efficient
- ¥3-10 per ride
- English announcements
Didi
- Best for visitors
- Works with Alipay
- Airport transfers easy
Maglev Train
- World’s fastest commercial train
- 431 km/h top speed
- Shanghai Longyang Station to Pudong Airport
- ¥50-60 per ride
Food & Dining
Must-Try Shanghai Dishes
- Xiaolongbao - soup dumplings at Jia Jia Tang Bao
- Hong Kong-style milk tea - in former French Concession
- Shengjianbao - pan-fried pork buns
- Hairyi (蛇) - for the adventurous
Food Districts
- Yuyuan Bazaar (tourist, good xiaolongbao)
- French Concession (trendy cafes)
- Xintiandi (upscale dining)
- Jiashan Market (local snacks)
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (March-May): Cherry blossoms, pleasant
- Autumn (September-November): Comfortable, less rain
- Avoid: Typhoon season (July-September), humid summers
Getting There
- By Air: Pudong (PVG) or Hongqiao (SHA)
- By Train: Shanghai Station, Hongqiao Station
Weather
| Season | Temperature | What to Wear |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | 10-20°C | Layers, light jacket |
| Summer | 25-35°C | Hot, humid, rain gear |
| Autumn | 15-25°C | Light layers |
| Winter | 0-10°C | Cold, damp, coat |