Modern Metropolis
Shanghai
Shanghai doesn't feel like the rest of China — and that's the point. This is China's most international city: art deco architecture from the 1930s, a cocktail bar scene that rivals Tokyo, and a skyline that makes Manhattan look quaint.
Best Time to Visit
October to November (crisp autumn, clear skies) or March to May (spring, comfortable). Avoid July–August (unbearably hot and humid, 37°C+).
Daily Budget
Mid-range: $90–140/day. Shanghai is China's most expensive city, but incredible street food in the Old City starts at $2. Metro rides are under $1.
Getting There
Pudong (PVG) handles most international flights. Hongqiao (SHA) is domestic and closer to the centre. The Maglev train from Pudong hits 430 km/h and reaches the metro in 8 minutes. High-speed rail hub connects to all major cities.
Shanghai doesn't feel like the rest of China — and that's the point. This is China's most international city: art deco architecture from the 1930s, a cocktail bar scene that rivals Tokyo, and a skyline that makes Manhattan look quaint. It's also the easiest Chinese city for first-time visitors. English is more common here than anywhere else on the mainland.
Top Highlights
The Bund & Pudong Skyline
The Bund is Shanghai's signature walk — a 1.5km waterfront promenade lined with grand colonial-era buildings, facing the futuristic Pudong skyline across the river. Come at dusk when both sides light up. Cross the river on the cheap tourist tunnel for a laugh, or take the ferry for $0.30.
French Concession
Tree-lined avenues, art deco mansions, independent coffee shops, and boutique bars. This is Shanghai's most walkable neighbourhood and where the city's creative class hangs out. Wulumuqi Road and Yongkang Road are good starting points.
Local Tips
The observation decks at Shanghai Tower (632m) and Shanghai World Financial Centre have better views than the Oriental Pearl Tower, with shorter queues.
Xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) are a must. Jia Jia Tang Bao near People's Square is better and cheaper than the famous Din Tai Fung.
Take a day trip to Zhujiajiao water town (40 min by bus) — canals, bridges, and rice wine without the Suzhou crowds.
The metro closes at 10:30pm. After that, Didi is your best option. Taxis are plentiful but don't expect English.
Yu Garden area is extremely touristy during the day. Visit at opening time (8:30am) or skip it entirely in favour of the French Concession.
Book Your Shanghai Trip
Suggested Itineraries
Shanghai, Suzhou & Hangzhou: 7-Day East China Loop
Three of China's most beautiful cities linked by high-speed rail. Neon skylines, classical gardens, and West Lake — all in one week.
First Time in China: The Ultimate 14-Day Route
Beijing to Shanghai via Xi'an, Chengdu, and Guilin — the classic first-timer route hitting every must-see. Two weeks, five cities, one incredible trip.
