About Shanghai
Shanghai, China's dazzling metropolis, is a vibrant fusion of ancient heritage and futuristic ambition. As a direct-administered municipality, it offers travelers a breathtaking skyline dominated by the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower and the Shanghai Tower, one of the world's tallest buildings. Stroll along the historic Bund waterfront to witness colonial-era architecture juxtaposed against the modern skyscrapers of Pudong across the Huangpu River. Dive into the city's rich culture at the Shanghai Museum, explore the classical Yu Garden and its bustling bazaar, or wander through the charming, cobblestone streets of the French Concession. Shanghai is a culinary paradise, from delicate xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) at neighborhood eateries to world-class fine dining. The city pulses with energy, hosting major events like the Shanghai International Film Festival and offering vibrant nightlife in districts like Xintiandi. Its efficient metro system makes navigating between these diverse experiences seamless, revealing a city that perfectly balances its profound history with its relentless drive toward the future.
Things to do in Shanghai
Full-Day Private Guided Tour of Shanghai
Shanghai Breakfast Walking Tour of Former French Concession
Hangzhou Private Customized Day Trip from Shanghai by Bullet Train
From $275
5.0 (98)
Wuzhen and Xitang Water Town Private Full Day Trip from Shanghai with Lunch and Dinner
From $284
5.0 (67)
2-Hour Chinese Calligraphy with an Artist in Shanghai, China
Small-Group Shanghai's Old City Walking Exploration
From $60
5.0 (54)
Shanghai Food and Culture Tour (10 dishes, 5 eateries)
From $74
5.0 (52)
Beijing Great Wall Private Day Tour from Shanghai by Bullet Train
All-Inclusive Private Day Tour: Best Shanghai w/ River Cruise
From $273
5.0 (40)
Zhujiajiao Water Town Tour from Shanghai with Boat Ride Option
From $126
5.0 (39)
Shanghai Evolution Free Walking Tour
Private Cooking Class: Make Your Own Dim Sum In Shanghai
From $88
5.0 (30)
Red Route Tour- Chinese Communist Party
3-Hour Shanghai Bund Swift Tour with River Cruise or Skyscraper
From $112
5.0 (29)
4-Hour Private Flexible Photography Tour of Best Shanghai Scenes
From $106
5.0 (25)Places to visit in Shanghai
悦享酒店
悦享酒店, 建设路, 201205 Shanghai, China
海军军医大学招待所
海军军医大学招待所, Shagang Road, Changhailu, 200433 Shanghai, China
正盈泰酒店(江浦公园地铁站店)
正盈泰酒店(江浦公园地铁站店), Changyang Road, Pinglianglu, 200082 Shanghai, China
博克·轻奢酒店(上海北外滩店)
博克·轻奢酒店(上海北外滩店), Huimin Road, Pinglianglu, 200082 Shanghai, China
桔子酒店（上海公平路北外滩店）
桔子酒店（上海公平路北外滩店）, Gongping Road, Beiwaitan, 200080 Shanghai, China
上海大华锦绣皇冠假日酒店
上海大华锦绣皇冠假日酒店, 399 Jinzun Road, 200125 Shanghai, China
全季酒店
Ji Hotel, Bei'ai Road, 200125 Shanghai, China
如家酒店
Home Inn, Hunan Road, 201204 Shanghai, China
曼尼菲假日酒店
曼尼菲假日酒店, Kanghua Road, 101201 Shanghai, China
Globe
Globe, Qihe Road, Zhoujiadu, 200125 Shanghai, China
上海锦江汤臣洲际大酒店
上海锦江汤臣洲际大酒店, 777号 Zhangyang Road, Lujiazui Subdistrict, 200120 Shanghai, China
Pod Hostel
Pod Hostel, Nanpu Bridge, Tangqiao Subdistrict, 200027 Shanghai, China
博雅酒店
博雅酒店, 699 Bibo Road, 201203 Shanghai, China
泰禾酒店
ZTE Hotel, Keyuan Road, 201203 Shanghai, China
爱因斯坦
爱因斯坦, Bibo Road, 201203 Shanghai, China
Travel Tips for Shanghai
Getting Around
Shanghai's Metro is extensive, efficient, affordable, and signs are in English. Use the 'Metro Shanghai' app or purchase a rechargeable transportation card. Taxis are plentiful and inexpensive; use Didi (China's Uber equivalent) for ride-hailing. Buses are extensive but can be challenging without Chinese language skills. Walking is excellent in central districts like the French Concession. Car rentals are not recommended for tourists due to heavy traffic and complex driving regulations. Bicycles and e-bikes are available via apps like Meituan or Hello Bike.
Best Time To Visit
Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) are ideal. Spring offers mild temperatures and blooming flowers. Autumn features clear, comfortable skies and is perfect for outdoor exploration. Avoid the hot, humid, and rainy summer (June-August) and the chilly, damp winter (December-February), though winter has fewer tourists. Major festivals like Chinese New Year (Jan/Feb) are spectacular but very crowded.
Local Customs
Greet with a nod or slight bow; handshakes are common in business. Present and receive business cards with both hands. Avoid loud conversations in public. Dress is generally smart-casual; modest attire is appreciated when visiting temples. Tipping is not customary and can be refused; exceptional service at high-end hotels or restaurants may warrant a small tip. Never stick chopsticks upright in rice (associated with death). Refusing an offer of tea or food politely is acceptable. Bargaining is expected in markets, not in department stores.
Safety Information
Shanghai is generally very safe for travelers, with low violent crime. Exercise standard precautions against petty theft in crowded areas like the Bund, Nanjing Road, and metro stations. Be wary of common scams: the 'tea ceremony' scam where you're invited for tea and presented with an exorbitant bill, or art student scams near tourist sites. Use licensed taxis (clearly marked) or reputable ride-hailing apps. Avoid unlicensed tour guides. While most areas are safe at night, be cautious in less crowded streets. Keep digital copies of your passport and visa.
Health Information
Shanghai has excellent medical facilities, including several international hospitals like Shanghai East International Medical Center and ParkwayHealth. Tap water is not safe to drink; consume only bottled or boiled water. Air pollution can be high; sensitive travelers should monitor AQI levels and consider masks. No specific vaccinations are required beyond routine travel vaccines (Hepatitis A, Typhoid). Pharmacies are widely available, but bring any prescription medications in their original containers. Medical care is generally high quality but can be expensive; comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended.
Languages Spoken
Mandarin ChineseShanghainese (Wu Chinese)
Quick Facts
Currency
Chinese Yuan Renminbi (CNY)
¥
¥
Timezone
Asia/Shanghai +08:00 (GMT)
Calling Code
+86
Electricity
Driving Side
Right
Population
24.87 million
Area
6340.5 km²
Government
Direct-administered municipality
ISO Code
CN-23