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, Eastern China
From GHS 1,109
5.0 (217)
Shanghai Breakfast Walking Tour of Former French Concession
Shanghai, Eastern China
From GHS 862
5.0 (144)
Hangzhou Private Customized Day Trip from Shanghai by Bullet Train
Shanghai, Eastern China
From GHS 3,078
5.0 (97)
Private Shanghai Airport Layover Tour with Flexible Highlights
Shanghai, Eastern China
From GHS 1,752
5.0 (85)
Wuzhen and Xitang Water Town Private Full Day Trip from Shanghai with Lunch and Dinner
Shanghai, Eastern China
From GHS 3,179
5.0 (65)
Small-Group Shanghai's Old City Walking Exploration
Shanghai, Eastern China
From GHS 672
5.0 (54)
2-Hour Chinese Calligraphy with an Artist in Shanghai, China
Shanghai, Eastern China
From GHS 560
5.0 (50)
Shanghai Food and Culture Tour (10 dishes, 5 eateries)
Shanghai, Eastern China
From GHS 829
5.0 (50)
All-inclusive Half-day Private Tour To Zhujiajiao Water Town
Shanghai, Eastern China
All-Inclusive Private Day Tour: Best Shanghai w/ River Cruise
Shanghai, Eastern China
From GHS 3,056
5.0 (38)
Zhujiajiao Water Town Tour from Shanghai with Boat Ride Option
Shanghai, Eastern China
From GHS 1,411
5.0 (36)
Beijing Great Wall Private Day Tour from Shanghai by Bullet Train
Shanghai, Eastern China
From GHS 6,436
5.0 (30)
Private Cooking Class: Make Your Own Dim Sum In Shanghai
Shanghai, Eastern China
3-Hour Shanghai Bund Swift Tour with River Cruise or Skyscraper
Shanghai, Eastern China
From GHS 1,254
5.0 (26)
4-Hour Private Flexible Photography Tour of Best Shanghai Scenes
Shanghai, Eastern China
From GHS 952
5.0 (24)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-31