With its futuristic skyline, world-class dining and intoxicating energy, Shanghai is one of China’s most dynamic cities – a metropolis where historic neighbourhoods sit alongside some of the country’s boldest architecture.
Away from Pudong’s skyscrapers, explore the tree-lined streets and historic villas of the former French Concession, or stroll along the Bund, known for its grand waterfront architecture.
Its food scene is equally compelling, spanning steaming baskets of xiaolongbao and traditional Shanghainese cooking to ambitious contemporary restaurants and inventive cocktail bars.
Independent boutiques, contemporary art spaces and a vibrant nightlife scene add another dimension to Shanghai, with plenty to discover beyond its famous skyline.
City at a glance: Spanning approximately 6,340 sq km, Shanghai is one of China’s largest cities. The Huangpu River separates the historic heart of the city from Pudong, home to the futuristic Lujiazui skyline.
Getting around: Shanghai’s extensive metro network is one of the easiest ways to explore the city, complemented by buses and taxis. Ride-hailing is widely available through DiDi, while Alipay and Weixin Pay are commonly used for everyday payments. Overseas visitors can link eligible international bank cards to both platforms.
From the airport: Shanghai Pudong International Airport is around 30km from central Shanghai. Metro Line 2 connects the airport with the city, while the Shanghai Maglev provides a high-speed connection to Longyang Road station. Taxis and ride-hailing services are also available.
Day trips: Shanghai’s high-speed rail connections make it easy to venture beyond the city. The classical gardens and canals of Suzhou and Hangzhou’s West Lake can both be reached by high-speed train, while nearby water towns offer a slower-paced escape.
Language: Mandarin Chinese is the primary language, while Shanghainese is also widely spoken locally. English is used at many international hotels and major tourist attractions, but having a translation app handy can be useful when exploring independently.
Weather: Shanghai experiences four distinct seasons, with hot, humid summers and cool winters. Spring and autumn generally bring milder temperatures and are among the most comfortable times to explore the city.
Shopping hours: Major shopping malls and department stores generally open daily from around 10am to 10pm, although hours vary among independent boutiques, markets and attractions.
Tipping: Tipping is generally not expected in mainland China, including at restaurants, hotels and in taxis.
Stay connected: Wi-Fi is widely available at hotels, malls and cafés, while mobile data options are available for international travellers.
Access to some international websites and apps may be restricted in mainland China, so check access to any essential online services before travelling.
