1. Best Time to Visit Shanghai

Shanghai has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Here’s a breakdown of when to visit to get the best experience:

Spring (March to May)

• Why Visit: The weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). Spring is the perfect time to explore the city without the extreme cold of winter or the heat of summer.
• What to Do: Enjoy the blooming flowers in Yu Garden or take a leisurely walk along The Bund.

Summer (June to August)

• Why Visit: Summer is the peak travel season. The city is hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). While there are larger crowds and higher hotel prices, summer brings plenty of outdoor events and festivals.
• What to Do: Visit the Shanghai World Expo Museum or enjoy an evening river cruise along the Huangpu River to cool off.

Autumn (September to November)

• Why Visit: Autumn offers the best weather, with clear skies and pleasant temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). It’s the most comfortable time for sightseeing.
• What to Do: Walk around People’s Square, visit Jing’an Temple, and explore the historic French Concession.

Winter (December to February)

• Why Visit: Winter is the off-season in Shanghai, meaning fewer tourists and cheaper hotel rates. The temperatures range from 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F), and while it’s chilly, it’s not too cold to enjoy indoor activities.
• What to Do: Explore the Shanghai Museum, Jade Buddha Temple, and enjoy Shanghai’s winter delicacies.

2. Top Attractions in Shanghai

The Bund (外滩)

• What to See: This waterfront area along the Huangpu River is famous for its spectacular view of the city’s skyline, showcasing both colonial-era buildings and modern skyscrapers.
• Don’t Miss: The stunning Shanghai Tower, Oriental Pearl Tower, and Jin Mao Tower on the opposite side of the river in the Pudong district.
• Best Time to Visit: For the best photo opportunities, visit at sunrise or after sunset when the skyline lights up.

Yu Garden (豫园)

• What to See: One of Shanghai’s oldest classical gardens, offering a beautiful escape from the busy city. Explore its peaceful ponds, rockeries, pavilions, and traditional architecture.
• Don’t Miss: The Grand Rockery, Exquisite Jade Rock, and the Dragon Wall.
• Pro Tip: Arrive early to avoid the crowds and experience the tranquility of the garden.

Shanghai Tower (上海中心大厦)

• What to See: Standing at 632 meters (2,073 feet), the Shanghai Tower is China’s tallest building and the second tallest in the world. Its observation deck offers a 360-degree view of the city.
• Best Time to Visit: For a breathtaking view, go at night when the city is illuminated.
• Tip: Purchase tickets in advance to avoid long queues, especially during peak hours.

Shanghai Museum (上海博物馆)

• What to See: One of China’s finest museums, located in People’s Square. The museum features an impressive collection of ancient Chinese art, including ceramics, jade, calligraphy, and paintings.
• Don’t Miss: The Ancient Chinese ceramics exhibit and the calligraphy collections.
• Pro Tip: Admission is free, making it an excellent option for travelers on a budget.

Jing’an Temple (静安寺)

• What to See: A tranquil Buddhist temple in the heart of the city, dating back over 1,000 years. Visit to experience the serenity and traditional Chinese religious architecture.
• Don’t Miss: The Golden Buddha and the beautifully designed ancient pagodas.
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning to observe local worshippers and monks.

Nanjing Road (南京路)

• What to See: Shanghai’s most famous shopping street, Nanjing Road stretches from The Bund to People’s Square and is home to both international luxury brands and local Chinese shops.
• What to Do: Shop at Shanghai’s flagship stores, visit Malls like Shanghai New World and Plaza 66.
• Pro Tip: Visit at night to see the street illuminated by neon lights.

3. Where to Stay in Shanghai

Shanghai offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some popular areas to stay:

Pudong (浦东)

• Best for luxury travelers and those looking to be near the modern skyscrapers and the Lujiazui district.
• Top Hotels: The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Grand Hyatt Shanghai, and Four Seasons Hotel Shanghai.

People’s Square (人民广场)

• The cultural heart of Shanghai, with proximity to top attractions like Shanghai Museum and Yu Garden.
• Top Hotels: JW Marriott Hotel Shanghai, The Yangtze Boutique Hotel Shanghai.

French Concession (法租界)

• Known for its European-style architecture, tree-lined streets, and trendy cafes. A charming area for visitors who want a more local, quieter experience.
• Top Hotels: The Puli Hotel and Spa, The Waterhouse at South Bund.

The Bund

• For a luxurious stay with views of the river and skyline.
• Top Hotels: The Peninsula Shanghai, Waldorf Astoria Shanghai, and InterContinental Shanghai.

4. Delicious Food to Try in Shanghai

Shanghai is a food lover’s paradise, offering everything from street food to fine dining. Here are the top dishes you must try:

Xiaolongbao (小笼包)

• What it is: Shanghai’s famous soup dumplings filled with hot broth and pork.
• Where to Try: Din Tai Fung or Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant near Yu Garden.

Shengjianbao (生煎包)

• What it is: Pan-fried dumplings with a crispy bottom and juicy filling, usually stuffed with pork and broth.
• Where to Try: Da Hu Chun or Yang’s Fried Dumplings.

Shanghai-style Braised Pork (红烧肉)

• What it is: Tender pieces of pork braised in soy sauce, sugar, and Chinese spices.
• Where to Try: Jesse Restaurant or Old Jesse.

Dongpo Pork (东坡肉)

• What it is: A rich, savory pork dish with a melt-in-your-mouth texture, named after the famous poet Su Dongpo.
• Where to Try: Fuxing Restaurant or Shanghai Old Restaurant.

5. How to Get Around Shanghai

Shanghai is a well-connected city with an efficient public transport system.

Metro:

• The Shanghai Metro is the most convenient way to get around, with multiple lines connecting major tourist spots. Tickets are cheap, and signs are in both Chinese and English.

Buses:

• While buses are inexpensive, they can be crowded, and navigating the system can be tricky for non-Chinese speakers.

Taxis:

• Taxis are readily available but may be hard to hail during rush hours. Make sure to have the address written in Chinese, as not all drivers speak English.

Biking:

• Shanghai has an extensive network of bike-sharing services such as Mobike and Ofo, which are great for short trips.

6. Day Trips from Shanghai

Suzhou (苏州):

• Famous for its traditional Chinese gardens, Suzhou is located just a short train ride away from Shanghai. Visit the stunning Humble Administrator’s Garden and Lingering Garden.

Hangzhou (杭州):

• Known for West Lake, tea plantations, and ancient temples, Hangzhou is another fantastic destination for a day trip.

Shanghai is a city where the future meets the past. Whether you’re interested in the cutting-edge architecture of Lujiazui, the ancient beauty of Yu Garden, or the vibrant food scene, Shanghai offers something for every traveler. For a truly personalized experience, consider booking a customized tour with HelloChinaTrip.com to explore this fascinating city at your own pace.

Start planning your Shanghai adventure today!