About Shanghai
Shanghai, China's most cosmopolitan city, sits at the mouth of the Yangtze River on the eastern coast. The city is famous for its dramatic skyline, with the Pearl Tower, Shanghai Tower, and World Financial Center rising above Lujiazui in Pudong. Across the Huangpu River, the colonial-era Bund promenade showcases European architecture from the city's treaty-port era. Shanghai is also a food lover's paradise with exceptional local cuisine and a thriving international dining scene.
Quick Overview
Capital: Shanghai
Largest City: Shanghai
Population: 26 million
Languages: Mandarin Chinese, Shanghainese (Wu Chinese)
Currency: Chinese Yuan
Time Zone: China Standard Time (UTC+8)
Explore Shanghai by Topic
Best Places to Visit in Shanghai
Discover the top 5 must-see destinations in Shanghai, from iconic landmarks to off-the-beaten-path treasures.
Shanghai Disneyland
Shanghai Ocean Aquarium
Century Park
Shanghai Natural History Museum
Zhujiajiao Water Town
Recommended Itineraries for Shanghai
Plan your perfect Shanghai trip with our expertly crafted itineraries for every travel style and duration.
5-Day Shanghai Explorer
- Day 1: Arrive in Shanghai, explore city center
- Day 2: Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3: Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4: Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5: Final sightseeing, departure
7-Day Classic Shanghai
- Days 1-2: Shanghai city highlights
- Days 3-4: Regional exploration
- Days 5-6: Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7: Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate Shanghai
- Days 1-3: Shanghai comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6: Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9: Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12: Southern attractions
- Days 13-14: Return to Shanghai, departure
Where to Stay in Shanghai
From luxury resorts to budget-friendly options, Shanghai offers accommodations for every traveler.
Budget Options ($52)
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Mid-Range ($137)
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
Luxury ($388)
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
Captain Hostel
Madison Shanghai
Fairmont Peace Hotel
Where to Eat in Shanghai
Discover the culinary delights of Shanghai, from local street food to fine dining experiences.
Nanxiang Mantou Dian
Din Tai Fung
Mr & Mrs Bund
Getting Around Shanghai
Budget Breakdown for Shanghai
Plan your spending with our comprehensive cost guide. Currency: CNY.
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $17 | $80 | $250 |
| Food (per day) | $15 | $35 | $90 |
| Transportation | $5 | $12 | $25 |
| Activities | $15 | $10 | $23 |
| Daily Total | $52 | $137 | $388 |
Best Time to Visit Shanghai
Best Season: Year-round
Avoid: Chinese New Year (overwhelming crowds), July-August (extreme heat bad for children)
Essential Travel Tips for Shanghai
- Get a local SIM card at the airport for data; install VPN before arriving
- Download WeChat Pay or Alipay — many vendors no longer accept cash
- The metro is the fastest and cheapest way to get around
- Book major attractions online to avoid long queues
- Spring (Apr-May) and autumn (Sep-Oct) offer the best weather
Safety Information
Travel Advisory
The US State Department rates China overall at Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution, primarily due to arbitrary enforcement of local laws (including exit bans) and the risk of wrongful detention of US citizens. Shanghai itself has very low crime levels and is safe for typical tourist activities.
Shanghai is one of the world's safest cities for family travel
Keep children close in crowded areas like Nanjing Road and Yu Garden Bazaar
Medical facilities are world-class — travel insurance is still recommended
Air quality can occasionally be poor — carry N95 masks for children
Tap water is not safe for children — use bottled water at all times
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Shanghai?
The best time to visit Shanghai is year-round. Chinese New Year (overwhelming crowds), July-August (extreme heat bad for children) may have less favorable conditions.
Do I need a visa for Shanghai?
Visa requirements vary by nationality. Check with your nearest embassy or consulate for Shanghai for current requirements before travel.
How many days do I need in Shanghai?
For a comprehensive Shanghai experience, we recommend 7-10 days. However, you can have a great trip in 5 days focusing on highlights.
Is Shanghai expensive to visit?
Budget travelers can expect $52 per day, mid-range $137, and luxury $388.