The Bund
Iconic waterfront promenade with colonial architecture facing Lujiazui skyline
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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.
- 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
Jump straight to the experience you're planning.
Best places to visit in Shanghai
The 5 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
Yu Garden
Ming Dynasty classical garden with pavilions, ponds, and rockeries
Shanghai Tower
Second-tallest building in the world with observation deck at 632m
Tianzifang
Labyrinthine arts district in converted shikumen alleyways
French Concession
Leafy boulevards lined with cafes, boutiques, and art deco mansions
Recommended itineraries
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
5-Day Shanghai Explorer
- Day 1Arrive in Shanghai, explore city center
- Day 2Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5Final sightseeing, departure
7-Day Classic Shanghai
- Days 1-2Shanghai city highlights
- Days 3-4Regional exploration
- Days 5-6Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate Shanghai
- Days 1-3Shanghai comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12Southern attractions
- Days 13-14Return to Shanghai, departure
Where to stay in Shanghai
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Budget $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
Check rates on Booking.comMadison Shanghai
Check rates on Booking.comFairmont Peace Hotel
Check rates on Booking.comWhere to eat in Shanghai
Cafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
Nanxiang Mantou Dian
Din Tai Fung
Mr & Mrs Bund
Getting around Shanghai
Transportation options in Shanghai include local buses, taxis, and rental cars. Check local conditions before planning your travel.
Budget breakdown
Daily spend by tier in CNY, broken out by category.
| 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
Essential travel tips
- 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
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
Is Shanghai safe to visit in 2026?
Shanghai is consistently ranked among the world's safest major cities with extremely low rates of violent crime against tourists. The primary concerns for visitors are petty theft in crowded tourist areas, tourist-targeted scams, and navigating digital restrictions. Emergency services: police at 110, medical at 120.
What is the best time to visit Shanghai?
The best time to visit Shanghai is April-May and September-October. Shanghai has a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid with frequent rain and occasional typhoons tracking up the coast; winters are cold and damp with occasion
Do I need a visa to visit Shanghai?
Entry requirements follow China rules. Most visitors need a visa in advance; however, citizens of 54 countries qualify for a 144-hour visa-free transit through Shanghai. Check current requirements as policies change. Requirements vary by nationality, so check with your nearest embassy or the official immigration website before traveling.
What currency is used in Shanghai?
The currency in Shanghai is the Chinese Yuan (CNY). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
What language is spoken in Shanghai?
The main language(s) spoken in Shanghai: Mandarin Chinese, Shanghainese (Wu Chinese). In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
What are the top attractions in Shanghai?
The top attractions in Shanghai include The Bund (Waitan), Yu Garden (Yuyuan Garden), Shanghai Tower, Tianzifang, and Oriental Pearl Tower. Each offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks to natural wonders.