Shanghai
📍 Best Time to Visit
March to May (when the weather is warm and flowers are in full bloom) or October to November (when the autumn atmosphere is at its peak and you can taste the hairy crabs).
🚇 Getting Around
Shanghai's metro is among the largest and most advanced in the world, blanketing both Puxi and Pudong with comprehensive coverage. The Maglev train whisks passengers from Pudong Airport to the city in eight minutes, and taxis along with bike-sharing fill in every gap — getting around is rarely a second thought.
🍜 Food & Drink
Pan-fried soup dumplings, xiaolongbao, and red-braised pork are the holy trinity of Shanghainese cooking. The Old City God Temple food square is the place for Nanxiang steamed buns and pork chop rice cakes, while the streets behind the Bund conceal a quieter world of refined Haipai restaurants worth seeking out.
🏙️ Sights
The Bund's grand colonial facades face off across the river against the glass towers of Lujiazui — best savored on an evening Huangpu River cruise when both banks are fully lit. Yuyuan Garden and the shikumen lane houses of Xintiandi offer glimpses of old Shanghai, and Disneyland is always on hand for a day of pure fun.
Why Visit Shanghai?
Shanghai is often the easiest city for first-time visitors to China. It combines futuristic urban life with international accessibility, making it ideal for travelers who want to experience modern China comfortably.
The Gateway to Modern China
Shanghai is China’s financial capital and one of the most visually impressive cities in the world. From the futuristic skyscrapers of Lujiazui to the historic architecture of The Bund, the city perfectly blends East and West.
Foreign travelers usually find Shanghai easier than expected. The metro system is modern, digital payments are increasingly foreigner-friendly, and many tourist areas support English services.
Whether you want rooftop bars, Michelin restaurants, river cruises, hidden coffee shops, luxury shopping, or historical streets, Shanghai delivers one of the most complete urban travel experiences in Asia.
Top Attractions in Shanghai
Shanghai offers memorable attractions and urban experiences.
Food & Nightlife in Shanghai
Discover dining and local flavors in Shanghai.
Transportation in Shanghai
Shanghai is one of the easiest cities in China for foreigners to navigate.
Shanghai Travel Tips
Important advice for foreign travelers visiting Shanghai for the first time.
Mobile Payments
Most places prefer Alipay or WeChat Pay, but international cards are increasingly accepted.
Internet Access
Consider preparing eSIM and VPN access before arriving in China.
Best Areas to Explore
The Bund, Xintiandi, French Concession, and Lujiazui are ideal for first-time visitors.