Shanghai
China's financial capital and most cosmopolitan city, famous for the colonial Bund, the futuristic Pudong skyline, the leafy French Concession, and the world's best xiaolongbao.
provinces2026-10-27
At a glance
- Region
- east
- Capital
- Shanghai
- Population
- 24.9 million
- Area
- 6,340 km²
- Best season
- March–May and September–November
- Pinyin
- Shànghǎi
- Country
- CN
- Signature cuisine
- Xiaolongbao, Shengjianbao
Why visit
For the contrast: the 1920s Art Deco Bund vs. the 21st-century Pudong skyline, all visible from a single river crossing. The French Concession has the best tree-lined streets, cafés, and boutique shopping in China. The food scene is world-class.
Getting there
Pudong International Airport (PVG) and Hongqiao Airport (SHA) are the main gateways. HSR from Beijing: 4.5 hours. HSR from Hangzhou: 45 minutes.
Getting around
Shanghai Metro has 20+ lines — largest in the world. ¥3-8 per ride. DiDi works with foreign cards. Maglev train from Pudong Airport: 431 km/h, 7 minutes to Longyang Road.
Key cities
Day by day
3 — Classic Shanghai
Day 1: The Bund (day + night) + Nanjing Road. Day 2: Yu Garden + Old City + Pudong Skyline. Day 3: French Concession + Xintiandi + Tianzifang.
5 — Deep Shanghai
Add Shanghai Museum, Jing'an Temple, Zhujiajiao water town (day trip), and an Acrobatic Show.
7 — Shanghai + Suzhou + Hangzhou
Add 2 days in Suzhou (classical gardens) and 2 days in Hangzhou (West Lake).
Famous for
- The Bund
- Pudong Skyline
- Yu Garden
- French Concession
FAQs
Is Shanghai expensive?
Mid-range — more expensive than most Chinese cities but cheaper than Hong Kong, Singapore, or Tokyo. Mid-range hotel: ¥400-800/night. Meals: ¥50-200. 3-day mid-range: ¥1,500-2,500 per person.
Where is the best xiaolongbao?
Jia Jia Tang Bao (Huangpu Road, original location) is famous for cheap, delicious xiaolongbao. Din Tai Fung (multiple locations) for a more polished experience. Yang's Dumpling for a local favorite.
Can I see the Bund at night?
Yes — and you should. The Pudong skyline (Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai Tower, Jin Mao Tower) is lit up from sunset to 23:00. The reflection on the Huangpu River is the famous Shanghai view.
How do I get from Pudong Airport to the city?
Maglev train: 7 minutes to Longyang Road (¥50), then Metro Line 2 to the Bund (15 min). Metro Line 2 direct: 60-90 min, ¥8. DiDi/taxi: 45-60 min, ¥200-300.
Is Shanghai safe?
Very safe. Petty crime is rare. Main risks: pickpocketing in crowded tourist areas (Nanjing Road, Yu Garden), and aggressive touts near bars. The metro is one of the cleanest in the world.
Should I do a day trip to Zhujiajiao?
Yes — it's the closest water town to Shanghai (45 min by Metro Line 17). Ming Dynasty canals, stone bridges, boat rides. 4-5 hours is enough. Quieter than the more famous Tongli or Zhouzhuang.
What is the best view of Shanghai?
For the skyline: Shanghai Tower observation deck (118th floor, 632m). For the river view: the Bund promenade at sunset. For a unique angle: Jin Mao Tower or the IFC Mall rooftop.
How many days in Shanghai?
3 days covers the highlights. 5 days adds Zhujiajiao or a deeper French Concession exploration. 7 days for Shanghai + Suzhou + Hangzhou.
What is the French Concession?
A neighborhood that was the French concession from 1849-1943. Today: tree-lined streets, Art Deco buildings, independent boutiques, cafés, and the best walking in Shanghai. Includes areas around Fuxing Park, Wukang Road, and Anfu Road.
Is Shanghai good for kids?
Excellent — Shanghai Disneyland, the Science and Technology Museum, the Aquarium (one of Asia's largest), and the long riverfront promenade are all family-friendly. The metro is stroller-accessible.