Flights from Kolkata (CCU) to Shanghai (PVG)

About Shanghai

Shanghai, where past and future meet on the Huangpu

Shanghai is a city of striking contrasts, where art deco riverfront buildings face a skyline of glass and steel. Along the Bund, historic façades recall the city’s early 20th-century glamour, while across the water in Pudong, soaring towers symbolise its fast-paced growth and international outlook.

Beyond the famous skyline, each district has its own character. Stroll leafy streets in the former French Concession, explore creative hubs set in converted factories, or discover narrow alleyways that open into quiet courtyards. Shanghai combines efficient infrastructure, a strong café culture, and a lively dining scene, making it easy to feel at home while you explore.

From world-class museums and designer boutiques to street food stalls and riverside promenades, Shanghai invites you to experience both its modern energy and layered history. It is a city that rewards unhurried walks, curious taste buds, and time spent watching life unfold along the Huangpu River.

Top sights in Shanghai

The Bund

Walk the riverside promenade to admire Shanghai’s famous skyline on one side and grand historic buildings on the other, especially beautiful at night when everything is illuminated.

Lujiazui and Shanghai Tower

Head to the observation decks in Pudong’s skyscrapers, such as Shanghai Tower, for sweeping views over the city and the winding Huangpu River.

Yu Garden and Old Town

Explore classical pavilions, bridges, and ponds in Yu Garden, then wander the surrounding lanes filled with traditional architecture and local snacks.

Former French Concession

Stroll tree-lined streets dotted with cafés, boutiques, and restored villas, ideal for a relaxed afternoon of people-watching and photography.

Shanghai Museum and People’s Square

Visit Shanghai Museum for well-curated exhibits of Chinese art and artefacts, then take a break in the green open spaces of People’s Square.

Experience the rhythm of Shanghai

You can experience Shanghai’s culture simply by walking its streets. Start your day in the former French Concession, where tree-lined avenues and low-rise buildings create an easy-going atmosphere. Step into independent galleries, design shops, and neighbourhood cafés that showcase the city’s creative side and evolving lifestyle.

For a different perspective, take a river cruise along the Huangpu in the evening. From the water, the contrast between the Bund’s historic facades and Pudong’s illuminated skyscrapers becomes even more striking. This is one of the most memorable ways to appreciate how Shanghai has grown while retaining a strong sense of place.

If you enjoy exploring further, venture into art and design districts such as M50, where former industrial spaces now house studios, exhibition halls, and contemporary art galleries. Walking tours of these areas reveal how the city continuously transforms, blending heritage buildings with bold new architecture and public spaces.

A taste of Shanghai

Shanghai’s dining scene ranges from small neighbourhood eateries to refined restaurants with panoramic views. Local cuisine is known for its delicate seasoning, light sweetness, and emphasis on fresh ingredients, with many dishes designed to be shared around the table.

You can try favourites such as xiaolongbao, the delicate soup-filled dumplings that are a must-try in the city, and savoury pan-fried buns with crisp bases and soft tops. Braised dishes, seasonal vegetables, and fresh river fish also feature prominently on many menus. Street-side stalls and casual eateries offer quick bites, while stylish bistros and high-rise restaurants provide more leisurely meals.

International flavours are easy to find across the city. From contemporary Chinese fusion to global cuisines, Shanghai’s restaurants reflect its role as a major international hub. Whether you prefer relaxed food streets or special-occasion dining, you will find plenty of options to match your appetite and schedule.

Retail therapy in a global city

Shanghai is a shopping destination where international brands, independent designers, and traditional crafts sit side by side. Nanjing Road is one of the city’s best-known shopping streets, with large department stores and malls offering fashion, cosmetics, and lifestyle products in a lively environment.

For a more intimate experience, explore the boutiques and concept stores scattered across the former French Concession and emerging creative districts. Here, you can discover local designers, homeware, and accessories that make thoughtful keepsakes. Smaller shopping streets often combine retail, cafés, and galleries, creating pleasant areas to linger.

If you are interested in local specialties, look out for silk products, tea, and contemporary takes on traditional crafts. Modern malls in Pudong and Puxi provide convenient, climate-controlled spaces with dining and entertainment alongside retail, making it easy to combine shopping with the rest of your sightseeing.

Best time to visit Shanghai

Spring in Shanghai (March to May, around 10–22°C / 50–72°F, shoulder season) brings mild temperatures and blooming trees along the streets and parks. It is a pleasant time for walking tours, riverfront strolls, and outdoor photography without the intensity of mid-summer heat.

Summer (June to September, around 24–32°C / 75–90°F, peak season) is warm and humid, with long daylight hours that suit evening river cruises and late-night walks along the Bund. It is a lively period when many attractions extend opening hours and the city feels especially energetic.

Autumn and early winter (October to February, around 3–20°C / 37–68°F, low season) bring cooler, crisper days and fewer crowds at major sights. This is an inviting time to explore museums, enjoy seasonal dishes, and appreciate Shanghai’s skyline on clear evenings.

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