Flights from Chengdu (TFU) to Shanghai (PVG)

About Shanghai

Discover Shanghai

Why visit Shanghai?
Shanghai is a vibrant coastal metropolis where historic riverfront architecture meets a dramatic modern skyline. You can experience intimate old lanes, cutting-edge galleries, and leafy boulevards, all framed by the broad sweep of the Huangpu River.

What to expect
The city is defined by its contrasting districts, from the grand facades of the Bund and the futuristic towers of Lujiazui to the creative enclaves of the French Concession and riverside parks. Expect an energetic pace, efficient transport, and a strong focus on fashion, design, and culture.

Plan your trip
Shanghai works well as both a short city break and a starting point for exploring the wider Yangtze Delta region. High-speed rail and frequent domestic flights connect you to nearby cities, while the city’s varied neighbourhoods reward slow exploration over several days.

Top sights in Shanghai

The Bund

Stroll along this historic waterfront promenade for sweeping views of colonial-era buildings on one side and the modern Pudong skyline on the other.

Lujiazui skyline

Ride up one of the landmark towers in Lujiazui for panoramic city views and a close look at Shanghai’s striking contemporary architecture.

Yu Garden and Old Town

Explore classical pavilions, ponds, and courtyards in Yu Garden, then wander the surrounding Old Town streets lined with traditional-style buildings.

Former French Concession

Walk beneath plane trees in this charming district, where restored villas now house boutiques, cafés, and small galleries.

Xintiandi

Discover a revitalised shikumen lane area with preserved stone-gate houses now home to restaurants, bars, and lifestyle shops.

Shanghai Museum

Visit this well-regarded museum on People’s Square to see finely curated collections of bronzes, ceramics, calligraphy, and more.

Huangpu River cruise

Take an evening cruise along the Huangpu River to see the Bund and Pudong skylines illuminated from the water.

Experience Shanghai’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Shanghai’s metro network is the most efficient way to travel between major districts, with clear signage and frequent trains. Taxis and app-based ride services are easy to find for door-to-door journeys, while walking is ideal within compact areas like the Bund and the Former French Concession.

Local life & culture
In residential streets and parks you will see the city’s social side, from neighbours chatting on benches to people enjoying gentle exercise. Creative districts mix studios, galleries, and cafés in restored industrial spaces, reflecting Shanghai’s focus on design and contemporary culture.

Where to unwind
Waterfront parks along the Huangpu River offer long promenades and open views, ideal for a gentle walk at sunrise or sunset. Inner-city green spaces provide shaded paths, ponds, and quiet corners where you can pause between sightseeing stops.

A taste of Shanghai

Street food & local specialties
Shanghai is known for delicate snacks and comforting bowls served in simple eateries and busy streets. Neighbourhoods near Old Town and around local markets are good places to try classic bites such as filled buns, noodles, and regional small plates.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Shopping districts and mixed-use complexes across the city bundle cafés, dessert shops, and contemporary restaurants in one place. You can sample a variety of regional Chinese flavours alongside international cuisines, with smaller plates and sets that make it easy to try several dishes in one meal.

Signature & scenic dining
For memorable views, many riverside and high-rise venues offer dining spaces that look out over the Bund or Pudong skyline. Whether you choose an elegant riverside restaurant or a tower-top venue, the combination of city lights and considered menus creates a special setting for an evening out.

Retail therapy in Shanghai

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Shanghai’s main shopping streets are lined with modern malls that bring together international labels, local designers, cinemas, and dining floors. These lifestyle hubs often connect directly to metro stations, making them convenient places to shop, meet friends, and relax between city explorations.

Markets & local crafts
Away from the big centres, you can find smaller streets and creative blocks where independent brands and makers showcase fashion, accessories, and homeware. Areas in and around the Former French Concession and other inner-city neighbourhoods are especially known for boutique stores and design-focused spaces.

Evening retail scene
After dark, illuminated façades and busy streets give Shanghai’s retail districts a lively atmosphere. Many malls and pedestrian zones stay active into the evening, so you can browse, dine, and people-watch before heading back using the city’s extensive metro or readily available taxis.

Best time to visit Shanghai

Spring (chun) – shoulder season
From March to May, Shanghai enjoys mild temperatures around 15–22°C (59–72°F) and blooming trees in parks and streets. It is a pleasant time for walking between neighbourhoods and exploring outdoor sights, with a comfortable balance of visitors around key attractions.

Summer (xia tian) – peak season
June to August brings warm, humid weather, with temperatures often between 26–32°C (79–90°F). Longer daylight hours and a lively atmosphere make it a popular period for riverfront walks, evening skylines, and indoor attractions where you can enjoy air-conditioned comfort.

Autumn and winter (qiu tian & dong tian) – low season
From September to November, temperatures of 18–24°C (64–75°F) and clearer skies often create crisp walking conditions. December to February is cooler, around 5–10°C (41–50°F), but the city remains active, with cosy indoor venues and fewer crowds at many museums and galleries.

Frequently Asked Questions