Flights from Dubai (DXB) to Shanghai (PVG)

About Shanghai

Shanghai, where skylines meet historic streets

Shanghai is a city of striking contrasts, where futuristic towers rise above winding lanes and historic waterfront promenades. Along the Huangpu River, the glittering skyline of Lujiazui faces the grand facades of the Bund, creating one of the most recognisable urban views in the world. You can feel the energy of a global city while still discovering quiet corners and traditional neighbourhoods.

Beyond its skyline, Shanghai is a hub of design, fashion, and contemporary culture. Trendy districts sit alongside restored shikumen townhouses, now home to galleries, boutiques, and cafés. Whether you come for business or leisure, the city offers a smooth blend of modern convenience, rich history, and an ever-evolving food and arts scene.

Top sights in Shanghai

The Bund

Stroll along this historic riverside promenade for grand colonial-era architecture and sweeping views of the Pudong skyline.

Oriental Pearl Tower

Head up this iconic tower in Pudong for observation decks, a glass-floor walkway, and panoramic views of the city and river.

Yu Garden and Old Town

Explore classical pavilions, ponds, and rockeries, then step outside to browse the bustling lanes of the surrounding old streets.

Nanjing Road

Walk one of Shanghai's busiest shopping streets, from the historic stores near the Bund to modern malls and neon lights further west.

Tianzifang

Wander this maze of renovated alleyways filled with small design shops, studios, cafés, and intimate eateries.

Experience Shanghai's culture and city life

Shanghai invites you to slow down and take it in at street level. Start your day with a walk through a neighbourhood park, where locals practise morning exercises and chat under the trees. Later, explore former French Concession streets shaded by plane trees, where art deco buildings and low-rise houses create a distinctly European feel within an unmistakably Chinese city.

If you enjoy museums and galleries, you will find a wide choice across the city, from large institutions along the river to contemporary spaces in converted industrial zones. Evening is an ideal time to see Shanghai from the water with a cruise on the Huangpu River, watching the Bund and Pudong light up around you. For a different pace, consider a short trip to nearby water towns, where stone bridges and canals offer a quieter glimpse of regional life.

Shanghai is also a city of performances and events. Depending on when you visit, you may be able to attend theatre shows, classical concerts, or modern art festivals. Many venues offer bilingual information and easy online booking, making it simple to add cultural experiences to your stay.

A taste of Shanghai

Shanghai's dining scene ranges from street-side stalls to refined restaurants in skyscrapers, so you can tailor each meal to how you feel that day. Local cuisine is known for its delicate flavours, often slightly sweet and savoury, with dishes that make the most of seasonal ingredients and the region's rich waterways.

Classic bites to try include steamed xiaolongbao, filled with hot broth and minced meat, and pan-fried shengjian dumplings with crisp bottoms and soft tops. You will also find red-braised dishes, freshwater fish, and vegetable plates that highlight subtle textures and sauces. Many neighbourhoods have long-standing eateries that specialise in just a few signature dishes.

If you are in the mood for variety, Shanghai's international food scene is just as vibrant. From modern Chinese tasting menus to casual cafés and global cuisines, the city caters to every preference. Rooftop restaurants and bars along the Bund and in Pudong offer memorable views with your meal, especially in the evening when the skyline is illuminated.

Retail therapy in a global fashion hub

Shanghai is one of Asia's leading shopping cities, with everything from flagship luxury stores to creative independent boutiques. Nanjing Road is a good place to start, offering a mix of long-established department stores, modern malls, and bright streetfront shops that stay open late.

For luxury brands and high-end labels, head to areas such as Huaihai Middle Road and the malls around Xintiandi and Lujiazui, where you will find international fashion, fine jewellery, and designer lifestyle stores. These districts often combine shopping with dining and entertainment, making them convenient places to spend an afternoon or evening.

If you are more interested in unique finds, explore converted lane-house complexes and creative parks, where local designers, artists, and craftspeople showcase clothing, accessories, homeware, and art. Many of these spaces also feature cafés and galleries, giving you time to pause and enjoy your surroundings between browsing.

Best time to visit Shanghai

Spring in Shanghai (March to May, 10–22°C / 50–72°F, shoulder season) brings mild temperatures, blooming trees, and comfortable conditions for walking the city streets and parks. Light layers are usually enough, and longer days give you more time to explore riverside areas and outdoor cafés.

Summer (June to August, 25–32°C / 77–90°F, peak season) is warm and humid, with lively evenings along the Bund and busy shopping districts. Many indoor attractions, from museums to malls, are well air-conditioned, so you can easily alternate between outdoor sights and cooler spaces.

Autumn (September to November, 15–23°C / 59–73°F, shoulder season) is often pleasantly cool, with clear days and fresh breezes along the river. It is a good time for exploring neighbourhoods on foot and enjoying outdoor dining. Winter (December to February, 1–9°C / 34–48°F, low season) is crisp and quiet, ideal if you prefer fewer crowds and cosy evenings in cafés and restaurants.

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