Flights from Munich (MUC) to Shanghai (PVG)

About Shanghai

Discover Shanghai, where tradition meets skyline

Shanghai blends historic riverside streets with one of the worlds most recognisable skylines. Along the Huangpu River, grand waterfront architecture faces soaring glass towers, creating a striking contrast that defines the citys energy. Leafy former concessions, creative districts, and broad boulevards give each neighbourhood a distinct character to explore.

The city moves quickly, but it is also easy to enjoy at your own pace. Wander between restored shikumen lane houses, pause in classical gardens, or take in wide city views from the Bund. Whether you are visiting for business, culture, or cuisine, Shanghai offers a modern, efficient city experience with plenty of places to slow down and take it all in.

Top sights in Shanghai

The Bund

Stroll along this historic riverside promenade for classic skyline views of Pudongs modern towers across the Huangpu River.

Lujiazui skyline

Ride up one of Pudongs landmark towers for sweeping views over Shanghai, especially impressive at night.

Yuyuan Garden

Explore a classical Chinese garden of ponds, pavilions, and zigzagging bridges surrounded by lively old streets.

Former French Concession

Walk tree-lined streets filled with boutiques, cafés, and restored villas that showcase Shanghais early 20th-century charm.

Shanghai Museum

Discover carefully curated collections of bronzes, ceramics, paintings, and calligraphy in a thoughtfully designed space on Peoples Square.

Experience Shanghais urban rhythm

You can experience Shanghai best on foot, starting with a walk along the Bund at different times of day. In the morning, watch the city wake up beside the river, then return after dark when the skyline glows with light. Nearby side streets lead to renovated warehouses, galleries, and cafés where you can pause between sights.

Across the river in Pudong, Lujiazui invites you to look up. Glass towers house observation decks, design-forward bars, and restaurants with panoramic views. Further afield, creative districts convert former industrial sites into spaces for design studios, performance venues, and exhibitions, offering a different perspective on the citys modern culture.

For a calmer break, seek out one of Shanghais traditional gardens or riverside parks, where pathways wind around ponds and quiet corners. Guided walking tours, river cruises, and evening harbour sailings provide relaxed ways to understand how the city grew from a trading port into a major international hub.

A taste of Shanghai

Shanghai is known for nuanced flavours and seasonal ingredients, from delicate soup dumplings to refined dishes served in elegant dining rooms. In traditional restaurants, you can try local favourites such as steamed buns, braised dishes, and fresh river fish, often enjoyed as part of a shared meal.

Across the city, lively streets and modern food halls bring together regional Chinese cuisines and international tastes. You will find everything from small counter seats serving noodles to contemporary restaurants offering carefully plated tasting menus in high-rise settings. Late in the evening, bustling snack streets and compact eateries stay open for a final small plate.

Cafés, patisseries, and tea houses add another layer to Shanghais dining scene. Many are set in restored townhouses or tucked into side streets, making them ideal stops between museums and shopping. Whether you prefer a quick bite or a long meal with a view, there is always something interesting to try.

Retail therapy in Shanghai

Shanghai offers a wide range of shopping experiences, from landmark malls to independent boutiques. Along major streets and in large commercial complexes, you will find international brands, lifestyle stores, and design labels housed in sleek, modern buildings with easy transport connections.

In contrast, older neighbourhoods and creative quarters focus on smaller shops. Here you can browse for locally designed fashion, ceramics, stationery, and homeware in converted shophouses and lane buildings. These areas are ideal for picking up thoughtfully made keepsakes that reflect the citys design sensibility.

Traditional-style markets, pedestrian streets, and specialty shops also remain an important part of Shanghais retail life. They are good places to look for textiles, tea, handicrafts, and decorative items. Many districts combine dining, entertainment, and shopping, so you can easily spend a full afternoon exploring a single area.

Best time to visit Shanghai

Spring season (March to May, 10–22°C / 50–72°F, shoulder season) brings mild temperatures, blossoming parks, and generally comfortable sightseeing conditions. Light layers are useful as days can warm up while evenings stay cool, and clear days offer pleasant views along the river and from rooftop vantage points.

Summer season (June to September, 24–33°C / 75–91°F, peak season) is warm and humid, with long daylight hours and a lively city atmosphere. Indoor attractions, cafés, and air-conditioned malls provide welcome breaks from the heat, while evening river walks and skyline views feel especially vibrant after sunset.

Autumn and winter season (October to February, 2–18°C / 36–64°F, low season) bring cooler, crisper air and a calmer pace at many attractions. Clear days offer good visibility from observation decks, and cooler temperatures suit long walks through historic districts and gardens if you pack warm clothing.

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