Flights from Zurich (ZRH) to Shanghai (PVG)

About Shanghai

Discover Shanghai, where tradition meets modern skylines

Shanghai is a city of striking contrasts, where futuristic towers rise above historic streets and riverside promenades. Along the Huangpu River, you can look one way to see the glittering skyscrapers of Lujiazui and turn back to admire the grand, early 20th-century facades of the Bund. This blend of old and new gives the city a distinctive, ever-changing energy.

Neighbourhoods such as the Former French Concession invite you to slow down, with leafy avenues, restored villas, and stylish boutiques and cafes. Across the city, creative districts, waterfront parks, and expanding cultural venues show how Shanghai is constantly reinventing itself. Whether you are visiting for business or leisure, you will find a city that is easy to explore, with clear districts for shopping, dining, and sightseeing.

As one of Asia's leading hubs, Shanghai also serves as a gateway to the wider region. High-speed rail and domestic flights put other parts of China within easy reach, while the city itself rewards both first-time visitors and returning travellers with new museums, observatories, and riverside walks opening regularly.

Top sights in Shanghai

The Bund

Stroll along this famous riverside promenade to admire historic waterfront buildings and panoramic views of the modern Pudong skyline.

Lujiazui skyline and observation decks

Head to Pudong's financial district to see iconic towers and take in sweeping city views from one of several observation decks.

Yu Garden and Old Shanghai streets

Explore classical pavilions, ponds, and intricate stonework before wandering the surrounding lanes lined with traditional-style architecture.

Former French Concession

Walk under plane trees past restored villas, independent boutiques, and cafes in one of Shanghai's most atmospheric districts.

Shanghai Museum and People’s Square

Visit this major museum by People’s Square to see extensive collections of ceramics, bronzes, and artworks in a modern setting.

Experience the rhythm of Shanghai

Start your visit with a walk along the Bund and a cruise on the Huangpu River to see how the city changes from day to night. From the water, you can appreciate the mix of architectural styles along the historic embankment and the illuminated glass towers on the opposite bank. In the evening, the reflections on the river create a memorable cityscape.

During the day, spend time in the Former French Concession, where you can join a guided walking tour or simply explore at your own pace. Small galleries, design shops, and tree-lined streets make this area ideal for slow exploration and photography. For a different perspective, wander through revitalised industrial zones such as West Bund, where riverfront paths, art centres, and contemporary museums offer a quieter side to the city.

Families and outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy Shanghai's many parks and waterfront promenades. Cycle or walk along sections of the Suzhou Creek and Huangpu riverside, or relax in city parks that provide space to sit, people-watch, and see how locals use public spaces. In the evening, consider a performance at one of Shanghai's theatres or concert venues, which host a varied programme of music, dance, and stage shows.

A taste of Shanghai

Shanghai's dining scene ranges from small neighbourhood eateries to polished restaurants with skyline views. Local specialities often highlight delicate flavours and fresh ingredients, with many dishes focused on seasonal produce from the surrounding region. You can sample traditional snacks, refined regional cuisine, and contemporary interpretations of classic recipes in one city.

Make time to try favourites such as xiaolongbao, the famous soup-filled dumplings usually served in bamboo baskets, and savoury pan-fried buns with crisp bases and soft tops. Sweet and savoury braised dishes, noodles, and river fish are also common in Shanghai-style cooking. Dessert stalls and bakeries offer an array of pastries and modern sweets that reflect both local and international influences.

Across the city, you will find modern food halls, riverside dining terraces, and sky-high restaurants that pair menus with impressive views. Coffee shops and tea-focused venues provide relaxed spaces for a break between sightseeing or meetings. With many districts offering late-night options, you can easily enjoy an unhurried meal after an evening stroll along the river or through illuminated streets.

Retail therapy in Shanghai

Shanghai offers a wide variety of shopping areas, from flagship-lined boulevards to compact creative streets. Nanjing Road remains one of the city’s best-known shopping avenues, with large department stores, international labels, and pedestrian-friendly sections that are busy from morning to night. Nearby, modern malls combine fashion, lifestyle brands, and dining under one roof.

For a different pace, explore the boutiques and design shops scattered through the Former French Concession and surrounding neighbourhoods. Here you can discover locally designed clothing, homeware, and lifestyle products in renovated low-rise buildings. Small studios and independent brands give these streets a distinct character that contrasts with the city’s larger retail centres.

If you enjoy browsing markets and speciality streets, Shanghai has dedicated areas for fabrics, home décor, and crafts. These places are ideal for picking up textiles, accessories, and souvenirs that reflect local creativity. Major transport links make it simple to move between districts, so you can combine large malls, riverside complexes, and compact streets in a single day of exploring.

Best time to visit Shanghai

Spring in Shanghai (March to May, 10–22°C / 50–72°F, shoulder season) brings mild temperatures, blooming parks, and comfortable walking weather. Light layers are usually enough, and clearer days make it a pleasant time for river walks, outdoor cafes, and exploring historic neighbourhoods.

Summer (June to September, 24–33°C / 75–91°F, peak season) is warm and often humid, with longer daylight hours and a lively atmosphere. This is a popular period for river cruises, evening strolls along the Bund, and enjoying air-conditioned museums, shopping centres, and indoor attractions between outings.

Autumn and winter (October to February, 3–20°C / 37–68°F, low season) offer cooler, crisp days and a calmer feel at many sights. Clear autumn skies are ideal for skyline views, while winter brings a quieter charm to parks and waterfronts. With lighter visitor numbers, it is a good time to enjoy indoor galleries and dining.

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