Flights from Auckland (AKL) to Shanghai (PVG)

About Shanghai

Discover Shanghai, where tradition meets the future

Shanghai is a city of striking contrasts, where historic streets and waterfront promenades sit beside futuristic skyscrapers and designer boutiques. As one of China’s most dynamic hubs, it offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern energy that you notice the moment you arrive. From early-morning strolls along the Huangpu River to late-night views of the illuminated skyline, Shanghai moves at a pace that is exciting yet surprisingly easy to navigate as a visitor.

Neighbourhoods each have their own character, from the Art Deco facades of the former French Concession to the gleaming towers of Lujiazui. You can wander leafy streets lined with cafes, explore grand riverside avenues, or take in contemporary art and design in reinvented industrial districts. Whether you are travelling for business, a short city break, or a longer adventure in China, Shanghai makes a memorable starting point.

Top sights in Shanghai

The Bund

Stroll along this historic waterfront promenade for sweeping views of colonial-era architecture on one side and Shanghai’s futuristic skyline on the other.

Shanghai Tower

Ride high-speed lifts to one of the world’s tallest observation decks and take in panoramic views across the city and the winding Huangpu River.

Yu Garden and Old Street

Explore classical pavilions, ponds, and rockeries before stepping into surrounding lanes filled with traditional shops and local snacks.

Former French Concession

Walk beneath tree-lined streets dotted with Art Deco buildings, boutiques, and cafes for a relaxed glimpse of old Shanghai elegance.

Nanjing Road

Experience one of Shanghai’s busiest shopping streets, where flagship stores, bright lights, and street entertainment keep the atmosphere lively day and night.

Experience the pace and personality of Shanghai

Shanghai is best discovered on foot and by metro, allowing you to experience its districts at street level. Start with a walk along the Bund at sunrise or sunset, when the light is soft and the skyline is at its most photogenic. Then cross the river to Lujiazui, where you can visit observation decks and skywalks for an elevated view of the city’s constant movement.

For a different side of Shanghai, spend time in the former French Concession, where quiet residential streets open onto pocket parks, galleries, and independent shops. Creative neighbourhoods in refurbished factories and warehouses now host contemporary art exhibitions, design studios, and performance spaces, offering an insight into the city’s forward-looking culture. In the evening, a river cruise along the Huangpu lets you see both banks of the city illuminated, giving you an effortless overview of Shanghai’s distinct districts.

Beyond the city centre, organised excursions can take you to nearby water towns, known for canals, stone bridges, and traditional architecture. These day trips offer a calmer atmosphere, with narrow lanes and riverside paths that contrast with Shanghai’s high-rise core yet remain closely tied to its history and development.

A taste of Shanghai

Shanghai’s dining scene is rich and diverse, from humble street stalls to refined restaurants with city views. Local cuisine is known for its subtle sweetness, fresh seafood, and delicate flavours, with many dishes focusing on seasonal ingredients and careful preparation. You will find everything from steaming baskets of dumplings to meticulously presented multi-course menus.

Do not miss specialities such as soup-filled dumplings, pan-fried buns, and braised dishes that showcase the city’s distinct style. Food streets and neighbourhood markets are ideal places to sample snacks and casual eats, while traditional teahouses offer a quieter setting to pause and observe daily life. In business districts and along major roads, you will also find a wide selection of contemporary dining options, including modern interpretations of classic recipes.

For those who enjoy exploring food after dark, Shanghai’s night-time dining culture is lively. Late-opening restaurants and casual eateries serve comforting dishes well into the evening, and many rooftop or riverside venues pair menus with impressive views of the city lights. Whatever your tastes, you can plan each day around memorable meals that reflect Shanghai’s blend of heritage and innovation.

Retail therapy in a global city

Shanghai is a major shopping destination, with options ranging from luxury boutiques to local markets. Along Nanjing Road and in the Lujiazui area, you will find large malls and flagship stores featuring international and Chinese brands, all in surroundings that are easy to navigate and well connected by public transport.

If you prefer smaller shops, head to streets in the former French Concession, where you can browse designer studios, independent fashion labels, and lifestyle stores tucked into heritage buildings. Creative districts often host weekend markets showcasing local crafts, accessories, and homeware, giving you the chance to pick up distinctive keepsakes from your trip.

For a more traditional atmosphere, older commercial streets and indoor markets offer a mix of clothing, textiles, and everyday items. Window-shopping here can be as interesting as making a purchase, as you see how residents shop and socialise. Whether you are looking for something practical or a unique reminder of your journey, Shanghai’s varied retail districts make it easy to find it.

Best time to visit Shanghai

Spring in Shanghai (March to May, 10°C to 22°C / 50°F to 72°F, shoulder season) brings mild temperatures and blossoming parks along the river and in city gardens. It is a comfortable time for walking tours, outdoor photography, and exploring neighbourhoods on foot without extreme heat or cold.

Summer (June to September, 24°C to 32°C / 75°F to 90°F, peak season) is warm and humid, with long daylight hours and a lively city atmosphere. This is a popular period for river cruises, evening walks along the Bund, and enjoying indoor attractions such as museums, shopping centres, and observation decks.

Autumn and winter (October to February, 2°C to 18°C / 36°F to 64°F, low season) offer cooler, crisp days and clearer skies, especially in late autumn. It is a pleasant time for city views, quieter sightseeing, and enjoying hearty local dishes, with fewer crowds at major attractions and shopping streets.

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