Flights from Los Angeles (LAX) to Shanghai (PVG)

About Shanghai

Discover Shanghai

Why visit Shanghai?
Shanghai blends waterfront skylines, grand boulevards, and creative neighbourhoods into one dynamic city. You will find historic architecture beside cutting-edge towers, and quiet pockets of old lanes just moments from buzzing commercial streets.

What to expect
Along the Huangpu River, areas like the Bund and Lujiazui showcase striking architecture and shimmering lights. Away from the riverfront, you can explore leafy concessions, contemporary museums, and cultural venues that reveal Shanghai's evolving character.

Plan your trip
Shanghai works well as both a city-break and a starting point for exploring eastern China. Its extensive high-speed rail and regional flight connections make it a convenient base for visiting nearby water towns, coastal cities, and inland cultural hubs.

Top sights in Shanghai

The Bund

Stroll this famous waterfront promenade for views of historic riverfront buildings set against the modern skyline of Lujiazui across the water.

Lujiazui skyline

Ride up one of the landmark towers in the financial district to enjoy sweeping views over the Huangpu River and the city below.

Yu Garden

Explore classical pavilions, ponds, and sculpted rockeries in this restored traditional garden surrounded by bustling old streets.

Nanjing Road

Walk one of Shanghai's best-known shopping streets, lined with department stores, boutiques, and lively plazas that stay active into the evening.

Former French Concession

Wander shaded streets filled with townhouses, cafés, galleries, and design shops that showcase a more relaxed side of the city.

Shanghai Museum

Discover extensive collections of bronzeware, ceramics, calligraphy, and arts that trace centuries of regional history and craftsmanship.

Xintiandi

Experience a redeveloped district of restored lane houses that now host restaurants, bars, and lifestyle shops around pedestrian courtyards.

Huangpu River cruise

See both historic and modern riverfront skylines from the water, especially atmospheric when the city lights up after sunset.

Experience Shanghai's everyday rhythm

Getting around
Shanghai's metro network is the most efficient way to move between major districts, with clear signage and frequent services. Taxis and ride-hailing apps help for shorter hops, while walking tree-lined streets offers a close-up look at neighbourhood life.

Local life & culture
Neighbourhoods feel distinct, from creative quarters with galleries and studios to streets lined with historic buildings. You can spend time in cultural venues, independent bookshops, and small theatres that reveal how contemporary Shanghai balances history and innovation.

Where to unwind
Parks and riverside promenades offer space to slow down, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. Green spaces, waterfront paths, and quieter residential streets invite you to pause, watch local routines, and enjoy a different pace from the main commercial areas.

A taste of Shanghai

Street food & local specialties
You can try regional noodles, dumplings, and snacks in busy streets and compact eateries across the city. Certain neighbourhoods and older lanes are especially known for casual venues where you can sample freshly made dishes at any time of day.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Shopping and lifestyle districts bring together many restaurants under one roof, from local flavours to international favourites. Menus often feature small plates or sharing portions, making it easy to try a variety of tastes in a single meal.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable experience, consider restaurants with views over the skyline, riverside settings, or historic architecture. Elevated venues let you enjoy both refined cooking and a dramatic city backdrop, especially in the evening when the lights come on.

Retail therapy in Shanghai

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Modern malls in central districts offer international fashion brands, local designers, cinemas, and dining, all within climate-controlled spaces. These complexes also act as social hubs, with events and exhibitions that make shopping part of a wider day out.

Markets & local crafts
In smaller streets and dedicated creative zones, you will find boutiques, studios, and market-style spaces selling design pieces, accessories, and homeware. Districts known for independent labels and craft-focused shops invite you to explore at a slower pace.

Evening retail scene
Major shopping streets remain lively into the night, with illuminated façades and extended opening hours. Some areas set up evening events or outdoor stalls, and the metro makes it straightforward to reach key districts after dark.

Best time to visit Shanghai

Spring (chun tian) – March to May, shoulder season
Spring in Shanghai is mild, with average temperatures around 15–20°C (59–68°F). Flowers in parks and along streets create a colourful backdrop, and conditions are comfortable for walking tours and riverfront strolls.

Summer (xia tian) – June to September, peak season
Summer brings warm, humid weather, with averages around 27–30°C (81–86°F). Longer daylight hours and a lively atmosphere suit evening river cruises, skyline views, and indoor attractions when you prefer to stay cool.

Autumn and winter (qiu dong ji) – October to February, low season
Autumn is often clear and crisp, with 15–22°C (59–72°F), while winter can be chilly, around 5–10°C (41–50°F). This period is ideal for museums, galleries, and cosy dining, and the city lights feel especially striking on cooler evenings.

Frequently Asked Questions