Flights from Hanoi (HAN) to Shanghai (PVG)

About Shanghai

Discover Shanghai

Why visit Shanghai?
Shanghai combines historic riverside districts with a striking modern skyline, where traditional lanes sit beside glass towers and leafy boulevards. You can explore quiet alleys one moment, then step into buzzing shopping streets and waterfront promenades the next.

What to expect
The city stretches along the Huangpu River, with the historic Bund facing the futuristic towers of Lujiazui. Distinct neighbourhoods such as the former French Concession, Tianzifang, and Xintiandi offer tree-lined streets, cafés, galleries, and a relaxed walking atmosphere amid the urban energy.

Plan your trip
Shanghai works well for a short city break or as a starting point for exploring eastern China. With extensive rail and air links, you can combine time in the city with nearby water towns and regional hubs, making it an easy gateway for wider journeys.

Top sights in Shanghai

The Bund

Stroll along this historic riverside promenade for classic skyline views of colonial-era buildings facing the towers of Pudong.

Shanghai Tower

Ride high-speed lifts to one of the world’s tallest observation decks and take in sweeping views across the city and river.

Yu Garden

Wander through traditional pavilions, ponds, and rockeries in this classical Chinese garden set amid lively old streets.

Former French Concession

Explore tree-lined streets filled with boutiques, galleries, and cafés in one of Shanghai’s most walkable districts.

Tianzifang

Lose yourself in narrow alleyways converted into studios, small shops, and casual eateries within restored shikumen houses.

Shanghai Museum

Discover well-curated collections of bronzes, ceramics, calligraphy, and traditional furniture in a landmark building on People’s Square.

Nanjing Road

Experience one of Shanghai’s busiest shopping streets, with bright lights, major brands, and plenty of people-watching.

Huangpu River cruise

See the city from the water as you glide between the Bund and Pudong, with the skyline illuminated after dark.

Experience Shanghai’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Shanghai’s metro network is the fastest way to cover longer distances, linking key neighbourhoods, railway stations, and airports. For shorter hops, taxis and ride-hailing apps are widely available, and walking is pleasant in compact areas like the Bund and the former French Concession.

Local life & culture
In residential streets and parks, you will see locals starting the day with gentle exercise, socialising, and music. Art districts, small galleries, and design shops reveal Shanghai’s creative side, while renovated lane houses show how traditional architecture blends into modern city life.

Where to unwind
The city offers green escapes such as Century Park and riverside promenades where you can pause between sightseeing. Early mornings and late afternoons are comfortable times to walk, sit by the water, or find a quiet bench in a neighbourhood park away from the main roads.

A taste of Shanghai

Street food & local specialties
Shanghai is known for delicate bites such as soup-filled dumplings, pan-fried buns, and seasonal noodles. Lively streets and small local eateries around Yu Garden, Old Town, and residential neighbourhoods are ideal places to sample everyday favourites.

Casual & modern dining hubs
You will find convenient clusters of cafés and relaxed restaurants in areas like Xintiandi, Tianzifang, and around major shopping streets. Menus often mix regional Chinese dishes with international flavours, so it is easy to share plates and try a variety of tastes in one sitting.

Signature & scenic dining
For a special evening, consider restaurants overlooking the Bund or facing the towers of Lujiazui for memorable river views. High-floor venues and hotel restaurants around People’s Square and Pudong showcase the skyline, turning a meal into part of your city experience.

Retail therapy in Shanghai

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Large shopping centres along Nanjing Road, in Lujiazui, and near People’s Square bring together international labels, local brands, cinemas, and dining. These spaces are popular meeting points, where you can combine shopping with a meal and indoor activities in one stop.

Markets & local crafts
Smaller streets and creative clusters such as Tianzifang and parts of the former French Concession offer boutiques, design shops, and studios. Here you can browse for crafts, accessories, and homeware from local makers, often in restored lane houses with plenty of character.

Evening retail scene
After dark, main shopping streets stay lively, with illuminated signs and extended opening hours in many central districts. Window-shopping and slow walks along pedestrian stretches are a pleasant way to end the day, and public transport makes it easy to return to your hotel.

Best time to visit Shanghai

Spring in Shanghai (chun)
From March to May, temperatures usually range between 10°C and 22°C (50°F to 72°F), with mild days and fresh evenings. This shoulder season often brings blooming parks and comfortable conditions for walking tours and riverfront strolls.

Summer in Shanghai (xia tian)
June to August is warm and humid, with average temperatures around 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F). This peak season suits travellers who enjoy long daylight hours, busy shopping streets, and the option of cooling off in air-conditioned museums and malls.

Autumn and winter in Shanghai (qiu dong)
From September to February, you can expect a shift from pleasant autumn days around 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) to cooler winter temperatures near 2°C to 10°C (36°F to 50°F). This low season offers a calmer feel, with crisp air that can be ideal for city walks and indoor cultural visits.

Frequently Asked Questions