Flights from Amsterdam (AMS) to Shanghai (PVG)

About Shanghai

Discover Shanghai, where tradition meets the future

Shanghai is a city of striking contrasts, where skyline-defining towers rise beside quiet historic lanes. Along the Huangpu River, the historic Bund faces the futuristic silhouettes of Lujiazui, giving you a clear view of how the city has transformed into a global centre for finance, design, and lifestyle. Yet, behind the main avenues, you will still find charming shikumen alleyways, leafy streets, and pockets of local life.

The city moves at a confident, energetic pace, inviting you to explore its neighbourhoods by foot, metro, or river cruise. Whether you are visiting for business, shopping, or cultural discovery, Shanghai offers a rich mix of museums, waterfront promenades, and creative districts. Cafes, teahouses, and contemporary galleries sit comfortably alongside traditional gardens and heritage buildings, creating an experience that feels both grounded and forward-looking.

By evening, Shanghai takes on a different character as neon lights reflect off the river and streets fill with diners and night-time wanderers. From rooftop terraces to quiet parks, there are many ways to unwind after a day of meetings or sightseeing, making the city an engaging destination for a short stay or a longer journey.

Top sights in Shanghai

The Bund

Stroll along this riverside promenade to take in historic European-style architecture on one side and the modern skyline of Pudong on the other.

Yu Garden and Old Street

Explore a classical Chinese garden with pavilions, ponds, and rockeries, then browse the nearby lanes lined with traditional-style architecture and shops.

Shanghai Tower

Ride to one of the world’s highest observation levels for sweeping views over the city, the winding Huangpu River, and the surrounding skyscrapers.

Tianzifang

Wander through a maze of narrow lanes filled with design studios, boutiques, and small cafes set within converted shikumen houses.

Nanjing Road

Walk this lively shopping street that stretches from the People’s Square to the Bund, lined with department stores, malls, and bright signage.

Experience the spirit of Shanghai

Shanghai invites you to experience its character through its neighbourhoods and public spaces. A morning walk along the Bund offers a calm start to the day, with joggers and photographers sharing the promenade as the sun catches the city’s landmark buildings. Later, you can cross the river by ferry or metro to wander among the glass towers of Lujiazui, where elevated walkways connect malls, parks, and viewing platforms.

For a slower pace, head into the French Concession, where tree-lined streets and low-rise buildings create a relaxed atmosphere. Here, you can spend time in small galleries, independent shops, and quiet courtyards, or simply sit in a cafe and watch daily life unfold. Many visitors also enjoy river cruises along the Huangpu at dusk, when the city lights up and its historic and modern architecture is highlighted from the water.

If you have extra time, explore museums and cultural venues that showcase art, design, and urban history. From contemporary art spaces in former industrial zones to well-curated city museums, there are many ways to gain a deeper understanding of how Shanghai has evolved and how it continues to shape trends across the region.

A taste of Shanghai

Shanghai offers a broad dining scene that ranges from small local eateries to refined restaurants with panoramic views. You can taste regional specialities such as soup-filled dumplings, pan-fried buns, and delicate river fish dishes, often served in lively, informal surroundings. In many neighbourhoods, you will find streets where food stalls and small kitchens sit side by side, each with its own signature dishes.

The city is also known for its elegant dining rooms and innovative kitchens, where chefs re-interpret classic flavours with modern techniques. Many of these restaurants are found in restored heritage buildings, stylish shopping complexes, or high above the streets in towers overlooking the river. International cuisine is widely available, with everything from Asian fusion to European-style bistros and contemporary cafes.

Tea and coffee culture is thriving too, with speciality tea houses and roaster-led cafes scattered across districts like Jing’an and the French Concession. Whether you are planning a quick meal between meetings or a long dinner with friends, you will find plenty of options that suit different tastes and occasions.

Retail therapy in Shanghai

Shopping in Shanghai is as diverse as its skyline, offering everything from flagship luxury brands to niche local designers. Nanjing Road remains a classic starting point, with grand department stores, bright malls, and well-known international labels. A short metro ride away, you will find modern retail complexes in Pudong and around People’s Square, where fashion, electronics, and lifestyle stores are grouped under one roof.

If you enjoy discovering local products, visit creative districts such as Tianzifang or areas in the French Concession, where converted houses and courtyards now host independent boutiques. Here you can browse clothing, accessories, homeware, and design-focused items that often reflect the city’s blend of heritage and modernity. Many shoppers also explore markets and smaller arcades to look for ceramics, textiles, and contemporary crafts.

Major shopping centres across the city usually include a mix of international brands, cinemas, and dining options, making them convenient for an afternoon indoors during hotter or cooler days. With long opening hours and well-connected metro lines, you can easily combine shopping with sightseeing, fitting a few purchases into even a short itinerary.

Best time to visit Shanghai

Spring in Shanghai (March to May) is a shoulder season, with mild days around 15–22°C (59–72°F) and blossoming trees in parks and along streets. Light layers and an umbrella are useful, and the comfortable temperatures make it pleasant to explore historic areas and enjoy riverside walks.

Summer (June to September) is the peak season, bringing warm, humid weather with average temperatures of 26–32°C (79–90°F). Occasional showers help cool the air, and extended daylight hours mean you have more time to enjoy outdoor terraces, evening river cruises, and rooftop views of the illuminated skyline.

Autumn and winter (October to February) form the low season, with crisp, cooler days that can range from 5–18°C (41–64°F), and colder spells in mid-winter. Clear days often bring excellent visibility, ideal for observatories and photography, and indoor attractions, galleries, and shopping centres provide comfortable options when temperatures dip.

Frequently Asked Questions