Flights from Cape Town (CPT) to Shanghai (PVG)

About Shanghai

Shanghai, where tradition meets the future

Shanghai is a city of striking contrasts, where riverside promenades and historic lanes stand beside some of the world’s most recognisable skyscrapers. Along the Huangpu River, you can admire grand European-style architecture on the Bund while gazing across the water at the futuristic skyline of Lujiazui in Pudong.

Beyond its dramatic skyline, Shanghai offers leafy neighbourhoods, creative districts, and inviting parks where locals gather to stroll, dance, and unwind. Sleek shopping malls, design boutiques, and quiet teahouses sit side by side, giving you plenty of ways to experience the city at your own pace.

Whether you come for business, culture, food, or a new urban adventure, Shanghai rewards you with a dynamic atmosphere and memorable views at every turn.

Top sights in Shanghai

The Bund

Walk along this famous riverside promenade to see historic buildings on one side and Shanghai’s modern skyline across the Huangpu River.

Lujiazui and Shanghai Tower

Head to Pudong’s financial district and ride up one of the city’s tallest observation decks for sweeping views day and night.

Yu Garden and Old Street

Explore classical Chinese garden design, pavilions, and ponds, then step into nearby lanes filled with traditional architecture and shops.

Nanjing Road

Stroll one of Shanghai’s busiest shopping streets, lined with department stores, boutiques, and bright lights in the evening.

Tianzifang

Wander through narrow alleys in this creative enclave, home to small galleries, craft shops, and cosy cafés.

Experience Shanghai’s vibrant city life

Start your day with a walk or jog along the riverside, where you can watch the city slowly come to life against the backdrop of the skyline. Join a guided walking tour to learn how historic neighbourhoods have evolved into trendy districts, and gain insights into Shanghai’s past and present as you explore side streets and local markets.

Shanghai is easy to discover by public transport, making it simple to visit different districts in one day. Spend an afternoon exploring art spaces and design studios converted from former industrial sites, or take a river cruise at dusk to see the city light up from the water. In the evening, you can enjoy live music, theatre, or acrobatic performances that showcase the city’s creative energy.

If you have more time, plan a day trip to one of the nearby water towns, where canals, stone bridges, and traditional houses offer a quieter contrast to the city centre. Returning to Shanghai, you will find plenty of late-opening cafés and dessert bars where you can relax and review your day.

A taste of Shanghai

Shanghai’s dining scene ranges from tiny neighbourhood eateries to sleek restaurants with panoramic city views. You can sample local specialities that highlight delicate flavours, seasonal ingredients, and a balance of textures, often with a hint of sweetness that is characteristic of the region’s cuisine.

Do not miss classic dishes such as soup-filled dumplings, pan-fried buns, and noodles stir-fried with fresh vegetables and seafood. Street-side stalls and casual cafés offer quick bites, while traditional teahouses invite you to slow down with a pot of fragrant tea and small snacks.

For a different perspective, reserve a table at a restaurant overlooking the Bund or Pudong’s skyline and watch the city lights as you dine. International options are also widely available, from Asian fusion to European-inspired menus, so you can easily find something familiar or try bold new flavours during your stay.

Retail discoveries in Shanghai

Shanghai is one of Asia’s key shopping cities, offering everything from luxury brands to independent designers. On Nanjing Road and Huaihai Road you will find large malls, international labels, and flagship stores, all within easy reach of hotels and major sights.

For a more local feel, visit Tianzifang or the former French Concession, where boutiques sell fashion, jewellery, and homeware created by regional designers. Art and craft markets are ideal places to pick up unique souvenirs, design objects, or stationery that capture Shanghai’s creative side.

If you enjoy browsing large shopping complexes, head to modern centres in Pudong or around People’s Square, where you can combine shopping with cinemas, restaurants, and indoor attractions. Whether you are looking for a statement piece or simple keepsake, Shanghai offers a variety of choices in compact, walkable districts.

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 conditions. It is a pleasant time for exploring outdoor sights, riverfront promenades, and historic districts without the peak-season crowds.

Summer (June to September, 24–32°C / 75–90°F, peak season) is warm and humid, ideal if you enjoy lively streets, late evenings outside, and rooftop views of the illuminated skyline. Occasional showers help cool the air, and indoor attractions provide an easy break from the heat.

Autumn and winter (October to February, 2–18°C / 36–64°F, low season) offer cooler, crisp days with clearer skies and a calmer pace. This is a good time for museum visits, leisurely café stops, and city walks, with fewer visitors at major attractions and a cosy atmosphere in many neighbourhoods.

Frequently Asked Questions