Flights from London (LON) to Shanghai (PVG)

About Shanghai

Shanghai, where heritage meets the future

Shanghai is a city of contrasts, where a futuristic skyline rises above historic streets and leafy neighbourhoods. Along the Huangpu River, glass towers glow after dark while classic riverside buildings recall the citys early 20th-century heyday. The result is a skyline that feels instantly recognisable, yet constantly evolving.

Beyond the famous views, each district offers its own character. Wander through tree-lined streets in the former French Concession, explore creative hubs converted from factories, or discover pockets of traditional shikumen lane houses. With an efficient metro, it is easy to reach the citys main sights, riverside promenades, and buzzing nightlife.

Shanghai is also a gateway to wider eastern China, with high-speed rail connections and nearby water towns that make rewarding day trips. Whether you are visiting for business, food, design, or urban energy, the city rewards both first-time and returning travellers with new layers on every visit.

Top sights in Shanghai

The Bund

Stroll along this historic waterfront promenade for classic riverside architecture facing the modern skyscrapers of Lujiazui across the Huangpu River.

Lujiazui skyline

Head to the observation decks of the citys tallest towers for sweeping views over Shanghai and the winding Huangpu below.

Yu Garden and Old Street

Explore classical pavilions, ponds, and courtyards, then step into nearby lanes filled with shops and traditional-style buildings.

Former French Concession

Wander through shady, plane-tree-lined streets dotted with cafes, boutiques, and restored villas that showcase Shanghais cosmopolitan past.

Tianzifang

Lose yourself in a maze of narrow alleys where old residential buildings now house studios, small eateries, and design shops.

Experience the pace and personality of Shanghai

Start by walking the Bund at different times of day, from a calm early-morning riverside stroll to an illuminated evening skyline. A river cruise along the Huangpu River gives you a different perspective on the citys architecture and is a relaxing way to see both historic and modern districts at once.

Immerse yourself in local neighbourhoods by exploring the former French Concession, where you can join a guided walking tour to learn about architecture, creative spaces, and the citys evolution. In arts districts such as M50, converted warehouses now host contemporary galleries and studios, offering insight into Shanghais creative scene.

For a slower change of pace, take a day trip to a nearby water town, where narrow canals, stone bridges, and traditional houses offer a contrast to the city centre. Back in Shanghai, parks like Fuxing Park provide green space for an unhurried stroll or a quiet moment amid the citys energy.

A taste of Shanghai

Shanghais dining scene ranges from bustling dumpling shops to sleek restaurants with views across the river. You can sample local specialities such as delicate soup dumplings, savoury pan-fried buns, and braised dishes that showcase the citys love of rich yet balanced flavours. Many neighbourhoods reveal their character through the small eateries tucked along side streets.

Across the city, you will also find regional Chinese cuisines, from spicy dishes to lighter coastal flavours, often gathered together in lively food streets or inside contemporary food halls. International restaurants sit alongside local favourites, making it easy to find both familiar tastes and new discoveries during your stay.

Cafes and dessert shops are also part of Shanghais modern food culture, especially in creative districts and renovated lane-house blocks. From minimalist coffee bars to small bakeries, they provide inviting spaces to pause between sightseeing or to meet friends and colleagues.

Retail therapy in Shanghai

Shanghai offers a broad range of shopping experiences, from flagship stores along Nanjing Road to luxury boutiques in modern malls overlooking the skyline. Large shopping centres often combine fashion, homeware, dining, and entertainment, making them convenient stops between other activities.

For a different atmosphere, explore smaller streets in areas like Tianzifang and the former French Concession, where independent designers, lifestyle stores, and bookshops sit in restored buildings. These neighbourhoods are ideal for picking up distinctive clothing, accessories, and design pieces that reflect the citys creative side.

Markets and specialist districts cater to focused interests, whether you are looking for textiles, household items, or contemporary crafts. Wherever you choose to shop, plan some extra time to explore the surrounding streets, as many of Shanghais most interesting finds appear just off the main roads.

Best time to visit Shanghai

Spring in Shanghai (March to May) is a shoulder season, with mild temperatures around 15–22°C (59–72°F). Trees and parks come into leaf, and clear days are common, making this a pleasant time for walking neighbourhoods, visiting parks, and enjoying outdoor terraces.

Summer (June to August) is a peak season, with warm, humid weather and average temperatures of 26–32°C (79–90°F). Longer daylight hours mean more time to explore the city, relax along the riverside in the evening, and enjoy air-conditioned museums, malls, and cafes during the hottest part of the day.

Autumn (September to November) is a shoulder season, with comfortable temperatures of about 18–25°C (64–77°F) and relatively stable weather. Skies can be clear and conditions are well suited to walking tours and skyline views. Winters (December to February) are a low season, cool at 3–10°C (37–50°F), ideal for cosy indoor activities, galleries, and hearty meals.

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