Flights from Mumbai (BOM) to Shanghai (PVG)

About Shanghai

Discover Shanghai, where tradition meets the future

Shanghai blends a striking skyline with tree-lined neighbourhoods, creating a city that feels both dynamic and welcoming. As you arrive, you will notice how the historic riverfront contrasts with clusters of glass towers and creative districts, all connected by an efficient transport network.

Along the Huangpu River, grand buildings recall Shanghai's early 20th-century heritage, while across the water, sleek skyscrapers showcase its reputation as a global business and design hub. Away from the main avenues, you will find quiet lanes, pocket parks, and restored shophouses that reveal a slower, more intimate side of the city.

Whether you are visiting for meetings, shopping, or a short escape, Shanghai offers many ways to experience its character. Cafes, galleries, and boutiques sit just a short stroll from traditional houses and waterways, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace.

Top sights in Shanghai

The Bund

Walk along the historic Bund promenade for views of grand riverside architecture set against the modern skyline of Pudong across the Huangpu River.

Lujiazui Skyline

Head to the observation decks in Lujiazui to see Shanghai from above, with panoramic views of the city stretching in every direction.

Yu Garden and bazaar

Explore the classical pavilions, ponds, and rockeries of Yu Garden, then browse the surrounding lanes filled with shops and teahouses.

Former French Concession

Stroll under leafy trees in the Former French Concession, where restored villas now house boutiques, cafes, and small galleries.

Nanjing Road

Experience the energy of Nanjing Road, one of Shanghai's busiest shopping streets, lined with department stores, malls, and bright city lights.

Experience Shanghai's urban rhythm

Shanghai is a city best explored on foot and by metro, allowing you to move easily between its different districts. Begin with a riverside walk along the Bund early in the day, when the promenade is calm and the light is soft over the skyline. From there, you can board a river cruise to appreciate how the architecture changes as you travel along the Huangpu.

In the afternoon, wander through the Former French Concession to see another side of the city. Narrow streets reveal independent design shops, small museums, and quiet courtyards that offer a break from the busier main roads. This area is ideal for relaxed walks, photography, and discovering new cafes.

If you prefer structured experiences, you can join guided city tours that focus on architecture, local neighbourhoods, or modern art spaces. Many visitors also take short excursions to nearby water towns, where stone bridges and canals provide a contrast to Shanghai's tall buildings, yet are still within easy reach for a day trip.

A taste of Shanghai

Shanghai's dining scene ranges from street-side stalls to refined restaurants, with many opportunities to discover new flavours. You can start with well-known local specialities such as soup-filled dumplings and pan-fried buns, which are widely available in traditional eateries and modern dining spaces.

Larger neighbourhoods like Jing'an, Xintiandi, and Lujiazui offer an extensive mix of regional Chinese cuisines and international restaurants. It is easy to move from a casual noodle shop to a contemporary bistro or a high-rise restaurant with city views, all within the same evening.

For a different pace, try one of the many tea and coffee houses scattered around the Former French Concession and creative districts. These spots are ideal for a light meal or snack, and they give you time to appreciate the city from a quieter corner between sightseeing or meetings.

Retail therapy in Shanghai

Shanghai is one of the region's key shopping cities, with options for both luxury and everyday finds. Along Nanjing Road and Huaihai Road, you will find large malls, international brands, and modern department stores, all easily reached by metro.

If you prefer smaller-scale browsing, the Former French Concession and creative districts like Tianzifang and Xintiandi feature independent boutiques, design shops, and lifestyle stores. These areas are well suited for picking up clothing, accessories, and homeware that reflect contemporary Shanghai style.

Large commercial hubs such as Lujiazui also combine shopping with dining and entertainment, giving you many choices in one place. Whether you are looking for global labels, local designers, or simple souvenirs, the city offers a variety of districts where you can explore at your own pace.

Best time to visit Shanghai

Spring in Shanghai (March to May) brings mild, pleasant weather, with average temperatures around 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F). Parks turn green and flowers bloom, making this a shoulder season that is well suited to walking tours, outdoor photos, and relaxed sightseeing across the city.

Summer (June to September) is warm and humid, with average temperatures around 26°C to 30°C (79°F to 86°F). This is a peak season when the city feels lively late into the evening, and you can enjoy river views, rooftop venues, and air-conditioned shopping centres as a break from the heat.

Autumn and early winter (October to February) are generally cool to cold, with average temperatures from 8°C to 16°C (46°F to 61°F). This low season offers clearer days, fewer crowds at some attractions, and a comfortable atmosphere for museum visits, indoor galleries, and long walks along the Bund.

Frequently Asked Questions