Flights from Milan (MXP) to Shanghai (PVG)

About Shanghai

Discover Shanghai

Why visit Shanghai?
Shanghai is a dynamic metropolis where historic streets meet striking skyscrapers along the Huangpu River, creating a distinctive skyline and atmosphere. You will find creative neighbourhoods, leafy promenades, and a buzz that runs from early morning until late at night.

What to expect
As you move through Shanghai, you will notice contrasts between elegant riverfront promenades, heritage neighbourhoods, and modern financial districts. Well-planned streets, efficient transport, and distinct areas such as the Bund, Pudong, and the Former French Concession shape how you experience the city.

Plan your trip
Shanghai works well as both a standalone city break and a starting point for exploring eastern China. With extensive rail and air links, you can easily connect to nearby cities, coastal areas, and inland regions, using Shanghai as a convenient and energetic base.

Top sights in Shanghai

The Bund

Stroll along this famous waterfront promenade to admire historic facades on one side and the futuristic skyline of Pudong on the other.

Lujiazui Skyline

Head to the observation decks of landmark towers in Pudong for panoramic views over the city and the winding Huangpu River.

Yu Garden and Old Street

Explore classical pavilions, ponds, and traditional architecture, then wander nearby lanes filled with tea houses and local shops.

Former French Concession

Walk beneath plane trees past charming townhouses, boutiques, and cafés to experience one of Shanghai's most recognisable districts.

Xintiandi

Discover stylishly restored stone-arch houses that now host restaurants, cafés, and galleries in a pedestrian-friendly setting.

Shanghai Museum

Visit this well-regarded museum on People’s Square to see carefully curated collections of ceramics, bronzes, and traditional arts.

Huangpu River Cruise

Take an evening cruise to watch the city lights of both banks reflect on the water as the skyline glows after dark.

Tianzifang

Wander through narrow alleys in this creative enclave, where studios, small galleries, and design shops fill former residential blocks.

Experience Shanghai’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Shanghai’s metro network is one of the most efficient ways to cross the city, linking major districts and attractions clearly and quickly. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are useful for late evenings or shorter hops, while walking gives you time to enjoy tree-lined streets and river views.

Local life & culture
Daily life in Shanghai moves at a considered yet energetic pace, from early-morning activity in parks to lively evenings in busy districts. Distinct neighbourhoods each have their own character, from creative enclaves and former concession streets to modern riverside zones that stay active well into the night.

Where to unwind
You can unwind in city parks, landscaped riverside promenades, and quieter residential streets that invite a slower walk. Early mornings and late afternoons are pleasant times to enjoy leafy neighbourhoods and waterfront views, when the light is softer and the air feels calmer.

A taste of Shanghai

Street food & local specialties
Shanghai is known for comforting dishes and delicate bites, from soup-filled dumplings to fragrant noodles. You will find many local snacks and specialities in busy streets, small eateries, and neighbourhood venues where menus focus on seasonal ingredients and sharing plates.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Across the city, lively dining areas and shopping streets bring together local restaurants, cafés, and international flavours in one place. Menus often feature smaller plates and shared dishes, making it easy to sample different tastes in a single meal and explore a range of cooking styles.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable experience, choose restaurants overlooking the Bund, the river, or the illuminated towers of Pudong. Elevated venues, rooftop terraces, and riverside dining rooms combine thoughtful service with impressive views, turning dinner into an atmospheric part of your visit.

Retail therapy in Shanghai

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Shanghai offers modern malls and lifestyle centres where international brands sit alongside local designers and lifestyle stores. These complexes often include cinemas, cafés, and relaxed public spaces, so you can combine shopping with meeting friends or taking a break between sightseeing.

Markets & local crafts
Away from the main shopping streets, smaller markets and creative neighbourhoods showcase independent labels and handcrafted items. Districts with converted lane houses and design-focused streets are good places to look for artwork, accessories, and distinctive souvenirs with a strong sense of place.

Evening retail scene
After dark, shopping streets and riverside areas are illuminated with colourful lights, and many malls and boutiques stay open into the evening. Pedestrian zones become lively with window-shoppers and diners, and reliable public transport makes it easy to reach these areas and return to your hotel.

Best time to visit Shanghai

Spring warmth (March to May, shoulder season)
Spring in Shanghai brings mild temperatures, typically around 15–22°C (59–72°F), and a gradual return of greenery to parks and tree-lined streets. It is a pleasant time for walking along the Bund, exploring neighbourhoods on foot, and enjoying outdoor terraces.

Summer vibrancy (June to September, peak season)
Summer is warm and humid, with average temperatures around 27–32°C (81–90°F), and longer daylight hours for sightseeing. This is a lively time in the city, with active waterfront areas, evening strolls along river promenades, and busy shopping and dining districts.

Autumn and winter contrast (October to February, low season)
Autumn is often crisp and clear, around 15–22°C (59–72°F), while winter can be chilly, dropping to 2–8°C (36–46°F). Cooler months bring quieter attractions, atmospheric river views, and a cosy feel in cafés, museums, and indoor cultural spaces across the city.

Frequently Asked Questions