Flights from Zurich (ZRH) to Shanghai (PVG)

About Shanghai

Discover Shanghai

Why visit Shanghai?
Shanghai combines soaring skylines, leafy historic streets, and a dynamic waterfront into one compelling city. You can explore cutting-edge architecture, elegant Art Deco buildings, and creative neighbourhoods within a single day.

What to expect
The city stretches along the Huangpu River, with Pudong"s futuristic towers facing the historic Bund. Across districts such as the French Concession, Jing"an, and Xintiandi, you will find broad boulevards, narrow lanes, cafés, galleries, and green streets ideal for walking.

Plan your trip
Shanghai works well as both a city break and a starting point for exploring eastern China. With efficient metro links and major rail connections, you can easily add nearby water towns or coastal cities before or after your stay.

Top sights in Shanghai

The Bund

Stroll this famous riverside promenade to see grand historic facades on one side and the modern Pudong skyline on the other.

Lujiazui skyline

Ride up one of Pudong"s landmark towers for sweeping views over the city and the meandering Huangpu River.

Yuyuan Garden

Step into a classical Chinese garden with pavilions, ponds, and rockeries tucked within the bustling Old City.

Former French Concession

Wander tree-lined streets filled with boutiques, cafés, and restored villas that showcase Shanghai"s cosmopolitan past.

Xintiandi

Explore renovated stone-lane houses that now host restaurants, galleries, and lifestyle shops in a pedestrian-friendly setting.

Shanghai Museum

Discover finely curated collections of bronzes, ceramics, calligraphy, and more in a landmark space on People"s Square.

Tianzifang

Lose yourself in a maze of narrow lanes packed with studios, design shops, and intimate eateries in converted factories.

Huangpu River cruise

See the city light up from the water as you glide between historic Bund buildings and the illuminated towers of Pudong.

Experience Shanghai"s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Shanghai"s metro network is fast, clean, and the easiest way to cover longer distances between districts. Taxis and ride-hailing apps help with point-to-point journeys, while cycling or walking through areas like the Former French Concession reveals quieter streets and hidden corners.

Local life & culture
In the early morning, neighbourhood parks and riverside promenades fill with residents out for gentle exercise and socialising. Later in the day, you will see office workers mixing with shoppers and students in lively commercial streets, where contemporary galleries and performance spaces sit alongside small local venues.

Where to unwind
Along the Huangpu River, landscaped waterfront paths provide generous space to walk, rest, and enjoy the skyline views. Inner-city parks offer shady benches and open lawns for a break between sightseeing, while many rooftop terraces and riverside cafés are ideal for a calm pause as the city lights come on.

A taste of Shanghai

Street food & local specialties
Shanghai is known for delicate dumplings, savoury pastries, and flavourful noodles served in busy streets and compact eateries. Around the Old City, Yuyuan area, and smaller side streets, you will find stalls and counters that showcase everyday local favourites.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Shopping and entertainment districts such as Xintiandi, Lujiazui, and around People"s Square bring together a wide choice of regional Chinese and international cuisines. Menus often feature sharing plates and smaller portions, making it easy to sample several dishes with friends or family in one sitting.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable evening, consider restaurants facing the Bund or high above the city in Pudong"s towers. Panoramic views of the river and skyline turn a meal into an occasion, whether you choose refined Chinese menus or contemporary international cooking in a sleek setting.

Retail therapy in Shanghai

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Major shopping streets such as Nanjing Road and Huaihai Road are lined with malls that combine international brands, local designers, cinemas, and dining options. These complexes are popular meeting spots where you can shop, relax, and plan the rest of your day in air-conditioned comfort.

Markets & local crafts
Neighbourhoods like Tianzifang, the Former French Concession, and some streets off Nanjing West Road offer smaller boutiques and studios. Here you can browse fashion by local labels, design objects, ceramics, and creative souvenirs in converted warehouses and historic buildings.

Evening retail scene
After dark, Shanghai"s main shopping avenues light up with illuminated facades and digital displays, giving the streets a distinctive night-time energy. Many malls and pedestrian areas stay open into the evening, and frequent metro services make it straightforward to reach and return from these districts.

Best time to visit Shanghai

Spring bloom (March to May, shoulder season)
Spring in Shanghai is mild, with average temperatures around 15–22°C (59–72°F). Parks and tree-lined streets turn green, and walking between neighbourhoods is comfortable. Light layers are useful as days warm up but evenings can still feel cool.

Summer heat (June to September, peak season)
Summer brings warm, often humid weather, with average temperatures of 26–32°C (79–90°F). This is a lively time for riverfront walks and skyline views late in the evening, when the city is brightly lit and the air feels more comfortable than at midday.

Crisp autumn and cool winter (October to February, low season)
Autumn often has clear days and pleasant temperatures of 15–23°C (59–73°F), ideal for exploring on foot. Winters can be cold, around 3–10°C (37–50°F), but the city remains active, and indoor attractions, shops, and restaurants provide plenty of options whatever the weather.

Frequently Asked Questions