Flights from Copenhagen (CPH) to Shanghai (PVG)

About Shanghai

Shanghai, where heritage meets the future

Shanghai is a city of striking contrasts, where historic lanes and grand waterfront buildings sit beside some of the tallest skyscrapers in the world. As China’s largest metropolis, it offers an energising mix of culture, design, and innovation, all wrapped around the sweeping curves of the Huangpu River.

You can wander along the Bund to admire its early 20th-century architecture, then cross the river to stand at the foot of soaring towers in Lujiazui. In between, you will find leafy streets, creative districts, and compact neighbourhoods filled with everyday life. Whether you are visiting for business or leisure, Shanghai’s blend of old and new makes every stay feel memorable.

From refined museums and theatres to bustling markets and contemporary galleries, the city’s cultural life is constantly evolving. Add in generous green spaces, waterfront promenades, and a fast-growing café and dining scene, and you have a destination that invites you to explore at your own pace.

Top sights in Shanghai

The Bund

Stroll along this famous waterfront promenade to see Shanghai’s grand historic skyline facing the futuristic towers of Pudong.

Shanghai Tower

Ride high-speed lifts to one of the world’s tallest observation decks for sweeping views across the city and river.

Yuyuan Garden

Explore classical pavilions, ponds, and rockeries in this restored Ming-era garden set amid lively lanes and shops.

Nanjing Road

Walk one of Shanghai’s busiest shopping streets, lined with international brands, local stores, and neon-lit façades.

Tianzifang

Discover a maze of narrow alleys filled with design boutiques, cafés, and studios in a former residential neighbourhood.

Experience Shanghai’s city life

Spend time exploring Shanghai on foot to understand its different faces. The waterfront Bund area offers a relaxed way to take in the city’s history, especially in the evening when buildings are beautifully lit. Nearby, a Huangpu River cruise gives you another perspective on both the traditional façades and the modern skyline.

For a closer look at local life, wander through former residential districts that have been transformed into creative enclaves. Places like Tianzifang and the Former French Concession reward slow exploration, with leafy streets, small galleries, and quiet corners that contrast with the city’s broad avenues. These areas are ideal for guided walking tours, photography, or simply finding a café terrace to pause and watch the city go by.

If you enjoy museums and performance, set aside time for Shanghai’s major cultural venues. Modern museums showcase everything from classic art to design and technology, while theatres host a wide range of local and international productions. Many venues are close to parks and promenades, so you can easily combine an afternoon indoors with an evening stroll.

A taste of Shanghai

Shanghai’s dining scene ranges from traditional eateries to polished contemporary restaurants. Classic local dishes often focus on fresh seafood, seasonal vegetables, and rich sauces, and many venues place a strong emphasis on texture and presentation. In the city’s older neighbourhoods, you can still find long-established spots serving beloved regional recipes.

One of the most enjoyable ways to discover local flavours is through small bites and snacks. Steamed and pan-fried dumplings, noodles, and savoury pastries are widely available, from humble street-facing counters to casual restaurants. Tasting a variety of these dishes gives you a sense of how different influences have shaped the city’s food culture.

Shanghai is also a city of choice for international cuisine. From modern Chinese fine dining to stylish bistros and global restaurants, you will find many options clustered around central districts, shopping streets, and waterfront areas. Cafés and dessert shops stay open late, making it easy to end your evening with something sweet or a relaxing drink.

Retail therapy in Shanghai

Shanghai is one of China’s most dynamic shopping destinations, offering everything from flagship global brands to small local designers. Nanjing Road remains a major draw, with expansive department stores and malls sitting alongside smaller shops and entertainment venues. In the evening, its bright lights and busy pavements make it a lively place for a stroll.

For a more curated experience, head to areas where historic streets have been adapted into boutique quarters. Here you can browse fashion, accessories, and homeware from up-and-coming designers, often in unique spaces that retain original architectural details. These neighbourhoods are ideal for finding distinctive pieces that capture the city’s contemporary style.

Large shopping centres across the city bring together fashion, dining, and leisure, offering an easy way to spend a few hours indoors in any season. Many complexes are directly connected to metro stations and include cinemas, food courts, and children’s play areas, so everyone in your group can find something to enjoy.

Best time to visit Shanghai

Spring (March to May, shoulder season) brings mild, comfortable weather to Shanghai, with average temperatures around 15–22°C (59–72°F). Parks and riverside promenades feel especially inviting, and light layers are usually enough for exploring the city on foot.

Summer (June to September, peak season) is warm and humid, with average temperatures of 27–32°C (81–90°F). Longer daylight hours suit evening walks along the Bund, river cruises, and indoor activities such as museums and shopping in air-conditioned malls.

Autumn and winter (October to February, low season) offer cooler, crisp days, from about 8–18°C (46–64°F) in autumn to 2–10°C (36–50°F) in mid-winter. Clear skies can make city views especially striking, and quieter attractions and shopping streets create a more relaxed atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions