Flights from Manila (MNL) to Shanghai (PVG)

About Shanghai

Discover Shanghai

Why visit Shanghai?
Shanghai is a dynamic port city where historic riverside streets meet shimmering skyscrapers along the Huangpu River. You will find a blend of classic architecture, leafy neighbourhoods, and bold modern design that creates an energising yet surprisingly walkable urban experience.

What to expect
As you move between the Bund, Lujiazui, and the former French Concession, the city shifts from riverfront promenades to futuristic skylines and tree-lined streets. Stylish cafés, galleries, and waterfront paths sit alongside landmark towers and restored shophouses, giving each district its own character.

Plan your trip
Shanghai works well as both a city-break and a starting point for exploring eastern China. With efficient metro links, major railway stations, and two busy airports serving the region, it is easy to combine time in the city with day trips or onward journeys to nearby cultural and coastal destinations.

Top sights in Shanghai

The Bund

Stroll this famous riverside promenade for views of grand historic buildings on one side and the futuristic Lujiazui skyline on the other.

Lujiazui skyline

Head across the river to see Shanghai Tower, Shanghai World Financial Center, and Jin Mao Tower rising above a modern urban plaza.

Yuyuan Garden

Explore a classical garden with ponds, pavilions, and traditional architecture set amid a lively surrounding bazaar area.

Former French Concession

Wander through leafy streets lined with low-rise buildings, boutiques, and cafés that show a slower side of Shanghai life.

Nanjing Road

Walk this bustling shopping avenue from People’s Square towards the Bund, passing department stores, malls, and bright city lights.

Shanghai Museum

Visit this museum on People’s Square to see carefully curated collections of ceramics, bronzes, and other cultural artefacts.

Xintiandi

Relax in a redeveloped district of stone gate houses where restaurants, bars, and shops cluster along car-free streets.

Huangpu River cruise

Take an evening cruise to watch both sides of the river light up, offering a striking view of old and new Shanghai.

Experience Shanghai’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Shanghai’s metro is fast, frequent, and the easiest way to cover longer distances between areas like Pudong, the Bund, and the French Concession. For shorter hops, taxis and app-based ride services are widely available, while walking gives you time to enjoy tree-lined streets and riverside paths.

Local life & culture
In many neighbourhoods, you will see residents gathering in parks, along streets, and in public squares, giving the city a sociable feel. Creative districts feature small galleries and design spaces, while central streets hum with people commuting, shopping, and meeting friends throughout the day and evening.

Where to unwind
Parks and riverside promenades offer calm corners away from the busiest roads. You can find quiet spots to sit, jog, or simply watch the city go by, especially in the early morning and late afternoon when the light softens and temperatures are more comfortable.

A taste of Shanghai

Street food & local specialties
You can sample snacks from compact eateries and food courts, where steamed dumplings, noodles, and filled buns are everyday favourites. Older neighbourhoods and busy side streets often reveal small places where cooks prepare regional dishes in open kitchens.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Shopping districts and new lifestyle complexes gather a wide mix of restaurants, from quick-service counters to relaxed sit-down spots. Menus often span regional Chinese flavours and international choices, with smaller portions and shared plates making it easy to try several dishes in one meal.

Signature & scenic dining
Along the Bund and in high-rise Pudong towers, you will find dining rooms that pair carefully presented dishes with standout city views. Riverside terraces and higher-floor venues are especially atmospheric after dark, when illuminated skylines create a memorable backdrop to your meal.

Retail therapy in Shanghai

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Large shopping centres around Nanjing Road, Lujiazui, and other key junctions bring together international labels, local brands, and entertainment under one roof. These spaces often double as social hubs, with cinemas, cafés, and family-friendly facilities alongside retail.

Markets & local crafts
Away from the main avenues, smaller streets and dedicated markets showcase design-focused pieces, accessories, and everyday items. Districts such as Tianzifang and parts of the former French Concession are known for compact boutiques, creative studios, and stalls with characterful souvenirs.

Evening retail scene
As night falls, major shopping streets glow with signage and window displays, and some areas feel livelier after dark than during the day. Pedestrian zones and riverfront promenades are pleasant for an evening walk, and public transport makes it straightforward to return to your hotel after shopping.

Best time to visit Shanghai

Spring warmth (March to May, shoulder season)
Spring in Shanghai is mild and comfortable, with average temperatures around 12–20°C (54–68°F). Parks become especially inviting as trees turn green, and outdoor cafés and riverside walks are pleasant without the heat of midsummer.

Summer heat (June to September, peak season)
Summer brings warm, often humid days, with average temperatures around 25–32°C (77–90°F). This is a lively time, with long daylight hours for sightseeing, evening river cruises, and exploring air-conditioned malls and indoor attractions.

Autumn and winter cool (October to February, low season)
Autumn is crisp and clear, with 15–22°C (59–72°F) days that suit walking tours and skyline views, before cooler winter temperatures of around 3–10°C (37–50°F). The city feels calmer, and indoor museums, galleries, and cafés offer cosy spaces to enjoy between strolls.

Frequently Asked Questions