Flights from Bangkok (BKK) to Shanghai (PVG)

About Shanghai

Discover Shanghai

Why visit Shanghai?
Shanghai blends historic waterfront boulevards with soaring skyscrapers, creative districts, and leafy streets. You can explore elegant riverfront promenades, wander through traditional lanes, then end your day surrounded by a modern skyline that glows after dark.

What to expect
The city stretches along both sides of the Huangpu River, with the Bund on one bank and Pudong’s towers on the other. Neighbourhoods range from the boutique-lined streets of the former French Concession to lively shopping avenues and quiet parks, giving each day a different rhythm.

Plan your trip
Shanghai works well for short city breaks and longer journeys that combine other parts of eastern China. Its extensive rail and air links make it a convenient gateway to nearby water towns, coastal cities, and inland regions, so you can build a varied itinerary around your stay.

Top sights in Shanghai

The Bund

Stroll along this historic waterfront promenade for views of grand 19th-century facades facing the futuristic skyline of Pudong.

Lujiazui skyline

Head to observation decks in Pudong’s famous towers for panoramic views over the river, the Bund, and the city beyond.

Yu Garden and Old City streets

Explore a classical Chinese garden and surrounding lanes filled with traditional architecture and lively storefronts.

Former French Concession

Wander tree-lined streets dotted with cafes, galleries, and boutiques housed in restored low-rise buildings.

Shanghai Tower observation deck

Ride one of the world’s fastest lifts to a high viewing level for sweeping views across the metropolis.

Nanjing Road pedestrian street

Walk this busy shopping avenue from People’s Square towards the Bund, taking in lights, displays, and side streets along the way.

Tianzifang

Step into a maze of narrow lanes where converted shikumen houses now host small studios, cafes, and design shops.

Huangpu River cruise

See the city’s contrasting skylines from the water, especially striking when buildings on both banks are illuminated at night.

Experience Shanghai’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Shanghai’s metro is the fastest way to cover longer distances, linking major districts and attractions efficiently. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are useful for late evenings or shorter hops, while walking is ideal within compact neighbourhoods like the Bund area and the former French Concession.

Local life & culture
You will find busy commercial streets alongside quieter residential lanes where daily life unfolds at a gentler pace. Galleries, performance venues, and creative clusters sit next to long-standing shops, giving the city a mix of heritage and contemporary culture that you can experience simply by exploring on foot.

Where to unwind
Parks and riverside promenades offer welcome green space throughout the city. Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for a cooler, calmer atmosphere, and take time to sit, people-watch, or enjoy the skyline from shaded benches or landscaped gardens.

A taste of Shanghai

Street food & local specialties
You can sample local flavours in busy streets and compact eateries across older neighbourhoods. Look out for venues known for regional specialities, and explore side lanes where small shops serve comforting dishes suited to quick, satisfying meals.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Shopping streets and contemporary districts are lined with casual restaurants, bakeries, and cafes serving both local and international cuisine. Menus often feature shareable plates and modest portions, making it easy to try a variety of dishes with friends or family in one sitting.

Signature & scenic dining
For memorable meals, seek out restaurants with river or skyline views, especially around the Bund and Pudong. Elevated venues in high-rise towers or historic buildings turn dinner into an occasion, pairing cityscapes with carefully prepared menus for an atmospheric evening.

Retail therapy in Shanghai

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Large malls across central Shanghai bring together international labels, local designers, and entertainment. They are comfortable, climate-controlled spaces where you can combine shopping with dining, cinemas, and family-friendly activities in one convenient stop.

Markets & local crafts
Smaller streets and older neighbourhoods host independent boutiques, art spaces, and design shops. Areas such as Tianzifang, the former French Concession, and pockets around Suzhou Creek are good for browsing distinctive pieces, from accessories to homewares.

Evening retail scene
After dark, illuminated shopping streets create a lively atmosphere, especially around central commercial districts. Some areas stay open late with bright storefronts and busy pavements, and public transport links make it straightforward to return to your hotel after an evening of exploring.

Best time to visit Shanghai

Spring (chun) – March to May, shoulder season
Spring in Shanghai is mild, with average temperatures around 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F). Trees and parks turn green, and comfortable daytime conditions make it pleasant for walking between sights and enjoying open-air spaces.

Summer (xia tian) – June to September, peak season
Summer brings warm, often humid weather, with averages from 26°C to 32°C (79°F to 90°F). Longer daylight hours mean more time to explore, while air-conditioned museums, malls, and cafes offer welcome breaks from the heat.

Autumn and winter (qiu tian and dong tian) – October to February, low season
Autumn starts comfortably around 18°C to 23°C (64°F to 73°F) before cooling into winter, which can dip to 3°C to 8°C (37°F to 46°F). Cooler months bring a calmer feel, clear days, and a different perspective on the skyline and riverfront.

Frequently Asked Questions