Flights from Brisbane (BNE) to Shanghai (PVG)

About Shanghai

Discover Shanghai

Why visit Shanghai?
Shanghai is a dynamic metropolis where historic waterfront promenades stand beside soaring glass towers. You can expect an energy-filled city that blends classic streetscapes, creative districts, and a constantly evolving skyline along the Huangpu River.

What to expect
You will find lively neighbourhoods such as the Bund, Lujiazui, and the Former French Concession, each offering a distinct feel. Wide boulevards, leafy side streets, and modern riverside walks make it easy to explore, while efficient transport links connect major business, shopping, and cultural areas.

Plan your trip
Shanghai works well as a standalone city break or as a starting point to explore eastern China. Its extensive rail and air links make onward journeys straightforward, whether you are heading to nearby canal towns or further afield across the region.

Top sights in Shanghai

The Bund

Stroll along this historic riverside promenade for classic skyline views of both heritage buildings and futuristic towers across the water.

Lujiazui skyline

Head up one of the observation decks in Pudong for sweeping views over Shanghai and the winding Huangpu River below.

Yu Garden

Wander through pavilions, ponds, and ornate rockeries in this classical garden nestled within a lively old-town district.

Former French Concession

Explore tree-lined streets filled with historic villas, boutiques, cafés, and small galleries that reveal a slower-paced side of the city.

Nanjing Road

Walk this famous shopping avenue from the Bund towards People’s Square, passing department stores, malls, and street-side snacks.

Shanghai Tower

Take one of the world’s fastest lifts to a sky-high observation deck for a striking perspective on the city’s modern architecture.

Tianzifang

Navigate narrow lanes converted from traditional housing into a cluster of studios, design shops, and intimate eateries.

Huangpu River cruise

Join an evening cruise to see the Bund and Pudong skylines illuminated from the calm vantage point of the river.

Experience Shanghai’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Shanghai’s metro network is the most efficient way to cross the city, linking the airport, business districts, and major attractions. Taxis and app-based rides are useful for late evenings or shorter hops, while walking between nearby neighbourhoods lets you discover side streets at your own pace.

Local life & culture
You will notice a steady rhythm of commuters, families, and students sharing the same streets, from riverside promenades to residential lanes. Creative quarters and refurbished industrial spaces now host galleries, studios, and performance venues, reflecting a modern cultural scene that sits alongside traditional architecture.

Where to unwind
For a pause from the city’s pace, you can head to riverside parks, leafy boulevards, or larger green spaces near People’s Square and Century Park. Early mornings and late afternoons are particularly pleasant, when the light softens and the temperature is more comfortable for a gentle walk or jog.

A taste of Shanghai

Street food & local specialties
Shanghai is known for comforting soups, delicate dumplings, and pan-fried bites found in bustling local streets. Compact eateries and snack stalls around old-town areas and residential lanes let you sample a variety of small dishes in one outing.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Throughout the city, contemporary malls and lifestyle precincts bring together cafés, bakeries, and restaurants in one convenient stop. You can mix regional Chinese flavours with international favourites, often ordering smaller plates or sharing portions so you can try more in a single meal.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable evening, choose a restaurant overlooking the Bund or perched high in a Lujiazui tower. Dining with a view of the illuminated skyline or riverside architecture adds a special backdrop, whether you are closing a business day or celebrating a personal occasion.

Retail therapy in Shanghai

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Large malls across Shanghai offer international brands, local fashion labels, and plenty of cafés and entertainment. They serve as social spaces where you can combine shopping with dining, a film, or simply relaxing indoors between sightseeing stops.

Markets & local crafts
Smaller streets and creative zones are where you will find design-focused shops, crafts, and independent labels. Areas such as Tianzifang, the Former French Concession, and various art districts make it easy to discover unique souvenirs and pieces from local makers.

Evening retail scene
As evening falls, central shopping streets and riverside promenades are bright with lights and activity. Many malls, streets, and smaller boutiques stay open into the night, and the metro and taxis make these areas straightforward to reach after a day of exploring.

Best time to visit Shanghai

Spring (chun) – March to May, shoulder season
Spring in Shanghai is mild, with average temperatures around 15–22°C (59–72°F). Blossoming trees brighten parks and riverside walks, and clearer days make it comfortable for exploring outdoor sights, city streets, and nearby towns.

Summer (xia) – June to August, peak season
Summer brings warm, often humid weather, with temperatures typically between 26–32°C (79–90°F). Long daylight hours suit evening strolls along the Bund or river cruises, and many indoor attractions, malls, and museums provide a cool retreat.

Autumn and winter (qiu and dong) – September to February, low season
Autumn is generally crisp and pleasant at about 15–25°C (59–77°F), ideal for walking in parks and historic districts. Winter is cooler, averaging 5–10°C (41–50°F), but offers a quieter atmosphere, clearer skyline views on many days, and a calm mood for urban exploring.

Frequently Asked Questions