🇨🇳 China
Shanghai travel guide
Shanghai is China's largest city and financial capital, a dazzling metropolis where the historic Bund waterfront faces the soaring skyscrapers of Pudong. Art deco architecture sits alongside ancient temples, French Concession tree-lined streets contrast with neon-lit shopping districts, and the food scene spans from street dumplings to Michelin stars. Shanghai embodies China's rapid modernization while retaining pockets of old-world charm.
Language
Mandarin Chinese (limited English)
Currency
Chinese Yuan (CNY/RMB)
Timezone
CST (GMT+8)
Best time
March to May and September to November
Budget/day
CNY 300-800/day ($42-112)
When to visit
Jan
1°C - 8°C
Feb
3°C - 9°C
Mar
6°C - 13°C
Apr
12°C - 20°C
May
17°C - 25°C
Jun
21°C - 28°C
Jul
26°C - 33°C
Aug
26°C - 33°C
Sep
22°C - 28°C
Oct
16°C - 23°C
Nov
10°C - 17°C
Dec
4°C - 11°C
Safety
moderateShanghai is very safe. Beware of tea-house and art gallery scams targeting foreigners in tourist areas like the Bund and Nanjing Road.
Women travellers
Generally safe. Normal urban precautions. Language barrier can be challenging. Use verified transport apps.
Culture & etiquette
- + Accept business cards with both hands
- + Toast with lower glass to show respect
- + Learn basic Mandarin phrases
- + Use chopsticks properly
- - Don't tip - not customary
- - Don't give clocks or white flowers as gifts
- - Don't discuss sensitive political topics
- - Don't write names in red ink
Food to try
Xiaolongbao
Soup dumplings (at Din Tai Fung or local spots)
Shengjianbao
Pan-fried soup buns
Hongshao rou
Red-braised pork belly
Hairy crab
Seasonal delicacy (autumn)
Street breakfast
Jianbing, soy milk, youtiao
Hidden gems
Details are indicative and may change. Verify visa, safety, and entry requirements before travel.