A waterfront area in central Shanghai, The Bund is a symbol of the city and a great place to admire the skyline, including many colonial-era buildings.

The Bund, also known as Waitan, is a famous waterfront promenade in Shanghai, China. It is one of the most famous tourist destinations in the city. The Bund stretches one mile along the bank of the Huangpu River. /n Traditionally, the Bund begins at Yan'an Road and ends at Waibaidu Bridge. It is flanked by 52 buildings of various architectural styles, including Gothic, Baroque, Romanesque, Classicism and the Renaissance.

The Bund is a famous waterfront promenade in Shanghai.

The Huangpu River is the largest river in Shanghai, and the city's main shipping and transportation artery. A river cruise offers a unique perspective of Shanghai's skyline.

Huangpu River is a 113 kilometer long river in Shanghai that divides the city into two regions: Pudong and Puxi. It is the largest river in Shanghai, and a tributary of the Yangtze River. /n The Bund and Lujiazui are located along the river. The river is an important transportation route and is also used for sightseeing tours.

Huangpu River is a 113 kilometer long river in Shanghai.

A museum of ancient Chinese art, the Shanghai Museum houses a collection of over 120,000 pieces, including bronze, ceramics, calligraphy, furniture, jades, ancient coins, paintings, seals, sculptures, minority art and foreign art.

Shanghai Museum is a large museum of ancient Chinese art. Its style and presentation surround visitors with artifacts demonstrating ancient wisdom and philosophy. The exterior design of the round dome and the square base symbolizes the ancient idea of a round heaven and a square land. /n The museum is divided into eleven galleries and three exhibition halls. The eleven Galleries cover most of the major categories of Chinese art: Ancient Bronze, Ancient Ceramics, Paintings, Calligraphy, Ancient Sculpture, Ancient Jade, Coins, Ming and Qing Furniture, Seals, and Minority Nationalities.

Shanghai Museum is a large museum of ancient Chinese art.

A classical Chinese garden featuring beautiful landscapes, pavilions, ponds, and rockeries.

Yuyuan Garden is a famous classical garden in Shanghai. The garden is a significant landmark and tourist attraction in Shanghai. It was built in the Ming Dynasty, more than 400 years ago. /n The garden covers an area of 20,000 square meters. Despite its small size, the garden has pavilions, corridors, streams, courtyards, and many other natural features.

Yuyuan Garden is a famous classical garden in Shanghai.

A Buddhist temple housing two jade Buddha statues, which were brought from Burma by a monk named Huigen.

Jade Buddha Temple is a Buddhist temple in Shanghai. The temple is named for its two bejeweled white jade Buddha. It was built in 1882 to house two jade Buddha statues that had been brought from Burma by a monk named Huigen. /n The temple now also contains a much larger reclining Buddha made of marble, donated from Singapore, and visitors may mistake this larger sculpture for the original, smaller pieces.

Jade Buddha Temple is a Buddhist temple in Shanghai.

One of the world's tallest buildings, featuring a distinctive hole at the top and offering stunning views of Shanghai.

The Shanghai World Financial Center is a 101-story skyscraper located in the Pudong district of Shanghai. Standing at a height of 492 meters, it is one of the tallest buildings in the world. The building is a symbol of Shanghai's rapid development and its status as a global financial hub. /n The building features a unique design, with a large aperture at the top that gives it a distinctive silhouette. The observation decks on the 94th, 97th, and 100th floors offer breathtaking views of the city, including landmarks like the Oriental Pearl Tower and the Huangpu River. The building also houses a number of high-end restaurants and shops, as well as offices and a hotel.

The Shanghai World Financial Center is a towering skyscraper in the Pudong district.

Nanjing Road is one of the world's busiest shopping streets, and has been a commercial hub since the Qing Dynasty. It's a must-see metropolitan destination attracting thousands of fashion-seeking shoppers from all over the world.

Nanjing Road is the main shopping street of Shanghai. It is one of the world's busiest shopping streets. The street is named after the city of Nanjing, capital of Jiangsu province neighbouring Shanghai. /n Today's Nanjing Road comprises two sections, Nanjing Road East and Nanjing Road West. In some contexts, "Nanjing Road" refers only to what was pre-1945 Nanjing Road, today's Nanjing Road East, which is largely pedestrianised.

Nanjing Road is the main shopping street of Shanghai.

Xintiandi is a stylish pedestrian street in the heart of Shanghai. It's composed of an area of reconstituted traditional mid-19th century shikumen houses on narrow alleys, some adjoining houses which now serve as book stores, cafes and restaurants, and shopping malls. It is a hub of the city's historical and cultural experiences.

Xintiandi is a shopping, eating and entertainment district of Shanghai. It is composed of an area of reconstituted traditional mid-19th century shikumen houses on narrow alleys, some adjoining houses which now serve as book stores, cafes and restaurants, and shopping malls. /n Most of the cafes and restaurants feature both indoor and outdoor seatings. Xintiandi has an active nightlife on weekdays as well as weekends, though romantic settings are more common than loud music and dance places.

Xintiandi is a shopping, eating and entertainment district of Shanghai.

Experience the vibrant fusion of tradition and modernity in Shanghai, China's largest city. Marvel at the towering skyscrapers in Pudong, including the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower, or stroll along the Bund, a waterfront promenade offering stunning views of the city's skyline. Explore the ancient Yuyuan Garden, a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling city, and visit the Jade Buddha Temple, a testament to Shanghai's rich spiritual heritage. Indulge in local delicacies like Xiaolongbao and Peking Duck, and shop for unique souvenirs in Nanjing Road, China's premier shopping street. With its rich history, diverse culture, and dynamic urban life, Shanghai offers an unforgettable travel experience. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or a shopaholic, Shanghai has something for everyone.

The Bund

Huangpu River

Shanghai Museum

Start your day with a visit to The Bund, Shanghai's famous waterfront promenade. Enjoy the stunning views of the city's skyline and the Huangpu River.

Enjoy a traditional Shanghainese lunch. Try local dishes like Xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) and Shengjianbao (pan-fried buns).

Visit the Shanghai Museum, home to a vast collection of Chinese artifacts and art. Spend the afternoon exploring the exhibits and learning about China's rich history.

Have dinner in a local restaurant. Try the famous Shanghai hairy crab if you're visiting in the fall.

Take a river cruise along the Huangpu River. Enjoy the stunning night view of the city's skyline.

Exploring the Bund and Shanghai Museum

Yuyuan Garden

Jade Buddha Temple

Start your day with a visit to the Yuyuan Garden, a beautiful classical garden in the heart of Shanghai.

Enjoy a local lunch in the Old City. Try some street food like fried rice and noodles.

Visit the Jade Buddha Temple, a beautiful Buddhist temple housing two jade Buddha statues.

Have dinner in a local restaurant. Try Peking Duck, a famous Chinese dish.

Watch an acrobatic show, a popular form of entertainment in Shanghai.

Visiting Yuyuan Garden and Jade Buddha Temple

Shanghai World Financial Center

Nanjing Road

Xintiandi

Visit the Shanghai World Financial Center and take the elevator to the observation deck for a panoramic view of the city.

Have lunch in a restaurant in Pudong. Try some seafood dishes.

Spend the afternoon shopping on Nanjing Road, Shanghai's main shopping street.

Have dinner in a local restaurant. Try some Sichuan dishes like Mapo Tofu and Kung Pao Chicken.

End your trip with a visit to Xintiandi, a stylish pedestrian street lined with boutiques, restaurants, and bars.

Panoramic Views and Shopping on Nanjing Road

Note: despite its size, all of china falls within 1 time zone

UTC+8

Shanghai's metro system is one of the most extensive in the world, with 16 lines and over 400 stations. It's a fast, efficient, and affordable way to get around the city. English signage and announcements are available.

Shanghai has an extensive bus network that covers the entire city. It's a cheaper option than the metro, but can be slower due to traffic. English route information may not always be available.

Taxis are plentiful and relatively inexpensive in Shanghai. They can be hailed on the street or booked through a hotel. Most drivers do not speak English, so it's helpful to have your destination written in Chinese.

Shanghai has several ridesharing services, including Didi Chuxing, which is similar to Uber. The app is in English and you can input your destination in English. It's a convenient and affordable way to get around, especially if you're unfamiliar with the city.

Shanghai is a bike-friendly city with dedicated bike lanes on many streets. There are several bike-sharing programs, such as Mobike and Ofo, where you can rent a bike using a smartphone app.

The Shanghai Maglev Train is a magnetic levitation train that runs between Pudong International Airport and Longyang Road Station. It's the fastest commercial train in the world, reaching speeds of up to 431 km/h.

Shanghai's ferry system is a convenient and scenic way to cross the Huangpu River. There are several routes, including ones that connect the Bund and Pudong.

Shanghai has a modern tram system that operates in certain districts like Zhangjiang Hi-Tech Park and Songjiang. It's a comfortable and efficient way to travel within these areas.

Shanghai is a walkable city, especially in areas like the Bund, Nanjing Road, and the French Concession. Walking is a great way to explore the city at your own pace and take in the sights.

Shanghai offers several sightseeing bus routes that cover major tourist attractions. These double-decker buses offer hop-on, hop-off service, making it a convenient option for sightseeing.

These are Shanghai's famous soup dumplings filled with pork and a rich broth. They are a must-try for any food lover visiting Shanghai.

Xiaolongbao

These are pan-fried buns filled with pork and gelatin that melts into soup when cooked. They are a popular breakfast item in Shanghai.

Shengjian Mantou

This is a simple yet flavorful dish made with noodles tossed in scallion oil and soy sauce. It's a staple in Shanghai's local cuisine.

Scallion Oil Noodles

This is a seasonal delicacy in Shanghai, usually eaten in the autumn. The crab is steamed and often served with vinegar and ginger.

Shanghai Hairy Crab (Da Zha Xie)

Despite its name, this dish is actually sweet and savory, not smoky. It's a traditional dish often served during Chinese New Year in Shanghai.

Shanghai Smoked Fish (Xun Yu)

This is a classic Shanghai dish made with chewy rice cakes stir-fried with vegetables and meat.

Shanghai Stir-fried Rice Cakes (Chao Nian Gao)

This is a traditional dish where a whole chicken is stuffed, wrapped in lotus leaves and clay, and then baked. It's a speciality of Shanghai.

Beggar's Chicken (Jiao Hua Ji)

This is a popular communal dining experience in Shanghai where diners cook their own food in a simmering pot of broth.

Shanghai Hot Pot (Lu Huo Guo)

These are traditional pastries filled with sweet or savory fillings. They are typically eaten during the Mid-Autumn Festival in Shanghai.

Shanghai Mooncake (Yue Bing)

This is a popular dish in Shanghai made with thick, chewy noodles stir-fried with meat and vegetables.

Shanghai Fried Noodles (Chao Mian)

This is a sweet, fragrant wine made from osmanthus flowers. It's a traditional drink in Shanghai, often served during special occasions.

Shanghai Sweet Osmanthus Wine (Gui Hua Jiu)

This is a traditional Chinese wine made from rice. It's a popular drink in Shanghai and is often used in cooking as well.

Shanghai Yellow Wine (Huang Jiu)

New Year's Day

New Year's Holiday

Spring Festival Eve

Lunar New Year

Spring Festival Golden Week holiday

International Women's Day

Qing Ming Jie

Labour Day Holiday

Labour Day

Youth Day

Dragon Boat Festival

Dragon Boat Festival holiday

Mid-Autumn Festival

National Day

National Day Golden Week holiday

Famous for its beautiful gardens and traditional waterside architecture.

Suzhou

Known for its historic relics and natural beauty. It is one of the most important tourist cities in China, famous for its natural beauty and historical and cultural heritages.

Hangzhou

A historical city with many ancient sites and landmarks.

Nanjing

Known for its modern industry and commerce, along with its resorts around Lake Tai.

Wuxi

Known for its historical and cultural sites such as Tianning Temple.

Changzhou

A harbor city in Zhejiang province known for its historical sites, including the 7th-century Tiantong Temple.

Ningbo

Famous for Shaoxing wine, stinky tofu, and was the hometown of many notable figures during the Spring and Autumn period.

Shaoxing

Known for its fragrant black vinegar, a staple of Chinese cooking.

Zhenjiang

Known for its silk production and beautiful scenery, including Tai Lake and the ancient Grand Canal.

Huzhou

Famous for its historical sites, such as the South Lake, where the Communist Party of China was officially founded.

Jiaxing

Beijing

The Great Wall of China

Xian

Scenic view on famous highway interchange

Shanghai is a bustling metropolis, so be prepared for large crowds, especially during peak hours.

The official language is Mandarin, but the local dialect is Shanghainese. English is not widely spoken, so it may be helpful to learn a few basic phrases in Mandarin.

The currency used in Shanghai is the Chinese Yuan (CNY). Credit cards are accepted in most places, but it's always good to have some cash on hand.

Shanghai has a humid subtropical climate. Summers (June to September) can be hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 75°F to 90°F (24°C to 32°C). Winters (December to February) are cold but not extremely so, with temperatures ranging from 35°F to 48°F (2°C to 9°C).

Tipping is not customary in China and can even be considered rude in some places. However, some hotels and restaurants that cater to tourists may include a service charge.

Shanghai is generally safe for tourists, but like any large city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.

Public transportation in Shanghai is extensive and efficient. The city has a vast subway system, and taxis are plentiful and relatively inexpensive.

Internet censorship is prevalent in China. Many Western websites and social media platforms, including Google, Facebook, and Twitter, are blocked. Consider getting a VPN before you travel.

The standard voltage in China is 220V. The power plugs and sockets are of type A, C, and I. If your devices use different plugs, you'll need a travel adapter.

Tap water in Shanghai is not safe to drink. Always drink bottled water and avoid ice in your drinks.

Shanghai has a smoking ban in public places, including restaurants, offices, and on public transportation.

The time zone in Shanghai is China Standard Time (GMT+8), and there is no daylight saving time.

Shanghai has a strict policy against jaywalking. Always use pedestrian crossings and obey traffic signals.

It's common to haggle in markets and some smaller shops. However, prices in department stores and larger shops are usually fixed.

Shanghai is a food lover's paradise. Be sure to try local specialties like xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) and shengjianbao (pan-fried buns).

Public restrooms in Shanghai often do not provide toilet paper, so it's a good idea to carry some with you.

If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, it's a good idea to have them written in Chinese to show at restaurants.

Shanghai has a 144-hour visa-free transit policy for citizens from 53 countries, including the US, Canada, and most European countries.

It's considered polite to present and receive business cards or gifts with both hands.

Always ask for a receipt (fapiao) when making purchases. It's not only a proof of purchase but also a way for the government to track business income.

January is the coldest month in Shanghai with occasional snowfall. It's advisable to pack warm clothes.

February is still chilly with occasional rain, so warm clothing and an umbrella are recommended.

March sees a gradual increase in temperature, but it's still cool with occasional rain.

April is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures, perfect for outdoor activities.

May is warm with occasional rain showers, so light clothing and an umbrella are recommended.

June marks the beginning of summer with high humidity and frequent rain showers.

July is the hottest month in Shanghai with high humidity, so light clothing is essential.

August is also very hot and humid, with occasional thunderstorms.

September sees a decrease in temperature, but it's still warm with occasional rain showers.

October is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures, perfect for outdoor activities.

November sees a significant drop in temperature, so warm clothing is recommended.

December is cold with occasional snowfall, so warm clothing is essential.

Shanghai, China, is known for its humid subtropical climate, which means it experiences four distinct seasons. However, the weather can be quite unpredictable, so it's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip.

Spring (March to May) in Shanghai is generally mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C). However, it can also be quite rainy, so be sure to pack an umbrella or raincoat. This is a great time to visit the city's beautiful gardens and parks.

Summer (June to September) can be hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 90°F (32°C). It's also the city's typhoon season, so be prepared for potential heavy rains and strong winds. If you're visiting during this time, stay hydrated and try to stay indoors during the hottest part of the day.

Autumn (October to November) is considered the best time to visit Shanghai. The weather is usually comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 55°F to 75°F (13°C to 24°C), and there's less rainfall. It's the perfect time to explore the city's outdoor attractions.

Winter (December to February) can be quite cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing (32°F or 0°C). Snow is rare but possible. If you're visiting during this time, be sure to pack warm clothing.

Regardless of when you visit, Shanghai's weather can change quickly, so it's a good idea to pack layers. Also, air quality can sometimes be a concern, so consider bringing a mask if you're sensitive to air pollution.

Remember, the weather shouldn't deter you from enjoying all that Shanghai has to offer. From its bustling markets and towering skyscrapers to its historic temples and gardens, there's always something to see and do in this vibrant city.

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3-Day Shanghai, China Exploration Itinerary

About Shanghai, China