Shanghai is China's commercial powerhouse and its most international city. It is the easy-entry point for many travelers: efficient, English-friendly enough to navigate, and packed with contrasts between old Europe-built avenues and a futuristic skyline across the river.
You could spend a day just walking the Bund and the French Concession, but the city also makes a great base for day trips to nearby water towns and to Suzhou. This guide covers the essentials so you can hit the ground running.
Why visit Shanghai
Shanghai is where China's past century of change is on full display. The Bund's grand 1920s banks and hotels face off across the Huangpu River against the rocket-ship towers of Pudong, and the gap between them tells the story of the city in a single glance.
Beyond the icons, it is a genuinely livable, walkable city. The tree-lined French Concession is full of cafes, boutiques, and converted lane houses, while neighborhoods like Tianzifang and Xintiandi mix shopping with old shikumen architecture. It is also one of the easiest big Chinese cities for first-time visitors.
Top things to do in Shanghai
- The Bund: Walk the riverside promenade for the classic skyline view, best at dusk when both sides light up.
- Pudong skyline: Head up the Shanghai Tower or Oriental Pearl for sweeping views; the observation decks are highest in the city.
- French Concession: Stroll the plane-tree avenues around Wukang Road and Anfu Road for cafes, design shops, and people-watching.
- Yu Garden & Old City: A classical Ming-era garden beside a bustling bazaar; busy but worth it for the architecture and snacks.
- Tianzifang & Xintiandi: Restored lane neighborhoods packed with restaurants, bars, and small galleries.
- Xiaolongbao: Shanghai's famous soup dumplings; queue at a local favorite and eat them hot, with care.
Getting there & around
Shanghai has two airports: Pudong (PVG) for most international flights and Hongqiao (SHA) for domestic and regional routes. The Maglev whisks you from Pudong airport toward the city in minutes. High-speed rail links Shanghai to Hangzhou, Suzhou, Nanjing, and Beijing.
The metro is extensive, cheap, English-signed, and the easiest way around. Ride-hailing and taxis are affordable but can crawl in traffic. Mobile payment is near-universal here; if you need a refresher, see our guide to using Alipay and WeChat Pay in China.
Best time to visit Shanghai
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the sweet spots, with mild temperatures and lower humidity. October is popular but can be busy around the early-month national holiday.
Summer is hot and very humid, with a risk of typhoon-season rain from July through September. Winters are damp and chilly rather than freezing, and the city stays lively year-round indoors, so off-season visits still work if you pack layers.
How many days & where to stay
Two to three days is enough for the core: one for the Bund and Pudong, one for the French Concession and old-city sights, and an optional third for a water-town day trip or a museum. Add days if you plan to side-trip to Suzhou or Hangzhou.
Stay near the Bund or People's Square for sightseeing convenience, or in the French Concession (around Jing'an or Xuhui) for a more local, walkable feel. Mid-range hotels run roughly US$50 to US$150 a night; confirm current details when booking.
Explore Shanghai with a local guide
Shanghai is navigable on your own, but a local guide adds depth: the history behind the Bund's buildings, the best soup-dumpling spots away from tourist prices, and shortcuts through the language barrier when ordering or booking. They can also tailor a day trip to a water town or to nearby Suzhou.
With HeroGuide you post your trip and verified Shanghai guides and English-speaking drivers bid on it, so you choose the offer that fits. Post your trip and get matched with a local Shanghai guide.
Shanghai Travel FAQ
Is Shanghai good for a first trip to China?
Yes. It is one of the most international and navigable Chinese cities, with English signage on the metro, widespread mobile payment, and an efficient airport-to-city link. It also pairs well with day trips to Suzhou and Hangzhou.
How many days should I spend in Shanghai?
Two to three days covers the Bund, Pudong skyline, French Concession, and old-city sights comfortably. Add a day or two if you want to visit a nearby water town, Suzhou, or Hangzhou.
What is the best view of the Shanghai skyline?
Walk the Bund at dusk for the classic ground-level view across the river. For height, go up the Shanghai Tower or Oriental Pearl in Pudong. Book observation-deck tickets ahead in peak season and confirm current details.
Can I use the Maglev from Pudong airport?
Yes. The Maglev train runs from Pudong International Airport toward the city in just a few minutes and is a fun ride, though it stops short of downtown, so most travelers transfer to the metro to finish the trip.
What food is Shanghai known for?
Xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) are the signature dish. Also try shengjianbao (pan-fried buns), hairy crab in autumn, and sweeter Shanghainese braised dishes like hongshao rou. The French Concession is full of both local and international options.
Explore Shanghai with a trusted local
Post your trip for free and compare bids from verified English-speaking local guides & drivers in Shanghai. They handle the language, tickets and transport — you enjoy the trip.
Post Your Trip — Free
