How to Plan a Shanghai Tour

Shanghai, one of the most exotic, lively, and interesting destinations to visit, is definitely a trip that all travelers must go. There are many reasons why this place is consistently visited by tourists all year round. Hence, if you’re planning out a trip soon, here’s a detailed guide on how and what you can do in Shanghai.

Before the Trip

1. Determine the Duration of Your Trip

Decide how long you want to stay in Shanghai. This will help you make other arrangements, such as booking accommodations and planning your itinerary.

2. Research Visa Requirements

Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter China or can enjoy 144-hour visa-free transit policy. Check the visa requirements for your country and apply well in advance, if necessary.

3. Choose the Best Time to Visit

Shanghai experiences a temperate climate, so choose a time that suits your preferences. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are generally considered the best seasons, with cool and comfortable weather.

4. Create a Budget

Determine how much you are willing to spend on your trip, including accommodations, transportation, food, activities, and shopping. Be sure to allocate some funds for unexpected expenses.

5. Book Your Flights

Look for flight options to Shanghai and compare prices from different airlines. Consider using flight aggregators or booking platforms to find the best deals.

6. Find Accommodation

Shanghai offers a wide range of lodging options, from luxury hotels to budget hostels and vacation rentals. Consider the location, amenities, and price when selecting your accommodation.

7. Plan Your Itinerary

Research Shanghai's top attractions, such as The Bund, Yu Garden, Nanjing Road, and the Oriental Pearl Tower. Decide which places you want to visit and allocate time accordingly. Don't forget to explore local cuisine and cultural experiences.

How Long to Stay - 3 to 4 Days

The ideal duration for your trip to Shanghai depends on your preferences and the activities you plan to engage in. However, considering the city's size and the multitude of attractions it offers, a stay of at least 3 to 4 days is recommended to get a good taste of what Shanghai has to offer.

This duration allows you to explore popular landmarks, experience the local culture, try various cuisines, and get a sense of the city's vibrant atmosphere. If you have more time available, extending your stay to a week or more will allow for a more in-depth exploration, as you can venture beyond the city center to visit neighboring cities like Suzhou and Hangzhou, which are known for their scenic beauty and cultural heritage.

Shanghai also boasts a vibrant nightlife, so those interested in entertainment and nightlife may want to allocate extra time to fully enjoy the city's diverse offerings. Ultimately, the length of your stay depends on your personal preferences and the scope of your itinerary. Consider the activities you want to include and allocate time accordingly, ensuring you strike a balance between exploring the city and leaving room for relaxation and spontaneity.

Best Times to Visit Shanghai – Spring and Autumn

The two best periods to visit Shanghai: Spring (from March to May) and Autumn (from September to November). Because the moderate temperatures in these two periods give travelers the most comfortable feeling. There is no extreme weather in Shanghai and the temperature is friendly all year round. It’s not too hot in the summer months and not too cold in the winter season.

Rainy Season

The period from mid-June to mid-July. The average rainy days in these two months are 28 days. Prepare to carry your rain gear with you all the time if you are to travel during this period.

Summer and Winter

The temperatures can rise to a staggering 39 degrees centigrade in July and August, and there is much rain in summer. The sultry weather might make your trip uncomfortable.

Similarly, though it seldom rains in winter, the cold and damp winter climate is unpleasant. The temperatures can be down to 5 degrees centigrade. But at this time, there will be fewer visitors in Shanghai. So, if you don’t want to see crowds, winter is a good time to visit Shanghai. The scenery is still nice and the temperature is bearable.

Monthly Shanghai Weather

Month	Temperature	The Average Number of Rainy Days	Climate Information
January	0.3℃ (32.54℉) to 7.6℃ (45.68℉)	9	cold especially at night and a little dry
February	1.4℃ (34.52℉) to 8.7℃ (47.66℉)	10.6	cold and humid
March	4.9℃ (40.82℉) to 12.6℃ (54.68℉)	13.1	moist and not cold
April	10.4℃ (50.72℉) to 18.5℃ (65.3℉)	13.4	warm and comfortable
May	15.3℃ (59.54℉) to 23.2℃ (73.76℉)	14.5	warm and wet
June	20.1℃ (68.18℉) to 27.8℃ (82.04℉)	13.7	hot and wet
July	24.7℃ (76.48℉) to 31.8℃ (89.24℉)	11.5	sweltering and wet
August	24.7℃ (76.46℉) to 31.6℃ 88.88℉)	9.9	sweltering and moist
September	20.5℃ (68.9℉) to 27.4℃ (81.32℉)	12	a little hot and wet
October	14.3℃ (57.74℉) to 22.4℃ (72.32℉)	8.3	cool and a little dry
November	8.6℃ (47.48℉) to 12.6℃ (62.24℉)	7.9	cool and dry
December	2.7℃ (38.86℉) to 10.7℃ (51.26℉)	7.9	cool and dry

What Are the Best Things to Do

Shanghai, called “Mo Du (魔都)” by Chinese people （Mo means ambition and Du means metropolis.）, is a sprawling multi-cultural metropolis, incorporating an eclectic blend of both traditional and contemporary features. With a reputation as a world-famous metropolis and tourist resort, Shanghai possesses abundant attractions for visitors to savor, and it won’t let you down.?

Water Towns Near Shanghai

• Escaping from pressure: Slow down and listen to romantic stories or anecdotes that took place there. Take a boat trip and relax.
• Convenient transportation: They are close to big cities, so transportation is convenient and basic infrastructure is well established.
• Ancient atmosphere: They preserve well an ancient atmosphere and ordinary people still live there. With our insightful local guides, visitors can understand the culture of water towns very well.

Zhujiajiao Water Town

Zhujiajiao belongs to the Qingpu District of Shanghai and it is the typical water town of Jiangnan. It is located at the junction of Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shanghai with a prosperous economy and culture, known as “the largest town of Shanghai”. Its North Street was selected as one of the “Top Ten Leisure Streets in Shanghai”.

Nanxun Water Town

Nanxun is affiliated to Nanxun District, Huzhou City, Zhejiang Province. It is located on the southern shore of Taihu Lake. It has a very long history of more than 7000 years. And it is the AAAAA class scenic spot. The better seasons to travel are spring and autumn.

The Oriental Pearl TV Tower

Oriental Pearl TV Tower serves as the symbol of Shanghai, at a surprising height of 486 meters. It is the third tallest radio and TV tower in the world. At the top, you can have a panoramic view of the Bund as well as a bird’s-eye view of the magnificence of Shanghai.

The Bund

The Bund is another renowned landmark. There are various buildings in different architectural styles, including Gothic, Baroque, Romanesque, Classical and Renaissance. It is recommended to visit the Bund at night, when all the colorful lights are lit up, making it a dazzling and wondrous world.

Yuyuan Garden

Regarded as the most beautiful garden south of the Yangtze River, Yuyuan Garden has an exquisite layout. The pavilions, corridors, courtyards, halls, stones and streams in the garden form a tranquil and unique picture that vividly shows the quintessence of southern Chinese landscape design in the Ming (1368-1644 AD) and Qing (1644-1912 AD) dynasties.

Nanjing Road

This bustling pedestrian street is a must-see metropolitan destination, attracting thousands of fashion lovers from all over the world. Over 600 shops on the road offer many famous brands, superior quality, and new fashions. At night, flashing neon signs illuminate the magnificent buildings and spangle the night sky.

Jade Buddha Temple

Bright yellow saffron walls, upturned eaves, and symmetrical courtyards and halls make the Temple readily identifiable. It houses two precious seated jade Buddhist statues, rare porcelain works of art, encrusted with jewels. The sparkling and crystal-clear white jade gives the Buddhas the beauty of sanctity. This Temple receives many visitors and worshipers daily.

Disneyland Park

As the sixth in the world and the first in the mainland of china, Shanghai Disneyland Park creates many records among the existing Disney parks: it possesses the tallest theme castle, the first garden-designed zone, and the first pirate-themed garden. Besides, it combines movie figures with Chinese elements, such as the Chinese Zodiac Murals.

Shanghai 3-Day Itinerary:

Day 1:

Morning: Visit The Bund and enjoy the stunning skyline views of Shanghai. Explore the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall: The Magic City's Future Plan

Afternoon: Head to Yu Garden, explore its classical Chinese architecture, and picturesque gardens, and visit the nearby City God Temple. Take a stroll and shop on Nanjing Road, one of Shanghai's premier shopping streets.

Evening: Explore Xintiandi, a trendy area with charming lanes, boutiques, and a variety of restaurants for a delightful dinner.

Day 2:

Morning: Visit the Shanghai Museum, known for its extensive collection of Chinese art and cultural artifacts.

Afternoon: Explore the Former French Concession, an area brimming with tree-lined streets, trendy shops, and charming cafes. Take a walk along Tianzifang, known for its narrow alleys filled with art galleries and boutiques.

Evening: Explore the nightlife of the Bund area or catch an acrobatics show at Shanghai Circus World.

Day 3:

Morning: Take a day trip to Zhujiajiao Water Town, known for its picturesque canals, ancient bridges, and traditional buildings. Enjoy a leisurely boat ride and explore the town's charming atmosphere.

Afternoon: Take a ride to the observation deck of the Oriental Pearl Tower or Shanghai Tower, an iconic landmark offering panoramic views of the city.

Evening: Experience Shanghai's vibrant food scene by trying local dishes at a night market or dining in one of the city's authentic restaurants.

Tour Recommendation: 3-day Shanghai and Tongli Water Town Tour

Shanghai 4-Day Itinerary:

Follow the 4-day itinerary and add the following additional activity:

Day 4

Morning: Visit the Former Jewish Settlement in Shanghai, and stroll around the residential area of labyrinthine alleyways.

Afternoon: Explore urban areas like Lujiazui or visit Shanghai Disneyland for a fun-filled day of entertainment and rides.

Evening: Enjoy a river cruise along the Huangpu River to see Shanghai's skyline illuminated at night.

Tour Recommendation: 4-Day Shanghai Relaxing Tour

Shanghai 5-Day Itinerary

Follow the 4-day itinerary and add the following additional activity:

Day 5:

Morning: Take a day trip to Suzhou, known as the "Venice of the East." Explore its Master of the Nets Garden, and Humble Administrator's Garden, visit the historic Pingjiang Road, and enjoy a boat ride on the picturesque canals.

Afternoon: Visit the Tongli Water Town near Suzhou

Evening: Return to Shanghai and indulge in a relaxing evening at a spa or enjoy a performance at the Shanghai Grand Theatre.

Water Town and Huangshan Tour: Elegant Water Town and Yellow Mountains Tour

Food You Should Try

Shengjian Steamed Stuffed Bun

This is a kind of fried and steamed bun, with sesame and chives on the outside and meat on the inside. It’s popular for its crisp wrapper, thick soup, and tender meat.

Xiaolong Steamed Stuffed Bun

This is another kind of steamed bun with meat stuffing, renowned for its tender wrapper and fresh meat. It is named after the cooker “xiao long”, which is weaved using bamboo skin.

Xiekehuang

This is a kind of baked pastry with sesame on the outside, popular for its crunchy wrapper as well as stuffing, which can be sweet or salty. It is called (‘crab-shell-yellow’) because its round shape and yellow color resemble a crab shell.

Getting to and Around Shanghai

Getting to Shanghai

For international passengers, you can reach Shanghai by air or boat. You can go via Beijing, Hong Kong, or Guangzhou if you can’t get to Shanghai directly. Shanghai is linked to the rest of China by efficient rail and flight networks.

Two airports in Shanghai

Shanghai Pudong International Airport: Located in Pudong New District, approximately 30 kilometers (18 miles) east of downtown Shanghai, this is the biggest airline hub in eastern China.

Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport: Located in Hongqiao County, the western suburbs of Shanghai, this is approximately 13 kilometers (8 miles) from the city center. Together with Pudong International Airport, it serves as one of the busiest airports in the east of China.

Three cruise terminals

Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal, Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal and Waigaoqiao International Cruise Terminal.

Three Railway Stations

Shanghai is the hub of China’s railway network. There are three major railway stations in the city: Shanghai Railway Station, Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station, and Shanghai South Railway Station.

Getting Around Shanghai

The transportation is very convenient in Shanghai. There are many ways to get around, like metro, city bus, sightseeing bus, taxi and public bicycle.

Maglev Train

Starting at Longyanglu Station at Line 2 of Shanghai Metro and ending at Shanghai Pudong International Airport, Shanghai Maglev Railway is the very first elevated maglev line in commercial operation in the world.

It can run at the amazing speed of 430 miles per hour, which means it can take you from downtown Shanghai to Shanghai Pudong International Airport in only 8 minutes.

By Public City Transportation

• Metro: The Shanghai Metro leads in all directions, with 14 lines and 366 stations.
• Bus: The Shanghai Bus System is also very developed. The buses can reach many small places the metro cannot reach.
• Sightseeing bus: This is a good choice if you want to do some sightseeing in downtown Shanghai, because it only stops at scenic spots, which will save you time.

Private Transfer Service

China Travel’s private transfer service offers chauffeured service as an expedient and opulent alternative to public transport. Its private tours provide fully-equipped vehicles, catering well for you, along with an English-speaking driver and a well-informed guide. It will make your trip more smooth and convenient. See more on Shanghai transport.

Recommended Accommodation

Luxurious Hotel

• Stay in a riverside hotel along the Bund to watch the splendid skyline of Pudong
• Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund(Five-star) Ranked #2 on Trip Advisor
• Fairmont Peace Hotel Shanghai (Five-star) Ranked #7 on Trip Advisor
• Les Suites Orient, Bund Shanghai (Five-star) Ranked #20 on Trip Advisor (Best price among all the five-star hotels on the Bund )

Hotels in Pudong

• Mandarin Oriental Pudong (Five-star) Ranked #1 on Trip Advisor
• Four Seasons Shanghai Pudong (Five-star) Ranked #2 on Trip Advisor

Comfortable Hotel

Some hotels are not that expensive, but the location is good. Such as the Bund Hotel (near the Bund, 4-star).

Economic Hotel

If you are not too concerned about the environment around your accommodation, there are lots of hostels available, such as Kingstown Hotel Plaza Shanghai, Jinjiangzhixing Hotel, Seven Days Hotel, and so on.

Visa-Needed or Visa-Free

Citizens of certain countries may be eligible for visa exemption or visa-on-arrival when visiting Shanghai for a limited period. For example, citizens of many European countries, the United States, Canada, Australia, and many other countries can often travel to Shanghai for up to 144 hours (6 days) without a visa, as long as they are in transit to a third country. To learn more about 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit, please click Visa-Free Transit in China for Up to 144 Hours.