Shanghai is where China's future takes shape. The Pudong skyline, barely existent 30 years ago, now rivals Manhattan. Yet turn a corner in the French Concession and tree-lined streets, art deco apartments, and hidden gardens feel like 1930s Paris. The city holds these contradictions effortlessly. Food here spans from soup dumplings in century-old shops to Michelin-starred innovation. Shopping ranges from traditional markets to luxury flagships. And the energy never stops; Shanghai's ambition is palpable. Flight deals to Shanghai appear regularly, and while China requires more planning than some destinations, the rewards justify the effort.
Best Time to Fly to Shanghai
Peak Season
April through May and September through November offer ideal weather with mild temperatures and comfortable humidity. October Golden Week (National Day holiday) brings domestic crowds and higher prices.
Off Season (Best Deals)
December through February is cold and gray but sees fewer tourists. Summer (June-August) is hot, humid, and rainy during plum rain season (June). Both periods offer lower prices.
Spring (March to May) brings pleasant 50-75°F but unpredictable rain. Summer (June to August) is hot and humid at 80-95°F with heavy rain in June. Fall (September to November) is ideal at 55-80°F. Winter (December to February) is cold at 30-50°F with gray skies.
💡Book 2-3 months ahead for spring/fall. Avoid Golden Week (October 1-7) and Chinese New Year unless you specifically want holiday atmosphere.
Cheapest Months to Fly to Shanghai
Cheapest Months
January, February, December
Most Expensive
October Golden Week, Chinese New Year, May Day holiday
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Must-Try Foods in Shanghai
Xiao Long Bao (Soup Dumplings)
Shanghai's most famous export: thin-skinned dumplings filled with pork and hot soup. Bite a small hole, sip the soup, then eat with ginger and vinegar. Din Tai Fung is reliable; Jia Jia Tang Bao and Yang's Fried Dumplings offer local favorites.
$5-15
Sheng Jian Bao (Pan-Fried Dumplings)
These pan-fried pork buns have crispy bottoms and soupy interiors. Eaten as breakfast or snack, they're messier but more satisfying than steamed versions. Yang's Fried Dumplings (Da Hu Chun) is the legendary choice; lines are worth it.
$3-8
Hairy Crab (Seasonal)
Available September through December, these prized crabs from nearby lakes are Shanghai's seasonal obsession. The roe and flesh are sweet and rich. Special restaurants serve elaborate crab banquets. It's expensive but a quintessential Shanghai experience.
$50-150
Top Attractions in Shanghai
The Bund & Pudong Skyline
The iconic waterfront promenade faces the space-age Pudong skyline across the Huangpu River. Behind you, colonial banks and trading houses from Shanghai's heyday line the street. Walk it at night for the full effect; it's one of Earth's great urban views.
French Concession
Tree-lined streets, art deco architecture, hidden lane houses, and excellent dining define this former colonial quarter. Wander Wukang Road, explore boutiques and cafes, and discover gardens behind anonymous gates. It rewards aimless exploration over destination hunting.
Yu Garden & Old Town
This classical Chinese garden dates to the Ming Dynasty, with pavilions, ponds, and dragon walls packed into a small space. The surrounding Old Town (heavily restored) offers bazaars, tea houses, and dumpling shops. Visit early morning to avoid tour groups.
Daily Costs in Shanghai
Shanghai is China's most expensive city but still offers value. Street food and casual restaurants are cheap, public transport is excellent and affordable, but upscale dining and nightlife match Western prices.
Accommodation (per night, pick one)
Budget
$30-60
Mid-Range
$80-180
Airbnb
$50-100
Food (per day)
Street Meal
$3-8
Restaurant
$15-40
Coffee
$4-7
Transport
Local Transport
$0.50-2/ride
Comfortable Daily Budget
(excluding flights)
$60-120
Getting Around Shanghai
From the Airport
Pudong Airport: Maglev train to metro ($8, 8 minutes + metro) or Metro Line 2 directly ($1.50, 70+ minutes). Taxis cost $25-40. Hongqiao Airport: Metro Line 2 reaches downtown in 40 minutes for $1.
Getting Around
Shanghai's metro is world-class: clean, extensive, cheap, and easy to navigate with English signage. It covers almost everywhere tourists go. Taxis are inexpensive; use Didi (Chinese Uber) for convenience. The Maglev train from the airport is an attraction itself.
Tips
- •Get a Shanghai Public Transport Card for metro and buses. You can also use Alipay/WeChat Pay once set up.
- •Download Didi before arrival. It works like Uber and avoids language barriers with taxi drivers.
Where to Stay in Shanghai
People's Square / Nanjing Road
Central Shanghai with excellent metro access, proximity to the Bund, and Nanjing Road pedestrian shopping street. It's not the most atmospheric but maximally convenient. Many first-time visitors appreciate the easy navigation and transport connections.
French Concession
The former colonial quarter has Shanghai's best bar scene, restaurants, and late-night energy. From cocktail lounges to dive bars, the options cluster along Yongkang Road and surrounding streets. It's also lovely during the day for wandering.
Jing'an / Former International Settlement
Colonial architecture, Jing'an Temple, excellent museums, and upscale shopping line this central district. It's more polished than the French Concession, with broader streets and less intimate scale. Good for a day of cultural exploration.
Smart Travel Tips for Shanghai
FAQs About Flights to Shanghai
Shanghai is moderate. Street food costs $3-8, restaurant meals $15-40, and decent hotels $80-180. Public transport is cheap. The city is expensive by Chinese standards but affordable compared to Western cities. Budget $60-100 per day for comfortable travel.
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