China
Shanghai
Shanghai is a city on the lower Yangtze River, with the Huangpu River running through its downtown. As China's largest economic and financial hub, it offers a vibrant urban landscape.
Updated August 15, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors
- Gateway airport
- Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG)
- Best season
- Mar–May, Oct–Nov
- Time zone
- Asia/Shanghai
- Sights covered
- 45 places
Sights worth seeing
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Views & landmarks
Shanghai World Financial Center
A 494-meter skyscraper in Shanghai's Pudong New Area, a landmark that defines the city's skyline. Its observation deck offers a sweeping view of the entire city.
Views & landmarks
Shanghai Tower
A towering skyscraper in Shanghai's Pudong New Area, standing 632 meters tall with 128 floors. From this world-class high-rise, visitors can look down over Shanghai's skyline.
Views & landmarks
Jin Mao Tower
Jin Mao Tower is a skyscraper in Lujiazui, Pudong, Shanghai, standing 421 meters tall with 88 floors. Completed in 1998, it offers sweeping views over the city center.
Museums & galleries
Shanghai Museum
The Shanghai Museum, near People's Square, is the city's leading museum and easy to reach from downtown. It's a great place to see Shanghai's premier collection.
Views & landmarks
Shimao International Plaza
A 333-meter skyscraper in Shanghai's Huangpu District, known as a landmark for its two distinctive spires. The lower floors house a large shopping mall, while the upper floors form a five-star hotel with 770 rooms.
Parks & gardens
Yu Garden
A garden in the Ming and Qing dynasty style, located in the heart of Shanghai's old town. It's regarded as one of China's finest gardens for its delicate, beautiful landscaping.
Parks & gardens
People's Square
A large public square in Shanghai's Huangpu district, home to the city government building and a reference point for the city's main streets. It lets visitors feel the very center of Shanghai.
Culture & venues
Shanghai Grand Theatre
A performance venue near People's Square in central Shanghai, close to the Shanghai Municipal Government building. It's one of the city's leading cultural spaces, hosting a wide range of performances.
How many days do you need?
Routes grouped by travel distance so each day stays comfortable.
Average temperature by month
5-year average
Getting there
Check flights to Shanghai first
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Getting around the city
Book transport
Fares and timetables change often, so we don't list them here. Check the operator or the booking site for current prices and schedules.
Shanghai Tours & Experiences Booking
Book local tours, tickets, and experiences in advance to enjoy without waiting. Check available products and prices now.
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Where to stay
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Visit stories: Shanghai
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Guides by theme
Best value
Where to stay in Shanghai for the best value
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5-star & luxury
Where to stay in Shanghai for a luxury experience
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Pool villas & resorts
Where to find pool villas and resorts in Shanghai
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Family travel
Where to stay in Shanghai for a family trip
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Couples & honeymoon
Where to stay in Shanghai for couples and honeymooners
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Central & near stations
Where to stay in Shanghai for central access and transport convenience
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Best time to visit
When is the best time to visit Shanghai, China?
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First-time guide
How to plan your first trip to Shanghai
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Getting around
How to navigate public transport and airport transfers in Shanghai
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