Unique Stays
Fairmont Peace Hotel
4.6(954 reviews)
A romantic stay at Fairmont Peace Hotel — near 20 Nanjing Rd (E) — 4.6★ from 954 reviews — book early for weekends.
China
Shanghai Travel Guide
Plan the right version of Shanghai: top sights, best areas to stay, practical tips, and mood-based guides for every trip style.
- Recommended stay
- 3-5 nights
- Best time
- Mar-May, Sep-Nov
- Getting around
- Metro, bus, bike, walk
- Book ahead
- Shanghai Tower, Huangpu River Cruise
- Best areas
- Pudong, French Concession
- Rain backup
- Shanghai Natural History Museum
Start Here
Choose the best way to explore Shanghai
Shanghai is a vibrant metropolis known for its modern skyline and rich history. Visitors can explore a blend of traditional Chinese culture and contemporary urban life, making it an exciting destination for all types of travelers.
Interesting facts about Shanghai
- Shanghai is home to the world's second-tallest building, the Shanghai Tower, which stands at 632 meters (2,073 feet).
- The city has the largest metro system in the world, covering over 800 kilometers and serving more than 10 million passengers daily.
- Shanghai's Yuyuan Garden, dating back to the Ming Dynasty, features classical Chinese landscaping and is over 400 years old.
Pick your Shanghai trip mood
Start with how you travel — each guide has routes, places, and planning tips for that style.
Book your trip
Flights, tickets, tours & eSIM for Shanghai
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Find flights
Search Aviasales for flights to Shanghai — compare routes and prices.
Museum & attraction tickets
Skip-the-line entry — museums, landmarks, and day passes for this city.
Tours & experiences
Walking tours, food tours, and activities on Klook.
Travel eSIM
Install an Airalo eSIM before you land — maps, tickets, and messaging without roaming fees.
Travel Moods
Best Shanghai guides by trip type
Each guide is tailored to a specific travel style, so you can plan around your real constraints instead of reading one generic itinerary.
Shanghai With Kids
Family-friendly attractions and itineraries
Shanghai On a Budget
Affordable eats and free attractions
Shanghai Romantic
Sunset views and intimate dining
Shanghai Hidden Gems
Off-the-beaten-path discoveries
Shanghai Culture
Museums, history, and local heritage
Shanghai In Rain
Indoor activities and cozy spots
Top Things To Do
Start with these Shanghai experiences
Open each card for a full attraction guide with tickets, age tips, maps, visit plans, and FAQs.
Map
Shanghai at a glance
Pin key sights, stay areas, and hotels — then open details from the markers.
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Where To Stay
Best areas to stay in Shanghai
Compare neighborhoods by budget, walkability, and tradeoffs — then open a place page when available.
Hotels
Hotels in Shanghai
Stays curated across TripByMood guides for Shanghai — compare ratings and book when you are ready.
Luxury Hotels
The Peninsula Shanghai
4.6(214 reviews)A luxurious hotel with stunning views of the Bund, offering exceptional service and romantic amenities.
Honeymoon Hotels
The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong
4.6(874 reviews)A romantic stay at The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong — near 8 Shiji Blvd — 4.6★ from 874 reviews — book early for weekends.
Aparthotels
IFC Residence
4.5(206 reviews)A family-friendly stay in Shanghai — look for family rooms or connecting options and book early in peak season.
Trip Length
Shanghai by duration
Match your plan to the time you actually have. Short trips need compact routes; longer stays can add neighborhoods and weather-proof backups.
- 1 day
Highlights of Shanghai
Explore iconic landmarks and experience the vibrant culture of Shanghai in just one day.
Open Shanghai culture guide - 2 days
Shanghai Essentials
Spend two days discovering the must-see attractions and hidden gems of this bustling city.
Open Shanghai culture guide - 3-4 days
In-depth Shanghai Experience
Take your time to explore Shanghai's rich history, culture, and diverse neighborhoods over several days.
Open Shanghai culture guide
Seasonal Planning
Weather, budget, and evening ideas for Shanghai
Keep one flexible plan ready so the city still works when weather, crowds, or budget change.
FAQ
Shanghai travel questions
Quick answers for the planning decisions most travelers need to make before opening a full guide.
What is the best way to get to Shanghai?+
Shanghai is accessible via two major airports: Pudong and Hongqiao.
Is Shanghai safe for tourists?+
Yes, Shanghai is generally safe for tourists, but always stay aware of your surroundings.
What currency is used in Shanghai?+
The currency used is the Chinese Yuan (CNY).
Do I need a visa to visit Shanghai?+
Most travelers require a visa; check your country's requirements before traveling.
What is the local cuisine like?+
Shanghai cuisine features a mix of flavors, with a focus on fresh seafood and dumplings.
