Shanghai – Travel Guide
Shanghai, China’s largest city, is a dazzling fusion of tradition and modernity. The Bund offers stunning views of colonial-era architecture and the futuristic skyline of Pudong, featuring the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower and Shanghai Tower. Visitors can explore historic neighborhoods like the French Concession, the tranquil Yuyuan Garden, and bustling shopping streets such as Nanjing Road. Shanghai’s vibrant arts scene includes the Shanghai Museum and numerous contemporary galleries. The city’s culinary landscape is diverse, with renowned dishes like xiaolongbao (soup dumplings). Efficient public transport and a cosmopolitan atmosphere make Shanghai an exciting destination for travelers.
All about Shanghai
Getting around Shanghai
By Subway
The city of Shanghai offers an extensive subway system featuring 14 lines that connect passengers all over the city. The service is fast and affordable; the trains operate from 5:30 am until 10:30 pm and run every 3 – 5 minutes, but should be avoided during rush hour (7 – 9:30 am and 4:30 – 7:30 pm). The trains are color and number coded with lines 1,2,4,7, 9 and 10 being the most useful for tourists. Signs and announcements are made in English and ticket prices range from ¥3 – ¥10 depending upon the total distance traveled. A public transportation card named the Jiaotong Ka can be purchased for use on the subway, taxis, buses, and ferries. The initial cost of the card is ¥20 which is a refundable deposit and the card can be purchased at subway stations and convenience stores around the city. For more information visit www.shmetro.com and for useful travel information regarding the subway go to www.exploreshanghai.com/metro
By taxi
There are more than 45,000 taxis that operate in the city of Shanghai. Traveling around by taxi is one of the most convenient ways to get around outside of rush hour and downpours when they are impossible to come across. You can hail a taxi from the street or find one at taxi stands around the city as well as call and order one by phone. The initial cost of a taxi is around ¥14 for the first 1.86 miles and then ¥2.4 for each additional 0.62 miles, if you have a Jiaotong ka card it can be used in taxis. A licensed cab in the city will have a taxi logo on top and an illuminated vacancy sign on the dashboard. Taxi prices increase after 11 pm until 5 am, taxis in the city are metered and color coded.
By bus
Over 1,000 bus routes run in the city of Shanghai, making it a cheap and efficient form of transport in the city. Tickets cost approximately ¥2 (exact change required) and buses run 5:00 am until 11:00 pm with a night bus offered after 11:00 pm that runs every 45 minutes. Bus number 20 and 37 runs between People`s Square and The Bund making them popular routes for visitors.
By Foot
Walking around parts of the city is the perfect way to see some of the sights including the famous Bund waterfront that stretches along the Huangpu River decorated with colonial style buildings filled with restaurants, shops, and galleries. People`s Square is in the heart of the city and is also filled with plenty of attractions to reach on foot, walk around People`s Park the `Green Lung` of Shanghai. Across the river in Pudong is the Riverside Promenade that stretches down the waterfront backed by the famous skyscrapers that form the city skyline. Take a walk along Nanjing Road, this long stretch of pedestrian-only pavement is one of the most famous shopping streets in the world. The shaded tree-lined boulevards of the French Concession located in the Xuhui and Luwan districts are the perfect location for a leisurely stroll with quaint cafes and shops that line the streets.
By Bicycle
Bicycles have been one of the main forms of transportation for the Chinese people for hundreds of years, but the streets of Shanghai have been so overpopulated over the past few decades that riding a bicycle on the streets can be dangerous with lots of traffic and pollution. There are bike rental shops around the city with a range from ¥80 to ¥150 a day, a helmet is not required, a bike lock is highly recommended and bikes are not allowed under tunnels or on the bridges (cyclist must use the ferry and only fold up bikes are allowed on the ferry). Some great areas to ride around are People`s Square, People`s Park, The Bund, The Riverside promenade and other areas that are bike friendly offering bike paths and wide open green spaces.
By Boat
Due to Shanghai`s location along the Huangpu River getting around by boat is a popular way to see the sights. There is a passenger ferry that travels from the southern end of the Bund (south of Nanjing Road), prices are approximately ¥2 to get to the Lujiazui financial district in Pudong (near the Oriental Pearl Tower). Ferries run every 10 minutes and it is a 5-minute ride to cross the river. There are river cruises that offer sunset cruises and dinner cruises along the river with spectacular views in the evening of the sparkling city and its famous skyline.
Shanghai FAQ
How do I get from the airport to my hotel?
There are two main airports servicing the city of Shanghai: Pudong International Airport, which is considered the main international gateway, situated 18 miles east of the city center. Hongqiao International Airport mainly services domestic flights and is the older airport in the city. Both airports are connected by shuttle buses and trains, the journey between the two takes around 2 hours.
If you have not booked a private transfer through us you have a few options from both airports, which feature the Metro, the Maglev train, buses, and taxis.
What types of transportation can I find at the airport?
One of the fastest ways to get into the city from Pudong International Airport is the warp-speed Maglev train which stops at Longyang Road Metro Station (Metro lines 2 and 7) which takes 8 minutes and costs approximately ¥50 for a one-way ticket (¥40 with an airline ticket). The train station can be found in between Terminals 1 and 2 on the second floor. The train operates daily from 6:45 am until 9:30 pm and departs every 15 – 30 minutes.
From Longyang Road when you exit the train there are escalators on the right that lead you to the Metro Station where you can catch line number 2 which will take you to downtown Shanghai (Peoples Square). You can also catch a taxi outside the station when you exit the train take the escalators on the left up to the taxi line.
The Metro (or subway) line number 2 is the airport line which runs East-West through downtown Shanghai which takes around 45 minutes and costs approximately ¥9. The metro runs from 6:30 am until 9:00 pm. The metro station is located between the two terminals.
Taxis are available at the airport, taxi stands can be found outside both terminals on the first floor. A journey from the airport to the city center (People`s Square) will cost approximately ¥160 and takes around an hour. Rates increase by 35% after 11:00 pm and before 5:00 am.
Buses run from the airport to the city center there are eight shuttle bus lines at the airport but only a few are useful for tourists arriving in the city. Take line 2 which takes you to the City Air Terminal at Jing`an Temple which is just west of People`s Square, this line runs from 7:00 am until 11:00 pm and costs approximately ¥22 with a journey taking around 50 minutes.
The Night Line starts at 11:00 pm and runs every 45 minutes; it stops at Longyang Road Station, East Hospital at Pudong Avenue and Huashan Road. This is the only transport option other than a taxi from the airport at night.
Some of the high-end hotels in the city offer their guests shuttle services from the airport to their hotel, check with your hotel to reserve your ride.
The Hongqiao International Airport connects to downtown (People`s Square) on metro line 2 and 10 which takes around 30 minutes, the metro can be found inside Terminal 2. There are seven bus lines that transfer from the airport to the city center. And taxis to the city center cost around ¥60 – ¥100 with a 30 – 45 minute journey.
How do I get around the city using other public transportation?
Shanghai has a very efficient and busy metro system with 14 lines and over 350 stations covering 383 miles around the city. Most stations operate from between 5:30 – 6:00 am until 10:00 – 10:30 pm and tickets cost around ¥3 to ¥15 depending on the distance traveled, tickets can be purchased from machines inside the stations. Metro stations are marked by a red `M`. The busiest station in the city is the People`s Square station, lines 1, 2 and 10 are the most important lines for tourists connecting passengers to tourist attractions and the main railway stations. Keep in mind the metro is extremely crowded during rush hour and should be avoided at these times 6:00 am – 9:00 am and 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm.
Download the Explore Shanghai app which provides maps, timetables and station information. Visit www.shmetro.com for more information.
Shanghai boasts the first commercial Maglev railway in the world, traveling at a warp speed of 311 mph the train connects the Pudong International Airport to Longyang Road subway station in just 7 minutes. Trains run every 15 – 30 minutes from Longyang Road beginning at 6:45 am until 9:30 pm and from the airport starting at 7:02 am until 9:32 pm. Tickets cost approximately ¥50 for a single trip.
There are plenty of taxis in the Shanghai that are a quick and affordable option to get around the city and one of your only options later at night (the metro stops around 10:30 pm). Taxis are metered and fares start around ¥14 for the first 1.86 miles then go up about ¥3 for every 0.62 miles thereafter and after 11:00 pm fares start at ¥18. Most drivers do not speak English so it is a good idea to have your destination written down in Chinese/Mandarin. Taxis come in a multitude of colors in the city and a run by several different companies. You can hail a taxi on the street, find one at a taxi stand or book by phone, vacancy lights on the dashboard show if a taxi is available. Taxis can be almost impossible to catch during rush hour and in the rain. For more information contact the Shanghai Taxi Dispatch Information Center at 96965.
The city offers the world`s most extensive bus system offering over 1,000 different bus lines. This is a cheap option for getting around town and traveling past 11:00 pm on the night buses (#300 – 309). However, drivers don`t speak much English if any at all and most of the information on buses and timetables is in Chinese. Buses run from 5:00 am until 11:00 pm and fares start around ¥2 (exact change required). For more information visit www.msittig.wubi.org/bus
There are several companies in the city that offer sightseeing bus tours that stop at the major tourist attractions offering a hop-on, hop-off mode of transportation. Most bus tours depart from the Shanghai Stadium and commentary onboard is provided in English.
Transportation cards are available for travel in the city. The Jiaotong Card is available at most metro stations and some convenience stores (Alldays and KeDi) for use on the metro, Maglev train, some buses, taxis, and ferries. The card can be loaded at stations and a ¥20 refundable deposit is required.
Read More
Discover further essential tips for navigating the vibrant city. Learn about must-see attractions, dining hotspots, transportation options, and cultural insights.
How do I call/hail a taxi in Shanghai?
Taxis can be hailed on the street, found at taxi stands throughout the city or ordered over the phone. If a taxi has their sign lit up in the windshield they are available for service. Taxis can be hard to come by during rush hour in the city and when it is raining, be prepared for a long wait during these times or plan ahead and use another form of transportation. Taxis cannot cross the tunnel from Pudong to Lujiazui from 8:00 – 9:30 am and from 5:00 – 6:30 pm and rates increase from 11:00 pm until 5:00 am.
Should I rent a car in Shanghai?
Renting a car and driving in Shanghai is not recommended, you will be required to have a temporary or long-term Chinese driver`s license to drive in the city, the roads are complicated and traffic is atrocious with very rare parking offered in the city. Take advantage of the excellent public transportation offered in the city.
Is Shanghai a walking city?
Shanghai is a large city with labyrinth-like streets which can be confusing to visitors, the streets can be extremely crowded so don`t be offended if you get bumped into a few times. Also be aware when walking in large crowds as pickpockets and thieves thrive in these environments, stay alert and keep your valuables secured. Walking around can be a great way to see the sights of the city especially along the famous `Bund` where you will receive spectacular views of Shanghai`s skyline. Walking around People`s Square and People`s Park is a great experience in the heart of the city with plenty of attractions.
How do I get around by boat in Shanghai?
Shanghai is the largest and most famous port city on the Chinese mainland with plenty of options to get around on the water. Ferries cross the Huangpu River from the west bank of Puxi to Pudong in the east, the Shanghai Ferry is very useful for tourists who wish to get out on the water, see the sights and cross the river. The ferry operates from 7:00 am until 10:00 pm, running every 15 minutes from Dongchang Road in Pudong to the Nanjing Road at the southern end of the Bund.
Can I ride or rent a bicycle in Shanghai?
The city offers a public bike hire option called Forever Public Bike Hire Scheme where you can rent bikes from stations across the city for as little as ¥4 per hour. There are also several other rental places around the city including Le Tour Traveler`s Rest and BOHDI where you can rent a bike by the hour or for the day. The city center is not the best place for riding a bicycle, some of the major roads do not allow cyclists and bikes are not permitted to cross bridges or go through tunnels. The roads and sidewalks are busy with heavily congested traffic making it difficult to get around on a bike. The best areas to ride are along the Bund and in the parks around the city.
Is Shanghai a dangerous city, is there anything I should be aware of?
Shanghai is one of the safest cities in the world to visit. Crimes are not unheard of, but crimes against foreigners are very rare. Pickpockets are common on crowded streets, sidewalks, on the metro, and around tourist attractions, keep your wits about you and keep your belongings secure at all times. Stick to well lit/populated areas after dark and don`t wander into dark alleys or the suburbs late at night, stick to the main streets.
The tap water in Shanghai is not safe to drink. Stick to bottled water only.
What are some popular areas for shopping?
Shanghai is referred to as `Oriental Paris` and offers a wide variety of places to shop until you drop. Nanjing Road is the premier shopping street in the city and the number one commercial street in the country. It runs for several miles west from Zhongshan Lu to the east of the Bund, a pedestrian-only boulevard overflowing with shopping malls, fancy boutiques, department stores and street vendors selling anything and everything. The area is also filled with restaurants, bars, cafes, and entertainment. Huaihai Road is another popular shopping boulevard that offers up-scale stores and boutiques. The French Concession Streets are also filled with designer boutiques on its tree-lined streets. Some popular items to shop for in Shanghai include tea sets, ceramics, fans, jade, art, silk, pearls, tea and rice writing.
What is the currency? Can I pay/tip in US dollars?
The units of currency in China are the Renminbi ( ¥, RMB or CNY). US dollars are not accepted. Please be sure to have the correct currency on hand or be prepared to exchange your dollars for ¥ upon arrival. Currency exchanged desks can be found at the airport and many locations throughout the city.
For more detailed information, consult our guide to tipping in China by clicking here China
What is a popular time of year to visit Shanghai?
The climate in Shanghai is subtropical and offers four seasons with hot, humid summer and cold winters. June to September are the rainiest months and from August through September it is typhoon season. The hottest month is July with highs in the 90`s F, January is the coldest with lows in the 30`s F. Spring (Mar – May) and Autumn (Sept – Nov) are the most pleasant times of year to visit the city, with comfortable weather and fewer crowds.
What is the food like?
Shanghai`s mouth-watering cuisines are offered in some of the finest restaurants in the country with its own Michelin dining guide 2017. The Chinese love their food and it is a big part of their social life so the variety of food and restaurants in the city is plentiful. Local cuisine is known as `Shanghainese` cuisine which normally features fish and seafood with the use of bright colored ingredients and original flavors. Some of the popular local dishes include `xiaolongbao` steamed dumplings stuffed with pork and broth, dipped in a spicy, vinegar and red pepper sauce, `mifan` rice with meat and delicious dipping sauces, `suanla sunjian fen` sweet and spicy bamboo shoot soup with noodles and `sheng jian bao` freshly grilled buns, pan-fried filled with broth and dipped in vinegar a popular breakfast staple.
The city offers some spectacular eateries with some of the most stylish dining options found on the shaded streets of the historic French Concession where diners can wander the streets and find a wide selection of fine restaurants with quaint outdoor seating.
What is the nightlife like?
Shanghai offers a stunning nightlife scene, the fast-paced city is filled with vibrant lights and loud music throughout its bars and nightclubs and night cruises along the Huangpu River. See the sparkling skyline of the skyscrapers on the east bank of the river or walk along the popular bund where you will find world-class restaurants, pubs, bars, clubs, shopping and entertainment to keep you going all night long.
I don`t speak Chinese will there be many people who speak English?
The official language spoken in China is Mandarin. The English language is taught in schools in China and many Chinese people can speak some English, especially the younger generation and those working in the service industry. We suggest you get a good English-Chinese guidebook and familiarize yourself with common phrases such as hello, goodbye, excuse me and numbers 1 – 10.
What should I do if I need medical assistance or need to go to the hospital?
In case of emergencies, please call 110 for police, 119 for fire emergency and 120 for an ambulance.
Hospitals:
Shanghai International tel. 52989538
AEA International Clinic tel. 62493246
Huashan Worldwide Medical Center tel. 62483986
Top Attractions
The Bund
Along the Huangpu River, The Bund is renowned for its stunning views of colonial-era buildings and the modern skyline of Pudong.
Oriental Pearl Tower
The iconic Oriental Pearl TV tower in Pudong offers panoramic city views, a revolving restaurant, and a futuristic design.
Yuyuan Garden
Yuyuan Garden is a classical Chinese garden in the Old City, featuring beautiful pavilions, rockeries, ponds, and lush greenery.
Shanghai Tower
Shanghai Tower, the second tallest tower in the world, boasts amazing views from its observation deck and architectural design.
Unique Experiences
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Huangpu River Cruise: Enjoy a scenic cruise along the Huangpu River, taking in the contrasting views of the historic Bund and the modern skyscrapers of Pudong.
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Stroll through Tianzifang: Wander the narrow alleyways of this artsy neighborhood in the French Concession, filled with boutique shops, galleries, and cafes.
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Visit Zhujiajiao Water Town: Explore this ancient water town on the outskirts of Shanghai, known for its charming canals, traditional buildings, and stone bridges.
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Head to Nanjing Road, one of Shanghai’s most famous shopping streets. Choose from a variety of dining options, ranging from upscale restaurants to street food vendors.
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Embark on a guided Street Food Tour to sample local delicacies such as xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), jianbing (savory crepes), and stinky tofu, while learning about the city’s rich culinary heritage from local experts.
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What to expect while traveling
