Why Go to Shanghai
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Shanghai is China's most dynamic city, a fast-moving financial and cultural powerhouse and one of the most populous cities on Earth. Its skyline is constantly changing, its fashions move fast, and its energy is electric.
Stroll the Bund, the riverfront promenade lined with grand colonial-era buildings, and look across the river to the futuristic towers of Pudong, including the Oriental Pearl TV Tower and the Shanghai Tower, one of the tallest buildings in the world. Visit the classical Yu Garden and its surrounding bazaar, the peaceful Jade Buddha Temple and the excellent Shanghai Museum. Wander the tree-lined streets of the former French Concession and the stylish lanes of Xintiandi and Tianzifang. Take a day trip to Zhujiajiao, a historic water town with canals and stone bridges.
The crowds and scale can feel overwhelming, so the best approach is to explore one neighborhood at a time. Shanghai has excellent connections, including high-speed trains to Beijing and Hangzhou, and it's a popular cruise port. I'll plan your stay with trusted guides, check current entry requirements and connect Shanghai with Beijing and Xi'an.
BEST FOR
Architecture lovers, foodies, shoppers and culture explorers
BEST MONTHS
Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–November) are commonly favorable, with conditions varying each year.
EXPLORE
The Bund lines the west bank of the Huangpu with historic buildings; Pudong faces it with modern towers. The Former French Concession offers leafy streets and cafés.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Shanghai
Asia › East Asia › China › Shanghai Municipality
Historic waterfront meets futuristic city skylines
Skyline
Business
Shopping
Culinary
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Pair the Bund with a ferry or riverside view in Pudong, then reserve a separate morning for Yu Garden and its surrounding lanes.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Visit after sunset for illuminated architecture; the promenade can be crowded.
The Bund
Walk the Huangpu River promenade past historic waterfront buildings with expansive views of Pudong’s skyline.
Visit earlier in the day and allow time for surrounding lanes.
Yu Garden
Explore traditional pavilions, ponds and rock gardens within the Old City’s historic garden district.
Check observatory hours and weather visibility before buying admission.
Shanghai Tower
Enjoy the Lujiazui skyscraper district and, when operating, elevated panoramic views from Shanghai Tower.
Confirm which museum branch has the exhibitions you want to see.
Shanghai Museum
Discover Chinese art and historical collections across the museum’s venues.
Combine with the Bund but expect busy evenings.
Nanjing Road
Stroll one of Shanghai’s major shopping corridors between landmark streets and retail complexes.
A luxury riverfront hotel at the northern end of the Bund, convenient for historic waterfront architecture and skyline views. Confirm room outlook and transfer time to Pudong attractions.
The Peninsula Shanghai
The Bund / Waitan
Hotel Tags
An upscale property combining heritage and contemporary accommodations on the Bund. Well placed for riverside walks and central shopping; verify room building and view.
Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund
The Bund / Huangpu
Hotel Tags
An Art Deco landmark at the Bund and Nanjing Road, appealing to travelers interested in Shanghai history and central pedestrian sightseeing. Ask about historic versus updated room options.
Fairmont Peace Hotel
The Bund / Nanjing Road East
Hotel Tags
A contemporary luxury hotel near the Bund and central shopping corridor, suited to travelers who want design-focused accommodations and convenient downtown access.
The Shanghai EDITION
Nanjing Road East / Near the Bund
Hotel Tags
A luxury hotel on the Pudong side of the Huangpu River, convenient for modern skyline attractions and business travel. Plan to cross the river for historic Bund sightseeing.
Mandarin Oriental Pudong, Shanghai
Pudong / Lujiazui
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Shanghai
High 62°F · Low 48°F · Rain 2 in
Shorter days make museums and heritage visits practical; plan around weather. For a destination-specific November plan, consider Yu Garden.
Spring and autumn are generally comfortable for walking. Summers are hot and humid, while winter can feel damp and chilly.
Best Times to Visit Shanghai
WHEN TO GO
06
Huangpu River Ferry
Local river crossings provide another perspective of the skyline; verify routes and schedules.
05
Rail Connections
High-speed rail is convenient for nearby cities; confirm whether your train leaves Hongqiao or another station.
04
Walking
Walk the Bund, Old City and neighborhood shopping streets in manageable clusters.
03
Taxi & Ride-Hailing
Use licensed taxis or established ride-hailing services, and keep the destination written in Chinese.
02
Metro
The extensive metro network connects major sightseeing districts; confirm the last train and interchange route.
01
Arriving by Air
Shanghai has major international airports at Pudong and Hongqiao; match your arrival airport to your hotel before choosing transit.
The metro is often the simplest way around central Shanghai; use licensed taxis or reputable ride-hailing for luggage and late evenings. Allow extra time for station security checks and long transfers.
Getting Around Shanghai
GETTING AROUND
KEEP EXPLORING
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