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Picture of Shanghai, China

Travel Guide for
Shanghai

China

Humid subtropical, four seasons

Introduction

Shanghai, perched along China’s eastern coast, is a vibrant hub where historic temples meet futuristic skyscrapers. Once a small fishing village, it blossomed into a global metropolis famous for its cosmopolitan flair and dynamic history.

During July, expect hot, humid weather and the occasional summer rain shower—perfect for ducking into lively cafés or co-working spaces. Digital nomads on a budget will love the city’s affordable street food, easy public transport, and abundant Wi-Fi, making Shanghai ideal for work and exploration.

Customized for these preferences:

Travel StyleDigital nomad

Dates11-18 July 2025

BudgetAverage budget

AccommodationHotel

Interests and Activities:

arts and culturenightlife and entertainmentoutdoor adventuressightseeing and toursfestivals and eventsgastronomy

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Picture of Shanghai, China

Key Facts

Location

Eastern China, Yangtze Delta

Currency

Renminbi (Yuan) (CNY)

Religion

Buddhism, Taoism, Christianity

Population

24,870,895

Language

Mandarin Chinese, Shanghainese

Electricity

220V, 50Hz, Type I/A/C plugs

Time zone

UTCChina Standard Time (UTC+8)

Country code

+86

Internet access

Widespread, fast broadband, affordable

Climate

Humid subtropical, four seasons

See More China Facts

Language:

Chinese

  • hello

    你好 (nee how)
  • goodbye

    再见 (dzai jyen)
  • yes

    是的 (shr duh)
  • no

    不是 (boo shr)
  • how much

    多少钱 (dwor shao chyen)
  • please

    (cheeng)
  • thank you

    谢谢 (shyeah shyeah)
  • excuse me

    劳驾 (lao jyah)

Map

Logistics

Shanghai is easily accessible by air, with two major international airports: Pudong (PVG) and Hongqiao (SHA). Most international visitors arrive via Pudong, while Hongqiao handles domestic and some regional flights. High-speed trains connect Shanghai to cities like Beijing, Hangzhou, and Suzhou, making rail a convenient option.

For digital nomads on a budget, booking early and using discount travel platforms can yield good deals on flights and trains. Intercity buses are also an option but tend to be slower. July in Shanghai is hot and humid, with occasional rainstorms, which may cause flight or train delays, so build in extra time for your travel plans.

Weather

Shanghai has a humid subtropical climate, with four distinct seasons. Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are mild and pleasant, while winters are chilly and damp. Summers, especially from June to August, are hot, humid, and rainy, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F).

From July 11 to July 18, expect high humidity, frequent rain showers, and daytime highs around 33°C (91°F). This time falls within the East Asian monsoon season, so heavy downpours and occasional thunderstorms are possible. Typhoons sometimes occur in July, so stay updated on local weather alerts during your visit.

Food & Drink

Shanghai’s cuisine features dishes like xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), shengjianbao (pan-fried buns), and savory braised pork (hong shao rou). Streets in the French Concession and Yuyuan Garden offer tasty street food and local snacks. Try a traditional Shanghai breakfast at stalls or bustling canteens where locals dine.

For digital nomads on an average budget, hip cafes like Manner Coffee and Egg offer reliable Wi-Fi and relaxed atmospheres, while Lost Heaven and Hai Di Lao give excellent value for local and Yunnan cuisine. Rooftop bars like Bar Rouge provide stunning Bund views for an evening drink. Tipping isn’t customary; service charges may already be included.

Allergy and vegetarian options are available at modern eateries, though classic spots may have limited choices. English menus are common in international neighborhoods, and food delivery apps make it easy to try local flavors from co-working spaces or your accommodation.

A picture of Peking Duck

Peking Duck

Peking Duck is a famous Chinese dish featuring crispy duck skin, tender duck meat, and thin pancakes, all...

A picture of Xiaolongbao

Xiaolongbao

Xiaolongbao is a type of steamed bun (baozi) originating from Jiangsu province. Filled with hot soup and a...

A picture of Mapo Tofu

Mapo Tofu

Mapo Tofu is a spicy Sichuan dish made with soft tofu, minced meat, and fermented black beans, all...

A picture of Hot Pot

Hot Pot

Hot Pot is a communal dining experience involving a simmering pot of flavorful broth into which various raw...

A picture of Kung Pao Chicken

Kung Pao Chicken

Kung Pao Chicken is a classic Sichuan dish featuring tender chunks of chicken stir-fried with peanuts, vegetables, and...

Accommodation

For a digital nomad on an average budget, central neighborhoods like Jing’an, the Former French Concession, or Xintiandi offer great hotel options, excellent cafés, co-working spaces, and easy metro access. Reputable mid-range hotels include The Middle House, Radisson Blu Hotel Shanghai New World, and URBN Boutique Shanghai. Hostels like Mingtown Etour or the Rock & Wood International are friendly and budget-conscious.

Booking.com and Agoda are the most reliable sites for deals on Shanghai hotels. July is a busy travel month, so book early to secure the best rates and availability. Consider accommodations with strong Wi-Fi, comfortable workspaces, and proximity to subway lines for convenient city exploration during your stay.

Itinerary

Settle into Shanghai’s vibrant urban landscape by soaking in its skyline, navigating bustling neighborhoods, and experiencing the city’s dynamic energy for the first time.

Stroll Along the Bund

Begin your Shanghai experience with a walk along the historic Bund. Enjoy panoramic views of the iconic skyline and get your first taste of the city’s unique blend of old and new architecture. Try visiting just before sunset for great photo opportunities!

Zhujiajiao Water Town and Shanghai City Private Day Tour

Zhujiajiao Water Town and Shanghai City Private Day Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Discover Shanghai’s most incredible city attractions and beautiful Zhujiajiao Water Town during this wonderful private day tour. Accompanied by a professional guide, stroll around the old lanes with antiquated architecture, wander along the canal with old bridges and take the boat on tranquil canals in Zhujiajiao for a half day. Followed by another half day tour to see the Shanghai city top attractions, such as Yu Garden, the spectacular skyline on the Bund as well as the panoramic view from the top of Shanghai Tower. An authentic Chinese lunch in the water town, boat ride ticket, entrance fee to Shanghai Tower, private guide and driver service are all inclusive.

5.0 (918 reviews)

From $229 USD

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Attractions

3.6 (108 reviews)
Shanghai Half Day Morning or Afternoon Sightseeing Tour

Shanghai Half Day Morning or Afternoon Sightseeing Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Got only half a day to explore Shanghai? Discover the 'must-see' sights such as Jade Buddha Temple, Fresh Water Pearl Gallery and Shanghai Museum on the morning tour or The Bund, Yuyuan Garden, Shanghai Old Street, a silk mill and Shanghai's entertainment district on the afternoon tour. A guided sightseeing tour of Shanghai is a must for anyone visiting China's most modern city.

From $53 USD

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5.0 (11 reviews)
4-Hr Shanghai Tour: Food, Culture, Sightseeing, Cycling, Ferry

4-Hr Shanghai Tour: Food, Culture, Sightseeing, Cycling, Ferry

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

This tour offers a fresh perspective to appreciate the city. With a guided stroll in the Lujiazui area, you can capture unique postcard-worthy scenic views and learn more about your surroundings. A ferry ride evokes nostalgia, providing an approachable and familiar experience. Hop on a bike or hit the trails for an amazing way to see both the disappearing present and the constructing future. A visit to Xiahai Temple offers a moment of serenity amidst its traditional architecture and rich cultural heritage. You’ll also have the chance to taste signature snacks at City Mart, immersing yourself in the lives of Shanghai neighborhoods from the late 20th century. Then, enjoy a cup of tea in friendship with the locals, getting up close to the etiquette and customs of ethnic tea culture, which is truly unique. Throughout our exploration, the hours on the road are never dull!

From $93 USD

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3.9 (64 reviews)
China Acrobatics Show and Shanghai Evening Tour

China Acrobatics Show and Shanghai Evening Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Your evening tour of Shanghai begins by attending an astounding performance by the Shanghai Acrobatics School&Troupe. They have won hundreds of gold medals in different international acrobatics competitions, and are beloved by their countrymen for the incredible feats of skill and grace. If you have never experienced a world-class acrobatics show, this is a must-see event. The show tickets in level C are included. If you need to upgrade your tickets into level B or level A, please contact the local tour operator after you purchase.

From $119 USD

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3.2 (6 reviews)
Shanghai Afternoon Sightseeing Tour including Huangpu River Cruise & OTV Tower

Shanghai Afternoon Sightseeing Tour including Huangpu River Cruise & OTV Tower

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

The tour starts with the Oriental TV Tower, the unmistakable symbol of modern Shanghai. It overlooks the industry and commerce quickly developing on the banks of the Huangpu River. You will enjoy a panoramic view of Shanghai from the main observatory and have the opportunity to orient yourself to the thriving metropolis you are about to discover. A cruise on Huang River gives you another way to see the Bund, the cultural district along the river. From this floating vantage point, you will see 80-100 year old buildings with diverse architectural styles: Gothic, Baroque, and Romanesque. Then you visit the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall. Here you will see the vision for the new Shanghai, complete with exhibits and an impressive scale model of the city planned for the future. Your final stop is Nanjing Road, the first commercial street in China. It is always bustling with excitement, with locals, business people and tourists alike.

From $137 USD

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5.0 (2 reviews)
4-Hour Private Tour of Pudong with China Art Palace Museum and Shanghai Tower

4-Hour Private Tour of Pudong with China Art Palace Museum and Shanghai Tower

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

To see, to believe and to witness the splendor of Pudong in Shanghai. No matter you are an art lover, architecture fan. This private tour will take you to visit the two amazing sites in the area: China Art Palace Museum and Shanghai Tower. Appreciate the striking design of “Oriental Crown” of the Palace museum and delve into the unique and masterpieces of art exhibitions, take in the fantastic bird-eye of mega Shanghai on 118 Floor observation deck of 2nd tallest building in the world. Tour around with your expert guide and have great overview of the city.

From $103 USD

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4.8 (6 reviews)
Private Shanghai in One Day Guided Sightseeing Tour

Private Shanghai in One Day Guided Sightseeing Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

For the first-timer, this private Shanghai day tour should be the top priority. Both traditional and modern sights of Shanghai are covered by visiting Shanghai Old Street, Yuyuan Garden, the Bund, People Square, Jade Buddha Temple, Former French Concession at Xintiandi, and Pudong Lujiazui Financial and Business Center. Your Senior English-speaking guide will share his knowledge of Shanghai's cultures, architectural buildings, different religions, Shanghai's history, and way of life with you. Also, a special selected local Chinese restaurant will offer you a chance to try authentic Shanghai cuisine. The tour is only operates for your party. So it is more flexible to adapt to your pace.

From $180 USD

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5.0 (1 reviews)
All Inclusive Food Featured Shanghai Vibe Sightseeing Tour

All Inclusive Food Featured Shanghai Vibe Sightseeing Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

“Food is god for the people”, as a Chinese saying goes. Whether be a foodie or not, in addition to seeing the highlights of Shanghai, you are encouraged by us to witness (if eerie) and taste (if acceptable) various local food here to vibrate with the people here via their first necessity of life. In this tour, along the way of sightseeing covering highlights, you will be introduced to a round of local tasty nosh.

From $133 USD

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4.4 (25 reviews)
Xi'an Full Day Sightseeing Tour - Shaanxi History Museum, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Ancient City Wall

Xi'an Full Day Sightseeing Tour - Shaanxi History Museum, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Ancient City Wall

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Spend a full day exploring the unique history, culture, beautiful architecture and religious monuments of the ancient walled city of Xi'an. One of the capitals of ancient China, this city is also one of the four capitals of the world’s ancient civilizations. Visit the Shaanxi History Museum and learn all about the “Silk Road” city, one of the most well-protected cities in China. Tour the Big Wild Goose Pagoda with your expert guide, stop at the Great Mosque and enjoy an authentic Chinese lunch. Note: Shaanxi History Museum has the strict limitation for the entrance tickets every day. Once it is not available, you will visit its sister museum -- Shaanxi Archaeology Museum, instead.

From $129 USD

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5.0 (205 reviews)
8-Day Small-Group China Tour to Beijing, Xi'an and Shanghai

8-Day Small-Group China Tour to Beijing, Xi'an and Shanghai

INSTANT_THEN_MANUAL

8-Day China small group tour to Beijing, Xi'an and Shanghai. This is the most popular and all-inclusive escorted China tour package. You will see the three most iconic Chinese cities, with sweeping views of the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, the Terracotta Warriors, and many other highlights. The maximum number of travelers is 18 and there are no tourist shopping stops or factories to take up your travel time.

From $1579 USD

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4.9 (10 reviews)
Private China Tour to Beijing, Xi'an, Zhangjiajie and Shanghai

Private China Tour to Beijing, Xi'an, Zhangjiajie and Shanghai

INSTANT

This 11-day itinerary is ingeniously designed to show you the top attractions in Beijing, Xian and Shanghai including the Great Wall, Forbidden City, Terracotta Warriors and Shanghai Bund area, etc. And you will also see the Avatar floating mountains in Zhangjiajie & experience the No.1 glass bridge.

From $2999 USD

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4.9 (323 reviews)
Private Full-Day Tour: Incredible Shanghai Highlights

Private Full-Day Tour: Incredible Shanghai Highlights

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

If you have very limited time in Shanghai, and want to go home with a great understanding of Shanghai, its people, history and culture, then this private day tour is perfect for you! You will visit both the east and west sides of Shanghai and also discover Shanghai's fascinating mix of modern and classic character. The major attractions in this tour includes: Shanghai Tower, The Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai World Financial Center, The Bund, Riverside Promenade (Binjiang Da Dao), Yu Yuan Garden, French Concession area and much more! Note that observation decks in Lujiazui area are optional so you can choose based on conditions.

From $109 USD

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4.9 (132 reviews)
Private Evening Tour: VIP Huangpu River Cruise and Shanghai Lights

Private Evening Tour: VIP Huangpu River Cruise and Shanghai Lights

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

In this private evening tour, you will have the chance to enjoy the amazing night lights of Shanghai City.  Besides visiting Old Shanghai Town, Xin Tian Di, Lujiazui commercial area and some 100 years old buildings in the city, you will also take the evening VIP Class cruise on the Hungpu River.

From $128 USD

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3.8 (115 reviews)
Huangpu River Cruise and Bund City Lights Evening Tour of Shanghai

Huangpu River Cruise and Bund City Lights Evening Tour of Shanghai

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

The Bund is the cultural section of Shanghai that best represents the blending of ancient and modern influences. This renowned waterfront district is the city’s most famous landmark. You’ll experience the definition literally with a feeling of space and openness that you won’t find anywhere else in Shanghai. The tour starts with an evening cruise on the Huangpu River, which divides the Bund into two sections, Pu Dong and Pu Xi, which mean “east of river” and “west of river”. Local people honor the Huangpu as Mother River, and as you view the lights and spectacle from the deck of your evening cruise, you will understand it. After the cruise, we will enjoy a walk along the Bund on our way to the historically famous Peace Hotel, which served as the center of Shanghai’s nightlife in the 1920’s and 30’s. Then we will take a trolley tour to enjoy the magnificent night view of Nanjing Road.

From $79 USD

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5.0 (7 reviews)
Old Shanghai City Walking Tour

Old Shanghai City Walking Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

You will get an inside perspective of the changing scenes of Shanghai on this 4-hour walking tour that explores old city districts where local residents can be seen playing cards on street corners and walking the alleys in their pajamas! You will witness the great changes and the developments of recent 30 years in Shanghai. The tour includes Bund, Yu Garden, an ancient Chinese Tea house, local insects market, and the trendy French Concession.

From $65 USD

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5.0 (10 reviews)
Private Shanghai Ultimate Flexible Shopping Tour: 4 or 8-hour Options

Private Shanghai Ultimate Flexible Shopping Tour: 4 or 8-hour Options

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

This flexible shopping tour with our expert shopping guide will help you find whatever you are looking for whether its custom clothes, souvenirs, pearls, bags or any of the 1000's of items and brands that can be found in the many Shanghai shopping areas. There is no set itinerary since you'll discuss your goals and desires with our guide and be off to shop! Your desired pick-up/drop-off services ensure a stress-free enjoyable and entertaining day.

From $75 USD

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5.0 (11 reviews)
Shanghai Nightlife: Bars in The Bund and Old French Concession

Shanghai Nightlife: Bars in The Bund and Old French Concession

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Come and enjoy your Shanghai night with your party king guide! Your exciting night life starts from the trendy bar street in Xintiandi to the former French Concession area. Embrace the popularity brought by mixed culture from all over the world. Have a drink of some local craft beer, coctail or wine in the traditional shikumen (stone gate) houses . Then, escort to a stylish rooftop bar located on 32nd floor of a skyscraper on the Bund, commanding the breathtaking views of both sides of the Huangpu River- the Bund and the colorful skyline of the Lujiazui area. Dance at one of the poshest club in Fuxing Park.

From $193 USD

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