Shanghai holidays

How to reach Shanghai

• Flight time: Direct flights to Shanghai are available from London and take 11–13 hours. Alternative routes, plus flights from other UK airports, will include stopovers at hubs in Europe or the Middle East and take around 15–18 hours in total.

• Transfer time: From Pudong International Airport, the Maglev train zips you to Longyang Road in just 8 minutes, where you can change to the metro or other methods to get elsewhere in the city centre. Line 2 of the metro takes you all the way from the airport to the city centre in about 1 hour. Otherwise, it's 45–60 minutes by taxi, depending on traffic.

• Price: The Maglev costs ¥50 (£5) into town (plus connection), with a single metro ride costing ¥7 (£0.75). Taxis are usually around ¥200–¥250 (£21–£27) depending on where you're heading and traffic.

Best time to visit Shanghai

The weather in Shanghai varies throughout the year, so the ideal time to visit depends on what kind of activities you are looking to do. Here's a breakdown of what to expect year-round:

• March to May is one of the best times to visit. With mild temperatures (13 to 25°C), plenty of spring sunshine, low rainfall, and colourful, blossoming trees and flowers, it's a great time for outdoor activities.

• June to August is high season, but be prepared for heat (average temperatures climb from 26 to 32°C), humidity and the arrival of the summer rains in July, when you'll need to keep an umbrella handy.

• September to October is another excellent time to visit, with warm weather, less humidity, a decent amount of sunshine and golden autumn light. Temperatures range from 20 to 26°C, with less rain than in summer.

• November to February is Shanghai’s low season. Temperatures drop from 12 to around 8°C, but it’s not too wet. With fewer tourists, this is generally a peaceful time to explore, although it can get busy at Chinese New Year.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Mandarin is China’s official language, but many locals speak Shanghainese, a distinct dialect of the region. In tourist areas, English is fairly well understood, especially in hotels and restaurants.

• Local habits and customs: While Shanghai has a fast-paced, cosmopolitan vibe, showing respect for Chinese customs is appreciated. For instance, avoid pointing with your finger – use your whole hand – and if offered a business card, receive it with both hands. Clothing rules are generally quite relaxed. Tipping in restaurants is not expected.

• Health and safety: Shanghai is generally safe, but as with any large city, keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places, take care on the roads and be on the look out for scams. Tap water isn’t safe to drink, so stick to bottled water, which is widely available. Healthcare is good, but it's best to arrange travel insurance that will cover any medical expenses before you go.

• Currency: The currency in mainland China is the yuan (¥), or renminbi. ATMs are everywhere in the city, and major credit cards are accepted in most places frequented by tourists. However, cash is still king in local markets, so keep some handy for smaller purchases.

• Getting around: Shanghai’s metro is efficient and easy to navigate, and single journeys start at ¥3 (£0.30). Taxis are also convenient, with short rides costing under ¥40 (£4.50), but it’s best to have your destination written in Chinese.

• Electricity and plug types: Mainland China uses 220V with Type A, C and I plugs. UK travellers will need a standard two-pin or multi-adapter.

• Time zone: Shanghai operates on China Standard Time (CST), 8 hours ahead of GMT.

• Required travel documentation: UK citizens need a visa to enter China. Be sure to apply online well in advance. Then, you'll have to go to the Chinese embassy or a visa centre (London, Manchester, or Edinburgh). You will need proof of onward travel and a booking for accommodation.

Best things to do in Shanghai

Shanghai is the most modern and Westernized city in mainland China, blending modern architectural marvels with a fascinating historical backdrop. From the iconic skyline of Pudong that showcases some of the world’s tallest skyscrapers to the colonial buildings of the Bund along the Huangpu River and quaint traditional areas just outside the city centre, holidays to Shanghai offer a vibrant mix of areas and activities.

The best districts

• The French Concession: This leafy, European-style district is full of chic cafés and boutiques in historical buildings. It’s a lovely area to stroll around, offering a slower pace compared to Shanghai’s bustling streets.

• The Bund: This historic waterfront offers some of the best views of Shanghai’s impressive skyline. Walk along the promenade to admire the contrast between the old colonial buildings and the futuristic skyscrapers of Pudong across the river.

• Pudong: Home to some of the city’s tallest skyscrapers, Pudong’s futuristic vibe is undeniable. Walk among the soaring buildings and visit iconic spots like the Shanghai Tower and the Oriental Pearl Tower.

Historical monuments

• Yu Yuan: This classical 16th-century garden offers a peaceful retreat from the city. Wander through its pavilions, rockeries, tranquil ponds and walls shaped like dragons to experience the elegance of ancient Chinese landscape design.

• Yufo Temple: One of the most famous Buddhist temples in Shanghai, it houses two exquisite jade Buddha statues from Myanmar. Visitors are welcome to admire the artistry of the buildings or take part in traditional prayers.

• Longhua Temple: Shanghai’s most active Buddhist temple and the oldest in the city, this beautiful complex dates back to the Han Dynasty, with a striking pagoda from the 10th century. The serene surroundings make it a great spot for reflection.

Day trips in the area

• Hangzhou: A quick high-speed train ride away, Hangzhou’s scenic West Lake is renowned for its tranquil beauty and historic temples. The lake’s picturesque vistas have inspired poets and painters for centuries.

• Suzhou: Famous for its classical gardens, Suzhou offers a serene escape with its traditional architecture and flowing waterways. The city is also known for its silk industry, so don’t miss the chance to explore local silk factories.

Activities for families in Shanghai

Shanghai is an excellent destination for family holidays, with a wide range of activities and attractions that cater to visitors of all ages.

• Shanghai Tower: Head up to the top of the tallest building in China for breathtaking views. As well as the world’s highest observation deck, the tower’s lift is the world’s fastest, making the ride up an adventure in itself.

• Museums: Shanghai Museum is one of the best in China, with a fantastic collection of art and historical objects from all over the country. The Shanghai History Museum does a good job of portraying more recent history from the 19th century, with wax figures set in various scenes from daily life.

• Theme parks: Shanghai Disneyland is a fantastic place to spend a day full of thrills and adventure, and has the largest castle of any Disney resort. West of the city centre, Qibao is a local theme park where renovated buildings are home to museums, souvenir shops and eateries, as well as a boat ride to take in the sights from the water.

Free things to do in Shanghai

Shanghai has plenty of free events and attractions that offer a taste of the city’s culture without costing you a penny.

• Free events: Throughout the year, Shanghai hosts several free festivals and events. The Spring Festival (Chinese New Year) and Mid-Autumn Festival are exciting times to be in the city, with public celebrations, performances and colourful decorations.

• Free museums: The Shanghai Museum is one of the best places to explore Chinese art and history and offers free entry if you book online in advance. You can explore ancient ceramics, sculpture, and paintings.

Local dishes in Shanghai

One of the most exciting aspects of Shanghai holidays is the chance to savour the incredible food on offer, both from the region and further afield. From dumplings to the city’s fresh seafood, here are some of the must-try dishes:

Some typical dishes

• Xiaolongbao: These famous dumplings are a must-try in Shanghai. Delicately thin wrappers filled with pork and savoury broth, traditionally served in bamboo steamers.

• Shengjianbao: These pan-fried pork buns are similar to xiaolongbao, but with a crispy base, and make a popular snack.

• Lion’s head meatballs: A comforting dish made from large pork meatballs cooked with Chinese cabbage, often served in a rich broth.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Squirrel fish: This elaborate dish features freshwater fish, usually deep-fried in batter so it resembles a squirrel, topped with a sweet and sour sauce.

• Drunken shrimp: A local delicacy where shrimp are soaked in rice wine before cooking – or even just eaten raw – giving them a slightly sweet flavour. Not for the faint-hearted!

Street food

• Jianbing: A type of savoury Chinese crêpe, filled with egg, coriander and crispy wonton pieces. Perfect for a warming breakfast or a quick bite on the go.

• Chou doufu: An acquired taste, fermented "stinky tofu" is deep-fried and served with various sauces. Its strong smell is not for everyone, but locals love it!

Sweets and desserts

• Tangyuan: Glutinous rice balls filled with sweet sesame, red bean paste or chopped nuts, typically served in a warm soup. They are often eaten during festivals but can be found year-round.

• Mooncakes: A traditional treat, especially during the Mid-Autumn Festival, these pastries are filled with lotus seed paste or red bean and sometimes contain salted egg yolk.

Local drinks

• Tea: Famously drunk all over China, tea accompanies meals in restaurants or is served in teahouses. The most common varieties are red and green or flavours such as jasmine, and it’s always drunk without sugar and milk.

• Beer: Produced in China for over 9,000 years, beer now rivals tea as the country's most popular beverage and China is the world’s largest market. Snow Beer is the biggest brand, although Tsingtao is the best known, and craft beer is now on the rise.