Shanghai
Shanghai, a global financial hub on China's eastern coast, blends historic waterfront architecture with futuristic skylines, bustling markets and a fast-moving cultural scene.
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About Shanghai
Shanghai is China's largest city and one of the world's leading financial, trade and shipping hubs. Built along the Huangpu River, it combines a historic waterfront, tree-lined former concession neighbourhoods and one of the most recognisable modern skylines in Asia.
The city's modern identity grew from its 19th-century history as a treaty port and international trading centre. Landmarks such as the Bund, Yu Garden and the shikumen lane houses of the former French Concession reflect this layered past, while Pudong's Shanghai Tower, Shanghai World Financial Center and Oriental Pearl Tower show the city's rapid contemporary transformation.
Popular areas include the Bund and Nanjing Road for shopping and river views, the former French Concession for cafés, boutiques and plane-tree-lined streets, Jing'an for temples and dining, and Lujiazui in Pudong for finance, hotels and observation decks. Museums such as the Shanghai Museum, China Art Museum and Power Station of Art cover art, history and contemporary culture.
Shanghai is also a major centre for business, trade fairs and innovation, hosting events such as the China International Import Expo and major industry exhibitions. Its food scene ranges from soup dumplings and local benbang cuisine to Michelin-starred and international restaurants, while bars and clubs on the Bund and in Xintiandi offer lively nightlife.
For travellers, Shanghai works equally well for business and leisure: it offers efficient transport, global connections, world-class hotels and a mix of heritage, culture, dining and modern urban experiences.
Shanghai Travel Guide
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer mild weather and comfortable sightseeing. Summer is hot and humid, while winter is cooler and can be damp; avoid national holidays if you prefer fewer crowds.
How to Get Around
Shanghai has an extensive metro network, plus buses, taxis and ride-hailing services that cover most of the city. The metro is the fastest way to cross the city, while the Bund, former French Concession and many central areas are walkable.
Where to Stay
The Bund and Huangpu area suit travellers who want major landmarks and luxury hotels nearby. The former French Concession offers boutiques, cafés and quieter tree-lined streets, while Pudong's Lujiazui area is convenient for business and river views.
Food & Drink
Shanghai is known for xiaolongbao soup dumplings, shengjianbao pan-fried buns and benbang-style local dishes. Try street food around Yu Garden, traditional restaurants, or international and fine-dining options across the city, with hairy crab in season during autumn.
Ground Transportation Services in Shanghai
Airport Transfers
Travel between Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) or Hongqiao International Airport (SHA) and hotels, business districts, venues and other destinations across Shanghai.
Hourly Chauffeur
Book a private chauffeur by the hour for business meetings, events, sightseeing and flexible travel around Shanghai.
Car Rental
Rent a car in Shanghai for independent travel around the city and convenient day trips to nearby water towns such as Zhujiajiao, Suzhou and Hangzhou.
Bus & Group Transfers
Arrange minibuses or charter buses for groups, corporate travel, events, airport transfers and sightseeing tours in Shanghai.
Frequently Asked Questions
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