The best time to visit Shanghai is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is most pleasant. Summers can be very hot and humid, while winters are typically cold and damp.
Most foreign travelers need a visa to visit Shanghai and mainland China, although there are exceptions. For example, citizens from certain countries can take advantage of the 144-hour visa-free transit policy if they meet the requirements.
Popular tourist attractions in Shanghai include The Bund, Yu Garden, Shanghai Tower, Xintiandi, Nanjing Road, Jing'an Temple, and the Shanghai Museum. Additionally, the city is home to various theme parks like Disneyland Shanghai.
Shanghai has an extensive and efficient public transportation system that includes the metro, buses, and taxis. Rental bikes and walking are also popular options for getting around, particularly in areas with heavy tourist traffic.
The currency used in Shanghai is the Chinese Yuan (CNY). Currency can be exchanged at the airport, banks, hotels, and official exchange booths. ATMs are widely available and often provide a good exchange rate.
Shanghai is famous for its cuisine. Some must-try dishes include Xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), Shengjianbao (pan-fried buns), Shanghai hairy crab, braised pork (Hong Shao Rou), and various types of dim sum.
It is generally not recommended to drink tap water in Shanghai without boiling or filtering it first. Bottled water is widely available and reasonably priced.
Shanghai is considered one of the safer large cities in the world for tourists. However, as with any major metropolitan area, it's always wise to stay vigilant for pickpocketing and scams, especially in crowded places.
Mandarin Chinese is the official language of Shanghai, but due to its international atmosphere, English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and by younger generations. It is helpful, however, to learn some basic Mandarin phrases.
Visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions. Common courtesies include removing shoes before entering a private home, avoiding public displays of affection, and being mindful of proper etiquette when using chopsticks during meals.
