Shanghai serves as a primary financial, commercial, and cultural centre in China. Located on the eastern seaboard at the mouth of the Yangtze River, the city functions as a major port and a gateway for international trade. The urban landscape reflects a transition from long-standing traditions to modern growth, evident in local architecture and residents' global perspective.

The skyline and historical districts are central features of the city. Visitors will find a range of environments, including classical Chinese gardens, colonial-era buildings, and high-rise towers. A functional public transport network and a diverse range of accommodation options support the city. Cultural institutions and shopping districts offer a range of activities for travellers in the region.

How to reach Shanghai?

• By air: Two international airports serve the city. Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) handles the majority of international arrivals and long-haul flights from Asia, Europe, the Americas, and Oceania. Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA) primarily manages domestic routes and short-distance flights within East Asia. Both locations are connected to the city centre via metro, shuttle buses, taxis, and rail services.
• By train: Shanghai is a central hub within the national high-speed rail network. Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station provides frequent services to cities including Beijing, Hangzhou, Nanjing, Suzhou, and Guangzhou. Conventional rail and regional routes operate through Shanghai Railway Station and Shanghai South Railway Station. Rail travel is a common choice for domestic visitors due to its frequency and reliability.
• By road: National expressways link Shanghai to the provinces of Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Anhui. Long-distance buses operate between major terminals in the city and surrounding towns. Road travel is generally less frequent over long distances than air or rail, as traffic congestion can increase transit times.
• Getting around/local transport in Shanghai: Shanghai boasts one of the most highly developed and integrated city transportation networks in the world. The Shanghai Metro serves almost all major districts, tourist attractions, commercial zones, and transport hubs; therefore, it is usually the most convenient mode of travel within the city. The public buses operate on an extensive network of routes across both the urban and suburban areas of the metropolis. Licensed taxis and online taxi services are also widely available. Ferries across the Huangpu River and well-organised pedestrian and cycling paths support local short-distance travel.

Shanghai provides a variety of shopping environments, from large-scale luxury malls and historic commercial streets to specialised local markets. This variety serves guests interested in international brands and those seeking regional handicrafts.

• Nanjing Road, Shanghai: Nanjing Road is a primary commercial street in the city centre. It features a mixture of international retailers, traditional Chinese shops, and large department stores. A significant portion of the road is a pedestrian-only zone, providing access to a high volume of retail outlets.
• Huaihai Road, Shanghai: Located in the Former French Concession, the road is known for its upscale retail scene. The street is lined with trees and houses numerous fashion brands and boutiques. It is often frequented by visitors seeking modern fashion and lifestyle products in a structured setting.
• IFC Mall, Shanghai: Situated in the Lujiazui financial district, this mall focuses on international luxury brands. The facility includes a cinema and various dining options. Its proximity to the major office towers in Pudong makes it a frequent stop for the business community and international guests.
• Super Brand Mall, Shanghai: This large-scale shopping centre is located near the Oriental Pearl Tower. It contains a wide range of mid-market fashion outlets and recreational facilities, making it a practical choice for families and large groups.
• Xintiandi, Shanghai: Xintiandi is an affluent car-free shopping and dining district. It is composed of reconstructed traditional shikumen (stone gate) houses. The area serves as a transition between historical architecture and modern retail.
• South Bund Fabric Market, Shanghai: For guests interested in custom-made clothing, this three-storey market houses hundreds of tailors. Visitors can browse a vast selection of silk, wool, and cotton to have garments produced to their measurements.

Beyond the primary landmarks, Shanghai offers several ways for guests to engage with the regional history and local lifestyle.

• Visiting traditional water towns: Several ancient water towns are located on the outskirts of the city, including Zhujiajiao, Qibao, and Nanxiang. These areas feature historical bridges and canal networks that reflect the Jiangnan regional style. They provide a contrast to the high-rise environment of the city centre and contain numerous temples and traditional folk art displays. Qibao is the closest, located approximately 18 km from the city centre and accessible by metro.
• Exploring the Shikumen architecture:Shikumen is a distinctive Shanghai residential architectural style that combines Western terrace elements with traditional Chinese courtyard layouts. While some areas have been modernised, guests can still find authentic lanes in the Xuhui and Jing'an districts. These neighbourhoods provide insight into the urban living conditions of the early 20th century.
• Walking down the creative districts and art spaces: The city has repurposed several industrial sites into cultural hubs. M50 Creative Park, located in a former textile mill on the banks of the Suzhou Creek, houses numerous contemporary art galleries and artist studios. The West Bund Cultural Corridor is another significant area, featuring large-scale museums such as the Long Museum and the Centre Pompidou x West Bund Museum Project.
• A hot cup of traditional tea: Visiting a tea house allows guests to observe traditional preparation methods. Many establishments specialise in regional varieties such as Longjing (Dragon Well) or Biluochun. These venues often serve as quiet spaces for residents and visitors to engage with Chinese tea rituals and history.
• Experiencing performing arts: Shanghai is a centre for various forms of Chinese opera, including the local Huju (Shanghai Opera) and the widely recognised Peking Opera. The Shanghai Grand Theatre and the Yifu Theatre frequently host performances. These shows are known for their specific vocal styles, elaborate costumes, and traditional storytelling.
• Enjoying panoramic views on the Huangpu River Cruise: A river cruise provides a perspective on the city's development, showing the colonial-era buildings of Puxi on one side and the modern skyscrapers of Pudong on the other. Route lengths range from 45 minutes to over an hour.
• Exploring traditional artforms: In the early morning, residents use public spaces such as Fuxing Park and People’s Square for Tai Chi and calligraphy. Observing these activities provides insight into the daily social routines of the local population.