The best months to visit Shanghai are Mar – May, Sep – Nov. 15–28°C, clear skies.
Quick facts
Currency CNY (Yuan/RMB) 1 USD ≈ ¥7.25
Language Mandarin Chinese Limited English outside hotels
Timezone CST (UTC+8) No daylight saving
Best Months Mar – May, Sep – Nov 15–28°C, clear skies
Daily Budget ~$40–65 USD ¥290–470 budget
Visa 144-hour transit Visa-free transit for many nationalities
When to go
Colonial grandeur meets sci-fi skyline across a river that divides the past from the future, connected by dumplings and ambition.
Getting Around in Shanghai
- Shanghai Metro has 19 lines and covers the city extensively. Fares ¥3–9. Get a Shanghai Public Transportation Card (¥20 deposit) for convenience
- DiDi (China's Uber) is essential for taxis, as most drivers don't speak English. The app translates destinations automatically
- Shared bikes (Hellobike, Meituan) are ¥1.5 per 15 minutes. Scan QR code with Alipay or WeChat. Great for French Concession exploring
For itineraries, costs and practical travel advice, see the full Shanghai travel guide.
Timezone: CST (UTC+8) (No daylight saving)
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Shanghai?
The best months to visit Shanghai are Mar – May, Sep – Nov (15–28°C, clear skies), which makes for the most comfortable conditions for sightseeing and getting around. For what a trip costs day to day, see the Shanghai budget breakdown.
