3-Star Hotels in Shanghai

Are you ready to explore the charm of Shanghai? With China's 144-hour (six days) visa-free transit policy, it's never been easier to start your journey here. As the first stop for many international travelers on their China adventures, Shanghai offers a mix of old-world charm and cutting-edge modernity. From its towering skyline to its bustling markets, Shanghai is a city that never disappoints. Pack your bags now and let Shanghai be your starting point for an unforgettable trip across China!

Getting Around Shanghai

Shanghai is a city with a huge flow of overseas tourists, and most international flights land at Pudong Airport.

Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG)

Location: Located in the eastern part of Pudong New Area, about 42 kilometers (26 miles) east of the city center.

Surroundings: Accessible via the Maglev Train (the fastest train in the world for a commercial short-haul route), which takes you from the airport to Longyang Road Station in just over 8 minutes, followed by a transfer to the Metro Line 2. Alternatively, take Airport Shuttle Buses or Taxis directly to the city.

Tips: If you're catching a red-eye flight, consider staying at one of these hotels that offer airport shuttle services to make your trip a breeze.

Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA)

Location: Situated in the western suburbs of Shanghai, around 20 kilometers (12 miles) west of the city center.

Surroundings: Adjacent to Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station, making it very convenient for intermodal travel. Accessible via Metro Line 2 and Line 10. Hongqiao Transportation Hub also connects to the high-speed railway network, allowing easy access to other cities in China.

During your visit to Shanghai, you can also choose these ways to get around:

- Metro: Operates from about 5:00 AM to midnight, with fares ranging from $0.41 (3 RMB) for short distances to over $1.38 (10 RMB) for longer routes. （Note：Starting from April 15, 2024, all overseas personnel can use foreign cards to purchase subway tickets directly through manual services. Of course, you can also use the subway QR code in the Alipay app.）

- Taxis: Readily available with a starting fare of $1.93 (14 RMB) for the first 3 kilometers. Rates increase per kilometer thereafter, with a surcharge for late-night rides.

- Buses: A cheaper alternative to other transport modes, with fares from $0.28 (2 RMB) to $0.69 (5 RMB).

- Maglev Train: Connects Pudong International Airport to Longyang Road Metro Station in about 8 minutes. A one-way ticket costs about $6.9 (50 RMB), with discounts available for showing a same-day airline ticket.

Want to visit nearby cities from Shanghai? Just go to the train station. Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station is a major hub, easily accessible via Metro Lines 2, 10, and 17, surrounded by shopping malls and business districts. Another notable one is Shanghai South Railway Station, known for its extensive train networks connecting to various cities across China, and accessible via Metro Line 1, 3, and 15.

Top Attractions in Shanghai

Shanghai is filled with a blend of traditional and modern attractions. From magical theme parks to iconic skyscrapers and historic gardens, there's something for everyone.

Shanghai Disneyland

Enter a world of enchantment where fairy tales come to life. Marvel at the lifelike animals in Zootopia, the first-ever thrilling zone inspired by the Disney·Pixar film "Zootopia." The park's magical atmosphere make it a perfect family getaway.

Right now, the magic of winter has once again descended upon us. The "Disney Winter Fantasy Ice & Snow Festival" makes its grand return, running from November 8th, 2024, until February 21st, 2025. Disney's got a whole slew of fantastic winter-themed events for you, including "Mickey's Magical Snowfall Moments" and the "Disney Winter Fantasy Parade."

Where to Stay: Since Disneyland is far from the city center, if you're looking for a hassle-free trip, consider staying at these hotels near the park that offer free shuttle service, like Shanghai Disneyland Hotel, Novotel Shanghai Clover, and Royal International Hotel Shanghai.

Oriental Pearl Tower

The Oriental Pearl Tower stands tall and sleek along the Huangpu River, its three iconic spheres gleaming in the sun like giant pearls. Visit the observation decks to soak in panoramic views of the city, including the Huangpu River and the Bund. The tower also houses museums, restaurants, and an amusement park, making it a destination for sightseeing, dining, and entertainment.

The Bund

Take a leisurely stroll along the Bund, Shanghai's famous riverside promenade. Lined with historic European-style buildings and modern skyscrapers, it offers a striking contrast between the city's past and present. Enjoy a river cruise to see Shanghai's skyline from a different perspective or simply people-watch as you marvel at the architecture.

Yu Garden

Step into the serene world of Yu Garden, a classic Chinese garden dating back to the Ming Dynasty. This picturesque sanctuary features intricate landscapes, ancient bridges, and tranquil ponds. Wander through the lush greenery and admire the delicate pagodas and rock formations. Don't miss the market nearby, where you can buy traditional souvenirs and snacks.

Nanjing Road

Shop till you drop on Nanjing Road, Shanghai's premier shopping street. This pedestrian-only boulevard is lined with high-end boutiques, department stores, and local markets. From luxury brands to budget-friendly finds, Nanjing Road has it all. Don't forget to taste some local street food along the way—Shanghai's culinary scene is a highlight in itself.

What to Eat in Shanghai

Shanghai cuisine, also known as Hu cuisine (沪菜), is a popular style of Chinese cooking that originates from Shanghai, a city with a rich culinary tradition that has absorbed influences from neighboring provinces such as Jiangsu and Zhejiang. It is known for its emphasis on freshness, the use of alcohol to enhance flavor, and a balance between sweetness and saltiness.

Shrimp Wontons (虾仁小馄饨): Delicate wrappers filled with seasoned shrimp, served in a savory broth.

Crab Roe Noodles (蟹黄捞面): Fresh noodles topped with creamy crab roe, offering a rich umami flavor.

Xiaolongbao (小笼汤包): These delicate steamed soup dumplings are filled with pork and a savory broth that bursts in your mouth. A must-try for anyone visiting Shanghai.

Best time to visit Shanghai

Shanghai experiences mild and humid weather with four distinct seasons: a warm spring, hot rainy summers, cool autumns, and chilly, cloudy winters. The hottest period is typically around July and August, with several days seeing temperatures over 35°C. The coldest time usually spans from late January to early February.

Best time to visit Shanghai is generally during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). The weather is pleasant, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds compared to summer and winter. During these seasons, you can enjoy outdoor activities and explore the city's attractions without the sweltering heat or bitter cold.

To avoid large crowds and potential overcrowding, it's recommended to steer clear of major Chinese holidays such as Labor Day (May 1st, usually a week-long holiday) and National Day (October 1st, also typically a week-long holiday). These periods can see a significant increase in tourist numbers, leading to longer wait times at attractions and busier public transportation. Planning your trip away from these dates will help ensure a more enjoyable and less crowded experience in Shanghai.

Better to Know Before Visiting Shanghai

Currency: The local currency is the Chinese Yuan (RMB). You can exchange your dollars at airports, banks, or currency exchange kiosks. ATMs are widespread and accept international cards.

Payment Methods: Shanghai is very digital-friendly. Besides cash, mobile payments like Alipay are widely accepted in stores, restaurants, and even street vendors. Credit cards are also generally accepted in larger establishments.

Language: While many young locals, especially in tourist areas, understand basic English, learning a few Mandarin phrases can be helpful.

Emergency Contacts: Police: 110；Ambulance/Medical Emergency: 120；Fire: 119；General Emergency (non-urgent English assistance): 12345 (Shanghai Municipal Service Hotline)

Time in Shanghai

Shanghai operates on China Standard Time (GMT+8) and doesn't observe Daylight Saving Time.

Note: The time difference is calculated based on the standard time zones and does not account for Daylight Saving Time (DST), which may affect the actual time difference depending on the specific dates. When planning a trip, it's advisable to check the current time difference and DST status for accurate scheduling.