East China city guide
Shanghai
City walks, skyline views, museums, food streets, and high-speed rail connections.
Recommended stay2-4 days
Best seasonSpring and autumn are easier for walking; summer can feel hot and humid.
What to plan around
- The Bund
- Yu Garden area
- Former French Concession
- Shanghai Museum
First-day pacing
- Confirm the airport or railway station you actually arrive at.
- Save the hotel name in Chinese.
- Plan one flexible indoor backup.
Transport notes
- Metro covers most first-trip routes.
- Airport transfers depend on arrival time and terminal.
- Check the exact station name before booking trains.
Apps for this city
Prepare these before arrival
DiDi China
Ride hailing, pickup points, and driver messaging
First-city transport and late arrivals
Alipay
Payments, transport QR codes, and local services
Payment setup and wallet fallback
Messaging, payments, mini programs, and service accounts
Payment and communication backup
Google Translate
Downloaded languages, camera translation, and typed phrases
Signs, menus, labels, and staffed help