Shanghai may not be the oldest city in China, nor the most historically relevant. What it does have, however, is a firm footing when it comes to modernization and technology. With a population of more than 15 million people, the city of Shanghai has a few old style buildings and streets but offers a strong representation not of what China was but what it wishes to become.

Exploring this modern city will put you in the midst of some of the most futuristic yet classic Chinese attractions and sites you’ve ever laid eyes on.

When to Visit Shanghai

The worst time to visit Shanghai is during the summer months. The summer months boast scorching temperatures and a level of humidity you simply won’t enjoy. The best time to visit, on the other hand is during the fall. During this time the crowds are thinner and the temperatures are much milder, making both indoor and outdoor exploration very enjoyable. If you must, for school or work reasons, visit during the summer months you should make sure to book your Shanghai hotels as far in advance as possible to ensure you are able to get a comfortable, affordable room in a safe area.

There are three main national holidays in China. They are the Chinese New Year, Labor Day, and National Day. Make sure you check your calendar and avoid traveling to China during those holidays as well. The entire country will be on the go during the holiday seasons, making travel throughout the country, let alone Shanghai, a nightmare.

Transportation throughout Shanghai

The city of Shanghai is huge so it’s not realistic to expect to get around on foot like you might in a few other Chinese cities. The first thing you should do is get yourself a map of the transportation system. Most hotels will give them to you but if your hotel doesn’t have one you can pick them up at convenience stores as well. The guide will give you up to date information on the light rail, subway, bus, and ferry systems.

If you’re not a huge fan of public transportation you can get around the city by taxi as well. They’re the fastest method of transportation unless you embark on your journey during the morning (7:30am until 9:00am) or evening (4:45pm to 6:30pm) rush hours.

Finding a Tourist Information Center in Shanghai

The first thing you should before your trip to Shanghai is gather information about the area, local events, and great hangouts. You can do this by visiting the Official Shanghai Travel Guide online before or during your trip.

Once you’re in Shanghai you’ll want to keep your eyes peeled for the City Weekend magazine. It is a free publication that offers readers information about the events happening throughout the city each weekend. Another free publication similar to City Weekend is That’s Shanghai, also praised as a valuable source of information for travelers.

Avoiding Scams in Shanghai

Shanghai is a huge city so we’re not surprised to find the level of crime is a bit higher than in some other cities. Criminals and con artists are usually on the lookout for tourists and will approach you in a number of unique ways. Here are a few to be wary of.

• Most Shanghai locals are friendly but will not approach you and offer to help you find a destination without you asking first. Walk away from anyone who offers you unsolicited help.

• It’s not uncommon for a couple of young Chinese boys or girls to approach you and ask you if you are interested in purchasing authentic Chinese tea or artwork. They’ll usually take you to a place where you are purchasing low grade tea or cheap reprints at astronomically high prices.

• Men traveling alone should ignore any women who want to join them in a bar for a drink so that they can “practice speaking English.” In most cases the ladies will leave the bar and the man is presented with a large bill and is threatened by locals if he refuses to pay.

• Make sure you carry enough small change to pay your bill after riding in a taxi cab. If you try to pay with a large note you may receive fake money with your change. Most taxi drivers in Shanghai are honest but there are a few who are not. Get out of a taxi immediately if the driver says his meter is broken.

• When shopping, you can expect to pay prices that have been inflated. If you want to purchase a product, start at 10% of the original price and negotiate with the shop owner up to around 30% of the original price. This is usually a fair price and the shop owner will generally agree to make the sale.

While in Shanghai you’ll meet dozens of friendly people, eat incredible authentic cuisine, and have the opportunity to see some of the finest modern architecture in the world. We have a feeling you’ll be planning your next trip to Shanghai before the first is even over!