Shanghai Travel Guide: Best Season, Weather, Plugs & Itineraries
The Bund at night, old-town snacks and a soaring skyline, with Suzhou and water towns an easy day trip away.
🗓 Best time to goMar–May and Sep–Nov are best; mid–late June brings plum rains; summers are muggy.
💱 CurrencyChinese yuan (CNY)
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Try the currency converter →
🔌 Plugs & voltage220V | Mixed A/C/I sockets. Bring a universal adapter
🌦 ClimateHot, humid summers, plum rains in mid–late June, damp cold winters; spring and autumn are best.
Monthly average temperatures in Shanghai
| City / month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shanghai High / low | 8° 1° | 10° 2° | 14° 6° | 20° 11° | 25° 16° | 28° 20° | 33° 25° | 33° 25° | 28° 21° | 23° 15° | 17° 9° | 11° 3° |
°C — top is the average high, bottom the average low. Typical values only; check the forecast before you go. See charts in the climate tool.
Shanghai travel tips
- Check visa or visa-free rules for your nationality (Taiwan residents use the MTP).
- Mobile payment is everywhere — Alipay and WeChat Pay accept foreign cards; set up before you go.
- Some popular apps are restricted — plan your connectivity in advance.
Shanghai itineraries
Shanghai Classics in 4 Days
Mainland ChinaCity breakFoodShopping
The Bund at night, Yu Garden snacks, Xintiandi, the Lujiazui skyline and Suzhou’s classical gardens.
Read before you go
More destinations
BeijingMainland ChinaHangzhouMainland ChinaGuangzhouMainland ChinaChongqingMainland ChinaHong Kong & MacauHong Kong & MacauTaipeiTaiwan
General travel information — entry rules, e-authorisations, weather and opening details change often, so check official sources.