Once just a sleepy fishing village, Shanghai has grown to become China’s largest city and one of the most populous in the world. A leader in finance, technology and manufacturing, Shanghai takes you on a trip to the future with mind-bending architecture like the Bund Finance Center and China Pavilion, and unfathomably fast high-speed trains. Meanwhile, the Old City and the water towns surrounding the city, recognised for their intricate Chinese architecture, await to show you its history and culture. Consisting of 18 districts, Shanghai is easy to get lost in – both figuratively and literally – but every turn offers something new and exciting.
Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) is China’s busiest and most well-connected airport, and frequent flights are available to and from anywhere in the world. Located 30 km south-east of the city centre, you can take the Shanghai Metro Line 2 west to People’s Square (the city centre), transferring trains at Guanglan Road station, which takes around 70 minutes in total. For a quicker journey, hop on the Shanghai Maglev Train to Longyang Road station, and then transfer to Metro Line 2 for the People’s Square, which takes about 30 minutes in total. To reach central Shanghai by car or taxi, the journey will take approximately 45 minutes, depending on traffic.
There are also international flights to Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA), although this airport is more popular with domestic flights. Located 17 km west of the city centre, take the Metro Line 2 directly to People's Square, which takes around 35 minutes, or take a car or taxi, which will get you there in around 30 minutes.
Shanghai is usually cool in March, with highs of 14°C and an average temperature of 10°C. The climate tends to be rainy, with an average 40% chance of rain each day.