Lifestyle & Utilities

Everyday essentials for life in Shanghai

Planning a trip to Shanghai involves more than choosing what to see. Our Shanghai budget guide breaks down realistic daily costs across accommodation, food, transport, and activities — so you can plan without surprises. For timing your visit, our weather guide explains what each season actually feels like, based on real visitor experiences rather than averages.

If you're visiting during the Lunar New Year period, our guide to Chinese New Year in Shanghai tells you what to expect — including what stays open, what shuts down, and how to make the most of a city in a festive but quiet mood. For LGBTQ travellers, we cover the LGBTQ scene in Shanghai honestly and practically, including welcoming venues, apps, and things to be aware of.

Language is one of the most common concerns for first-time visitors. Our guide to Mandarin communication in Shanghai is designed to take you from zero to confident — covering pronunciation, useful phrases, and how to get by even without apps. For a retail experience that mixes art and commerce, the K11 Art Mall and the Nanjing West Road shopping strip are two of the city's most distinctive lifestyle destinations.